Tag: Trips

These Are The 6 Most Scenic Train Trips To Take This Summer
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You have probably read that this summer is gearing up to be a busy one for travel, and millions of Americans are planning trips, both near and far.

Data suggests that most people are looking to travel closer to home this year, with rising costs and airport headaches being the main factors.

While many in the U.S. choose to take a road trip, there are others who are looking to head to the rails.

Train travel is trending worldwide, and not only because people are looking to avoid all the stress of flying these days. Around the world, traveling by train has a certain romantic, nostalgic feel to it, and no matter if you are winding your way across the Swiss Alps or riding along the Hudson down to New York City, you can’t deny that relaxing on a train with panoramic windows beats being cramped in economy seating on a flight any day.

Luckily, the United States has numerous options for some scenic rail journeys, and while long-distance high-speed trains might be a far-off dream, there are some nostalgic and nature-filled journeys to keep you busy while you make your way from point A to point B.

As part of their 10 Best campaign, USA Today asked its readers for the best train rides in America, and the following journeys were voted the winners.

From New York to California and everywhere in between, these are some fantastic options for a train journey that’s just as interesting as the destination.

With options from all over the county, here are the winners of the USA Today’s 10 Best Train Rides To Take In 2023 category:

Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad – Durango, Colorado

This train journey is one of the most popular heritage railroads in the country and also a National Historic Landmark.

Explore Colorado’s pioneering and mining history while taking in some beautiful views along the way. This trip allows you to explore some of Colorado’s mountain region that is not accessible by car, so sit back and relax and marvel at the stunning landscape.

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Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad – Chama, New Mexico

This journey is both the highest and longest steam railroad in the United States, and the 64-mile journey is basically a museum on wheels.

Take a step back into history and enjoy the journey as this steam engine rides rails that were laid back in 1880. The beautiful mountain scenery is best experienced in the summer when many plan their visits to this family-friendly expedition.

Skunk Train – Fort Bragg, California

This California attraction is steeped in history and, thankfully, doesn’t smell as pungent as did when it opened back in the 1920s.

While the name Skunk might have stuck, today’s experience will transport you back in time with some beautiful scenery along the way.

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad – Peninsula, Ohio

This rail journey weaves you through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, along the Cuyahoga River, and offers the chance to see some great wildlife along the way.

This area is home to some deep forests, open farmlands, and endless hills rolling in the distance. Offering coach, tables, and executive class, there are many ticket options for visitors to choose from.

Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway – Manitou Springs, Colorado

As the world’s highest cog railroad, this journey will take you to the top of Pikes Peak, where you can take in some panoramic views high above Colorado.

This year-round attraction in Manitou Springs is particle nice in the summer when you can see the greenery surrounding you.

Georgetown Loop Railroad – Georgetown, Colorado

Explore the Rocky Mountains on this epic rail trip, where you will be pulled up the Clear Creek canyon by an old-time steam locomotive or a modern diesel engine.

Take in the views of the old mining towns and enjoy this two-and-a-half-hour trip on a living museum.

Finishing off the top 10 best train rides to take in the USA this year are these epic journeys:
- 7. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad – Bryson City, North Carolina
- 8. Cape Cod Central Railroad – Hyannis, Massachusetts
- 9. Wilmington & Western Railroad – Wilmington, Delaware
- 10. Saratoga Corinth and Hudson Railway – Corinth, New York
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May 18, 2023
These Are The 5 Best States For Camping Trips This Summer
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Camping never loses its luster no matter what is going on in the world. It’s always nice to be able to reset in nature and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us all.

Of course, during a worldwide pandemic, finding a way to be outside was the best way to escape reality. As a result, camping has skyrocketed in popularity over the last few years.

That trend is expected to continue to rise even though the pandemic is over. It is reported over 50 million people went on camping trips in the U.S. last year.

That’s why there was no better time for Adventures On The Rock to put together a new study to discover the top states for camping trips.

They are a small company of outdoor enthusiasts who encourage people to spend as much time as possible in nature.

What Went Into This Study?

The team behind this study took the following factors into consideration:
- The number of landmarks and national parks related to a specific state
- How many hiking trails are in the area
- The number of campgrounds and RV parks related to the population
- The breadth of animal and plant species
- The number of deaths per 10 millions national park visits
- How many deaths were caused by harmful plant or animal encounters
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These factors tend to make a camping trip more successful. Each one is given a score from 1-10 and calculated into an overall ranking of a Camping Index Score that goes up to 100.

These are the Top 5 Best States For A Camping Trip This Summer:

Vermont – Camping Index Score – 61.23

The Green Mountain State came in as the #5 state for a camping getaway. This scenic state scored 61.23 out of 100.

The reason behind the score was mostly due to Vermont’s great outdoor features, as they have the second-highest amount of trails at just over 400.

They also came in seventh for the number of RV parks and tenth in the number of campgrounds at 24 of them.

Idaho – Camping Index Score – 63.62

The Gem State ranks #4 on the list of best camping trips in the United States. With a score of 63.62 out of 100, this gorgeous state in the Pacific Northwest has a lot to offer nature lovers.

Idaho offers the fourth-highest amount of free campgrounds totaling 17 of them, along with the ninth-highest amount of trails in accordance with their population.

There is also a much higher chance of enjoying beautiful weather as the level of rainfall tends to be very low each year.

New Mexico – Camping Index Score – 65.94

The Land of Enchantment ranks in the top 3 best states for campers. With a score of just under 66 out of 100, New Mexico is a highly underrated place to sleep under the stars.

For every 100,000 inhabitants, New Mexico had the third highest amount of free campgrounds, which is 18 in total. They also have very few deaths at their national parks.

This wonderful state is also home to the seventh-highest amount of campsites and came in fifteenth in the number of trails to hike, totaling just over 100 of them.

Animal and plant lovers will also be fascinated with this state since there are over 4,500 varying species.

Montana – Camping Index Score – 69.29

The Treasure State comes in ranked #2 as the best state to go camping. In relation to their population numbers, Montana has the highest amount of trails totaling well over 400 of them.

Finding a place to camp is seemingly endless, with 90 paid sites to stop at. T

here are also many free campgrounds to choose from and the second-highest amount of RV parks.

Getting where travelers need to go shouldn’t be an issue either, as Montana has some of the lowest fuel costs in the nation.

Wyoming – Camping Index Score – 72.12

The Equality State is the top state for camping trips in the U.S. Many factors make Wyoming the best in the nation.

They are home to the highest amount of RV parks (both paid and free). In addition, Wyoming offers well over 300 spectacular hiking trails per 100,000 inhabitants.

With a total population under 600,000 for the entire state, visitors will love the vast openness anywhere they go. Very affordable gas prices will make the adventure even easier.

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April 27, 2023
6 Ways To Save Money On Last-Minute Trips This Year

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Last-minute trips are one of the biggest travel trends of 2023.

According to the 2023 Travel Trends Report from the travel booking website Hopper, travelers are spending 30% less time planning trips compared to 2019.

Travelers are planning trips just 5 weeks in advance, compared to almost 7 weeks in advance for pre-pandemic trips.

And when it comes to actually booking trips, travelers are doing it just 3 weeks in advance.

So how can you save money on last-minute trips this year when everything from hotel prices to airfare has skyrocketed in 2023?

Here are six savvy tips to help you score a good deal on last-minute travel:

1. Be Flexible On Travel Dates

One of the best ways to save money on last-minute travel is to be flexible with your travel dates. Departing mid-week is an especially good way to save money on airfare.

According to data from Hopper, travelers who fly mid-week can save an average of $90 on domestic flights and over $140 on international flights.

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2. Avoid Saturday Night Stays

Another big way to save money is by avoiding Saturday night hotel stays. This is often the most expensive night at hotels, and avoiding it can help travelers save 25% off their nightly rate, according to Hopper’s report.

Checking out on a Saturday morning isn’t ideal if you were hoping to make the most out of the weekend, but it’s a big way you can save money overall.

3. Be Flexible On Destination

If you don’t have your heart set on one particular destination, being flexible about where you go is a great way to save money.

The “Everywhere Search” feature on Skyscanner allows you to search flights to all destinations from your home city so you can see the cheapest options. You can also do something similar on Google Flights by clicking the “Explore Destinations” button after you put in your home city for departure.

4. Opt For City Breaks

Last-minute airfare to big cities in the United States is often cheaper than you might expect. For example, the average airfare to Miami is $264, and to Las Vegas it’s $298.

Compare that to West Yellowstone ($772) or Martha’s Vineyard ($375) and you can see that a city break works out to be cheaper than visiting a national park or beach town destination.

5. Find Last-Minute Hotel Deals

Hotels that still have room inventory a few days in advance often offer great last-minute deals as an attempt to fill their rooms.

Websites like Hotwire and Hotels.com are worth checking for last-minute hotel deals. It’s possible to score great prices that just aren’t available weeks or months in advance… but be careful if you’re traveling during a destination’s peak season because last-minute deals may not be available, and hotels can even be fully sold out!

6. Combine Work And Travel

“Workations” that combine work and travel have become extremely popular in recent years as more employees have the ability to work remotely or in a hybrid environment.

According to Hopper, 77% of travelers plan to tack on work to the beginning or end of a vacation this year. If you can work remotely during part of your trip, it makes it easier to depart mid-week and get better deals on flights and hotels.

Other Ways To Save Money On Travel This Year

Looking for more ways to save money on travel this year?

These international destinations are some of the most affordable for 2023.

These tips will help you save money on airfare, and these are some of the most affordable rental car companies if you’ll be driving during your vacation.

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April 15, 2023
8 Stunning U.S. Train Trips To Take This Spring

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Spring is approaching, and for many, this turn of the seasons brings about a fresh start and offers the chance to shake off the winter chill and get out and explore. There’s no better way to see the turn of spring and its awakening that it brings to the various regions of the U.S. than by train.

A trip on the rails allows everyone to sit back, relax, and leave the driving to someone else. Rail journeys offer a chance to slow down and appreciate the scenery. This kind of travel is truly one where the journey is just as important as the destination itself. Fans of rail travel will be happy to know that America has some pretty epic journeys, with views from mountains to oceans and everything in between.

As we are now in a post-pandemic time, this is shaping up to be an era where people are not interested in dealing with the headaches that flying brings with it, opting to avoid traveling by air if possible. Now, any American will be the first to tell you that traveling by train in the U.S. is not known for its convenience or affordably, but nevertheless, as America’s main rail operator, Amtrak’s popularity is rising again. Ridership among the Northeast corridor has more than doubled, and passenger numbers are up more than 88% across the rest of the country.

With Amtrak’s recent announcement of their new Airo train fleet that will start to replace the aging trains currently in use, there are more reasons than ever to love American train travel.

The future of Amtrak is meant to transform U.S. train travel with upgrades, including enhanced lighting, spacious seating, bigger panoramic windows, self-serve food and beverage options, a greener impact, better technology, and faster speeds of up to 125 miles an hour. While high-speed train travel might be a distant dream of the future in America, it’s clear that Amtrak’s upgrades are a step in the right direction.

So in celebration of spring and the promising future of U.S. train travel, here are 8 stunning train trips to take along America’s rails this spring.

Pacific Surfliner

Riders along this Southern California coastline route will enjoy hours of ocean views, vineyards, mountains, and endless beaches. Along the way, you will pass over 20 towns from San Diego to San Luis Obispo.

Stop off in the quintessential So-Cal town of San Juan Capistrano, and dine at the trackside restaurant that also serves up a Pacific Surfliner-themed entree. Stop in Anaheim for a trip to world famous Disney World, and head to the beach in Ventura. Finish your trip in San Luis Obispo and enjoy this laid-back atmosphere with wineries and a thriving culinary scene before heading back home.

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Alaska Railroad

Many people who know about Alaska will tell you that there is nothing quite like springtime in the last frontier. While Alaska has no shortage of train offerings year round, including the famed Aurora Winter Train, Spring also offers a chance to ride the rails and take in some epic views.

The return of springtime means the Alaskan Coastal Classic train is ready to welcome passengers again to whisk them among some of Alaska’s most stunning scenery.

This route heads from Anchorage to Seward, making a stop in Girdwood along the way. Offering a first-class GoldStar service, the cars have dome seating, although regular class doesn’t miss out on panoramic windows as well.

Travel along the Chugach Mountain Range and pass Beluga Point. This train is renewed for offering numerous chances to spot some of Alaska’s famous wildlife as well, so make sure to keep your eyes open to spot moose, bears, eagles, and goats.

California Zephyr

This route starts in Chicago and terminates in San Francisco, passing through Omaha, Denver, and Salt Lake City. Rail lovers who know their stuff often say that this is one of the most beautiful train trips in North America, which given the competition from the stunning Canadian routes, is really saying something.

Set off from the windy city and cross the Nebraska plains and Rocky mountains. Arrive approximately 51 hours later in San Francisco just in time to soak up the fresh sea misty filled air. May is a good choice for this route, as crowds are smaller than they are in the high seasons of fall and winter.

Ethan Allen Express

This 7-and-a-half-hour trip takes riders from big-city life to small-town charm, all while passing some beautiful scenery along the way. Start your journey in the middle of Manhattan, New York City at Penn Stations’ new Moynihan Train Hall. After filling up on the restaurant-quality food hall, you board your train and sit back and relax along the views of the Hudson river.

With the winter landscape starting to thaw and greenery beginning to peak though, the journey will be just as enjoyable as the destination. Pass through New York’s state capital of Albany and on to Rutland, Vermont. Enjoy the spring wildflowers and arrive at the picture-perfect small town of Burlington, Vermont, where there is no end of things to do.

Rocky Mountaineer: Rockies to the Red Rocks

This is easily one of the train routes that is a trip in itself, allowing passengers to spend two days on the rails among the postcard-worthy landscapes of Denver, Colorado, and Moab, Utah. Cross the deserts and rock formations, and cross the continental divide, all from the comfort of your extra roomy seats and panoramic windows.

The Rocky Mountaineer offers a Silver Leaf service package, with three restaurant-quality meals a day and customized service. This luxury route is enjoyable any time of year, and those visiting in May will find lower prices than the rest of the months.

Grand Canyon Railway

This famed railway was first built in 1901 to connect suppliers and passengers from Williams, Arizona to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. It’s been a popular route, with people enjoying the 65-mile postcard-worthy trip.

Nowadays, the Grand Canyon Railway sets off from the original Williams Depot and drops passengers just next to the rim at the Grand Canyon Depot. Many passengers opt to stay at the prestigious Grand Canyon Hotel after a train ride full of cowboy characters and western musicians. While the Grand Canyon is a year-round destination, spring temperatures are mild and make visiting this landmark a much more enjoyable experience than a summertime trip would be.

The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway

Recognized as the world’s highest cog railroad, The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway offers a relaxing trip to the top of Pikes Peak and sweeping views upon reaching the top. While Pikes Peak was originally only accessible by mule-back, this Colorado attraction in Manitou Springs was built in 1891 as a more civilized way of getting to the top of the famous mountain.

While it was shut for a few years to undergo extensive upgrading and modernization, the railway reopened in 2021 and is more popular than ever before. This tourist attraction is open year-round, and spring is an ideal time to explore the area and hike in the mild temperatures with fewer crowds than in peak months.

The Adirondack Train

This picturesque trip from New York to Montreal has recently resumed operation after a long hiatus, and this spring is the perfect time to hop aboard. This 10-hour trip starts in New York City and takes passengers up along the Hudson River, through Hudson Valley’s wine country, past Saratoga Springs and the Adirondack Mountains, crosses the border into Canada, and heads up to Montreal.

While arguably the most beautiful time of year for this trip would be fall, the peak foliage does bring bigger crowds and a greater likelihood of tickets selling out. Spring can be a beautiful time to ride this route as well, though, with the wildflowers across the valley and the return of greenery along the edges of the mountains.

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February 25, 2023
This Country Named Best Destination For Long Solo Trips
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Digital nomadism may be the number one trend worldwide right now, but it’s clear some destinations are far outpacing others when it comes to adapting to this reality, simply by loosening their once-strict immigration curbs, or even launching new visas for the category. Now, the numbers are in, and this one tiny country has ticked all the boxes, being crowned the best for long solo travel in the post Covid world.

Taking into account the extent of its natural wonders, which include natural reserves and pristine Caribbean and Pacific coastlines, and a strong economy that’s among some of the fastest growing in the Americas, it’s no wonder it came out ahead of other traditional nomad havens, including Indonesia and Thailand.

At last, Costa Rica is getting the recognition it deserves:

A Gem Of Central America Growing In Popularity By The Minute

Out of 14 destinations listed by Elite Daily, Costa Rica came out ahead as the best place to travel ‘for a month alone’. In order to reach a consensus, the team talked to experts at Next Vacay, Expedia and Hotels.com, who shared some of the tendencies in travel they’ve been noticing in recent months, and looked at other relevant data that pointed to Costa Rica as the definitive winner.

According to Elite Daily, these renowned platforms agreed on naming Costa Rica the world leader in long-term solo traveling. In fact, Expedia claims it beats all the others to the number one spot as it is ‘equal parts nature-filled serenity and one-of-a-kind adventures‘. Again, these remarks highlight Costa Rica’s strong appeal among nature seekers.

Other recent reports by the booking platform Hostelworld.com seem to support Expedia’s statements, after it concluded that 74 per cent of solo travelers listed ‘natural world experiences’ as their top priority going abroad following Covid. Unsurprisingly, a growing number of them is feeling a magnetic pull to Costa Rica, and Central America on an extent, due to the wild nature found there.

What Makes Costa Rica So Attractive To Solo Travelers?

More specifically, Costa Rica fills in all of the following criteria:
- Good public transportation
- Accessibility*
- Safety
- Variety of things to do once inside the country
*It is an incredibly well-connected hub, boasting flight connections to numerous destinations in the United States, Canada, and across the entire Caribbean

Additionally, living in Costa Rica is much more affordable than living in the States or Europe. Americans can comfortably spend a whole month living on a $2,000 budget, or even a much-lower $1,500, depending on overall spending and accommodation choices. Seeing that rent in Costa Rica tends to be roughly 71% lower as well, we can definitely see why solo travelers are flocking into this Central American gem.

What Are Some Of The Country’s Highlights?

Although it is fairly small compared to the likes of the U.S. and Mexico, Costa Rica has 27 national parks within its national territory, besides being home to roughly five per cent of the world’s entire biodiversity. Yes, it is famous for the extent of its jungles, but cloud forests, dry forests, rainforests, coral reefs and many other wonders also enrich the country’s natural treasures.

The lively capital, San Jose, rivals fellow urban centers in the region, such as Panama’s Panama City and and Nicaragua’s Managua, offering visitors a mix of Spanish colonial architecture and modern 21st century metropolis. More importantly, it is the gateway to Costa Rica, being served by the San Jose International Airport, and linked by bus to numerous destinations across the country.

Other attractions include:
- Arenal, an active volcano famous for its hot springs
- Mistico Arenal, a scenic path featuring the landmark suspended bridges
- Manuel Antonio National Park, a Pacific reserve
- Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, an inland park with countless hiking trails and outdoor activities
- Fortune Waterfall, an iconic cascade 70 meters tall
- Marino Ballena National Park, a popular site for whale watching
One Downside: Somewhat Slower Internet Compared To The U.S.

On the downside, at least for nomads looking to stay a while longer, Costa Rica has a less-than-impressive fixed broadband speed, with Speedtest ranking it at number 63 globally, at 53.67 Mbps. It still fares better than its strongest competitors, like Mexico (number 77) and Belize (number 86), but it’s well behind the U.S. (number 8) and Canada (number 22).

That’s not to say internet is unbearably slow in Costa Rica. It is, after all, in the same league as the wider Caribbean, and even faster than Mexico’s. So don’t worry, you’ll get your job done as decent, reliable Wi-Fi is available in a majority of settings – except when you’re out there braving the jungle. In that case, we recommend you buy a local SIM.

The Top 14 Destinations For Long-Term Travel According To Elite Daily

Other destinations that have featured on Elite Daily’s list include:
1. Costa Rica
2. Vietnam
3. Ireland
4. Seattle, USA
5. Norway
6. Portugal
7. Greece
8. Copenhagen, Denmark
9. Budapest, Hungary
10. Miami, USA
11. Belize
12. Oaxaca, Mexico
13. Bali, Indonesia
14. Thailand
Out of the above countries, only Costa Rica, Belize, Bali and Thailand have digital nomad visa agreements in place, allowing long-term travelers, including Americans, to live and work freely in the country as long as their source of income originates from abroad and certain financial requirements are met. Others like Portugal and Hungary have announced plans to launch their own in the near future.

Read More:

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

Costa Rica Officially Launches New Digital Nomad Visa With Simple Process

This Fascinating Eastern European Country Has A New Digital Nomad Visa For Americans

Digital Nomad Scene In Mexico City Exploding In Popularity

Americans Can Travel To These 186 Countries Visa-Free In 2022

This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
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August 15, 2022
Why Trips To Europe May Not Go As Planned This Fall
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If there is one phrase that has consistently made headlines for travel this summer, it’s travel chaos. Never-ending lines for security, consistent delays and cancellations, and piles of lost luggage have become a grim reality for travelers this summer, particularly in Europe. In fact, Europe was considered the worst place to travel this summer due to how chaotic things have been at airports across the region. Travelers hoping to return to normalcy before an upcoming trip to Europe this fall may be in for some disappointment.

Why Are Things So Bad in Europe?

Earlier this year, many European countries removed their covid restrictions for international travelers. As a result, the demand for travel to Europe exploded. Travelers were more eager than ever for a vacation after spending the last two years unable to travel. Unfortunately, staffing did not increase at the same rate as demand, and the world is now experiencing the travel chaos that has become the new normal.

Staffing is low across the board, with a shortage of pilots, baggage handlers, air traffic controllers, flight attendants, and security personnel. Some countries, like the United Kingdom, have changed their laws regarding the recruitment of aviation staff. Still, many efforts to curb the chaos are too little too late. Adding fuel to the fire, many remaining staff are unsatisfied, overworked, and underpaid. As a result, strikes have plagued European airports and airlines, furthering the problem. The problems are here to stay for the time being, and fall trips to Europe are no exception.

Will Things Be Better This Fall?

In a recent interview with United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby, the executive said that the aviation sector would not return to normal operations until the summer of 2023. According to Kirby, the main issue holding back the return to normalcy is staffing. United has stated they have the staff to be a larger airline than their current capacity shows. Still, they will continue to scale back operations until the rest of the aviation industry can support them. While United waits for the rest of the industry to catch up, here are some other actions in Europe that may contribute to a rocky fall season.

Flight Caps

Several major European airports have attempted to combat this summer’s travel chaos by imposing restrictions on how many flights are allowed in or out of the airport per day. Airports currently imposing flight caps include London Heathrow, Frankfurt Airport, Amsterdam’s Schiphol, and London Gatwick. Each airport has its own limits and dates set for their respective caps as follows:
- London Heathrow – Daily passenger cap of 100,000. The current cap lasts until at least the end of October.
- London Gatwick – Dropped operational capacity from 900 to 825 and 850 for July and August, respectively. The current cap lasts through August, and future caps have yet to be announced.
- Frankfurt Airport – Taking a different approach, Frankfurt Airport has reduced its hourly flights from 96 to 88. The cap is in place until further notice.
- Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport – Amsterdam has been the European capital for air travel chaos. It has an August cap set at 72,500 travelers per day. The airport recently announced they would be extending the cap with 67,500 travelers per day allowed in September and 69,500 per day in October. In an unrelated cap, the airport intends to combat climate change by instituting a permanent cap from 2023.
Strikes

As if staffing shortages weren’t enough, strikes have also plagued European airports, airlines, and train services this summer. Ryanair passengers in Spain this fall could see their trips disrupted by planned strikes by union members who work for the airline. According to its members, the union intends to strike Monday-Thursday every week until January 7^th.

Similarly, passengers flying with EasyJet in Spain may see disruption during planned strikes throughout August and potentially beyond. Those traveling to London this August will be affected by strikes planned by London Underground and Overground staff. If demands remain unmet for any of the above strikes, they will likely continue into the fall and beyond.

Covid Restrictions In Europe

Currently, only a few countries in Europe remain with Covid restrictions. Most countries have scrapped testing requirements and mask-wearing. However, Germany recently announced a plan to combat an expected increase in Covid cases for the fall, which includes reinstating mask mandates in the event of a sharp rise in cases. Other countries may have similar plans, but travelers can only speculate at this point. As fall progresses, travelers may face travel disruption from the reintroduction of Covid restrictions.

Bottom Line

The summer has undoubtedly been one of the most chaotic to date for travelers across the world. Those hoping for a reprieve during fall are likely to be disappointed, and travel chaos is expected to continue. Knowing which airports are the best for avoiding delays, being aware of your passenger rights, and staying up to date on the potential reintroduction of restrictions are all steps travelers should take this fall to ensure a smooth trip.

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
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August 10, 2022
Traveling Internationally This Summer May Be Cheaper Than Domestic Trips

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A recent study has revealed that jetting off on an international trip this summer could actually be cheaper than heading away on a domestic vacation. The study is bound to come as a big surprise for travelers, having heard for several months about how expensive flight tickets and hotel stays are at present – but it could well have travelers scrambling to find their passports and book a trip overseas for the coming few months.

Having been made possible by a range of different factors, the study shows that an affordable international vacation isn’t just a thing of the past like many think it is right now, but a feature of travel today as well. Here’s which destinations the study claims American travelers can save money by visiting this summer – plus a look at which other international destinations represent good value for money at present.

International Travel Not Always Extortionate

Despite frequent news stories telling travelers otherwise, international travel doesn’t have to break the bank – or at least that’s what a recent travel study is telling us. A study carried out by the travel booking platform Hopper found that several top destinations for American travelers could be well within budget – and, in many cases, even cheaper than going on a domestic staycation.

The reason why? The strength of the dollar compared to other currencies. Today, one US dollar can purchase ~0.94 Euros, making it one of the few occasions that the two currencies have almost reached parity – all whilst flights and hotel in the US are rising in price. In layman’s terms, that means a traveler’s budget in Europe will stretch 15% further than last summer and 6% further than at this time in 2019 thanks to the strength of the dollar – which will more than help offset the expensive air fare.

The survey also reveals that whilst flight tickets have generally risen across the board, that isn’t the case for every destination. Despite a general increase of almost 15% for international flights and more than 30% for domestic air travel compared to 2019, there are some destinations in Europe that have actually seen their ticket prices fall over the past few years.

Airfare to Portugal has fallen by 11% compared to 2019, with tickets to Croatia also falling 8.4% over the same period. Other countries, such as Ireland and Greece will cost more or less the same they paid for back in 2019, with airfare increases below 1%. Outside of the EU, key countries to target for cheap vacations include Chile, Sweden, Denmark and Norway, where both flight prices have fallen and the dollar is performing well against the local currency.

Despite low overall price rises, travel to Europe can still be expensive for travelers. Flights to Mexico and the Caribbean are cheaper, and have also seen a much lower rise in airfare prices compared to domestic flights and flights to Europe, meaning that trips to top destinations such as Mexico, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic are even more attractive now than they were before.

The study also offered some general money saving tips both before and during a vacation. These included ordering currency from a bank before a trip to get the best exchange rate and, when abroad, paying in the local currency where possible to get the best exchange rate and price. Travel abroad may still cost a penny – but it may now cost less than you were previously expecting.

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June 14, 2022
Wyndham Launches New App Feature To Help Travelers Plan Road Trips
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After staying at home during the pandemic for two years, travelers want to go out and explore the world. They have been planning more road trips than ever and many businesses in the travel industry know it. This is why the American hotel company Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is launching a new feature called “Road Trip Planner”.

The new mobile app feature, integrated with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts app, helps travelers plan their next road trip and includes interactive tools that allow users to book hotels, choose from different itineraries and discover new travel opportunities.

According to the information provided by the company in the press release, recent research for their American Road Trip Index revealed that 80% of Americans are planning to take a road trip in 2022, but 66% feel overwhelmed and don’t know how to plan it.

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts —considered the largest hotel franchise in the world with hotels in more than 95 countries and over 6,000 in the United States— wants to provide a technological solution for travelers.

Jessica Davidson, senior vice president, digital, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts said: “With thousands of hotels across our country’s highways and byways and 22 trusted brands, there is no company better positioned to help travelers experience the road trip of their dreams.”

And added: “With Road Trip Planner, travelers enter a few details about the trip and instantly get an itinerary with all their hotel stops, bookable in one single transaction. It not only eases the stresses of travel planning but ensures the journey is as exciting as the destination.”

It is not the only business that considered Americans’ increasing interest in road trip travel. Even Oscar-winning actor Kevin Costner recently launched an app called HearHere to reproduce audio with historical information related to the user’s current geolocation.

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts proposes an option that includes their popular brands —such as Days Inn, Super 8, Microtel, Baymont, La Quinta, Howard Johnson, and Travelodge— to provide “The Easiest Way to Book & Go” as their service mark states.

More About Road Trip Planner

The new digital platform will allow travelers to plan, create and book trips and multiple hotel stays at once. It offers features for different kinds of travel, from coastal road trips to national parks road trips to long-haul truckers’ itineraries.

Road Trip Planner will be integrated into Wyndham Hotels & Resorts app, created two years ago —which allows users to quickly book rooms in nearby hotels with the feature Lightning Book and check-in and check-out from the phone.

“Built upon the success and strong adoption of our mobile app, Road Trip Planner is the perfect complement to Lightning Book, which is our fastest way to book direct and enables guests to reserve a hotel in just a few taps. Now, whatever your travel preferences—be it booking last minute or planning far ahead—Wyndham has you covered. Summer, here we come!”, said Davidson.

These are the main features included in the platform:
- Custom itineraries: Travelers can discover itinerary alternatives from location A to destination B and filter search considering the driving distance, pet-friendly locations, or preferred brands and amenities.
- Recommended routes: after mapping a route, the app intelligence can recommend the best itinerary according to the user’s travel preferences.
- Reservations details: travelers can view multiple reservations and make requests or lock up amenities before arriving.
- Pay your way: the app offers different payment options, including cash and Wyndham Rewards points.
This new feature can be a great alternative for different kinds of travelers —from those who prefer carefully planned itineraries to more spontaneous voyagers—, considering that it also offers different kinds of hotel experiences. But, it is especially useful for those looking to stay at economy and midscale hotels in the United States.

During summer, road trippers will have more options to plan, book, schedule, and take advantage of technology on their next adventure.

Read More:

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
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May 26, 2022
U.S. Travelers Will Save On EU Trips As The Dollar And Euro Almost Hit Par
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Low exchange rates have always been a tempting reason for travelers to visit a destination. The cost of souvenirs, hotel stays, restaurants, and even splurging on a private tour doesn’t hit as hard when your home currency in a foreign country gives you more bang for your buck.

And as the exchange rate between the Euro and USD hit a new low in recent months – the lowest it’s been in over 5 years – American travelers have a chance to save during a trip to Europe this summer.

USD-Euro Conversion Rate Forecast For 2022

According to a report in Yahoo Finance, this new low doesn’t appear to be going away anytime soon. The US dollar already jumped to 1.04 for 1 euro from 1.05 earlier this week, and some financial experts are predicting that the value of the euro will continue to drop until it’s at par with the US dollar by the end of the year.

What does this mean when it comes to travel? It means that things will be a little easier for budgeting an upcoming trip to Europe.

Travel Is More Open (And More Expensive) Than It’s Been In Two Years

The low euro/USD exchange rate comes as good news for US travelers looking to take a Europe trip this summer.

With flight prices for international and domestic trips rising around the world, not to mention the US inflation rate being at an almost 40-year high, budgeting for that much-needed summer adventure this year may seem a little more complicated.

Just as travel bounced back, in some ways it seems less accessible.

As travel restrictions are being lifted throughout most of the continent, it’s the easiest it’s been for American travelers to visit Europe in over two years since the start of the pandemic.

From scrapping those ongoing entry requirements to removing mask mandates in outdoor as well as indoor public spaces (including flights in Europe), travelers can prepare for a much more stress-free travel experience when it comes to the technical side of things.

Travel To Europe On The Cheap In 2022

Over the past few years, the USD/euro exchange rate has typically averaged at around 1.20. Higher exchange rates can really add up for your daily expenses. Whether it’s booking your last-minute hotel stay in Rome, a train trip from Germany to France, or breakfast at a local cafe in Paris, a steep exchange rate during the euro and the dollar can hit hard when reviewing your travel budget.

As the euro and US dollar inches to being at par, US travelers can save almost 20% on their vacation to Europe in 2022. On top of choosing a more affordable European destination this year to combat the rising flight prices and inflation, the low exchange rate is another opportunity for travelers to stay on budget.

Average Prices In Western Europe In 2022:

To give travelers a rough estimate on how much the low exchange rate can impact their vacation, here’s a look at the average prices of goods in France and Spain.

Remember that this exchange rate counts for countries in Europe where the euro is the main form of currency (this includes the countries of Sweden, Denmark, Croatia, Czechia, Norway, and Poland, for instance).

Average cost of goods in France:
- Cappuccino: 2.80 euros
- Bus: 1.60 euros
- Baguette: 1 euro
- Bottle of soda (12 oz): 2.60 euros
- Pint of local beer: 6 euros
- Taxi: 2.50 euros starting and 2.85 extra mile
Average cost of goods in Spain:

Loaf of bread: 0.91 euro
Cappuccino: 1.65 euros
Local beer: 3 euros
Bottle of soda: 1.78 euros
Bus: 1.40 euros
Taxi: 3.50 euros to start and 1.70 per extra mile

Read More:

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
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May 16, 2022
Summer Travel 2022: 5 Epic Road Trips In The U.S. To Take This Year

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Still worried about confusing international travel rules? There’s always a solution. Why not head out on the open road and take a drive through the U.S. this summer?

From underrated national parks to the most scenic drives in California, here are some adventurous summer road trip ideas for 2022 in the U.S. that won’t break the bank.

Indianapolis To Milwaukee

You can start this summer road trip in the Hoosier State and drive north to Milwaukee or do it the other way around. Either way, this 4-hour road trip will give you the quintessential Midwest experience (and lots of amazing views) along the way.

With the warm weather approaching, there’s no better time than to explore Indiana’s capital city. For a perfect day in Indy, head to downtown Indianapolis where you can walk along the picturesque canal in the White River State Park before sitting down for a sunset dinner at one of the many patios.

While not as popular as neighboring Chicago, Milwaukee has so much to offer travelers. The city also makes for a great road trip destination, especially during the summer months. Catch a baseball game and sample some fresh brews at one of the many breweries in the downtown area.

There are also a bunch of interesting pit stops worth taking on this road trip. Take a break in the little town of Justice, Illinois and visit the world’s largest stained glass window (it’s in the Guinness Book of World Records!) and the world’s first-ever Mcdonald’s.

Las Vegas To Great Basin National Park

This summer road trip mixes outdoor adventures with the glitz and glamor of the big city. To start this road trip, fly into Las Vegas for a few days of fun before heading to one of the most underrated national parks in the western US.

Nevada’s Great Basin National Park is a 4.5-hour drive northeast of Vegas just by the border with Utah. The park gets amazing reviews and offers camping, great trails, peaks, and even cave tours. Plan a few nights camping here and you’ll get some of the best stargazing experiences of your life.

New Hampshire White Mountains

Looking for more cheap travel inspiration? Head towards the east coast to New Hampshire and discover the beauty of the White Mountains. The weather is perfect this time of year, making New Hampshire one of the best states for an epic summer road trip.

Take a drive along Highway 112, where you can take your time to explore the beautiful northeast region of the “Live Free or Die” State before entering the White Mountain National Forest. You and your road trip buddies can spend at least 4-5 days here chasing waterfalls, swimming in lakes, camping, and so much more. If you don’t feel like roughing it, there are plenty of country cabin stays and hotels in and around the forest.

Central California Road Trip – Morro Bay To Big Sur

Nestled between Los Angeles County and a few hours drive south of bustling San Francisco is the sunny region of Central California. For many explorers, this region is the heartland of the Golden State. Why not plan a west coast road trip here this summer and discover why.

Start your road trip in beautiful Morro Bay and eventually make your way up to Big Sur by driving along the iconic Highway 1. If you have a few extra days on your road trip itinerary and want to explore a bit inland, head to Paso Robles, one of the most underrated wine regions in California.

Some of the most picturesque parts of the epic California coastline can be found here on this road trip (seriously, though), so take your time and enjoy the ride.

Kansas City To Omaha

Get more acquainted with the Heartland on this quick and fun summer road trip from Kansas City to Omaha. The trip is less than 3 hours in total, which will give you plenty of time to make stops at the little towns along the way.

Spend at least a few days in Kansas City, exploring its many museums and markets before heading over to Omaha. On a sunny summer day, the Overland Park is a great spot to explore for some outdoor fun in the heart of the city.

Read More:

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories

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April 25, 2022