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Why This Type Of Travel Is The Top Choice For Americans This Spring

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Well, there’s good news and bad news. Let’s start with the bad news. According to a new survey, only 25% of Americans plan to take a vacation within the U.S. this year. Borrrring!

But…the good news is one of the most fun ways to travel is destined to make an epic comeback this year.

While the first set of survey results are a downer since there are so many awesome places in the U.S. to explore, at least there’s hope for a resurgence for a long lost travel trend.

While digital nomadism and solo travel are taking over the planet, there is an old-school way of seeing the world.

Now that winter plans are coming to a close, the classic all-American road trip is calling travelers’ names yet again this spring.

No more icy roads and snow plows, just open roads and blue skies to some of America’s top destinations.

Survey Says…

The American Survey (powered by What If Media Group) resulted in U.S. travelers ready to put rubber to pavement this spring.

A majority of participants, 63% in fact, will pack up their bags and travel exclusively by car on their next trip.

A variety of factors have caused travelers to come to this decision to revive a classic way to see the sites.

Most importantly, revenge travel is best served by any means necessary. If that means sticking the highways and backroads at 60 mph rather than taking to the skies at nearly tenfold speeds, that’s what travelers are ready to do.

But, why now?

Lower Fuel Prices

In a world emerging with electric cars, they’re not exactly catered to road trips with the extra pit stops to charge up and the sweat-induing range anxiety drivers face.

You can’t turn on the news without hearing back-and-forth political ping-pong about gas prices, but the reality is fuel has dropped significantly since last September.

Remember the rental car fiasco after the pandemic too? Well, that’s long gone as well. The bottom line is traveling by car is a whole lot cheaper nowadays.

These cost-saving measures are much more appealing now and just in time to make plans for Spring Break.

Nostalgia

Ever have those thoughts of “the good ol’ days”? We all do. Being that we live in just a fast-paced society, sometimes it’s nice to take a step back.

In other words, the ‘scenic route’ can be much more enjoyable than the give-to-me-now way. Despite airfare dropping as well, travelers are seeking nostalgic experiences.

Maybe you have the desire to visit a place you went to as a child or are just seeking peace by listening to the radio on a long drive rather than being force-fed music by algorithms.

There’s no right or wrong answer, but we all seek it in one way or another. Growing up, we probably all had our own dreams of traveling, but we definitely all had the same dream of getting our drivers license.

There’s just something intangible about an all-American road trip.

Avoid The Hassles

Air travel may be the safest, but it can also be the most frustrating in multiple ways. From overbearing TSA agents to flight delays to being herded like cattle and being squeezed into tight spaces, at least you have more control behind the wheel.

Sure, you may hit some traffic jams depending on where you’re going, but is there anything worse than flight delays or even cancellations altogether?

Booking flights to far-flung places is undoubtedly the most efficient, but when it comes to visiting destinations in our own backyard, road trips became a lost art.

Flying over the ocean, National Parks and iconic cities does provide incomparable views, but a coastal drive or the infamous Route 66 is a whole different vibe planes just can’t match.

Plus, bringing pets on planes is a near-impossible task. You can bring the whole crew with nobody’s permission needed and enjoy the open road at your own pace.

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February 9, 2024
Why This Underrated Latin American Country Is Perfect For Every Type Of Traveler

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The region of Latin America is enjoying a tourist boom in recent years, and popular countries such as Costa Rica and Mexico are seeing a record number of visitors. However, there are other countries in this area that are a bit slower to rebuild their tourism industry in the post-pandemic climate.

One amazing destination that is still flying a bit under the radar with travelers is Panama, an important country connecting North and South America and, of course, showcasing the world-famous Panama Canal along the way.

While Panama isn’t exactly a secret, it’s still overlooked by many and remains quite underrated as a vacation destination. This is likely to change though in the near future as it’s becoming increasingly connected to more major cities in the U.S. with direct flights, not to mention gaining more recognition, especially with eco-tourism and surf tourism.

The reality is that Panama is really amping up their hospitality sector, and the country is getting ready for its moment in the spotlight. So it’s best to get there soon to experience it when the country is still authentic, and bargains can still be found.

Panama ticks all the boxes for all types of visitors. It’s safe and beautiful, navigation around the country is easy, it’s full of culture and nature, and it offers something unique for everyone, no matter what they seek.

@katelyn_roth Replying to @blahblah1231231 ♬ original sound – KristyLee

Here’s Why Panama Is Perfect For Every Type Of Traveler:

The Culture Seeker:

With a location that bridges two continents and is placed at one of the most important trading crossroads in the world, it’s easy to understand that Panama is a melting pot of cultures.

Although it’s a Central American country, Panama shows heavy influence from South American, Caribbean, North American, American Indian, Spanish, and African cultures as well.

A visit to Panama City will land you in the middle of a cultural crossroads, including one of the oldest and largest Chinese communities in Latin America.

Of course, a visit to Panama is not complete without witnessing the wonder that is the Panama Canal, and Miraflores Visitor Center is the popular choice and easily reachable from the city by public transportation or a tour.

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The Bougie on a Budget Traveler:

While Panama is not the cheapest destination in Latin America, it’s still easy to visit here on a budget. Even in Panama City’s trendy Casco Viejo, you can find hostels and apartments at a low price, and transportation is extremely cheap.

Uber is very low cost, and if you stick to the local and street foods, you can easily not break the bank on dining. Tip: Casco Viejo has no end of rooftop bars to catch the views; head to one of the lower-priced ones (such as a hostel) for cheap drinks.

Reaching the other areas of Boquete and Bocas del Toro can be done by long bus trips for those on a budget, although if you price watch, you can get flights at a good deal.

One area that might be a splurge is the stunning San Blas Islands (Guna Yala), so make sure to do plenty of research to find out how to save costs here if needed.

@lilmsawkward I was expecting to spend way more so I’m happy with my breakdown lol. This is a full trip breakdown of how much a trip to Panama City Panama cost me. I wouldn’t say this was a budget trip at all for me, plus solo travel can be a bit more expensive. Monkey island tour, salsa lessons, and cooking class were booked on Airbnb. San Blas tour with Panama Heavens. Comment a question and I’ll answer. Should I do more of these? #costbreakdown #travelcostbreakdown #budgettravel #solotravel ♬ Sun Is Shining – Bob Marley

The Nature Lover:

With a northern neighbor as famous as Costa Rica, it only makes sense that Panama would also be full of nature to marvel at. Over sixty percent of Panama is actually covered in forest, more so than any other country in Latin America, and even the city has a rainforest and Natural Park just a stone’s throw away.

Many visitors (myself included) have said that they saw more wildlife in Panama than in Costa Rica, and at a fraction of the cost. The country has sixteen national parks, each offering some stunning views and an abundance of wildlife, with rainforest and tropical reefs to explore.

Hikers love to head to Boquete, the small coffee town nestled in the mountains popular with expats and retirees. But do take care on the trails, as there have been some notorious incidents here in the past.

The Solo Female Traveler:

As one of the safest countries in Latin America, Panama is a great choice for the solo female traveler. Almost everyone is fluent in English, and ride-share apps are available and very cheap.

Public transportation is easy to navigate, and the metro in Panama City is surprisingly modern and safe. Getting around the country is made easy by overnight busses or flights, and you will see many other solo travelers in the hubs of Bocas Del Toro, Boquete, and Panama City.

Keep in mind that Panama City has many areas you shouldn’t venture to, although it’s unlikely any tourist really would. Stick to the beaten path here in places such as Casco Viejo and you will be fine, just don’t be alarmed at all the armed guards that patrol the area.

Of course, there are areas of the country that are a no-go, including the Darien Gap, which is an important and very treacherous area south of the country. This is where hundreds of thousands of immigrants make a treacherous journey en route to America, and no average tourist would go here anyway, so just be aware.

@sojournies For my food loving outdoorsy solo travelers going to Panamá 🥰🇵🇦 #panama #solotravel #blacktravelblogger #blacktravel #solofemaletraveler ♬ Sunday Vibes – Masego & MEDASIN

The Beach Bum:

The long S-shaped isthmus of Panama is a world-famous example of what happens when two major marine environments are separated by a rather narrow piece of land.

With the Caribbean Sea to its north and the Pacific to its south, Panama has its fair share of beaches. With a total coastline of nearly 3,000 kilometers, those who are looking for some beaches are spoiled for choice.

Just outside Panama City, you can take a day trip to the charming Taboga Island or stay closer to town on one of the many beaches and watch the tankers roll in, waiting for their turn to enter the canal.

True beach lovers know that the paradise is a bit further from the city and can be found in the otherworldly San Blas Islands (otherwise known as Guna Yala). This archipelago lies in the Caribbean Sea and is made up of tiny islands scattered amongst 400km of crystal clear water. Getting to San Blas is a bit of a trek, but is very much worth it. Many opt for a multi-day sailing trip en route to Colombia.

Another famous beach destination is Bocas del Toro, up in the north of the country just across the border from Costa Rica. A popular backpacker destination, Bocas del Toro is a small piece of the mainland with an archipelago of many islands, most of which you can visit via small water taxis.

While the main town of Bocas might get a bit congested, spread out and get to other small islands and you are much more likely to fall in love with Bocas. Starfish Beach and Playa Bluff are popular spots to spend the day, but venturing further off-path will result in more nature and fewer crowds.

The Pacific side of Panama also has some great beaches, some better suited for surfing and others for swimming. Santa Clara & Farallón are both good options and are within a 3-hour drive of Panama City.

The First Timer:

Panama is an ideal choice for travelers who are looking to dip their toes in the waters of Latin America and might feel a bit intimidated by all the diverse and amazing options.

The official currency in Panama is the USD, and nearly everyone speaks English, making it easier than in other countries in the region for the first-time traveler.

Ride-share apps are easy to use and help to navigate the big city, and the rest of the country is well laid out for a tourist route, so you will likely be surrounded by others in case you feel a bit overwhelmed.

While the country of Panama is safe, of course, no place is perfect, so remember that normal precautions apply, and keep that in mind when traveling throughout the country.

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July 18, 2023
Why This Central American Country Is Perfect For Every Type Of Traveler

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As one of the top Latin American destinations for 2023, Costa Rica is in no way a secret. In fact, this lush country was also recently crowned the 2022 leading destination for Central America.

Costa Rica is an ideal destination for all types of travelers, and it is definitely a country that should not be missed.

While traveling in Costa Rica, you will likely meet many travelers from North America, as the proximity, little to no time difference, and increase in flight options from both Canada and the U.S. make this such an attractive option for a holiday.

Where else can those from Canada and America escape to a tropical rainforest and be surrounded by wild animals, all within an easy and relatively inexpensive flight away?

While Spanish is, of course, the country’s official language, most locals who work in the tourism industry have a good level of English. And, when interacting with taxi drivers, shop owners, etc., a little Spanish really does go a long way. Just attempting some simple phrases and smiling will get you a much warmer reply from almost anyone.

Recently a surge of crime in and around the main city of San Jose has led to a U.S. travel advisory, so it’s best to stay on top of the current news in regards to this if planning a trip anytime soon.

Those who travel to Costa Rica will likely not spend any time in the city of San Jose, and the country is known to be a very safe destination, but do make sure to be aware of the current situation here.

There are tourist hotspots all over Costa Rica that fit everyone’s interests, and the wealth of information on where to go is vast. This article is here to tell you why you should go, no matter what kind of traveler you are.

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Here’s Why Costa Rica Is Perfect For Every Type Of Traveler:

The Backpacker

There is a reason Costa Rica is sometimes referred to as the ‘Switzerland of Central America’, and it’s not because of snow-capped mountains. Costa Rica is known to be an expensive destination, especially so when compared to its neighbors in the Latin America region.

While in no way considered a budget destination, there are ways to save while traveling to this beautiful country. Booking ahead is important, as the budget accommodations do tend to fill up quickly. Budget accommodations will more often than not have a shared kitchen, so those on a strict budget can prepare their own meals and cut costs.

Many will tell you to save money by eating at the local restaurant,s or Sodas, but I have found that if you are in or around the tourist towns, these can still run you around $20 for two lunches. While this price tag is fine for many, the true-budget backpacker might find this too expensive, so having a kitchen (or even a hotplate) will help out a lot in this department.

Traveling the country via the local ‘chicken’ busses also cuts down on costs dramatically, not to mention the experience of riding through the countryside with locals on an old American school bus really can’t be missed.

Also, while many of the popular attractions do cost money to enter, there are free options in each town worth exploring. All it takes is a little homework (for example, the free hot springs in La Fortuna is a popular budget option).

The Solo Traveler

As it’s such a popular tourist destination, Costa Rica has a pretty well-established tourist route (sometimes referred to as the ‘gringo trail’). This, coupled with the general friendliness towards foreigners from the locals, makes this country a great choice for solo travel.

While some other central American countries might seem a bit more intimidating, Costa Rica is a well-known, tried and true country for travelers, and therefore there is no end of information for those looking to plan a trip.

No solo traveler will head to Costa Rica without having scoured the internet for all the tips and tricks, and resources such as Facebook groups are helpful here to connect with others as well.

Speaking of connection, the hotspots you will want to visit in Costa Rica are found in every corner of the country, and shuttles that connect these places are easy and convenient, helping the solo traveler connect with others and avoid any public transportation headaches.

The Lux Seekers

Those who are looking for a luxurious vacation are spoiled for choice in Costa Rica, as the country has a variety of the biggest and best resort chains in Central America.

The most popular area for high-end travel is the country’s Pacific Coast, with the largest concentration of upmarket properties centralized around Guanacaste province and especially in the Papagayo Peninsula. With everything from round-the-clock butlers to private infinity pools overlooking the rainforest, if you are coming here with money to spend, then you are in the right place.

One advantage of having an unlimited budget means private guides and after-hours access to popular attractions. While many places can get crowded during the daytime, oftentimes, having your own guide allows you unparalleled access and the ability to avoid the masses.

The Digital Nomad

Offering a somewhat simple digital nomad visa (DNV), Costa Rica attracts many who are seeking to work from their hammocks perched in the forest. Pro-tip: an airplane pillow (stuffed with clothes to save space) works well as a hammock headrest and makes laptop living much more comfortable!

Digital nomads love Costa Rica for many reasons, ranging from the stunning scenery to the overall high internet speeds around the county’s more popular areas. A local SIM card is an inexpensive option to make sure you always have a backup, and a portable battery pack is a good idea as the country is prone to frequent (yet brief) power outages.

One hint, if you are taking a “hush trip” or planning on working from Costa Rica secretly, you might want to prepare yourself for the howler monkeys to blow your cover with their insanely loud noises in the morning. (it’s a risk worth taking, though!)

The Family Travelers

Costa Rica is the perfect location for those traveling with children of all ages, for both the safety aspect as well as the sheer amount of activities to keep them busy.

From night walks looking for tarantulas to zip-lining through the tree canopies, any kid who goes on vacation here is sure to be the envy of their classmates when they return to the real world.

Most resorts have children’s programs, and almost every guide and tour is extremely child friendly.

Not to mention many Airbnb’s here are run by local families, offering your child the chance to interact with locals and see the trip as a learning experience and possibly a mini Spanish immersion camp!

Everyone Else

Costa Rica is a destination that is diverse, beautiful, and welcoming. It really should be seen to be believed, and almost anyone who visits will find themselves richer for the experience.

In addition to the groups mentioned above, nature and adventure lovers will find themselves with unlimited things to do and see here.

Another group that is loving Costa Rica at the moment is Millennials. Finding that the country offers them the cultural and personal travel experiences that they seek, all with good WiFi coverage, of course.

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March 26, 2023
7 Cultural Summer Destinations in Europe That Are Perfect For Every Type Of Traveler

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Europe is the perfect place to spend your summer vacation. It has beaches, great eats, and even historical spots worth exploring, even when it’s boiling outside.

Take Spain. The country has Andalucia, which has a deep-rooted history in Arabic culture, and some of the top beaches in Spain.

Destinations in Europe like France have wine countries that, even though it might not be the best season to check out, you can still go for the ultimate wine-tasting experience.

Then you have Italy, which has infinite small and big lakes and beach towns. The small ones are charming, and the big ones are famous for having celebrities visiting them.

Let’s remember Greece, this nation has countless islands ready to be explored, and each carries something every type of traveler likes to do.

@kelseyinlondon 10 places in Europe ⬇️ you need to visit this summer ☀️ ⁣ ???????? Mallorca, Spain ⁣ ???????? Morcote, Switzerland⁣ ???????? Ksamil, Albania⁣ ???????? Provence, France ⁣ ???????? Ohrid, Macedonia⁣ ???????? Cinque Terre, Italy⁣ ???????? Algarve, Portugal⁣ ???????? Ios, Greece⁣ ???????? Cotswolds, England ⁣ ???????? Vis, Croatia ⁣ ⁣ Have you been to any of these destinations or planning to visit this summer? ⁣ ⁣ #uktravelblogger #travelcreator #travelcreator #travelblogger #travelbloggers #travelblogging #travelblogging #travelblog #travelbloggerlifestyle ##traveltips #travelcommunity #travelinspo #travelinspiration #wheretotravel #bloggertravel #bucketlisttravel #bucketlistvacations #bucketlistdestinations #travelguides #traveldestinations #traveldestination #travelguide #travelideas #traveleurope #europetravel #europetrip #europedestinations #europe_vacations #visiteurope⁣ #europetraveldestinations #europetravels #italytravel #englandtravelblogger ♬ Evergreen – Richy Mitch & the Coal Miners

This summer, travelers want more. They want to explore destinations and actually feel like they’re in them. They also want to leave with unforgettable memories that will last them a lifetime, and Europe is the best place to do that. “49% of survey respondents are looking to be immersed in local cultures and products while traveling in 2023,” according to a recent Hilton Hotels & Resorts study. Here are the seven European cultural summer destinations perfect for every type of traveler.

For The Solo Traveler

Lisboa (Lisbon), Portugal

If you are traveling solo this summer, check out countries like Spain and Portugal. The Iberian Peninsula is one of the best places to explore, and cities like Lisboa (Lisbon) and Barcelona are perfect for meeting new people and learning about different cultures.

Lisboa is known as one of the cities safest for female solo travelers, and neighborhoods like Barrio Alto and Chiado are perfect for sightseeing and grabbing a galao (Portuguese latte). They also have a good amount of hostels that are divided into private or semi-private. Goodmorning Solo Traveller Hostel is a hip place that offers separate dorm rooms for stay and is housed in a historic building. It’s a fun place to meet people and explore the city.

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Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is an excellent spot for travelers learning more about Catalan culture. Neighborhoods like Gràcia are known for attracting backpackers because of their vibrant cafes and historical sites. Attractions like Casa Vicens Gaudí are located in the community, and walking the streets will make you feel like you’re exploring old Europe.

In the summer, numerous block parties like Festa Major de Gràcia happen in August. These parties are amazing because each city street decorates its block with a different theme hoping to be the year’s winner. Walking around, grabbing a birra (beer), and seeing more local culture in the well-populated city can be fun.

For The Family Travelers

Athens, Greece

Greece is known as an island lover’s paradise, but there’s more to the country, and you can find it in the capital. It’s the perfect place to travel with your family and learn about Greece’s historical culture. Even cooler is that you can take day trips from Athens to places like Hydra for a beach vacation. Athens is a choose-your-own-adventure type of place, and that flexibility is perfect for families with varied interests.

Île de Ré, France

If you want to take your little ones on a holiday they will remember forever, take them to Île de Ré. It’s an island on the west coast of France and famous for beaches like the Plage de la Conche des Baleines. It has dozens of cafes and shops alongside its marina in St-Martin-de-Ré.

It’s the type of place where you’ll see the marinière (striped mariner shirts) worn casually. It’s also close to Cognac, so if the parents want to escape for a tour of the brandy-making process, they can do so.

For The Traveling Friends

Berlin, Germany

Berlin is a city of history, art, and megaclubs. It has a reputation as being a party town, and its nightclubs are notorious for having some of the most challenging door people. It’s the perfect place to check out with your friends, and neighborhoods like Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg are cool enough for any traveler to check out.

Rome, Italy

You can only say you’ve had Italian food once you’ve eaten in Rome. Rome is another historic city filled with even more fantastic food. The city is diverse and has a progressive LGBTQ+ community in places like Gay Street di Roma.

For The Beach Fan

Biarritz, France

If you’re a fan of beaches and surfing, or basically anything to do with a board, you have to check out Biarritz. This seaside beach town can be fancy but casual, with numerous skate parks and surfing spots. The Grand Plage and Cote des Basques are significant surfing areas, especially if you want to learn.

Traveling through Europe this summer should be fun. Pack some sunscreen and a swimsuit, and enjoy this side of the world.

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March 5, 2023
This Is The Most Popular Type Of Travel For Americans Right Now

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If being active on your vacation gives you anxiety, you’re not alone. There’s a more popular type of travel that has Americans adding relaxing locations to their wish lists. Dubbed the “nothing-cation” – also known as a trip where relaxation and warm weather are the main highlights, this type of travel is becoming more popular with travelers, and they aren’t feeling guilty about it.

Expedia recently conducted a survey of travelers and found that more than 34% of Americans are feeling burnt out after all the festivities of the holidays (especially parents), and almost everyone (96%) plans to do absolutely nothing on their next trip.

It’s no surprise that January comes as the top month for booking beach vacations. It’s the middle of winter, and people are sick and tired of cold and rain. What better time to travel? Some also see it as a great way to reduce anxiety and kick-start the new year.

Expedia found that about a quarter of getaways planned in January are to beach destinations, such as Mexico’s Cancun and Riviera Maya, Dominican Republic’s Punta Cana, and Hawaii’s Oahu, which have all doubled in demand compared to the previous year.

“There’s a time and place for an action-packed vacation itinerary, but our data shows the first trip after the hectic holiday season calls for a more relaxed agenda,” says Melanie Fish, head of Expedia Group brands public relations in a press release. “For most travelers, getting the most out of their next vacation means setting aside dedicated time for nothing.”

There’s no need to feel guilty about doing nothing because almost two-thirds of travelers (62%) agree that “doing nothing” is the best part of a vacation and think it is time well-spent. The travel experts at Expedia have put together 7 destinations where you can enjoy a “nothing-cation”.

Check out the list below:

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Kauai, Hawaii

With more than 60 beaches to explore that offer up activities such as snorkeling, water sports, or just being lazy in the sun, Kauai has remarkable beauty that is considered one of the less-developed areas of the island. When you want to take a break from laying by the pool, there are some beautiful scenic drives or coastline walks that will give you a nature kick and some added relaxation.

Costa Rica

Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, you’ll find a different vibe depending on where you end up, but its landscape will sway you into relaxation. Costa Rica has been praised for its ecological practices that promote an abundance of biodiversity and wildlife, which keep tourists singing its praises for its crystal-clear waters, luscious national parks, and its well-preserved jungle.

Fiji

Fiji has over 50 resorts to choose from, where you will leave feeling pampered and well-rested, whether it be from the traditional Bobo massages or from the gentle exfoliation of its white sands. From swimming under its picturesque waterfalls to floating in its lagoons and watching the sunset on a cruise, Fiji offers many quiet places to relax and connect with nature.

Nevis, Caribbean

Surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea, this island is considered one of the most unspoiled and relaxing islands in the area. Known for its peaceful pace of life and easy-going attitude, you’ll marvel at the long empty beaches to explore and its luscious mountain views. From spa treatments to fresh local food that will send you into a food coma, the whole experience will feel effortless.

Koh Samui, Thailand

Thailand’s second largest island was once an old fishing community but has turned into a popular resort island, thanks to its palm-fringed gorgeous beaches. The island is known to attract a variety of visitors, from young budget tourists looking to have fun to more luxury travelers wanting to enjoy high-end villas and resorts. Enjoy the serenity in a Buddhist temple or take a stroll through the charming Fisherman’s village.

Algarve, Portugal

Located along the southern coastline of Portugal, the Algarve contains gorgeous sandy beaches, picturesque coves, a calm and warm ocean, thermal springs, and a perfect climate all year round to enjoy a relaxing holiday. Take your pick between the long stretches of sand to explore or the mountain regions where old traditions are still honored.

Sanibel Island, Florida

Known for its pastel-colored seashells and the “Sanibel Stoop” – a posture used to collect seashells, this small island offers family-friendly fun and plenty of relaxation on its pristine beaches. The island offers activities from dolphin-watching on a boat to biking its 25-mile bike paths or touring its 6,000 acres of mangrove jungles and wetlands in the Wildlife Refuge.

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January 15, 2023
The Best Cruise Lines For Every Type Of Traveler In 2023

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Cruise travel is on the rise in 2023. Despite being forced to halt operations in 2020 because of government restrictions, cruise travel is back to normal now, and it’s poised to continue growing in 2023.

Many cruise lines have dropped all travel restrictions, including vaccine, testing, and mask requirements, and returned to normal operations.

Cruises offer a relaxing, hassle-free vacation, and they are often surprisingly affordable. Although some people may associate cruising with older retirees who want to play shuffleboard and take line dancing classes all day, that could not be further from the truth.

There are cruises out there for everyone. Here are the best cruise lines for every type of traveler in 2023:

Best For Families

Disney Cruise Line is one of the best choices for families looking to splurge on a vacation that is guaranteed to be a hit with the kids.

Royal Caribbean and Carnival are two other good cruise lines for families, especially on shorter sailings to Mexico, the Bahamas, and the Caribbean.

All of these cruise lines offer robust programming for kids and teens, including youth clubs with activities that will keep them occupied all day.

Many of the ships on these lines, especially the larger ones, have additional kid-friendly attractions like water slides, rock climbing, and other activities.

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Best For Adults

For couples without children, groups of friends, and other adult travelers, Virgin Voyages is one of the best options for adults-only cruising.

These ships are only for travelers 18 and older, and instead of a traditional dining room and Broadway-style shows like you’ll find on many other cruise lines, Virgin Voyages offers a selection of hip restaurants and nightly entertainment featuring world-famous DJs.

Best For Solo Travelers

Since most cruises are priced for double occupancy, solo travelers can find themselves paying double the price for a cabin.

However, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, and Holland America all offer a select number of “studio” cabins that are specifically designed for single travelers and will not incur an additional fee.

Best For Older Travelers

For travelers in their sixties and older, there are many great options. Viking is known for catering to older travelers on their luxury river cruises around Europe and other international destinations.

Seabourn and Silversea are two other lines that attract older travelers. These two cruise lines offer ocean cruises to destinations around the world.

Best For Culture

If you prefer to get immersed in the destinations you’re visiting, and you don’t just want to lie on a beach in every port of call, there are a number of cruise lines that offer more cultural immersion.

Oceania runs longer cruises (most around two weeks or more) to destinations around the world, with a focus on immersion. Guests can choose from culinary and wellness tours to enhance their understanding of the destinations, along with plenty of onboard programming.

AmaWaterways is another cruise line that offers great cultural immersion. On their small-ship river cruises, many of the excursions in destinations visited focus on history, art, and architecture.

Other Tips For Choosing A Cruise

Not everything comes down to the cruise line you choose. Some other factors to consider are the destination, duration, size of the ship, and time of year of your cruise.

For example, a Carnival 5-day cruise to Mexico or the Caribbean during the spring is likely to have a big party vibe and a lot of college kids on spring break.

But a Carnival 14-day transatlantic cruise during the winter is going to have a very different crowd and likely be much quieter. These are all factors to keep in mind when booking the cruise that will be right for you.

Traveler Alert: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip!

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December 3, 2022
This Type Of Luggage Is Most Likely To Be Thrown Around By Baggage Handlers

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Last Updated 19 mins ago

Checking a bag (or two, or three) is sometimes an inevitable part of travel. And when it is a situation where you have to travel with extra luggage, you drop your bags off at your airline’s check-in, pay any necessary baggage fees, put your information on those little luggage tags, and hope for the best.

That being said, dealing with lost or even damaged baggage is one stressful part of the travel experience. But, this doesn’t have to be your reality. What if you could do something about preventing your precious cargo from being mishandled or damaged while it’s en route?

Your Checked Luggage Should Have More Wheels, Says Ramp Agent Rachel

Ramp agent Rachel Bacha, who posts videos to her TikTok account rachel.bacha, shared some great tips in this video. For starters, travel with checked luggage that has four wheels as opposed to two.

In her video series on TikTok titled “Everything you need to know about a suitcase coming from a luggage handler,” Rachel shared one major travel tip when it comes to checking luggage:

“Any time you are purchasing a suitcase, get a bag with four wheels for a couple of different reasons.”

TikToker Shares Tips For Checked Luggage

This baggage handler on TikTok recently revealed in one of her videos the type of luggage that is most likely to be thrown around and mishandled by baggage handlers. Given that she is professional and all, you might want to check out what she has to say so that the luggage on your next trip doesn’t meet the same fate as others.

Her reasoning, she said, is because more wheels can make loading a piece of luggage easier for baggage handlers who are often doing the luggage loading and unloading on a time crunch.

“There are people loading your bags on the planes and some of the planes have really long cargo bins, and at some airports, they don’t have a machine that takes all of the bags into the bin to you,” Rachel explained in her video.

Large Airplane Holds Means Luggage Can Get Thrown Around

Rachel also explained that because some airplane holds are really big, it makes moving passengers’ luggage very hard for the two baggage handlers on the job.

“So there are two people, one throwing the bag and one stacking the bag (into the airport hold).”

She continued, “I hesitate to use the word ‘throw’ but that is what it is, we throw bags. Some of those planes have bins that are 20 feet long. Your bag has to start from here (at the front of the hold) and go all the way back there…and the way it gets there is by being rolled, slid, or tossed.”

4-Wheeled Suitcases Will Get Rolled Onto Plane

From her experience, Rachel said that bags with two wheels are going to get tossed, and alternatively, a bag with four wheels is going to get rolled. This means that a wheeled piece of luggage will be less likely to come out of that plane hold with any signs of damage.

While there are handling guidelines in place by airlines and baggage companies, getting a bag onto a plane is another story in practice, and some handlers may have to use some pressure to get that bag on board. On that subject, Rachel commented that “this is going to make some people not very happy, but that’s just how it is.”

“Now you can be prepared. How do you expect your bag to get from one destination to another in the same amount of time that you do?” She added.

At the end of the day, it’s best to travel with a piece of luggage that is easier to take from point A to point B, whether it be for the baggage handler or yourself as an individual passenger. Any little thing that you can do to make the whole travel experience as trouble-free and simple as possible is always a safe bet.

Read More:

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

Lost Luggage? Here’s What You Need To Do

Top European Destinations Where Americans Are Headed to This Fall

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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September 5, 2022