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The Best & Worst of Visiting China

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Five Things You Will Love & Hate About China Travel

Greetings from the Great Wall! We’ve been traveling around China for five weeks, and we’ve loved our time here. There are so many great things to see in China, like the Great Wall, but there are also things you won’t like.These are the five things you will love, and hate, about China travel.

China Travel Hate #1: Pollution & Quality Control

If you are in Beijing on a bad pollution day, you really shouldn’t even go outside. Wearing a mask is critical so that you can breathe.It’s best to research the masks and buy one at home, although you can buy them in China as well. As far as quality control, it’s possible to find good quality in China, but the quality control mechanism isn’t there, so you might have problems with the food and the water. (Don’t drink the tap water!)

China Travel Hate #2: People Everywhere

There are 1.5 Billion people in China; it can feel claustrophobic at times. For comparison, there are five Chinese for every one American, so it’s five times as many people everywhere. Issues that come with crowds are just getting bumped into a lot, and no real personal space to speak of. Waiting in line can drive you crazy, because it’s crowded, not orderly and basically a mad rush. (There’s also a LOT of spitting)

China Travel Hate #3: Lack of English

English is not widely spoken in China. Your hotel may have one person who speaks English, and they may not always be available to translate for you. This results in some pretty entertaining translations that you might see around China. It helps to learn a little bit of Chinese before you come, a sit will go a long way.

Watch: Basic Chinese for Kids

China Travel Hate #4: Bargaining & Aggressive Salespeople

Everywhere you go in China, you are always bargaining the price.Never pay more than 50% of the first price they give you. It’s part of the culture to bargain things down, even if you just an want to buy a couple of souvenirs and move on. It’s very time consuming.

China Travel Hate #5: The Toilets

The toilets in China are squat toilets, so there’s no seat, you are squatting above a hole in the ground. For Western travelers, this can be a big adjustment. There’s also usually a step up into the toilets, so watch your step and don’t fall into the squat toilet! Toilet paper is usually outside of the stall, so you are meant to grab some on your way in, however, it’s never abad idea to carry your own toilet paper in China.

Watch: Chinese Toilets: What Westerners Need to Know

China Travel Love #1: History

China has so much history, and historic sites to visit. The Great Wall, Terra Cotta Warriors, Beijing’s Forbidden City and so many more! Chinese history goes back thousands of years, and much of it has been well preserved.

China Travel Love #2: Natural Beauty

We often think of China as crowded cities and factories, but China has a ton of natural beauty. There are beautiful mountain ranges and river cities to explore. If you can, try to join a tour that takes you out into the countryside so you can see more of China than what the cities have to offer.

China Travel Love #3: Chinese Culture

Chinese culture is so unique and one of the best things about visiting China. The food in China is so much better than the Chinese food you are used to in Europe or the U.S. The fruits and vegetables are so fresh; the street food is fantastic. (Don’t let your kids eat it, though)

China Travel Love #4: China is Cheap for Western Tourists

Your wallet is going to love China. It’s a very affordable destination. The food, tours, sites and hotels are all well priced and perfect for travelers on a budget. Our money goes almost twice as far in China as it does in Europe, hence why we are here for five weeks!

China Travel Love #5: The People

If you meet a Chinese person, you are instantly their friend.They will gladly share the history and culture of their country, and share their best tips with you. They are very kind and helpful. If you have kids,they will all want a picture with your kid, so be prepared for that.

For more China travel tips, check out some of our other videos and blog posts:

What Tourists Should NOT Do When They Visit The USA

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The Don’ts of USA Travel

Greetings from Mystic, Connecticut! Today we’re sharing travel tips from our home country. Anytime you travel, anywhere in the world, there are things you should do, but there are also things you should not do.This post is about the “Don’ts” of USA travel.

USA Travel Don’t #1: Don’t Touch the Americans

Americans really like their personal space, almost as if they have a protective bubble around them. If you get too close to an American, it makes them very uncomfortable. Make sure to leave a bit of space around you,and don’t crowd (or touch) the Americans.

USA Travel Don’t #2: Don’t Count on Public Transportation

In many parts of the world, it’s easy to get around without a private car. That’s not so in the U.S. and you can’t count on public transportation to see a lot of the country. The bigger cities like New York and Chicago have pretty good train and bus systems for getting around within the city and neighboring suburbs, but once you get out into the countryside and smaller towns, the options for public transportation are not good, and sometimes unsafe.

USA Travel Don’t #3: Don’t Underestimate the Size of the U.S.

Think of the Continental United States like Continental Europe;it’s huge. You would never plan  a road trip to Lisbon to Paris to Tallinn to Sofia, but many visitors to the U.S. try to plan a trip from New York to Miami to Los Angeles in two weeks. If you only have a few weeks, the best approach is to pick a region of the U.S. (New England, Southwest, Southeast, etc) and spend more quality time exploring one region.

Some examples of distance in the U.S.:

  • Chicago to Los Angeles: 2077 miles/3342 km
  • Miami to Las Vegas: 2566 miles/4129 km
  • New York to Orlando: 1080 miles/1738 km

USA Travel Don’t #4: Don’t Forget About Sales Tax

The price you see on goods in the U.S. is not the final price you will pay. Most of the states in the U.S. add a sales tax to the price when you pay. Some cities add their own sales tax on top of the state tax. And then some goods, like food, are taxed differently than other goods, or not at all. There are currently five states (Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire and Oregon)with no sales tax. If these states are on your itinerary, plan to do your souvenir shopping here!

USA Travel Don’t #5: Don’t Forget to Tip

On top of sales tax, plan to add another 15-20% to your restaurant bill for gratuity. At a sit-down restaurant with table service,tipping is customary, as service wages are lower than minimum wage. (It’s not necessary to tip at a fast-food or counter-service establishment.) If you are dining with a large group, sometimes the gratuity is automatically added to the bill. When ordering drinks at the bar, it’s good practice to tip a few dollars when you buy a round; this will ensure good service on subsequent rounds.

USA Travel Don’t #6: Don’t Get Freaked Out by Attentive Service & Free Stuff

Because we’re in a tipping culture, a lot of the service can seem over the top to someone from another country. However, people in the U.S. are generally very nice helpful, it’s part of our culture. Also, don’t be surprised at some of the things you’ll get for free at restaurants. Generally, before the meal you’ll get bread , or chips and salsa, depending on the type of restaurant. Tap water (not bottled) is also standard, so that’s usually brought to your table without asking.

USA Travel Don’t #7: Don’t Smoke (Cigarettes) in the U.S.

Cigarettes have become very taboo in the U.S. and people will look at you like you are trying to kill their baby if you smoke around them.What’s funny is, people don’t seem to mind at all about marijuana smoking these days, but cigarettes are totally verboten. If you do smoke, make sure you find a place where you are allowed. (It will vary by state, but there’s usually a prescribed distance from entryways that you can smoke) Most hotels, restaurants and indoor public spaces are smoke-free in the U.S.

USA Travel Don’t #8: Don’t Try to Buy Alcohol Unless You are 21 Years Old

Age limits on alcohol (21) and cigarettes (18) are pretty strict in the U.S. and you won’t be able to buy them without showing the proper I.D.Make sure you have an ID with your birth date. Even if you are in your 30’s, you may be asked to show I.D. Don’t get mad at the person requesting your ID, as they could lose their job if they don’t follow the proper procedures.

USA Travel Don’t #9: Don’t Bother With the Metric System

The U.S. does not use the metric system. Everything is in miles,pounds or gallons. Very few people in the U.S. will be familiar with the metric system, so be prepared to convert distances or amounts, using the baseline below.

For reference:

  • 1 Gallon = 3.78 Liters
  • 1 Foot = 30 cm
  • 1 Yard = 0.9 meters
  • 1 Mile = 1.61 km
  • 1 Pound = 0.45 kg
  • 12 ounces = 355 ml

USA Travel Don’t #10: Don’t Talk Gun Control or Politics

There are a few topics that will most certainly end in arguments,so it’s best not to bring them up. Gun Control and Politics are very polarizing topics, so stick to safer topics such as weather, sports or travel.

USA Travel Don’t #11: Don’t Assume All Americans are the Same

The U.S. is very diverse, geographically, and culturally. There is no “typical American” any more than there is a “typical European.” The U.S.has many different cultures and landscapes. If you travel across the country,you’ll see these regional differences in the cuisine, the language, and mannerisms. If you can, try to visit more than one region and take in these differences; you will be surprised.

USA Travel Don’t #12: Don’t Say the U.S. Has No Culture

The U.S. is sometimes accused of having no culture, but that’s arude assumption. There are many cultural centers in the U.S. New Orleans has a unique Cajun culture with French roots, New England has a very distinct and historic culture, with some of the oldest buildings in the U.S. The Southwest isa great place to learn about Native American culture. Just because the United States is a “newer” country, doesn’t mean there isn’t culture to experience here.

USA Travel Don’t #13: Don’t Think “How are You” is Actually a Question

Americans will often ask “how are you” and then quickly move on.Don’t feel bad if you are asked this, but the person doesn’t wait for an answer. It’s almost more of a greeting in the U.S. than a question. It’s similar to “ça va?” in French; it’s just a greeting said in passing, not a conversation starter.

USA Travel Don’t #14: Don’t Expect Free Extras at Fancy Hotels

In the U.S. the more expensive hotels usually have fewer free amenities. Things like WiFi and breakfast are usually not included in your luxury resorts. The mid-range hotels will offer more freebies, like continental breakfast, free parking and sometimes airport shuttles. Watch out for hidden resort fees, which are becoming very common at higher-end hotels and resorts in the U.S.

USA Travel Don’t #15: Don’t Miss the Local Cuisine

Each region of the U.S. has unique cuisine worth exploring. Herein New England, it’s all about the seafood, with lobsters and clams. Southern food is some of the best in the U.S. with fried chicken, mac n’cheese, grits and BBQ. Don’t just eat at chain restaurants. Ask at your hotel to find out the best local food to try. The locally owned restaurants usually have better service than the chain restaurants, too, because they are often family-owned.

USA Travel Don’t #16: Don’t Get Sick

Healthcare in the U.S. is insanely expensive. Just because you are visiting from another country, doesn’t mean they won’t track you down to pay your bill. Make sure you have traveler’s insurance that will cover medical expenses in the U.S. Something as silly as a broken ankle can cost you thousands, so be careful and be prepared!

USA Travel Don’t #17: Don’t Argue That There are More Than 50 States

For some reason, people outside the U.S. tend to argue that the U.S. has 52 states. It’s not true. There are 48 continental United States, plus Alaska and Hawaii. (Washington D.C. is a federal district, and Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory)

For more tips on USA travel, check out some of our other videosand blog posts:

What to Know Before Visiting Las Vegas for the First Time

More Unique European Christmas Traditions

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More Unique European Christmas Traditions

Merry Christmas! We had so many responses to our last EuropeanChristmas traditions post, that we had to do a second one to include all the new traditions. So, here are eight more unique ways that European countries celebrate their Christmas traditions.

The Netherlands Christmas Tradition: Sinterklaas & Zwarte Piet

Many of you called us out for leaving this one off the last list.It’s similar to Nickolaus day in Germany, which happens on December 6th. But in the Netherlands, it’s Sinterklaas who comes and leaves treats. The assistant of Sinterklaas is Black Peter, a rather controversial figure who was originally a slave from Spain. The inclusion of black-face characters has evolved over the years, so you’ll just have to go see for yourself how they are including this character in their traditions.

Iceland Christmas Tradition: Many!

There are several unique Christmas traditions in Iceland. They will drink Malt, a malty sweet soda, or Appelsin, an orange soda. It’s also tradition to eat a bowl of rice porridge with one almond mixed in. Whoever gets the almond in their dish gets an extra present. There’s also the tradition of Yule Boys, where they dress up like Santa Claus and leave gifts for children for 13 nights leading up to Christmas. The coolest Iceland Christmas tradition is the Yule Cat. If you haven’t been good enough to get new clothes by Christmas Eve, the Yule Cat will come and eat you!

Lithuania Christmas Tradition: 12 Dishes

In Lithuania, there is a fast leading up to Christmas. On Christmas Eve, no meat is consumed, but there are 12 dishes served on Christmas Eve, leading up to midnight. Then, at midnight, the fast ends and the celebration begins.

Scandinavia Christmas Tradition: Straw Yule Goats

In the Nordic countries such as Sweden and Finland, you’ll often see goats made out of straw. Sometimes, they are small ornaments or decorations. In some cities, they make huge yule goats to display.

Norway Christmas Tradition: Broom Hiding

In Norway, the women will hide their brooms on Christmas Eve so that witches can’t take the brooms and use them for mischief.

Orthodox Countries Christmas Tradition: Different Day of Celebration

In Russian Orthodox, Greek Orthodox and Eastern Orthodox countries, the birth of Jesus is not celebrated as the 25th of December. It’s actually the 7th of January. So in some of these countries, gifts aren’t shared on Christmas day, but on New Year’s day.

Spain Christmas Tradition: Day of the Three Kings

In Spain, they celebrate the day of the three kings, which is on the 6th of January. This is the day when children in Spain get their presents.They also have lots of parades and processions on the 5th of January, and they eat the “king’s cake,” or Roscon de Reyes. Similar to a King Cake for Mardi Gras, a toy is hidden inside the cake for someone to find.

Germany Christmas Tradition: Watching “Dinner for One”

I’ve spent many Christmases & New Year’s Eves in Germany and the German families have all watched this TV show around New Year’s Eve. It’s a “British” program about an old woman who holds a dinner party, but all of the guests have passed away, so the butler has to play the role of each guest, getting exceedingly drunk with each toast. For whatever reason, it’s become a German (as well as other countries) New Year’s or Christmas tradition, so you’re likely to see it on the television.

For more tips about traveling in Europe at Christmas, check out these blog posts and videos:

25 Things Tourists Should Never Do in Japan

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The “Don’ts” of Japan: Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Greetings from Kyoto, Japan! This is the former capital of Japan and one of the places you don’t want to miss when you visit Japan. Today, we’re sharing some of the cultural “don’ts” for travelers visiting Japan for the first time. With these Japan travel tips, you’ll be better prepared to enjoy your Japan vacation.

Japan Travel Tip #1: Don’t Put the Toilet or Bidet on High Pressure

 

Japanese toilets are high tech and advanced, with lots of settings to play with. The toilets in Japan are great, but if it’s your first time, it may be hard to figure out what all the buttons are for. If you use the bidet with the pressure on high, you might get quite the surprise, and you might think you accidentally pressed the colonoscopy button!

 

Japan Travel Tip #2: Don’t Forget to Pre-Order Your Japan Rail Pass

 

Don’t forget to get a Japan Rail Pass before your trip. You can’t get them once you arrive in Japan. With the JR Pass, you can travel as much as you want within the number of days you purchase (7, 14, 21 days.) The JR Pass doesn’t just work for travel between major cities, but will sometimes also work within the cities. Once you arrive in Japan, purchasing train tickets is very expensive, so this is a great way to save money in Japan.

 

Japan Travel Tip #3: Don’t Expect to Hear a Lot of English

 

Japan is culturally advanced in so many ways, but not when it comes to having English available for tourists. You won’t hear a lot of English, nor see a lot of English menus. The same applies for most non-Japanese languages. Fortunately, the people in Japan are very helpful and will try to help you figure out menus and directions. If you can learn just a few Japanese phrases before you come, it will help a lot.

 

Japan Travel Tip #4: Don’t Wear Clothes at the Onsen

 

Onsen, or Japanese traditional spas, are a huge part of Japanese culture. However, no clothes are allowed in the onsen. Not to worry, they are separated by gender. Before entering the onsen, visitors receive two towels. The larger one should be saved for after the hot springs, while the smaller one comes with you and is placed on your head while you soak.

 

Japan Travel Tip #5: Don’t Just Visit Tokyo

 

Yes, Tokyo is awesome, but there is so much more to see in Japan. Even if you just visit Kyoto, or Osaka, you will see a different side of Japan than the city of Tokyo. Japan has so many different landscapes, from islands and beaches to mountains and forests. There are so many things to do in Tokyo, it can be tempting to spend all of your time there, but if you have the JR Pass, it’s actually pretty cheap to get to other parts of Japan.

Japan Travel Tip #6: Don’t Think You Will Only See Tokyo Stereotypes

 

What you see on TV is just a sliver of Japanese culture. Yes, you’ll see lots of neon lights and anime costumes in Tokyo, but once you explore the countryside of Japan, expect to see a lot of temples and nature.

 

Japan Travel Tip #7: Don’t Expect A Lot of Space in Your Hotel Room

 

Don’t think you can squeeze a family of four into one hotel room. Very few hotels have enough space to accommodate a large family in one room. We typically rent apartments, which is more affordable and gives us more space.

 

Japan Travel Tip #8: Don’t Wear Shoes In Someone’s Home

 

Never wear your shoes inside someone’s home in Japan. Everyone should remove shoes at the door, and there are usually guest slippers for you to wear inside the house. Some homes will have special bathroom slippers, so don’t forget to swap out your house slippers for the bathroom slippers when you enter and exit the bathroom. Some restaurants even have patrons remove their shoes.

 

Japan Travel Tip #9: Don’t Be Rambunctious in Ryokan

 

If you travel outside of Tokyo to smaller towns or historic places, you might stay in Ryokan, or a traditional Japanese guest house. These homes have paper walls and sliding doors, so it’s very easy to irritate other guests by making a lot of noise.

 

Japan Travel Tip #10: Don’t Be Loud, Especially on Public Transportation

 

Japan is a very quiet country, and there is very little noise on the trains. Even out on the streets, it’s pretty quiet in general.

 

Japan Travel Tip #11: Don’t Forget to Look Right When Crossing the Street

 

In Japan, they drive on the left, so when crossing the street, you have to look to the right for oncoming traffic.

Japan Travel Tip #12: Don’t Freak Out About Automatic Taxi Doors

 

If you ride in a taxi, the back doors are automatic and will pop open for you.

 

Japan Travel Tip #13: Don’t Smoke or Eat While Walking in Public

 

There are signs all over Japan reminding you not to smoke and walk. You can actually get fined for this. Eating and walking at the same time is more of a cultural faux pas, so you’ll see people sit down to eat, but they are not eating while walking.

 

Japan Travel Tip #14: Don’t Use the Hot Towel at Restaurants on Your Face

 

Many restaurants will give you a hot towel when you arrive. This is only for hands, not for the face.

 

Japan Travel Tip #15: Don’t Have Bad Chopstick Etiquette

 

There are some basic etiquette rules when it comes to eating with chopsticks:

  • Don’t point with your chopsticks
  • Don’t pass food from chopstick to chopstick
  • Don’t rest chopsticks vertically in food

 

Japan Travel Tip #16: Don’t Pay Your Waiter

 

When eating at a restaurant in Japan, you don’t pay your bill with the waiter. The waiter will drop the bill at your table, but you pay on the way out at the front of the restaurant. You also don’t tip in Japan, so that’s one less thing to worry about.

Japan Travel Tip #17: Don’t Worry if You Don’t Know What You Are Eating

 

In Japan, oftentimes you’ll order based on sight. If it looks good, try it. Also, don’t worry if you don’t know how to eat the food. The waiter can show you how to eat everything and how to pair the foods you’ve ordered, even without speaking English.

 

Japan Travel Tip #18: Don’t Worry About Noodle Slurping

 

Slurping your noodles is a good thing in Japan! It’s supposed to enhance the flavor, and isn’t considered bad manners.

 

Japan Travel Tip #19: Don’t Try to Pay if You Are a Guest at Dinner

 

If someone invites you to dinner, don’t try to pay. The person who makes the invitation is expected to pay for the whole meal and trying to pay for your meal will be insulting to them. The reverse also holds true: if you invite someone to dinner, be prepared to pay.

 

Japan Travel Tip #20: Don’t Forget to Give Things With Two Hands

 

This is especially common with business cards, or gifts, money, receipts, or anything of reverence. Be sure to hand these things off with both hands.

 

Japan Travel Tip #21: Don’t Pour Alcohol For Yourself

 

If you happen to be out drinking in Japan, especially with business colleagues, don’t pour your own alcohol. It’s custom to pour alcohol for others, but to let them pour for you.

 

Japan Travel Tip #22: Don’t Be Late in Japan

 

They won’t be late, so you shouldn’t either. Buses, trains, meetings and pretty much everything in Japan runs on time. If something is running behind, it’s a source of embarrassment in Japan. Being punctual is a key part of Japanese culture, so make sure to observe this.

 

Japan Travel Tip #23: Don’t Freak Out By Long Lines or Crowded Transportation

 

While it’s important to be on time, you’ll likely find yourself waiting in long lines or crowded onto a bus or subway car. They are very efficient in Japan when it comes to getting things done. You’ll be amazed at how quickly and efficiently a line is processed.

 

Japan Travel Tip #24: Don’t Forget Your Manners on Public Transportation

 

When stopping at a station, rather than squishing together to let people exit, it’s very common to hop off the train, let everyone exit, and then get back on. Also, on escalators, it’s the opposite of what you’re used to. Rather than stand to the right to allow faster walkers to pass on the left, in Japan you stand on the left and pass on the right.

 

Japan Travel Tip #25: Don’t Expect to Find Garbage Cans

 

It can be difficult to find garbage cans in Japan, so plan to carry things around for a while if you are creating trash. Having a few plastic bags along can be helpful until you find a trash can. Once you do find a garbage bin, don’t forget to separate your trash. A lot of garbage in Japan is incinerated, so pay attention to the signs on the bins to see what you can throw in each container.

 

Hopefully these tips will help you prepare for an amazing vacation in Japan. It’s a fantastic country, so don’t miss out! For more Japan travel tips, check out some of our other blog posts and videos:

 

5 Things Travelers Love & Hate about Hostels

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Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Staying in Hostels

Hostels are one of the best options for travelers backpacking through Europe, especially solo travelers. They’re a great budget-friendly choice, but there are some things you’ll love, and hate, about staying in hostels.

Staying in Hostels Hate #1: Snoring

When you’re sharing a room with lots of people, there will inevitably be a snorer in the group. If you are a light sleeper, you won’t get much sleep between snoring roommates and people coming in and out all night.

Staying in Hostels Hate #2: Your Hostel-Mates

Staying in hostels is a cool way to meet fellow travelers, but there’s always that one person who uses your stuff, steals your stuff, leaves a mess or makes too much noise. Hopefully you’ll have cool hostel-mates, but be prepared for a few annoying ones along the way.

Staying in Hostels Hate #3: Strict Rules

Whether it’s an early checkout, or curfew rules, time limits on your stay, hostels have a lot of rules. Most hostels require you to rent their sheets, so don’t bother bringing a sleeping bag.

Staying in Hostels Hate #4: The Mess

Hostels can be a bit dirty, since you have people coming in from all over, many have been traveling for long periods of time. Just having eight people in a room inevitably means things will get messy. The bathrooms and kitchens of hostels can get pretty funky.

Staying in Hostels Hate #5: Prices

Hostels are becoming more expensive. A couple decades ago, hostels were dirt cheap and the choice of budget travelers and students. Now, hostels are getting nicer, more desirable (even for families!) but also more expensive. If you are traveling with a friend, often times you can split a hotel room for the same price you would pay for two people at a nicer hostel in Europe.

Staying in Hostels Love #1: Your Hostel-Mates

It’s a love, and a hate! You will meet the most amazing people when you stay in hostels. It’s an easy way to meet fellow travelers, and if you’re backpacking, it’s a great way to find travel buddies.

Staying in Hostels Love #2: Travel Expertise

Between the fellow travelers you meet at the hostels, or the hostel workers, you will get the best travel advice when staying at a hostel. Want to know the best museums or food in town? Wondering where to go next in your travels? You’ll get all the advice you need, right at the hostel!

Staying in Hostels Love #3: Central Locations

Most of the time, but not always, hostels are in super central locations. If you like to stay in the heart of the city, hostels are usually a great choice. If not right downtown, they are usually located near public transportation.

Staying in Hostels Love #4: Affordable Option for Solo Travelers

Even though it’s listed above as expensive, hostels are still one of the most affordable ways to travel. Especially for solo travelers. Unlike hotels where you pay by the room, hostels charge a per person rate, so solo travelers really benefit.

Staying in Hostels Love #5: You Feel Like a Traveler (not a tourist)

In a hotel, you can be isolated in your room, and even have all of the comforts of home in your favorite hotel chain. The Holiday Inn in Berlin won’t look any different than the Holiday Inn in Cleveland. In a hostel, you’re going to connect with like-minded travelers, and feel like a real vagabond, on the road.

These are my loves and hates of staying in hostels. A piece of advice if you plan to stay in a hostel, is to call and reserve your spot ahead of time, especially in peak seasons. Many hostels now offer private rooms, so even families can stay in hostels while traveling. For more travel tips, checkout some of our other videos and blog posts:

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Backpacking Europe

13 Things You Should NOT Do at a European Christmas Market

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The Don’ts of German Christmas Markets

Merry Christmas! Today we’re drinking glühwein and eating bratwursts, which are things you do at the Christmas markets. But this post is about the things you *don’t* do at German Christmas Markets.

German Christmas Market Tip #1: Don’t Come Too Early

While the US stores start Christmas decorations in September,that’s not the case in Europe. In Germany, the Christmas markets don’t start until the first Sunday of Advent. Late November is the earliest you will see Christmas markets, but early December is more likely.

German Christmas Market Tip #2: Don’t Come Too Late

Christmas markets in Germany typically don’t last past Christmas day. Some of the German Christmas markets even close as early as the 21st of December. December 24, 25 and 26 are all holidays in Germany. Now, some major cities will have markets that last beyond Christmas, especially as these become more popular with tourists, but it’s not the norm.

German Christmas Market Tip #3: Don’t Think Glühwein is the Only Hot Beverage

If you don’t drink alcohol or just don’t like glühwein, there are other options for warm drinks at the Christmas markets. There’s a kids’ punch and hot chocolate, plus other warm drinks with alcohol.

German Christmas Market Tip #4: Don’t Forget the Pfand

Don’t forget about the pfand, or deposit, on the Christmas mug when you purchase your drinks. The pfand can be as much as the drinks cost, so it adds up quickly. Don’t forget to return the mug to get your deposit back. In Munich, we’ve paid as much as 5 Euro per mug.

German Christmas Market Tip #5: Don’t Feel You Have to Return the Mug

On the other hand, if you want to keep the mugs as souvenirs, you can. That’s what the pfand is for; if you keep the mug, you forfeit the pfand. Just remember you have to pack them all up and get them home in one piece, but they do make great souvenirs.

German Christmas Market Tip #6: Don’t Count Calories at the Christmas Markets

There are so many great things to eat and drink at the Christmas markets. In addition to glühwein and egg nog, there’s amazing food, like bratwursts, fried dough, nuts, gingerbread and so much more. Don’t bother worrying about calories; just enjoy it all.

German Christmas Market Tip #7: Don’t Hog the Tables

You’ll see little tables around the Christmas markets where people stand to eat their food, or rest their drinks. Sharing these tables is a great way to meet some of the locals, so don’t hog the tables to yourself.

German Christmas Market Tip #8: Don’t Buy Everything You See

There are so many cute things to buy at the Christmas markets,but don’t feel like you have to buy everything you see. Take your time toe xplore the shops and see what you can’t live without. It’s so easy to go overboard

German Christmas Market Tip #9: Don’t Buy the Gingerbread Hearts

You’ll see lots of cute heart-shaped gingerbreads, with writing on them. Don’t eat those; eat the regular gingerbread cookies. The smaller cookie versions are much tastier.

German Christmas Market Tip #10: Don’t Skip the Small Town Markets

Don’t just visit the big city Christmas markets in Germany. The small towns have some really great Christmas markets, too

German Christmas Market Tip #11: Don’t Forget to Dress for Cold

You will probably be outside for a long time, so make sure you are dressed accordingly. Even if it’s in the 30’s and above freezing, that can be pretty cold after a few hours. Make sure to bring gloves and a hat to keep warm! Warm, comfortable walking shoes are also a must!

German Christmas Market Tip #12: Don’t Forget About Day Trips

Even if you are based in a larger city, it’s still possible to visit the smaller towns and their Christmas markets on a day trip from the city. Train travel is easy and everywhere in Germany. So you don’t have to pack your bags and change hotels to experience several Christmas markets in Germany.

German Christmas Market Tip #13: Don’t Forget to Bring Cash

A lot of these market stalls are small mom-and-pop operations,and many of them don’t take credit cards. It’s best to just bring the cash you’ll need so you don’t have to worry about it once you arrive. Remember, cash is definitely king at the Christmas markets.

For more tips about traveling Europe in winter, check out theseblog posts and videos:

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Traveling Europe in Winter

The Best *and worst* Parts of Visiting Europe at Christmas

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Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Visiting Europe at Christmas

Christmas is a wonderful time to visit Europe, something our family has done many times. Today we’re sharing five things you’ll love, and hate, about visiting Europe at Christmas-time!

Christmas in Europe Love #1: Christmas Markets

Germany is famous for Christmas markets, but they are everywhere in Europe, from small villages to large cities. Christmas markets are one of the best things about Christmas in Europe. You can enjoy glühwein and traditional food, while shopping for authentic gifts in the cool winter air.

Christmas in Europe Love #2: Old World Christmas Traditions

There are so many interesting Christmas traditions in Europe. It’s not just about buying gifts and waiting for Santa Claus. There’s Nicklaus, and Black Peter and many other Christmas stories and traditions. Most cities in Europe have a strong Christian background, so the Christmas decorations are everywhere.

Christmas in Europe Love #3: Christmas Cuisine

At Christmas, special foods start to appear all over Europe. Whether it’s panettone in Italy, or glühwein in Germany, you’ll find that every country in Europe has special Christmas-time cuisines they celebrate with.

Christmas in Europe Love #4: Improved Service

Sometimes we are critical of service quality in Europe, but it really does improve at Christmas time. People are friendlier with tourists and more willing to help out. In Bratislava, hotel staff left “Nicklaus” treats outside our door for our kids, which was really special.

Christmas in Europe Love #5: The Great Outdoors

In the colder climates of the US, people tend to stay indoors at Christmas time. In Europe, people get outside to enjoy the Christmas spirit, even when it’s cold out. From the Christmas markets, to skating rinks and cafes, people love the outdoors at Christmas time.

Christmas in Europe Hate #1: High Season Pricing

While winter in Europe is often a great time to save money on flights and hotels, you can expect to see higher prices at Christmas time. Better deals can be had in November or January, so if you’re just trying to save money, you might visit when school is still in session, because once school is out, prices jump.

Christmas in Europe Hate #2: Markets and Decorations End at Christmas

You might want to travel to Europe for the week between Christmas and New Year’s, but if you arrive after Christmas, you’ll be disappointed to learn that most Christmas markets end on the 24th, and Christmas decorations come down right after Christmas. The Christmas spirit in Europe disappears pretty quickly after the 25th and it’s back to business as usual.

Christmas in Europe Hate #3: Crowded Transportation

Because it’s a high travel season, you’re going to see fully booked trains and buses as everyone tries to get home for Christmas. Hotels will also book up, so make all of your reservations as early as possible if you plan to travel around Europe at Christmas.

Christmas in Europe Hate #4: Reduced Transportation Schedules

Even though more people are traveling at Christmas, the service and schedules are often drastically reduced on the holiday. If you plan to travel on the holiday, check ahead to see if trains or buses are even running.

Christmas in Europe Hate #5: Closed Government Agencies

Many offices or government agencies close or have reduced hours over the holidays. This really comes into play if you experience any issues during your travels, such as a lost passport or needing to file a police report. Anything involving the government may take a bit of extra time, so be prepared for delays.

These are the things we love, and hate, about visiting Europe at Christmas. For more travel tips, check out some of our other travel blogs and videos:

What Tourists Should Never Do When They Visit Florida

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Don’ts of Visiting Florida: Tips for A Successful Vacation

Greetings from Clearwater Beach, Florida, voted the #1 beach inthe U.S. Florida has a lot of great stuff you should do, but there are alsosome things you should not do in Florida. There are many American touristsvisiting Florida, as well as International travelers who visit Florida. Foranyone planning a Florida vacation, these “don’ts” will make your Florida tripeasier and more enjoyable.

Florida Tip #1 Don’t Mess With the Critters

There are some wild and exotic animals in Florida, including alligators and sharks. They aren’t just a tourist attraction; they are wild animals and can be dangerous. If you see signs at the beach with shark warnings, heed them. Follow any signs and instructions to stay safe from the wildlife in Florida.

Florida Tip #2 Don’t Expect to See All of Florida in One Trip

There are so many things to do in Florida, and it’s actually a really long state, over 500 miles from north to south. There is way too much to cover in one vacation, so travelers to Florida really need to focus in on one or two areas to visit, otherwise expect to burn out trying to see everything. This is especially true for visiting Florida with kids. Be realistic about how much ground can be covered each day.

Florida Tip #3 Don’t Sleep In

Early risers in Florida are treated to quiet, serene beaches before all of the tourists show up. This also applies for the theme parks; early in the day, the crowds are smaller, so it pays to get up early and get going. Go to bed earlier if you need to, but take advantage of early mornings and getting ahead of the crowds.

Florida Tip #4 Don’t Be Afraid to Stay “On Property” at the Amusement Parks

For days at Disney or Universal, it pays to stay at the on-site hotels. Often there are perks associated with staying on property, such as early access or free entertainment tickets. Plus, you’re already there, so when you get up early in the morning, you’ll be two steps ahead of everyone else.

Florida Tip #5 Don’t Break the Bank

Prices in Florida can be really high, as it’s a very popular tourist destination. It’s very easy to spend $1000 in one day for a family of four visiting the Florida theme parks. It’s possible to find cheap flights, and there are affordable options in Florida for those willing to do some research. The beaches are free, and there are National Parks, State Parks and nature preserves in Florida. There are even cultural sights in Florida, like St. Augustine and Tarpon Springs.

Florida Tip #6 Don’t Forget the History, Nature, Architecture and Wildlife

There are so many things to do in Florida outside of the theme parks. Florida has really cool sights and destinations away from Orlando. St. Augustine is the oldest city in the U.S. Miami has incredible and interesting architecture, plus it’s a cultural melting pot with great Cuban cuisine. Fort Meyers has the Edison & Ford Estates and St. Petersburg has the Dali Museum, with the largest collection of Dali art outside of Europe. Gainesville has an excellent Natural History Museum, with dinosaurs. And although we said “don’t mess with the wildlife,” there are ways to see the wildlife safely, at national parks, aquariums and alligator parks.

Florida Tip #7 Don’t Forget Sunscreen & Hydration

Even in February, the sun in Florida is strong, and it can get hot. Everyone should bring sunscreen, but especially the pale northerners who haven’t seen sun in a few months. Many a Florida vacation has been ruined by sunburned; don’t let that happen to you. It’s also really important to stay hydrated, which requires drinking more water than beer and daiquiris. Drink lots of water, and the tap water is safe to drink.

Florida Tip #8 Don’t Use Your Mobile Phone While Driving

Talking on your mobile phone while driving is illegal in Florida, so the police can issue tickets for this. Have your co-pilot make any phone calls, or do the navigating on GPS. Florida is already expensive, don’t add an expensive ticket to your tab.

Florida Tip #9 Don’t Buy a Timeshare

Florida has a lot of timeshare buildings, and they use high pressure sales tactics to convince travelers to buy in. They offer free trips and tours to watch their presentations; don’t do it! (If you do buy into a timeshare, you have ten days to change your mind and cancel.)

Florida Tip #10 Don’t Forget the Seasons

Florida is prime hurricane territory, and the season typically runs July through November. Early fall is the most likely time to encounter hurricanes in Florida. It’s a good idea to have a Plan B for bad weather if you are visiting during hurricane season. Even in other times of the year, Florida can get rain, so it’s always good to have a backup plan. As far as high tourist season, the busiest week at Disney is the week between Christmas and New Year’s. Try to avoid that week if Disney is part of your Florida vacation itinerary. (July and August are really busy, too!)

Florida Tip #11 Don’t Mess with the Snowbirds

Snowbirds are the retirees who spend their summers up north, and come south for the winter. There are many retirement communities in Florida, and as the weather turns cold up north, they descend upon Florida. What this means for other travelers is that certain areas can be crowded in the winter and you might need to make restaurant reservations.

Florida Tip #12 Don’t Forget Reservations

Don’t forget to make reservations for your hotels, restaurants and even your Disney princesses. Disney princess meet and greets need to be reserved up to five or six months in advance, for the high season or for very popular princesses. Non-Disney Restaurants only need to be reserved a week or so in advance.

Florida Tip #13 Don’t Freak Out While Driving

Between tourists and snowbirds, traffic along I-95 or I-75 in Florida can be crazy. There are many people not familiar with the roads, some driving super slow, others zooming around, plus people who have driven 12+ hours from up north and are getting tired. It’s really important to pay attention when driving. Some drivers think they can skip the freeways and take side roads instead, but a lot of the little towns in Florida set speed traps, so be careful to avoid speeding tickets when driving the smaller roads.

Florida is a fabulous family vacation destination! The weather isgreat, and there are so many things to do. For more travel tip about Floridaand US travel, check out some of our other videos and blog posts.

15 Things Tourists Should NOT Do in New York City

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The Don’ts of New York City: NYC Tips for Your First Visit

There are a few things that travelers should not do when visiting New York City. Knowing these “don’ts” ahead of time will help you enjoy your New York City vacation so much more.

NYC Tip #1: Don’t Stop in the Middle of the Sidewalk

New York City is busy and everyone is in a hurry. There’s a flow to sidewalk traffic, so don’t stop in the middle of the sidewalk or block traffic in the sidewalk. If you need to stop, to take a picture, or for any reason, step off to the side out of the flow of traffic.New Yorkers have a reputation for being mean, and you’ll see why if you stop in the middle of the sidewalk.

NYC Tip #2: Don’t Miss Times Square

A lot of travel blogs and vlogs will tell you to skip Times Square because it’s super touristy. But if you’re a tourist, you should absolutely see Times Square! Between the lights and the next-level people watching, Times Square is something every New York tourist should see at least once. (Most of the Times Square restaurants are chains you have back home, so you can skip those!)

NYC Tip #3: Don’t Ask Your Local Friends to Do Tourist Stuff With You

If you’re visiting friends in New York, they’ve already been to the hot tourist spots, like Times Square, hundreds of times. Don’t drag them along with you to these places.

NYC Tip #4 Don’t Forget to Pee Before You Leave Your Hotel

The public bathrooms in New York, if you can find them, are disgusting! This goes doubly so late at night, so make sure you “take care of business” before leaving your hotel or restaurant.

NYC Tip #5 Don’t Pay for a Ferry Tour

Rather than pay a lot for a ferry tour, the Staten Island ferry is free and passes by a lot of the same sights. Anyone who visits Ellis Island or the Statue of Liberty will already be taking a ferry to these places, so paying for a separate ferry tour of New York isn’t necessary.

NYC Tip #6 Don’t Assume New Yorkers are Jerks

New Yorkers have a reputation for being jerks, but most of them are actually really cool. If you can meet some locals, they know all the great things to do, where to find the best deals, the best happy hours and can tell you the hottest new neighborhoods. People in New York are actually quite helpful, and happy to help tourists who are lost. They may not always be friendly or outgoing, and that’s where the reputation comes from, but they are helpful.

NYC Tip #7 Don’t Tell the Taxi Driver Your Destination Before Getting In

Unlike many destinations, where you want to agree on a price before hiring a taxi, that’s not the case in New York.For one thing, the taxis are metered, so there is no negotiating on price.Second, once you are in the cab, they can’t refuse you service.

NYC Tip #8 Don’t Use Uber During Rush Hour

For one thing, you’ll end up stuck in traffic anyways. With surge pricing, Uber prices skyrocket during rush hour, so it can be very expensive. It’s better to just take a taxi, or even the subway which is probably faster than sitting in traffic.

NYC Tip #9 Don’t Confuse Express Trains with the Locals

When riding the subway in New York, it can be easy to mistake an express train for a local train. The local train will stop at every stop along the line, while the express skips several stops, making a faster trip. If you’re going to take an express train, make sure it makes the stop you need.

NYC Tip #10 Don’t Just See Manhattan

There are five boroughs in New York; Manhattan is just one of those five. Brooklyn is the new place to be, especially for foodies. While the majority of tourist sights in New York are in Manhattan, the other boroughs are worth a visit.

NYC Tip #11 Don’t Freak Out at Hotel Prices

Hotels in New York are notoriously expensive, and very small. It’s just something you have to deal with if you want to visit New York. Hotel taxes add a lot on to your room rate, too. Just get used to the idea, and don’t think too much about it. Don’t let high hotel prices ruin your trip to New York. There are so many free things to do in New York, even museums, that you can save money throughout your trip to cushion the blow of your hotel expense.

NYC Tip #12 Don’t Eat from the Bad Street Vendors

The food trucks in New York are great, but the other food vendors that all sell the same food are not worth a stop. Not only is it a great way to get some stomach troubles, but there’s nothing unique about the food carts. If you need a quick bite, find a food truck, or a takeout window at a restaurant.

New York is such a fun city, and knowing these “don’ts” ahead of time will make your New York trip go smoothly!If you want more New York travel tips, check out some of our other videos and blog posts:

5 Things You Will Love & Hate about Visiting Disney World as a Family

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Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About A Disney World Trip

Today we’re sharing the five things you’re going to love, and hate, about the “happiest place on earth.” Disney World is a great place, but even the greatest places in the world have their downsides.

Disney World Hate #1: The Prices

 

Disney World is not a cheap destination, although there are some ways to save money. From admission tickets, to parking, food and lodging, the cost to visit Disney World can escalate quickly. The best thing you can do is just go and have fun and not worry about the prices. If you know ahead of time that’s it’s going to be expensive, then just accept it and enjoy it. Don’t let it ruin your trip once you arrive.

 

Disney World Hate #2: Crowds & Long Lines

 

People come from all over the world to visit Disney World, which means there are almost always crowds and long lines. First thing in the morning is less crowded, but the lines will build throughout the day. Take advantage of the Fast Pass program to skip the line at 3 rides in the afternoon, when the park is most crowded. (Don’t waste your Fast Pass rides in the morning when it’s less crowded!)

 

Disney World Hate #3: Tourists

 

Related to, but different than, crowds and lines. Somehow, the crowds and high prices can turn even the nicest person into a jerk. People get very pushy, there are strollers everywhere, and it can be very frustrating to deal with rude tourists. The best thing you can do is bring a lot of patience, and have a plan for your day at Disney World.

Disney World Hate #4: Commercialization

 

At Disney World, it can seem like there is one ride or attraction to every ten gift shops and stores. It can be fun to visit a few of the stores, but I recommend buying everything at the end of the day so you’re not carrying a bunch of extra stuff with you all day. Chances are, whatever you have your eye on will be sold at nearly every store.

Disney World Hate #5: Planning

 

Planning a Disney World vacation can be overwhelming. There are so many different parks, and rides within the parks, that it can be hard to know where to start. Trying to map out a plan for your trip is overwhelming, but worth it. Going in without a plan will be even more overwhelming. Luckily, Disney has some great planning resources, including a phone app, that will help you plan your trip.

 

Disney World Love #1: The Disney Experience

 

No matter how old you are, you can’t help but smile when you see familiar characters and scenes from your favorite movies. A visit to Disney World is a quintessential American family experience and chances are, you still fondly remember your first trip to Disney.

 

Disney World Love #2: Fun for All Ages

 

We brought our two-year-old to Disney and had no trouble finding rides for him. This isn’t the case at all amusement parks that are geared towards older kids and adults. There is truly something for everyone at Disney. Many adults love Disney and even visit without kids. It’s a great place to spend a special occasion, and there are many festivals and events for adults. Disney isn’t just for kids!

Disney World Love #3: Variety of Entertainment

 

Disney has so many rides, attractions, shows and food which is why it’s really great for everyone in the family. The shows and the parades might be your favorite, or you might really like the old-fashioned rides like the Teacups and It’s a Small World. Whatever your interests, you’ll find something you enjoy at the Disney properties.

 

Disney World Love #4: Customer Service

 

People who work at Disney really put the magic in “Magic Kingdom.” The cast members are really great, and love what they do. Everyone at Disney goes above and beyond to make sure you have a great time. Disney is the ultimate mix of German efficiency combined with American friendliness. They are really what sets Disney apart from other attractions.

 

Disney World Love #5: Technology

 

From smartphone apps to the Fastpass to the Disney websites, Disney really takes advantage of technology to help you plan, and enjoy, your Disney World trip. There’s WiFi throughout the park, and with the app on your phone, you can see current wait times for the rides, find the nearest food or restrooms, and help you get anywhere on the Disney property. Disney Magic Bands let you pay for everything with just a PIN. Disney has stayed on top of the latest technology to enhance the guest experience.

 

A family trip to Disney World is a really fantastic time, I can’t recommend it highly enough. For more Florida travel tips, check out some of our other videos and blog posts: