Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do on a trip to Freiburg, Germany. While many travel blogs will tell you all the fun things to do in Freiburg, Germany, we want to be sure you know what you should NOT do when you plan a Freiburg trip.
Lots to see and do here so get on it!
Don’t Fall in the Bächle
The biggest danger when you visit Freiburg is the Bächle. These are like little gutter streams running along the streets of Freiburg. In some places, they are shallow and narrow, while in other places they are deeper and wide. Just as it’s easy to trip on a curb when walking, it’s pretty easy to fall in the Bächle when visiting Freiburg. Watch your step! Legend has it that you’ll marry a local if you fall in!
Don’t Leave the Kids at Home
Freiburg is a great destination to bring the whole family. Our boys have been to Freiburg many times because it’s perfect for little kids. Street vendors sell little wooden boats to float in the Bächle, and there are tons of kid-friendly activities around town and in the surrounding Black Forest.
Freiburg is one city in Germany that your kids will love visiting.
Don’t Think You Have to Climb Schlossberg
Schlossberg (translates as Castle Hill) is a hill overlooking Freiburg, and there’s a great beer garden and a viewing tower at the top. But don’t think you have to climb the hill. There’s a funicular and an elevator that will take you to or near the top of the hill.
Don’t Forget Good Walking Shoes
Freiburg is surrounded by the Black Forest, with endless hiking opportunities. If you want to enjoy some of the hikes, make sure you have some hiking boots or at least some good walking shoes so you can hit the trails. You can hire a guide if you’d like, but as long as you have good shoes, snacks, and water, you should be ok to just go hiking on your own.
Freiburg is a ways off the beaten path for most international tourists. It is a tourist town, but mostly for Germans away on a weekend holiday. Switzerland and France are nearby, so you may also see some travelers from those regions, but we have never seen an abundance of foreign tourists like you might expect in other cities.
Don’t Worry About Getting Around
While I recommend staying in downtown Freiburg, you don’t have to. There are buses and trams that will bring you to the city center, and it’s really easy to get around the entire area. Freiburg also makes a great base for exploring the surrounding region. Strasbourg, France is about an hour away by train. Basel, Switzerland is also an easy day trip from Freiburg.
Just note: if you take the train into Freiburg, you’ll see a church with two towers that looks like it might be the historic downtown. It’s not; go the other way!
Don’t Miss the Top Sights of Freiburg
Freiburg is a perfectly sized city for exploring, and you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the architecture and sights. After many trips to Freiburg, this is my list of can’t-miss things to see in Freiburg:
Münster is the main cathedral in Old Town. Not only is it beautiful inside and out, but it also makes a great escape from the heat, sun, rain, or snow as you tour Freiburg.
Admire the architecture around Cathedral Square or Munsterplatz; there are some amazing buildings to see and it’s a great place to grab a beer or a bite to eat
Don’t be surprised if you fall in love with Freiburg! It is truly a fairytale village of Germany that also happens to be Jocelyn’s favorite village in Germany! It’s easy to get to, and it’s easy to get around and it’s the sunniest place in Germany. With so many great day trips from Freiburg, it also makes a great home base for exploring the larger Alsace region of Germany.
Want more tips for traveling in Germany? Check out some of our other blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you visit the state of Ohio. While many travel blogs will tell you the best things to see in Ohio, we want to be sure you know about the things you should NOT do as you tour the best places to visit in Ohio.
OH… IO…
Don’t Think Ohio is Landlocked
Just because Ohio is in the Midwest, doesn’t mean that Ohio is landlocked. Ohio actually has over 300 miles of shoreline along Lake Erie. There are lakeside resorts and villages, not to mention islands in Lake Erie where you can ferry out and spend a weekend. Ohio has beautiful public beaches and lighthouses, so it’s a boaters paradise! And the other border of the state is the Ohio River, which also presents some pretty awesome recreational opportunities.
Don’t Forget to Bring Your Outdoor Gear
Ohio is a recreation paradise! There are tons of cool (free!) state parks in Ohio, and the Lake Erie beaches. Ohio even has a national park, which is Cuyahoga Valley National Park. There are rivers that are perfect for canoeing and kayaking, and tons of cool hiking, biking and OHV spots, like Hocking Hills State Park and Wayne National Forest.
Don’t Believe that North Carolina is the Birthplace of Aviation
Ohioans know that Ohio is the true birthplace of aviation. The Wright Brothers are originally from Dayton Ohio and did most of their research and testing in Ohio before achieving the first flight in North Carolina.You can learn all about it at the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park. Other cool aviation attractions in Ohio include:
Don’t Think Florida is the Best Theme Park Destination
Florida has Disney, but Sandusky Ohio has Cedar Point, which is consistently rated as the Roller Coaster Capital of the World. It’s also the second-oldest amusement park in the nation. Every year, they try to outdo previous years with bigger, faster and crazier rides. There’s also King’s Island, a Cincinnati amusement park, plus several cool water parks like the Great Wolf Lodge in Sandusky.
Cedar Point, Ice Cream, and some Skyline Chili
Don’t Think the Christmas Story House is in Indiana
“A Christmas Story” is a classic 80s holiday movie and it’s set in Hammond, Indiana. But the real Christmas Story house is actually in Cleveland and you can visit it! There’s a house tour, a museum, a gift shop (with Red Ryder BB guns for sale!) and you can even Airbnb it and stay the night! Check out our overnight stay at the Christmas Story House!
Whether it’s the potholes or the road construction, or the tolls, the roads in Ohio will get to you. The drivers in Ohio are actually pretty good and nothing to complain about, but the driving conditions can be frustrating, especially when you are paying to drive on the turnpike.
Don’t Diss Ohio
Ohioans may talk smack about their state, but that doesn’t mean you can. Cleveland’s nickname is the “mistake on the lake” but it’s actually a pretty cool city. It’s got the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame, the Christmas Story House, plus MLB, NFL and NBA teams. And really cool architecture. And that’s just Cleveland! Ohio has world-class museums and a lot of history as well, as it was once the frontier of the Northwest Territory.
Pennsylvania is more known for Amish, but there are actually more Amish in Ohio than Pennsylvania. Ohio’s Amish Country is set in the Eastern/Central part of the state extending from Pennsylvania. It’s a fun area to visit, with lots of attractions, but take those horse and buggy signs seriously when you are driving around. The Amish Country Byway is a beautiful drive, but it’s hilly so you can quickly come upon a horse and buggy if you’re not paying close attention.
Don’t Forget to Try a Buckeye
In Ohio, a buckeye can mean a lot of things. It mainly refers to the buckeye tree, and the seeds which resemble a large acorn. The Ohio State University mascot is also a Buckeye, but the Buckeye you want to eat is the sweet treat that resembles the tree seeds, but is way kinder on your teeth. It’s basically a peanut butter ball covered in chocolate.
Don’t Worry About Going Hungry in Ohio
There is so much great food when you come to Ohio. It’s not just the hearty Midwest food that you’ll find, but each region of Ohio has various pockets of immigration that still influence the local food. Cleveland has a lot of Eastern European influence and Columbus has a large German population and a great German neighborhood, and Cincinnati has the largest Oktoberfest outside of Germany!
Ohio has some pretty amazing homegrown ice cream to try when you visit. Jeni’s Ice Cream and Graeter’s Ice Cream are both fantastic! Even the humble Wendy’s frosty has roots in Ohio; the first Wendy’s was opened by Founder Dave Thomas in Columbus, Ohio.
Don’t Be Surprised by the Chili
When you get chili in Ohio, especially Cincinnati, it’s usually served over a bed of spaghetti noodles and topped with cheese. The most famous is Skyline Chili, a chain you’ll see around the state. Cincinnati chili is kind of a “love it or hate it” dish. So, you’ll just have to try it for yourself and decide. Just remember when you’re ordering your drink to go with your chili: it’s POP, not soda in Ohio!
Don’t be surprised if you fall in love with Ohio! Mark spent nearly every childhood summer visiting Ohio; it’s a great place to visit and there’s truly something for everyone in Ohio. From cool state parks to awesome museums, Ohio has it all! Start planning your trip at the official Ohio tourism site, Ohio.org.
Want more Midwest travel tips? Check out some of our other blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do on a trip to Switzerland. While many travel blogs will tell you all the fun things to do in Switzerland, we want to be sure you know what you should NOT do when you plan a Switzerland trip.
Don’t Waste Time on the Trainon anything BUT Looking out the windows!
If you’re taking the train in Switzerland, don’t do anything other than look out the window! The scenery in Switzerland is stunning, and you don’t want to miss it by looking at your phone. Taking the train in Switzerland gives you the best opportunity to enjoy the scenery, so don’t miss out!
Hiking is a popular pastime in Switzerland, but make sure you don’t get in over your head. There are beautiful hikes for every type of hiker in Switzerland, so don’t worry about missing out if you only stick to short hikes. You should also choose hikes based on the footwear you’ve packed. And don’t forget to check the weather forecast! Weather changes quickly in the mountains, so make sure you’re prepared!
Don’t Ask if They Speak Swiss
There is no Swiss language; there are four languages spoken in Switzerland. It varies by which region you are in. You’ll hear French, German, and Italian depending on where you are in Switzerland. The fourth language of Switzerland is Romansh. Finding English speakers typically isn’t a problem, but it’s good to know which language is spoken in the places you will be visiting. Swiss German is a lot different than “high German” so don’t worry if you speak German and still don’t understand what they are saying!
Don’t Expect Your Money to Go Far
Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries to visit, so don’t be shocked by the prices when planning your Switzerland trip. People always want to know the best budget tips for their Switzerland trip. The reality is that it’s tough to visit Switzerland on a budget. However, we do have a few tips for saving money on your trip to Switzerland.
Look into passes when you visit. There’s the Swiss Pass that covers your transportation or passes available in cities, like the Zurich Pass, that gives you admission to museums and discounts on attractions. There are a lot of passes, so make sure you sit down before your trip to figure out which ones are best for you.
Some regions of Switzerland are less expensive than others. We have found that the German areas of Zurich and Lucerne tend to be more expensive than the Italian and French parts of Switzerland. Like any destination, large cities will be more expensive than the more rural areas.
Buying simple meals at the grocery store can help you save money on food because eating out for every meal gets expensive. You can also hit the food carts or fast food rather than a sit-down restaurant. Get your food to go and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Switzerland!
Don’t rule out staying in hostels during your Switzerland trip! They’re not just for young people and you can save a lot of money by choosing hostels over hotels. You can get private rooms if you’re traveling with your family and then you’re just sharing bathrooms and kitchen areas.
Take advantage of free breakfast! If your hotel offers breakfast, load up before you set out for the day as it can save you money by one less meal you are eating out every day.
When eating out in Switzerland, skip the entrees and stick to the soups, salads and appetizers. They’re typically pretty filling, and much more affordable than the entrees.
There are lots of free things to do in Switzerland, especially if you enjoy the outdoors. So you’ll have to budget for food and accommodation, but hiking in the most beautiful places in Switzerland is free!
Don’t buy water! The tap water in Switzerland is really good, so bring a water bottle and refill it along the way.
Don’t worry about tipping in Switzerland. Tipping is not customary, although you can leave a small tip if you’d like, but it’s not necessary.
Don’t Break the Rules
The Swiss are law-abiding people and it’s a very trustworthy (and safe) country because of that. So don’t be the tourist who comes by and breaks the rules; it’s better to blend in with the locals and follow the rules.
Don’t Miss the Towns and Cities of Switzerland
While many people come to Switzerland for outdoor adventure, there are also some great cities and smaller towns in Switzerland too. Basel, Lucerne, Geneva, and Zurich are just a few of our favorite towns in Switzerland. With dozens of great cities and small towns, Switzerland really is the best of both worlds.
Don’t Assume You Know What Swiss Cheese Is
Back in the States, Swiss cheese is light-colored cheese with holes in it. In Switzerland, there are tons of great cheeses to sample. There are regional cheeses, seasonal cheeses, and of course, there are also raclette and fondue cheeses. The cheese in Switzerland is amazing; make sure you try different kinds! (Don’t forget to try Swiss wine, too! It’s really good!)
Don’t Be an Ugly Tourist
While the Swiss aren’t generally rude people, the best way to ingratiate yourself with the locals is to avoid being an ugly tourist. These are a few things tourists sometimes to that can upset the locals.
Being Late is not very Swiss; the Swiss are very punctual people. I mean, they’re known for their watches!
Being Loud is offensive in Switzerland. The Swiss don’t like loud anything – they are very reserved, so don’t be loud and boisterous, unless you want to stick out like a sore thumb. There are even noise regulations in some places, and you won’t find a rowdy nightlife scene anywhere in Switzerland.
Making Small Talk is not part of Swiss culture. It’s a more introverted culture, so don’t be surprised if your attempt at small talk is met with a confused look. This applies to service as well; don’t expect overly friendly service in Switzerland.
Ignoring Fondue Etiquette is a faux pas in Switzerland. There’s a rhythm to fondue and each person gets their own turn to “stir the pot.”
Insulting Switzerland by complaining about prices or lack of nightlife. Nobody likes to have their country insulted, and if you’re shocked at the prices or quiet evenings, that just shows you didn’t do your research.
Don’t be surprised if you fall in love with Switzerland! It is truly one of the most beautiful countries in the world. While a Switzerland trip can cost a pretty penny, it’s so worth it once you arrive! Want more tips for traveling in Europe? Check out some of our other blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do on a trip to Pompeii, Italy. While many travel blogs will tell you all the fun things to do in Pompeii Italy, we want to be sure you know what you should NOT do when you plan a Pompeii trip.
Don’t Underestimate the Size of Pompeii
You might think a one-day visit is enough to cover Pompeii, but it’s actually quite large. It covers nearly five square miles and once had over 10,000 inhabitants. The excavations have been extensive, and are ongoing. No tour covers the entire area, so you’ll likely see new areas every time you visit. But be prepared for a full day and a lot of walking.
Look at a map before you visit Pompeii and try to plan out your day if you’re not taking a guided tour. If there are certain areas you want to see, know that ahead of time and plan your route, otherwise, you could be wandering aimlessly for hours. Make sure you also download the app which can host your tickets and also has a map.
Don’t Think Closing Time is The Last Ticket Time
Closing time at Pompeii is actually closing time, not the last time you can buy a ticket. They stop selling Pompeii tickets two hours prior to the closing time. In the summer months from April through October, Pompeii is open from 9 am until 7:30 pm, which means the last ticket is sold at 5:30. In the winter, Pompeii closes at 5:30 pm, meaning you must enter before 3:30 pm.
Don’t Feel Obligated to Have a Tour Guide
You can arrange a tour guide ahead of time, hire one on site, or just tour by yourself. While local guides bring a lot of knowledge and can quickly steer you to the more interesting sites, it’s not required to have a guide. If you’re traveling on a budget, you can skip the guide and also get in for free on the first Sunday of each month.
The Lupanar of Pompeii was the largest brothel at the time. The art and frescoes inside are pretty much what you would expect to find in a brothel. They can be a bit shocking the first time you visit!
It is cool for kids too. But a lot of hot walking and little shade.
Don’t Forget Sun Protection
It can be very hot in Pompeii and there’s not much shade, so be prepared! Make sure you have a hat, umbrella, sunscreen, and lots of water to drink during your tour. It’s so easy to get dehydrated in the heat and the sun; don’t let that shorten your visit to Pompeii.
Don’t Expect Easy Mobility at Pompeii
If you have limited mobility, Pompeii is not super easy to get around. It’s an active archaeological site, so the pavement is uneven. There are cobblestones, steep paths, and high curbs to navigate. If you have mobility challenges, you may want to consult with a guide who can navigate to the most accessible areas.
Don’t Forget It’s An Active Site
Pompeii is very active with students and archeologists who are still excavating and preserving parts of Pompeii. It’s also the final resting place for thousands of residents who died during the Vesuvius eruption, so be respectful of that as well. You can only eat in designated areas, and you may find some sections roped off as active worksites. Don’t expect every area to be open all the time.
Don’t Get Run Over by Tour Groups
You’ll see some large tour groups visiting Pompeii. They will be very focused on their guide, and not so focused on watching where they are walking. So, it’s up to you to be alert and step aside if an absent-minded tour attendee is about to crash into you.
Don’t Expect a Lot of Food Options
The area surrounding Pompeii is very touristy, so you will have a lot of touristy restaurants to choose from, and corresponding tourist prices. But there isn’t much to choose from, so you can eat inside the cafeteria, outside at a restaurant, or just buy snacks from street vendors.
Don’t Bring Large Bags
They don’t allow you to bring large bags or backpacks into Pompeii, so make sure you have something smaller to carry around inside. There is a luggage storage area if you do have a bag that’s too big.
Don’t Take the Wrong Train
If you’re coming from Naples, the Circumvesuviana takes about 45 minutes; it also connects to Sorrento. The trains can get a little slow, though, so it can take longer than you expect. You will need to exit the train at Pompeii Scavi, Villa Dei Misteri. There are other Pompeii stops, but this one is most convenient for the main entrance at Porta Marina. The Campania Express is another option, with stops at Naples, Herculaneum, Pompeii, and Sorrento. The trains can get very warm and crowded in the summer months. Don’t let your guard down at the Naples train station, as there are a lot of pickpockets in the area. And don’t forget to validate your ticket when you board the train.
Don’t Skip Mount Vesuvius
You will hear so much about Mount Vesuvius when you visit Pompeii, but you really should see it up close. You can take a bus up to a parking area near the summit, and it’s then about a 30-minute hike up to see inside the crater. You can see the steam vents still steaming, and you also get amazing views out over the Gulf of Naples.
Don’t Stay in Pompeii
Most travelers don’t stay in Pompeii but in one of the nearby towns. Naples and Sorrento are both easy day trips to Pompeii. You’ll find much better accommodation options here or anywhere along the Amalfi Coast. They all have options for getting to Pompeii easily.
Don’t Miss the National Archeological Museum in Naples
Some of the best treasures discovered at Pompeii now reside in the National Archeological Museum in Naples. If visiting Pompeii seems overwhelming, you might consider visiting Herculaneum instead. It’s a smaller city that was also destroyed but was discovered much later than Pompeii. It’s a much smaller area and closer to Naples.
Don’t be surprised if you plan a return trip to Pompeii! It’s such a vast place to explore, and there are always new areas each time you visit. It’s really quite amazing how well-preserved some of the artwork and architecture are, and you’ll spend the day in the shadow of the volcano that made Pompeii famous.
Want more tips for traveling in Italy? Check out some of our other blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do on vacation in El Salvador. While many travel blogs will tell you the best places to visit in El Salvador, we want to be sure you know what you should NOT do when you plan a trip to El Salvador.
Don’t Think El Salvador is Too Dangerous
At one time, El Salvador was ranked as the “murder capital of the world” but things have changed and that was never something that really affected tourists to begin with. The violence in El Salvador was and still is, mostly gang violence. The tourist areas of El Salvador have been largely untouched by this. We had a great time visiting with our kids and did not worry too much about our safety once we arrived.
Don’t Take Safety LIghtly
Although dangerous crime is not a major factor for tourists visiting El Salvador, there are still some things you need to watch out for. Just use your usual travel sense and be aware of your surroundings, don’t be out alone at night, and don’t go to neighborhoods that are off the beaten path.
Our biggest concern was generally when taking buses in El Salvador. If you can’t hang on to your bags throughout your bus trip, you will need to store them below the bus. In these instances, make sure you are paying attention at every stop to make sure someone doesn’t walk away with your luggage.
While you can’t drink tap water, it’s important to stay hydrated during your vacation in El Salvador. Getting dehydrated can be dangerous and can ruin your trip, so make sure you are drinking lots of fluids.
Don’t Underestimate the Ocean Currents
El Salvador has some fantastic beaches all along the coastline. But beware when the surf gets rough. High tides and rough waves can be really dangerous so pay attention if you are swimming, especially if you have little kids with you. Don’t risk it if the waves are building up.
Don’t Just Visit El Salvador Beaches
The beaches are definitely the most popular places to visit in El Salvador, but there are tons of other cool places to visit as well. Since it’s a pretty small country, you can really see a lot in just a couple of days. Some of the best places to visit in El Salvador include:
Mayan ruins and sites like those at Joya de Cerén, which is still being excavated from under lava from the volcano. It’s like a Mayan “Pompeii.” San Andrés, Casa Blanca, Tazumal, and Cihuatan are other popular Mayan sites in El Salvador.
Ruta de las Flores is a scenic drive in El Salvador, connecting many colorful towns and coffee plantations.
Hiking on the volcanoes is very popular, although we recommend hiring a guide for this activity. Make sure you have proper shoes for hiking!
Lake Coatepeque is a huge lake inside of a volcano crater; it’s a fun destination with lots of bars and restaurants along the shoreline
The town of Santa Ana has a gorgeous cathedral that is worth visiting.
Don’t Expect a Highly Developed Tourism Infrastructure
El Salvador is still off the beaten path for most travelers, so you won’t find the advanced tourism infrastructure that you would in other Central American countries. Don’t expect it to be like Costa Rica or even Panama, because there just haven’t been many tourists visiting El Salvador. For the adventurous traveler, it’s a refreshing change of pace, but it just takes a bit longer to find accommodations, guides, and such.
Things take longer, and people are not in a rush here, so bring your patience and enjoy the slower pace. Don’t be in a hurry!
Don’t Worry About Breaking the Bank
It’s super affordable to visit El Salvador. Accommodation, food, and transportation are all cheap so it’s a great destination for budget travelers. And conveniently, the official currency of El Salvador is the U.S. Dollar. So you don’t even need to worry about exchanging money or keeping an eye on exchange rates! Just make sure you have small bills as you won’t have much use for large bills.
Pupusas are so tasty!
Don’t Eat Your Pupusas the Wrong Way!
Pupusas are the most popular food in El Salvador, and you should definitely try some when you visit. However, make sure you are eating them the proper way. They are like little stuffed pancakes that come with a bunch of sides like cabbage and salsa. Rather than making a taco, you want to tear a bit of the pupusa off and then grab some of the sides with that piece. No silverware is needed!
Don’t forget to tip when eating out in El Salvador. 10% is an average tip.
Don’t Be Caught Off Guard by These El Salvador Shocks
If it’s your first vacation in El Salvador, you don’t want to be caught off guard by these surprises. Don’t be shocked if…
The people of El Salvador are surprisingly chill. They are full of great travel tips, especially food recommendations. They are really excited to see travelers visiting their country.
You find yourself on a yellow school bus again. Remember the old yellow school buses? Well, they also retire in Central America! Many have found a second life as transit buses in El Salvador!
You can’t drive a hard bargain. While bargaining is a big part of many Latin cultures, it’s not the case in El Salvador, so you can expect to pay the price that you see. Don’t try to bargain with street vendors.
You visit between May and July and everything is rained out. That’s the rainy season! Skip it and come any other time of year.
Rather than billboards, a lot of places in El Salvador advertise by painting murals on the nearby cliffs. It’s kind of funny to see and it can be shocking at first.
When you order drinks from the street carts, they often come in a plastic bag that’s tied around a straw. It’s not as common anymore, but kind of fun when you do get one. It’s how the locals drink!
You will be shocked at how often you are served beans or frijoles. They come with pretty much every meal in El Salvador. Hope you like them!
You can’t flush your toilet paper in El Salvador. The pipes can’t handle it! So, make sure you are putting your used toilet paper in the wastebasket next to the toilet. Likewise, make sure you have some toilet paper before you head into the stall. Sometimes the rolls are actually mounted outside of the toilet stall, so don’t be caught without TP!
The bugs can be shockingly bad in El Salvador, so don’t forget your bug spray! Know what works best for you, whether it’s a spray, lotion, or those wristbands. You might want all three!
The sun is super strong as well, so a high SPF, reapplied frequently, is a must!
Don’t be surprised if you fall in love with El Salvador! It is truly an underrated destination in Central America! Between unspoiled beaches, low prices, and friendly locals, a vacation in El Salvador is a no-brainer.
Want more tips for traveling in Central America? Check out some of our other blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about Christmas traditions in the USA. We’ve talked about Christmas traditions in other parts of the world, but we haven’t shared our own traditions from back home. While we’ve spent many Christmas holidays abroad enjoying other cultures’ traditions, there are some American traditions we always bring with us. What are YOUR American Christmas traditions?
Merry Chritmas from the USA!
Christmas Light Drives
We love to decorate our house with lights, and it’s even more fun to drive around different neighborhoods to see all the different light displays. Some homes go for a simple light display, while others will have lights animated and synchronized to music, as well as various Christmas scene displays. Some neighborhoods will collaborate to put on a great show.
Christmas Shopping in July
Every year, US retailers bring out the Christmas decor earlier and earlier. Some stores, like Hallmark, bring out their Christmas ornaments in July! The retail calendar used to follow a pretty standard pace of Back to School followed by Halloween followed by Christmas. These days, Halloween and Thanksgiving practically get swallowed up by Christmas each fall.
Decorating a Christmas tree is a tradition for many US families. When it comes to Christmas trees, there are two traditions: real or fake. Some families have a fake Christmas tree that gets stored away in the attic and brought out each winter. Other families make a tradition of going to pick out their live tree. Even with the live trees, there are different traditions. In urban areas, you’ll see Christmas tree lots spring up in parking lots. Some families, especially in more rural areas, like to get a permit to go out into the woods and cut down their own trees.
Every family also has a tradition of when they take down the Christmas tree. Lots of families take it down the day after Christmas, others wait 12 nights, which is an old English tradition tied to the Day of Epiphany. Others see how long they can get away with leaving up their tree; we leave a small (artificial) tree up until Mother’s Day.
Secret Santa
This Christmas tradition is popular in workplaces and with large families where it’s impractical to buy a gift for everyone. How it works is everyone puts their name in a bowl and then draws someone else’s name. As their “Secret Santa” you buy them a gift. There are usually guidelines and rules, such as spending limits so that everyone can participate. Some groups go for silly gifts, while others do sincere gifts for the recipient.
Cookies, Santa, and Christmas trees!
Ugly Sweaters
We’re not sure when this American Christmas tradition started, but it’s a fun one. My office has a competition every year for the ugliest Christmas sweater. This has become such a popular tradition, that there are companies that exclusively make ugly Christmas sweaters. But you get bonus points if you make your own!
Advent Calendars
Advent calendars are another fun Christmas tradition that we love. It’s a fun way to count down to Christmas, with tiny little presents opened on each day of the calendar. This tradition actually dates back to the German Lutherans, but Americans have taken the concept and run with it. You can buy specialized advent calendars with themed gifts, like chocolate, coffee, or wine.
Elf on the Shelf
A newer United States Christmas tradition is the Elf on the Shelf. What started as a ploy to get kids to be good for Santa has become a chore for parents to think up fun themes each night as the elves have to move around the house while everyone is sleeping. The theory is that Santa sends the elf out each night to check on the kids and report back. Parents either love or hate this tradition.
After a few too many Christmas parties it can all get a bit fuzzy.
Christmas Pajamas
Another newer tradition we’re noticing on social media are the matching Christmas pajamas for the whole family. Even the family dog can get matching PJs. Sometimes you’ll see these used for Christmas photos, other times, it’s just a fun tradition of being lazy in your pajamas all day
Fireplace Stockings
In most homes, you will see Christmas stockings hung over the fireplace mantel, or from a shelf near the Christmas tree. Before Christmas gifts became so extravagant, this is where Santa Claus would leave the presents overnight. Christmas gifts have gotten much larger and more expensive, but we still do “stocking stuffers” which are usually smaller gifts like candy or gum, or practical things like socks and school supplies.
Cookies and Milk for Santa
With Santa Claus out delivering presents all night, he gets hungry. So, every home leaves out milk and cookies for Santa to fuel up before moving on to the next house. Some even leave healthy snacks like carrots for the reindeer. Of course, it’s then up to the parents to ensure the milk and cookies have been convincingly consumed before the next morning!
One of our favorite Christmas traditions is to watch all of the Christmas movies and specials that are shown this time of year. Kicking off with Thanksgiving, the whole month of December is filled with Christmas movies. From classics like It’s a Wonderful Life to comedies like National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, every family has their favorite Christmas movie to watch. Of course, cartoon series like Charlie Brown and the Grinch are also fantastic! Our favorite is “A Christmas Story” and we love it so much we even rented the house from the movie once!
Gingerbread Houses
Another tradition that has been “borrowed” from German culture is the gingerbread house. Originally, families would bake gingerbread and then use candies and icing to construct a house. Today, you can buy kits with the gingerbread already made. Some families will have a competition, while others go all in to make extravagant homes and log-style cabins.
The Family Christmas Card
With social media, this tradition is fading out a bit, but we still love sending and receiving Christmas cards from friends and family around the world. This tradition is different for every family. Many people buy Christmas cards and add a personal note or update on the family. Some families do a whole Christmas letter, with updates on everyone’s year. Others will send a photo card of the family, sometimes in their Christmas pajamas!
Kissing Under the Mistletoe
This is a pagan tradition that has been adopted by many households. You hand a sprig of mistletoe from the ceiling or in a doorway, and if two people meet under the mistletoe, they have to kiss. The tradition has (thankfully) evolved, but it’s still a fun one, and a great way to gross out your kids!
Shopping Mall Santa
This is a Christmas tradition that our kids never cared for, but many families in the US line up each holiday season to meet Santa Claus. Kids can tell Santa what they want for Christmas, and parents can get photos of the kids with Santa. If a child is scared of Santa and doesn’t want to do that whole tradition, they can write a letter to Santa instead. Lots of mailboxes pop up all over town with direct access to the North Pole.
Making Christmas Cookies
Another favorite tradition in our house is making Christmas cookies. Our kids do this with their grandma every year and it’s a tradition we all look forward to. Typically, you’ll set a full day aside, and do all of your shopping the day before. Some families make several different kinds of cookies, but traditional Christmas cookies are sugar cookies in fun shapes that get decorated with frosting and sprinkles. It’s usually a big mess, but it’s so much fun!
Black Friday Shopping (and Cyber Monday)
This holiday tradition started in the U.S. and is spreading to other parts of the world. At some point in time, the day after Thanksgiving became the day when people started shopping for Christmas gifts for their friends and family. It became a huge shopping day and stores started promoting amazing deals for one day only. Of course, this sometimes gets out of control as people wrestle over cheap TV’s and the hottest toy of the year. With the rise of Internet shopping, Cyber Monday has become like a “virtual Black Friday.” Of course, then you also have the great post-Christmas sales on December 26th that often create another stampede at shopping malls around the country.
We really enjoy most of these United States Christmas traditions, some of which we’ve brought around the world with us on our travels. We love learning about and celebrating new Christmas traditions around the world and at home. What are your favorite Christmas traditions? For more tips on holiday travel, check out some of our other blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do on a trip to Colmar, France. While many travel blogs will tell you all the fun things to do in Colmar, France, we want to be sure you know what you should NOT do when you plan a Colmar trip.
It really is gorgeous.
Don’t Think of Italy When Planning to Visit Colmar
Colmar likes to promote itself as “little Venice” but it’s really more like “little Strasbourg” with all of the half-timbered houses and churches. Colmar is surrounded by canals, so the Venice comparison is valid, and you can and should book a boat ride to see the city from another angle.
Don’t Be Surprised at the Beauty
Colmar was actually Disney’s inspiration for Beauty and the Beast, so of course, it’s magical! Don’t be surprised if you never run out of beautiful buildings to look at. It’s not like some tourist destinations where the main area is nice to look at, but a few blocks away, it’s run down. No, it seems the entire town of Colmar is scenic and quaint, so bring good walking shoes so you can see it all.
And don’t forget to look up when looking around; lots of buildings have fun themes painted on their walls, like hearts or storks. There’s even a place that has pails hanging all over the outside of the building.
Don’t Feel like You Have to Take the Tourist Train
Like all the little tourist towns in France, Colmar has a little train that will take you around the town and give you a nice overview. If your feet are tired, it’s a fun way to relax and enjoy the sights, but don’t feel like you’re missing out if you don’t take the train. If you decide to ride the train, it departs right near the Unterlinden Museum.
The majority of restaurants in Colmar serve Alsatian cuisine, which is kind of a mix of German and French cuisines, given that the region has changed hands many times between France and Germany. Pork is a common ingredient, and you’ll see sausages and sauerkraut in addition to French cheeses and pastries. It is heartier food so you can expect to be full after a meal.
The region is also known for great wines, especially white wines like Riesling. If you’re really into wine, you can follow the Route des vins d’Alsace, which takes you to various regional vineyards.
Being so close to Germany, Alsace is also famous for their beer, so whether you like wine or beer, you won’t go thirsty in Colmar!
Don’t Forget that Restaurants Close in the Afternoon
Many restaurants in Colmar tend to close the kitchen in the later afternoon, typically between 2 pm and 7 pm. Oftentimes, your eating schedule can get off track when traveling, so be sure to pay attention to the hours and make sure you get lunch before all the kitchens close. Likewise, plan on having dinner after 7:00. There will always be a handful of tourist restaurants or bars serving food, but your options will be more limited. Likewise, you may find a handful of restaurants closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Good times were had in Colmar.
Don’t Miss the Unterlinden Museum
There are some great museums in Colmar, but the one not to miss is the Unterlinden Museum. Inside, they have the Isenheim Altarpiece, which dates back to 1516. It’s the largest work by Matthias Grünewald and they have taken apart the panels so that they can all be viewed by museum visitors. They really have a great collection of art.
Don’t Be Shocked at the Statue of Liberty Everywhere
Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the sculptor of the Statue of Liberty, is actually from Colmar, so it’s a special symbol for the city. There’s a museum dedicated to Bartholdi, where you can learn more about his art. There’s a Statue of Liberty replica that you will see if you are driving in from Strasbourg.
Don’t Be Confused by the Storks
You’ll see images of storks all over Colmar, which seems a little weird, given that storks typically symbolize babies and birth. As it turns out, storks are native to Alsace, and there’s been a big effort to repopulate them in the area.
Don’t Get Frustrated with Tourist Crowds
Colmar is centrally located near Strasbourg, Germany, Switzerland, and Paris. There are direct trains from Paris to Colmar that take just over two hours. Weekends are especially busy as it seems like everyone from Paris is getting out of the city for the weekend and coming to Alsace.
Don’t Miss the Colmar Christmas Market Season
Strasbourg is the Christmas capital of France, and Colmar is like the “mini” Christmas capital. You can just imagine how the already adorable town looks when it’s all dressed up. Of course, it will be crowded, but with a little advance planning, the Colmar Christmas Market season can be fantastic!
If you have the time, it’s really lovely to stay in Colmar, but don’t skip it due to time constraints! You can easily visit Colmar on a day trip from several cities, thanks to fast trains and good connections. Likewise, you can use Colmar as a base for exploring the nearby regions.
Don’t be surprised if you fall in love with Colmar! It is truly a fairytale village of France! It’s easy to get to, and it’s easy to get around. With so many great day trips from Colmar, it also makes a great home base for exploring the larger Alsace region of France.
Want more tips for traveling in France? Check out some of our other blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do on a trip to Strasbourg. While many travel blogs will tell you all the fun things to do in Strasbourg, we want to be sure you know what you should NOT do when you plan a Strasbourg trip.
Don’t Be Surprised if You Feel Like You’ve Left France
Strasbourg is on the border of Germany, and it really feels more like a German village than a French one. The nationality of the city has changed hands a few times, and it’s immediately apparent in the architecture and the food. You can get good German food like sausages and sauerkraut in Strasbourg. You will hear both French and German being spoken in Strasbourg.
Don’t Expect Strasbourg to be Cheap
Strasbourg is not a budget destination. It’s expensive to eat in Strasbourg and accommodation is also expensive. Do some research ahead of time so you’re not caught off guard by the prices. When it comes to choosing your Strasbourg accommodation, don’t wait! Any affordable Strasbourg accommodation books up quickly! It’s wise to make sure you have a place to sleep before you actually book your train tickets.
Missing out on any of these things to do in Strasbourg would be a big DON’T in our book!
The Grand Ile is the old town part of Strasbourg; it’s surrounded by water, with a river on one side and a canal on the other. The best thing to do in Strasbourg is just to walk around the Grand Ile or the “big island.”
Petite France on the Grand Ile is the most picturesque part of Strasbourg. It’s a great place for photos and enjoying the surrounding architecture and scenery.
The Cathedral Notre Dame of Strasbourg is one of France’s tallest churches. It’s beautiful from the outside, and even more from the inside.
The Palais Rohan museums include the Archaeological Museum, Decorative Arts Museum, and Fine Arts Museum. These are all housed in an 18th-century episcopal palace next to the cathedral.
The Musee Alsatian is my favorite Strasbourg museum; it’s a folk museum showing life in the Alsace region during different periods of history.
The Musee de L’Oeuvre is a medieval religious art museum near the cathedral with some really interesting art.
The Maison Kammerzell is probably the prettiest house in town; it’s an ornate 15th-century manor, and it’s well worth the tour to see the inside.
Strasbourg is the Christmas capital of France. The Strasbourg Christmas markets are some of the best in France, partly because Christmas markets are a German thing, and you’re so close to Germany. Even outside of the holiday season, the town has a very “Christmas feel” to it. If you do plan to visit the Strasbourg Christmas market, make sure you book your accommodation very far in advance! (If you wait too long, you can check Freiburg hotels as it’s just 40 minutes away.)
The white wines in this part of France are excellent, but being so close to Germany, beer is also very popular. A popular way to have a beer is to order it with a shot of picon, which sweetens it up a bit.
Strasbourg is great all year round.
Don’t Skip the Inside of the Cathedral
The Strasbourg Cathedral is beautiful, but many visitors only see the outside. Make sure you take time to go inside the cathedral as well. Between the stained glass windows, the rose window, and the astronomical clock, you’ll be straining your neck again to soak it all in. On the exterior, the stonework and masonry are equally impressive.
Don’t Forget to Buy Tickets to See the Astronomical Clock
Inside the Strasbourg Cathedral, the Astronomical Clock goes off each day at 12:30. You have to have a ticket to see it. If you have a Strasbourg Pass, it’s included. The doors open at 11:30 and at 12:00 they show a short movie about how the clock was made. The clock does not go off on Sundays or holidays, so plan your visit accordingly.
Don’t Get Frustrated with Tour Groups
Strasbourg is a famous destination, so you’ll see a lot of French tour groups, German tour groups, and international tour groups. It’s the tour guide’s job to keep everyone together and on track, so don’t get in their way! Don’t let them run you over!
Don’t Think Walking is Your Only Option
Like most European cities, you will do a lot of walking in Strasbourg. However, if your feet get tired, there are other options for getting around. There are buses, bike lanes, and boat tours for getting around Strasbourg. The boat tour is a great way to see the city, and you’ll go out to the European Parliament for a few minutes, which is really all you need.
Don’t Forget These Day Trips from Strasbourg
As much as we love Strasbourg, it’s also a great location for exploring the surrounding areas. There are so many places you can visit from Strasbourg. A few great day trips from Strasbourg include:
Don’t be surprised if you fall in love with Strasbourg! It’s one of the prettiest towns in France, and it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With a little planning and budgeting, you will have a great time on your trip to Strasbourg.
Want more tips for traveling in France? Check out some of our other blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about visiting Argentina, one of our favorite countries in South America. We want to prepare you for a few shocks you might expect on your first trip to Argentina. The biggest shock about visiting Argentina is how many cool experiences you can have in this country.
Meat Consumption in Argentina
Argentina is known for amazing beef, but it’s still shocking once you arrive, to see how much meat they really do eat! It seems like there is a grill house on every corner, and there are a million different preparations you can choose from. If you’re a vegetarian in Argentina, you might have a tough time finding a lot of variety in the food. Along with the red meat, there are many excellent varieties of red wine in Argentina as well.
You might see “telos” in some of the bigger cities of Argentina. These are love hotels that you can rent by the hour. These aren’t necessarily seedy but were born out of the culture that has multigenerational families living together. When you live with your parents and grandparents, it’s hard to get some privacy!
Natural Beauty of Argentina
Many people think of Buenos Aires when thinking about Argentina, but there’s a lot more to this country. Some of the best places to visit in Argentina are far from Buenos Aires. From Patagonia in the south to Iguazu Falls in the north, and so many cool places in between, there are so many cool Argentina tourist attractions.
Argentinian Schedules
They run on a different schedule in Argentina. Dinner is especially late, and you’ll find some restaurants that don’t even open until 8 pm. It’s quite common to have dinner at 10 or 11 pm, even with kids in tow! Some of the nightclubs get started around 2 am and people might be out until 8 or 9 in the morning. Naturally, when staying out so late, Argentinians don’t get an early start in the morning, so everything is sort of pushed back from what you might be used to.
Similarly, timeliness is not a big deal in Argentina. It’s quite common to be running 20 to 30 minutes late. If you show up on time in Argentina, you may get some strange looks. (This applies to social engagements, not bus or plane schedules!)
Weather in Argentina
When people think of South America, they think of warm and tropical. Argentina is the eighth largest country in the world; there are multiple climates throughout the country. You’re quite a ways from the equator, and the seasons are flipped, so June, July, and August can be really cold. If you want to visit Argentina for warm weather, come between December and March.
Ice Cream in Argentina
We are always shocked at how good the ice cream in Argentina is! It’s called helado, and it’s everywhere! From national chains like Freddo to mom-and-pop shops, make sure you eat all the ice cream in Argentina!
Argentine Spanish is Different than Other Countries
If you learned Spanish in high school or more recently, you might not get by as easily as you think. The Spanish spoken in Argentina is different. You’ll muddle your way through, but some of the conjugations and words are used differently here than elsewhere.
Argentine Attitudes
I’ve met and befriended many amazing Argentinians, especially when I lived there. They are super proud of their country and love to show you around once they get to know you. But, they can be a bit brusque, which might seem rude at first. They are very direct and to the point; they called me “Gordo” when I lived there. It’s not meant to be rude, it’s just how they are, and you can assume if they are giving you a nickname, that they like you. The sports rivalries are also a bit of a shock!
Bus Travel in Argentina
If you plan to travel around Argentina, you may find yourself on a bus at one point because air travel can be pricey. Since Argentina is such a large country, the bus rides can be seriously long. It’s about 24 hours from Buenos Aires down to Puerto Madryn, where you can see whales and penguins. The quality from bus to bus varies widely as well. From luxury coach buses with coffee machines and reclining seats, to bouncy hard seats with no comfort whatsoever. Get the nicest bus you can afford and you won’t regret it.
Driving in Argentina
We’ve driven in different countries all over the world, and Argentinians are some of the craziest drivers we’ve encountered. We always buckle up when we’re in a taxi, and as a pedestrian, it can be pretty scary! They don’t necessarily respect crosswalks, so you always have to be on high alert, especially when walking around in bigger cities.
Don’t let these shocks scare you from visiting Argentina. We highly recommend a trip to Argentina for any type of traveler. I studied here in college, and now I come back with my wife and kids and we all love Argentina. Argentina Travel is a great place to start planning your trip to Argentina!
Want more travel advice for South America? Check out these blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do on a trip to Bratislava. While many travel blogs will tell you all the fun things to do in Bratislava, we want to be sure you know about the things you should NOT do when you plan a Bratislava trip.
Don’t Worry About Your Budget
Many European destinations can really put a dent in your wallet, but Bratislava is super affordable. Hotels, attractions, dining, and transportation are all very reasonable in Bratislava. I wouldn’t call it a cheap destination, but you really do get your money’s worth when you visit Bratislava. Vienna is just one hour away and the prices there are much higher.
The people of Central and Eastern Europe don’t always have a reputation for being friendly, but that’s not the case in Bratislava. I’ve been to Bratislava several times, and have quite a few Slovakian friends. We’ve always encountered super helpful locals, who are more often than not happy to offer their suggestions of things to see and where to eat in Bratislava.
Don’t Worry About Sore Feet
Bratislava is very compact, especially all of the Bratislava attractions. It’s super easy to walk around, and it feels like the whole Old Town area is just 15 minutes across. If you are coming from Prague, Vienna or Budapest, your feet will thank you!
Don’t Get the Bratislava Card Without Some Research
The Bratislava Card is a great deal if you’re going to see a lot of attractions. You can choose 1, 2, or 3-day passes, and it includes public transportation and 18 Bratislava attractions. Unless you plan to visit the majority of the attractions and museums, it may not be worth it. We haven’t found that using public transportation is even necessary, as it’s so easy to walk around Bratislava.
Don’t Judge the City by the Train Station
You will probably arrive in Bratislava by train from a nearby city. Don’t let the train station fool you. It’s definitely seen better days, and it could use an upgrade. Once you get outside, there are buses and taxis waiting to take you to Old Town, which is the charming part of Bratislava. You can also walk in about 20 minutes.
Bratislava is not on the radar of many travelers. Most people will visit nearby Budapest or Vienna, without considering Bratislava. Sure, it’s a smaller town with fewer attractions, but it’s always way less crowded! If you’ve ever been to other European capitals in the summer months, you’ll appreciate the extra space in Bratislava! It’s easier to find good accommodation, and you won’t have to fret about getting a good table for dinner.
Don’t Overdo the Food
It’s easy to go overboard when eating in Bratislava. The food is hearty and affordable, but it’s usually pretty fatty food. Slovakian food consists of a lot of creams, dumplings, and fatty meats like duck and pork. This is why an after-dinner digestif is so popular; try it and it will help you digest your big dinner!
Don’t Miss The Best Things to Do in Bratislava
Devin Castle is about ten kilometers down the river. It’s easy to reach by bus or taxi and offers amazing views of the Danube River valley.
Bratislava Castle looms over the Old Town of Bratislava, also offering amazing river views. If you’re running low on time, don’t bother touring the interior as there isn’t a ton to see. From the castle grounds, you can really see the stark difference in architectural styles, as the Soviet-style cement buildings are just across the river.
Old Town Bratislava is a great place to just walk around and admire the architecture. The Old Town Hall has beautiful views from the tower.
The Museum of Jewish Culture tells the story of the last remaining house of the former Jewish District that was destroyed during the Holocaust.
The UFO Bridge and Tower (pronounced oof-o) connect the two parts of Bratislava, and the UFO shape is unmistakable. The restaurant at the top is overpriced but offers great views back over Old Town Bratislava.
The Slavín Memorial is the burial ground and tribute to thousands of Soviet soldiers who died liberating Slovakia during WWII.
In the summer, they build temporary beaches along the Danube River, and it’s a fun place to relax and enjoy a beer on a nice summer day.
The Slovak National Museum is another great spot, with cultural displays of art and costume, including regions outside of Bratislava.
There is some fun and whimsical public art in Bratislava. The most famous is Cumil the Sewer Worker, who rests his head on the edge of a manhole cover. You might find a line of tourists waiting for a photo, but it’s fun to seek out these little statues around town.
There are several churches around Bratislava that are also worth checking out for the architecture and history.
Climb Michael’s Gate for a close-up view of Old Town. It’s the entrance to Old Town and the only city gate that has been preserved since the medieval period.
Don’t be surprised if you fall in love with the Slovakian capital city! There are many fun things to do in Bratislava; It’s a cute town with wonderful people! It’s a great day trip from nearby cities or a good stopover for one or two nights on your Central European tour. Want more Central Europe travel tips? Check out some of our other blog posts:
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