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Turks & Caicos Vacation Guide

Posted on August 31, 2022August 31, 2022 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about taking a trip to Turks & Caicos, a beautiful collection of Caribbean Islands with gorgeous sandy beaches and crystal clear turquoise water. For first-time visitors, there are some things you should know before planning a trip to Turks and Caicos.

Where are the Turks and Caicos Islands?

The islands of Turks & Caicos are just north of Haiti and the Dominican Republic, as well as east of Cuba. It’s easy to reach from the United States, with a short flight from Atlanta or anywhere along the Eastern seaboard. Technically, these islands are in the Atlantic Ocean, not the Caribbean Sea, but it still has a very Caribbean feel.

Do I Need A Passport to Visit Turks & Caicos?

If you are from the United States, Canada, or most EU countries, you won’t need a visa for your Turks and Caicos trip. You will need a valid passport, though, and it should be valid for six months from your arrival date. Turks & Caicos Islands are part of the British Overseas Territories.

Where Should I Go in Turks & Caicos?

The islands are split into two groups, the Turks and the Caicos. Many people visit on a cruise ship, which typically arrives at Grand Turk in the eastern part of the islands. We stayed in Providenciales, which is where most flights to Turks & Caicos land. Grand Turk and Provo are pretty far apart, so if you plan to visit several destinations in Turks & Caicos, you will need to fly or take ferries. It’s best to pick one destination and enjoy it, rather than trying to see them all.

Getting Around Turks & Caicos

Once you’ve landed in Turks & Caicos, if you need to get around, you’ll most likely be taking taxis. There is no public transportation in Turks & Caicos, so your options are limited. Because of limited options. taxis are pretty expensive. They charge per person, so you may be sharing the taxi with other people. Make sure you ask before you get in the cab so you have an idea of what it will cost.

If you want to explore one of the islands at leisure, consider renting a car for the day. You’ll have more flexibility in your schedule, and you’ll probably spend less money than you would on taxis. But remember, they drive on the left here because it’s an old British colony. The cars can go either way: you’ll see some British cars with the steering wheel on the right and American cars with the steering wheel on the left.

Many resorts have bikes available for their guests, and that can be a fun way to get around. However, keeping in mind the traffic, we recommend staying on the smaller resort roads rather than riding on the main arteries.

What Is There to Do in Turks & Caicos?

This is a beach destination that is made for relaxing, however, you will find some fun things to do in Turks & Caicos. Most of your Turks & Caicos activities will center on the water. Of course, the beaches are amazing, and there are several other fun things to do in Turks & Caicos.

Conch Diving
Parasailing
Sailing charters
Visit Iguana Island

Turks & Caicos has the third largest coral reef in the world, so don’t pass up the chance to go snorkeling or diving. Just make sure you are honest about your abilities with the guides; they’re happy to help you, but if you’re not a strong swimmer or diver, let them know!

Shocks to Expect When You Visit Turks & Caicos

Is Turks & Caicos Expensive?

Yes, it is expensive to visit Turks & Caicos, but it’s worth it. When you go out to eat, a typical dinner entree will be around $40, while a lunch special might be $20. Everything you consume has to be brought in from somewhere else, so the prices are quite high. If you want to save money, consider accommodations with a kitchenette so you can cook some of your own meals. Groceries are expensive, too, but still a bit cheaper than dining out at a restaurant.

Hotels in Turks & Caicos are also typically pretty pricy. There are lots of all-inclusive resorts, plus regular hotels and vacation rentals. Look at the amenities for each option and make sure you are taking full advantage of everything your resort has to offer as it can save you money as well.

When it comes to tours in Turks & Caicos, you can often negotiate a better price, especially if you’re doing a private tour. The guys on the beach offering tours work on commission, so there’s often room to negotiate your price.

What to Eat in Turks & Caicos

The most common “local” food you’ll eat in Turks & Caicos is conch. We went conch diving, and the guides cleaned out the shells and cleaned the meat so we made conch ceviche back at our apartment. You’ll see conch on the menu at most places: cracked conch is Mark’s favorite, while conch fritters are the most common way to serve conch.

Lobster is another popular local food, but if you visit between April and August, it won’t be in season, so you won’t get fresh local lobster. All of the seafood we tried in Turks & Caicos was fantastic, including sole fish, grouper, and snapper. It’s expensive, but the food here is actually really good.

If you’re in Provo on a Thursday, make sure you head to the Thursday Fish Fry. A bunch of vendors will set up little tents and sell different types of fish to eat, and conch is always on the menu.

The islands do have their own beer, which is Turks Head. Turk’s Head Brewery has four main beers (Lager, Amber Ale, IPA, and Light) plus a rotating selection of seasonal beers like Stout and Summer Wheat Ale. Rum is another staple of most Caribbean islands, so you’ll see a lot of fruity drinks with rum.

Service in Turks & Caicos

Remember, you’re on “island time” and nobody is in a hurry down here, especially the servers. You can expect things to just take a bit longer, and if you’re relaxed and in vacation mode, it won’t matter. The people are certainly friendly, just not in any kind of rush! It may take you a few days to get into island time yourself, but once you do, you’ll see why it’s so appealing.

Island Time doesn’t just apply to dining out in Turks & Caicos. It is everywhere! When you land in Turks & Caicos, don’t take your time getting off the plane because passport control is slow, so hurry up to get in line before everyone else on your flight is ahead of you.

More Turks & Caicos Travel Tips

As you’re planning your Turks and Caicos trip, there are just a few more things you should know:

English is the official language of Turks & Caicos
The U.S. Dollar is the official currency of Turks & Caicos
Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it’s always a good idea to bring some cash for taxis and tips.
Staying connected is not an issue; we had 4G cell service the entire time.
The tap water is safe to drink in Turks & Caicos
Plan to tip around 15% to 20% but check the bill first to see if a service charge has already been added
Don’t expect much nightlife in Turks & Caicos; it’s pretty quiet in the evenings.
The electrical outlets are the same as in the US, so no need for adapters\
Don’t forget to bring bug spray and reef-safe sunscreen and reapply often!

What to Pack for a Turks & Caicos Vacation

What Are Potcakes?

You might see or read about Potcakes before you get to Turks & Caicos. Potcakes are a mixed breed dog that’s found all over the Caribbean, including Turks & Caicos. You’ll see them on the beaches, and around the popular food spots. They’re generally pretty harmless, if not overpopulated. There’s actually a rescue program in place at Potcake Place to help tourists adopt them and take them home. If you have a dog lover in the family, beware! They will want to bring home a potcake!

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

A trip to Turks & Caicos is a great way to relax and enjoy some downtime. They are some of the safest islands in the Caribbean, with just enough activities to have some fun but you will still have plenty of downtime. It is an expensive destination, but everything was of good quality, so we never felt like we were being ripped off. For our first trip without kids in ten years, we have no complaints! Start planning your trip at Visit Turks and Caicos Islands.

Want more Caribbean travel tips? Check out these other blog posts:

What NOT to Do On a Trip to Argentina

Posted on August 29, 2022August 29, 2022 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do on a trip to Argentina. While many travel blogs will tell you all the fun things to do in Argentina, we want to be sure you know about the things you should NOT do when you plan an Argentina trip.

Don’t Think Argentina is Just Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is an amazing city and should be on your Argentina agenda, but there is so much more to see in Argentina. This country has some of the most amazing natural attractions in the world and it would be a shame to miss out. A few Argentina destinations you should not miss are:

Iguazu Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in the world
Bariloche, a popular area for skiing
Mendoza, Argentina’s wine region
Penguin and whale watching in Perto Madryn

Argentina is so much more than Buenos Aires!

What to Know Before Visiting Buenos Aires

Don’t Expect to Get Around Quickly

Knowing that Argentina is a very long country, it’s simply not possible to see all of it in a short trip. Be realistic when planning your travel within Argentina and make sure you allow enough travel time between cities in Argentina. Long bus rides of ten hours or more are not totally uncommon in Argentina. Airfare can be expensive, so you might find yourself on a bus in Argentina. Don’t forget to bring extra power sources for your electronics because not all buses have outlets you can use.

Don’t Expect to Do Anything Early

Whatever you do in Argentina, nothing ever starts early. It’s not just restaurants, it’s museums and other Argentina attractions. The Natural Science Museum in Buenos Aires opens at 2 pm every day. Lunch would not be any earlier than 1:00 and dinner can be anywhere from 8 pm until 11 pm. When you’re eating dinner this late, who can get to work at 8 am the next day?

This “lateness” applies to punctuality too. It’s totally normal to be 20 – 30 minutes late to a social engagement. This does not apply to public transportation: be on time or you’ll miss your train!

This is also the reason for “siesta” in the afternoon when many shops close between 2:00 and 5:00. If you have shopping to do, get it done before the siesta!

Don’t Think Argentina is Hot and Humid

Many people think all of South America is hot and humid, like in the Amazon rainforest. However, that’s not the case for all of Argentina. The country is 3,800 kilometers, or 2,360 miles, long from top to tip. There are a lot of climate zones in Argentina from a subtropical climate in the north to a subantarctic climate in the south. Make sure you check the weather for the specific region you are visiting and remember the seasons are also flipped! Argentina’s winter is June, July, and August. The hottest months start in December and go through February.

Don’t Compare Argentina to the Rest of South America

It’s never a good idea to lump one country in with all the other countries on the continent. This is especially true for Argentina, which really feels more like a European culture than South American or Latin.

Don’t Forget to Try on Clothes Before You Buy Them

The sizing in Argentina is very different, so no matter what you are buying, make sure you try it on first. The sizes don’t match up with US or European sizes, so it can be tricky figuring out which size to buy.

Don’t Be Afraid to Try Mate

Mate is an extremely popular hot beverage in Argentina and the surrounding countries, so it’s something everyone should try. It’s basically a tea made from the leaves of the Yerba Mate plant. Once the leaves are ground up, they put them in a gourd or a cup and typically sip it through a metal straw.

Don’t Take Your Safety for Granted

There are a few things to consider when it comes to staying safe in Argentina. The safety issues will vary widely depending on where you go in Argentina. Environmental factors like strong sun rays or insect bites may be a big issue in some areas, as well as any wildlife encounters you might have.

Other parts of Argentina, particularly the cities, have some crime issues to be aware of. If you find yourself out late at night, don’t walk home; take a taxi! If you’re renting a home, don’t answer the door if you’re not expecting anyone.

Don’t Forget to Bring Small Bills

While the official currency of Argentina is the Argentine Peso, US Dollars are pretty much accepted everywhere you go. But you want to have small bills that are easily exchanged, rather than larger bills. Credit cards are widely accepted in Argentina, too, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand when traveling.

When getting cash out, don’t expect ATMs to be outdoors or in English. Most of them will be inside a bank or business, and you may have to swipe your card to get in after hours. Also, the machines are typically in Spanish, so you may have to muddle through a couple of screens in Spanish before you see the option for English.

Don’t Be Flashy

When you’re at the ATM, put your money away before stepping away; don’t flash your cash around. Similarly, don’t wear flashy jewelry or expensive watches; it can make you a target for crime. However, they dress very stylishly in Argentina, so don’t dress like a slob! Find that nice mix of well put together without being flashy.

Don’t Be Afraid to Hire a Private Driver

Don’t be afraid to take a Remise or a hired private car. You’ll play a slight premium, but you’ll have a driver at your disposal to take you where you want to go. Taxis are ok, too, but they don’t always have to take you if they don’t want to, and the service is not great. Taxi drivers aren’t tipped, and it shows in the service. It’s usually worth it to pay a little extra for a remise.

Don’t Be Put Off By the Argentine Attitude

Within South America, Argentines have a reputation for being a bit aloof or stuck up. It goes back to that more European culture. Don’t get me wrong, people in Argentina are fantastic once you get to know them. We’ve had some great experiences as guests of Argentinians, but they can take a bit to warm up so your first impression might not be great.

Don’t Expect a Juicy Steak Unless You Ask For It

Argentina is known for having amazing beef, but the local tradition is to serve it well done. If you don’t want your steak well done, then you have to ask for it “jugoso” which means juicy. Also, don’t expect the side dishes to be included; those are often sold “a la carte” but it’s often enough to share amongst a few of you. Sometimes, you can even order a side dish for a meal.

What to Eat in Argentina

Don’t Skip Dessert!

We love the dessert in Argentina. Whether it’s Dulce de Leche or Ice Cream, you can’t skip dessert! Our boys love the Alfajor de Dulce de Leche, which is like a cookie sandwich with layers of dulce de leche in between. The ice cream shops are amazing, too! From the national chains like Volta, or the mom-and-pop shops you’ll find around town.

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

Don’t be surprised if you fall in love with Argentina! It’s a fun place to visit, and our kids love it, too! There are beautiful small towns with amazing architecture and fantastic food! With so many unique areas to cover, you’ll need more than one trip to Argentina! Want more South America travel tips? Check out some of our other blog posts:

Principles of Marketing Exam 3 Study Guide

Posted on August 29, 2022April 15, 2024 by Mark Wolters

Exam 3 for BADM 320 Principles of Marketing with Prof. Mark Wolters from the University of Illinois Gies College of Business. This exam covers the following topics: New Product Development, Service Marketing, Pricing, Supply Chain Management, and Advertising.

Practice Exam 3

Practice Exam 3 – 2018

Topic 11: New Product Development

Why Do Firms Develop New Products

New Product Categories

Competitive Positions in the Marketplace

Diffusion of Innovation Theory Explained

First Mover Advantages

Product Life Cycle

Why New Products Fail

Topic 12: Service Marketing

How is Service Marketing Different Than Product Marketing

Typical Service Failures

Gaps Model Explained

How to Evaluate Service Quality

Managing Customer Expectiations

Topic 13: Pricing Tactics & Strategies

5 Cs of Pricing Strategies

Pricing Strategies

Pricing Tactics

Macro Influences on Pricing

Legal & Ethical Aspects of Pricing

Topic 14: Supply Chain Management

Data Mining vs Data Warehousing

What Does a Distribution Center Do

Where Does Supply Chain Conflict Come From

Value Chain Analysis

Marketing Math

Trends in Retail

Topic 15: Advertising & Integrated Marketing Communication

Advertising Objectives

Pull Advertising vs Push Advertising

Types of Appeals to Consumers

Advertising Scheduling

Parts of Integrated Marketing Communication That Are Not Advertising

Principles of Marketing Exam 2 Study Guide

Posted on August 29, 2022October 23, 2024 by Mark Wolters

Exam time is always a cruch time. Here we have the highlights of the topics covered for exam 2 for BADM 320 Principles of Marketing with Prof. Wolters at the University of Illinois Gies College of Business. The exam covers Consumer Behavior, Business to Business Marketing, Global Marketing, Segmentation, Marketing Research, and Branding.

Practice Exam 2 – From back of book

Practice Exam 2 – Spring 2020

Topic 5: Consumer Behavior

Consumer Decision Making Process

Universal, Retrieval, and Evoked Sets of Alternatives

Evaluation of Alternatives

Types of Buying Behavior

Topic 6: Business to Business Marketing

B2B vs B2C Marketing

B2B Buying Process

Buying Centers

Buying Situations

Topic 7: Global Marketing

Porter’s National Diamond Framework

Assessing Global Markets

Assessing Social Aspects of Global Markets – Hofstede Model

Global Market Entry Strategies

Topic 8: Segmentation, Targeting, & Positioning

Basic Segmentation Methods

Evaulation of Segment Attractiveness

Segmentation Strategies

Positional Mapping

Topic 9: Marketing Research

Questions You Never Ask in Marketing Research

Exploratory Research vs Conclusive Research

Primary Data Explained

Secondary Data Explained

Topic 10: Branding

Product Line Breadth & Depth Explained

Types of Products

Private Label Brands vs Manufacturer Brands

Brand Image vs Brand Identity

Primary Packaging vs Secondary Packaging

Principles of Marketing Exam 1 Study Guide

Posted on August 29, 2022February 9, 2023 by Mark Wolters

This is the study guide for Exam 1 for BADM 320 Principles of Marketing with instructor Mark Wolters at The University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign. This is only a highlights of the topic videos for each topic. For the whole list of videos per topic please visit the Professor Wolters website.

Practice Exam 1.1 – Fall 2021

Exam 1 from the book

Practice Exam 1.2 – Spring 2022 (it is on YouTube, click the link)

https://youtube.com/live/vttwXqtTKoo

Practice Exam 1.3 – Bonus First Exam

Topic 1 Highlights

Core Aspects of Marketing

Marketing Misconceptions

The 4 Ps of Marketing – The Marketing Mix Explained

General Types of Marketing

Marketing Myopia Explained

Why Marketers Fail

Topic 2 Highlights

Sustainable Competitive Advantages Explained

Share of Customers

Customer Relationship Group

SWOT Analysis Explained

BCG Matrix Explained

Blue Ocean Strategy vs Red Ocean Strategy

Benchmarking

Topic 3 Highlights

PESTIL Macroenvironmental Analystis Overview

Generational Cohorts

Competitive Strategies

Porter’s Competitive 5 Forces

GE Mackenzie Matrix

Industry Key Success Factors

Topic 4 Highlights

Compare Social Media and Traditional Media

What is a Social Media Plan

How Websites Can Build Good Will

4 E Framework of Social Media Content Creation

CPC/CPA/CPM Ad Services for Online Advertisements

Fraud, Phishing, and Ethics of Digital Marketing

Shocks to Expect When You Visit Slovakia

Posted on August 24, 2022August 24, 2022 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about visiting Slovakia, a mountainous country nestled between Hungary, Austria, the Czech Republic, and Poland. Slovakia travel doesn’t get nearly as much attention as its neighboring countries. For first-time visitors, there are some shocks you might expect on your first tour of Slovakia.

slovakia travel — Slovakia really is an amazing place.

Empty Streets

When you visit Slovakia, it feels like nobody else is there! Slovakia is seriously underrated as a tourist destination. Most travelers skip over Slovakia in favor of Prague, Vienna, or Budapest. Those are all great destinations to visit, but if you’re looking to escape the crowds, Slovakia is the best destination. You might see a lot of day trippers from Vienna visiting Bratislava, but nothing compared to other European capital cities.

The Best Two-Week Central Europe Itinerary

Prices in Slovakia

Slovakia is extremely affordable to visit. It’s not necessarily “cheap” but it’s very affordable. You can eat and drink very well on a budget in the cities in Slovakia, and the transportation and accommodation are also very affordable. It even makes a great base for exploring nearby cities. Vienna is only an hour away from Bratislava, but you’ll spend much less on accommodation.

Slovakia Food

Slovakia food is fantastic, whether you’re up in the mountains or in Bratislava. You will eat really well in Slovakia, and it’s not a light food. Slovakia food features a lot of pork, duck, dumplings, and other hearty dishes. That’s why a digestive drink is so popular after a meal because it will help you digest all of the fat in your dinner.

The stinky cheese in Slovakia is a shock of its own! Olomoucké tvarůžky is actually a Czech cheese, but Slovaks love to try and trick Americans into eating it.

Slovak Locals

The local residents of Slovakia are extremely welcoming. Of all the surrounding countries, I have found the Slovak people to be the kindest and nicest. Every time we’ve visited Slovakia, the people have been wonderful. They love to feed you and they love to share the highlights of their country with you. As an added bonus, most locals under 40 speak English.

Folk Arts

The people in Slovakia really love any kind of folk art. Folk dancing, costumes, and crafts are all very popular. They take great pride in their culture and it’s obvious throughout the country, in museums and other attractions. Most cities in Slovakia host several folk festivals, so if there’s one happening when you are visiting Slovakia, make sure you go check it out!

Nature in Slovakia

Slovakia is not a country of large cities. The largest is Bratislava, with about half a million residents. The country is mostly made up of natural areas. The Tatra Mountains have skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer. There are lots of cool caves to explore, and mineral pools for soaking. If you are looking for an affordable outdoor adventure destination, Slovakia is a great choice!

Castles in Slovakia

Slovakia is said to have over 100 castles, ranging from castle ruins to castles you can tour on the inside. The Bratislava Castle is probably the most popular castle in Slovakia; it sits on a hill overlooking the town and the river and it is open for tours. If you take a train or bus through Slovakia, you’ll see dozens of castles set on hills overlooking the nearby villages.

Visiting Bratislava

As a capital city, Bratislava is tiny and charming, but it has a lot going for it. It’s way more affordable than other European capitals, yet there are tons of restaurants and clubs to check out. Most Central European travelers overlook Bratislava in favor of Prague, Vienna, or Budapest, which makes it all the more worthwhile to visit.

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Visiting Bratislava

It’s Not Czechoslovakia

Many people who grew up in the 80s or earlier might think of this as Czechoslovakia. However, those two countries split in 1993 and now there’s the Czech Republic and Slovakia. The people are Slovaks and Slovakia is its own country, so be sure to brush up on the history a bit and don’t call it Czechoslovakia. Similarly, this is considered Central Europe, not Eastern Europe.

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

I’ve been to Slovakia several times, with my family and as a solo traveler. It’s really a great country to visit, with beautiful scenery and fantastic food. As you can see, you’re in for a lot of pleasant surprises when you visit Slovakia! Start planning your trip at Slovakia Travel!

Want more Central Europe travel tips? Check out these blog posts:

Shocks to Expect When Visiting Nashville

Posted on August 15, 2022August 15, 2022 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about visiting Nashville, Tennessee. Nashville is home to country music and is a place where many musicians have gotten their start. As with any travel destination, there are many surprises in store for Nashville visitors. If you’re thinking about planning a Nashville vacation, don’t be surprised at these “shocks.”

Nashville culture shocks — Yes, there really is music everywhere!

Bachelorette Parties

If you visit Nashville on the weekend, you will see more bachelor and bachelorette parties than you’ve ever seen before. Some weekends it’s a sea of pink cowboy hats, as a country-themed bachelorette party is a Nashville staple.

Party Buses

Along with all of the bachelor and bachelorette parties, Nashville is full of party buses. Half of the weekend traffic on Broadway seems to be party buses. You’ll see some crazy ones, too, with hot tubs, open decks, loud music, and even the pedal pubs which are mobile bars powered by bicycle pedals. The transportation industry has certainly gotten creative in Nashville!

Live Music

This is one of the best shocks of visiting Nashville. You can find live music, of any kind, at any hour, in Nashville. Broadway is an easy place to find live music, but there are performances all over Nashville, not just on Broadway. Closing time in Nashville is typically 3 am, so you really can find live music in Nashville in the middle of the night.

While Nashville is known for country music, you can actually find all kinds of music in Nashville. If you’re not a country music fan, don’t let that stop you from visiting Nashville because you’ll definitely be able to find some music you like. (Whether you like country music or not, don’t miss the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum!)

Nashville Hot Chicken Burn

Hot chicken is a Nashville specialty, and if you’re looking for regional cuisine, you have to try Nashville hot chicken. Hattie B’s, Princes, and the Scoreboard are some of the most popular spots to try hot chicken in Nashville. The shock, though, is how the heat builds. At first, it doesn’t taste too hot or spicy, but the more you dig in, the hotter it gets. Be prepared for the heat!

What to Eat in Nashville

Popularity of Nashville

In the last few years, Nashville has become a hot spot for hipsters and millennials. A lot of people, including families with young kids, have been moving to Nashville recently. This influx of young families and professionals has really changed the scene in Nashville. There are now fun places and neighborhoods to hang out in that are not on Broadway and there’s a wide variety of places to see in Nashville besides going to the bars and listening to music.

While this new vibe is fun, it has made Nashville much more expensive (and congested) than it used to be. If you visited Nashville more than ten years ago, it may be a shock to you when you return because a lot has changed.

Nashville Traffic & Roads

Because of the recent influx of new residents, Nashville traffic has gotten pretty bad. The infrastructure hasn’t kept pace with the growing population, and the result is a lot of gridlock. The roads aren’t great either; they have some pretty bad potholes. In fact, the city has funds set aside for drivers who have car damage from potholes. If you can, avoid commuting hours at all costs.

The Best & Worst of Visiting Nashville

Spring Allergies

The pollen and other allergens seem to settle in a bowl around Nashville, making it difficult for people with allergies. Even people who don’t think they have allergies tend to have allergies when visiting Nashville in the spring.

Nashville Tourist Attractions

Most people think of music when they think of Nashville, and of course, the music scene is amazing! But there are lots of historic and cultural Nashville tourist attractions too.

There’s actually a replica of the Parthenon in Nashville! Inside, you’ll find a huge gold statue of the goddess Athena.
Vanderbilt University is in Nashville, so you can visit the campus and its museums.
One of the best historic things to do in Nashville is to visit Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage.
Radnor Lake State Park has some great hiking trails around the lake.
Franklin is a great town to explore near Nashville.

Nashville also happens to be the capital of Tennessee, so there are state buildings and state museums you can visit. Start planning your trip at Visit Music City!

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

Don’t let these surprises keep you from planning a trip to Nashville. It’s such a great city, with live music, culture, history, and amazing people and food! Want more tips for traveling through the Southern US? Check out some of our other blog posts:

What NOT to Do When You Visit New York State

Posted on August 5, 2022August 5, 2022 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you visit the state of New York. While many travel blogs will tell you the best things to see in New York State, we want to be sure you know about the things you should NOT do as you tour the best places to visit in New York.

Don’t Think New York is Just New York City

When you say “New York” the first thing that comes to mind for most people is New York City, specifically Manhattan. There’s a whole state out there, waiting to be explored. Of course, New York City is fantastic and everyone should visit at least once. But, there are plenty more New York State attractions outside of the city as well.

What NOT to Do in New York City

New York State is like a bunch of states all rolled into one. You have Upstate New York, Western New York and of course, New York City. There’s a huge variety of types of places to visit in Update New York State, the Catskills, Adirondacks, Finger Lakes, Long Island and more!

Don’t Forget Your Outdoor Gear

When you visit New York State, be prepared to spend a lot of time outdoors because New York is an outdoor recreation haven. Outside of the city, New Yorkers are really outdoorsy. There’s great hiking in both the Adirondacks and the Catskills, not to mention all of the great water activities (and wine tasting!) in the Finger Lakes region. Watkins Glen State Park is a great place to start a trip to Finger Lakes.

Don’t Worry if You Can’t Pronounce the Names

New York has a lot of Native history and therefore a lot of the names can be hard to pronounce. Places like Canajoharie, Canandaigua, Coxsackie, Schoharie, Skaneateles, and Niskayuna are just a few examples of places in New York that are nearly impossible to pronounce on your first try.

Don’t Be Afraid to Drive in New York

New York drivers are notoriously aggressive, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t drive in New York. (We don’t recommend driving in New York City as it’s just a hassle, but driving is the best way to see the rest of New York State.)

Defensive driving might not cut it in New York; you might have play a little offense.

Don’t forget your EZ Pass to pay the tolls as there are a lot of them around New York State; if you rent a car, it’s easiest to rent an EZ Pass with the car.
Don’t expect to wander around while pumping gas; in New York, the gas pumps require you to hold down the handle the entire time. No multi-tasking!
Don’t dawdle! Whether you’re finding a parking spot, parking the car or even paying for your parking, don’t take your time. Hurry up!
Don’t assume exit numbers correspond with mile markers.
Don’t just stay on the interstates; the backroads and highways are where you’ll see “the real New York.” There are some great villages and historic towns in New York.

Don’t Order “Buffalo” Wings in New York

New York (especially Buffalo) is famous for Buffalo chicken wings. Here they’re just wings; there’s no need to add the “buffalo” to it. The wings really are amazing in Buffalo. We tried Duff’s and the Anchor Bar; even the bleu cheese tastes better in Buffalo! Don’t worry about getting messy; it’s just part of eating wings!

Don’t Miss Out on New York Food

Even though there’s a dish called the garbage plate, the food in New York is far from garbage. Besides wings in Buffalo, there are a few things you have to try when you visit New York State.

If you’re in New York City, you have a get a slice of New York pizza. They cut it in huge slices and it’s so yummy! We also tried Buffalo-style pizza and it was phenomenal.
New York Bagels are the best and once you’ve had an authentic New York bagel, everything else will pale in comparison
Beef on Weck is a popular sandwich in New York

What to Eat in New York

Always ask around for what the local specialty is, and give it a try! Just don’t expect overly friendly service. The locals are generally friendly and forthcoming with recommendations, but the service can be a little gruff.

Don’t Skip the Local Brews and Wines

New York State has some great craft beers and wine. The Finger Lakes region is full of vineyards and tasting rooms. Just make sure you call ahead to see which ones are open as these are popular wedding and event venues and can be closed for a private party. Many will have fun events for visitors like kids’ activities and live music.

Long Island has some of the best beers I’ve tried in the States, too!

Don’t Forget Your Passport

If you’re coming to New York State, there are a few day trips to Canada you can take, so it’s a good idea to have your passport handy. Niagara Falls is on the border of the US and Canada near Buffalo, and there’s also the Thousand Islands National Park just 90 minutes north of Syracuse. From Lake Placid, Montreal is two hours north!

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

Don’t be surprised if you fall in love with New York State! New York is such a great city and then there’s a whole state of cool attractions outside of New York. From Long Island to Buffalo, we love visiting New York State. With so many New York vacation spots, it’s the perfect destination for a summer or fall road trip! Start planning your trip at the official New York State tourism site, I Love NY.

Want more East Coast travel tips? Check out some of our other blog posts:

What NOT to Do at an RV Resort

Posted on August 2, 2022August 2, 2022 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you stay at an RV park. We recently stayed at the Sun Outdoors Old Orchard Beach resort in Maine, and it was a great way to try RV camping without committing to a big purchase.

Don’t Think RV Resorts, RV Parks, & RV Campgrounds are the Same

Camping in an RV can mean many different things to many different people. Likewise, there are many different types of campgrounds and resorts to choose from.

Campgrounds can be pretty basic, especially in state and national parks. You may have a concrete slab, a grill, and electricity hookups, or you might not. You might just have a dirt slab to park your RV. Be sure to read the fine print before you book a campground!
RV Parks are a step up from a basic campground. You’ll likely have a level spot for your RV, plus some hookups for electric and water and possibly even sewer hookups.
For the ultimate RV glamping experience, look for luxury RV resorts. These are often a lot like hotels with the amenities offered. Many of them have swimming pools, playgrounds, laundry rooms, WiFi, a general store, and more. RV resorts are really geared towards RVs, so you’ll have a nice level spot to park your RV, plus all the amenities.

Don’t Arrive Too Early or Too Late

Just like a hotel, RV resorts have check-in and check-out times. Unlike hotels, not all of them staff the front desk overnight. So, if you are arriving early, you might have to wait to pull into your spot. To be on the safe side, don’t make plans for your first day, assuming you can drop off your RV and head out. Likewise, if you are arriving very late, you may want to call ahead to see what the policy is. Some RV resorts will leave you a packet on the office door, while others may prohibit late-night arrivals so as not to disturb other guests.

Don’t Be Shy With the Staff

For the most part, the staff at resort campgrounds are super helpful; they are often like a front desk and concierge all rolled into one. They may even help you troubleshoot issues with your RV or help you get settled into your new site. They can also give you local tips and tips on what routes may or may not be appropriate for your size of RV.

Don’t Forget to Get a Map of the Resort

Some RV resorts are huge, with sometimes hundreds of sites. Not only will a map of the property help you find your way to your site, but it will also help you find the nearest restroom, laundry room, or other amenities. They often also have valuable information on the map, such as the WiFi or bathroom password, and discounts for local businesses.

Don’t Forget to Follow the Rules

Your RV resort map will probably also list the rules of the park that you need to be aware of. Most campgrounds and RV parks have quiet hours. Many of them also have rules about guests, overflow parking, and the use of amenities.

For dog owners: while camping with your dog is great, make sure your dog is a good neighbor to your fellow campers. Barking dogs can ruin a good night’s sleep, and stepping in dog poo is the worst.

Don’t Expect a Hotel Vibe

Hotels are often set up for business travel and vacation, so they don’t always feel like a relaxing place. Resort campgrounds are all about leisure travel; everyone is there to have a good time, and the amenities are there to help you make the most of your vacation. Don’t be surprised if your campground neighbors pop by to say hello and share their food or drinks; when has that ever happened in a hotel?

In fact, some RV resorts have long-term renters as well. Not everyone is just passing through or on a week’s vacation. Snowbirds love to drive their RV south for the summer and set up camp at an RV resort for several months. You’ll know these folks by the personalization of their campsites, with items like lawn decorations, outdoor furniture, bird feeders, etc.

Don’t Expect “Cheap” Camping

You might think camping is a cheap way to vacation, but resort campgrounds can often command similar prices to a hotel. In most areas, a basic tent camping site will start at around $30. An RV resort can charge $100 or more, depending on the season and the location. When it comes to RV camping, you really do get what you pay for.

Don’t Forget to Do a Trial Run in Your First RV

If you’re brand new to the RV world and haven’t done it before, don’t wait until you arrive at an RV resort to figure things out. Don’t even wait until vacation to figure it out. You’ll save yourself a lot of frustration by doing a trial run close to home, maybe even in your driveway! And then, an RV Resort is the perfect destination for your first camping trip because you’ll have all of the amenities (and staff and neighbors) to help you out if you get in a pinch.

Don’t Forget to Do Your Research

Like hotels and airlines, RV resorts can vary quite a bit. Sometimes, it’s hard to tell a good RV resort from a bad RV resort. Some spots may advertise themselves as RV resorts but are more like mobile home parks with mostly permanent residents. Read reviews, compare amenities and if the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Many RV resorts have size limits, so if you have a really large RV, you want to make sure you can park your RV there.

What NOT to Do on a Road Trip

Don’t Expect Tent Camping at All RV Resorts

A lot of RV resorts don’t even allow tents; they are just for RVs. Some RV parks or campgrounds will have a separate area for tents, while the most rustic campgrounds are better suited for tents. It can be pretty hard to drive a tent stake into a concrete slab! If you plan to have a tent to sleep in, or are traveling with tent-camping friends, make sure you are staying at a place that allows tents.

Don’t Think RV Resorts are Just for RV People

Many RV resorts also offer rental units, so you don’t even have to own an RV to stay at an RV resort. Maybe you’re thinking about buying an RV and want to see if it’s the lifestyle for you. Maybe you’re planning a camping trip with friends or family, but not everyone wants to camp. RV resort rentals can range from basic sleeping cabins to a fully-equipped RV or home. If you are renting on-site, make sure you know what’s included so you can pack things like linens and utensils if needed.

Don’t Forget a Laid Back Attitude

After the initial setup, camping is meant to be relaxing. You’ll likely be surrounded by families, with kids on bikes, people grilling and enjoying a beer, and just chilling in general. A laidback attitude will go a long way in helping you enjoy your RV vacation. Unlike hotels, a lot of RV resort guests will stay around the campground all day, enjoying the amenities, so it really is a more social experience.

Don’t Speed!

Most RV resorts have very strict speed limits, and it’s important to adhere to them. Think of the RV resort as a big playground or school zone, where a kid can run out into the road at any minute. A 5mph speed limit may seem ridiculous, but you’ll be glad for it when your kids are riding their bikes through the campground.

Don’t Rush Your Setup

Remember the old adage “measure twice, cut once?” The same theory applies to setting up your RV. Don’t rush it because once you are set up, it’s a huge pain to change anything about the way you’ve parked.

Don’t Forget to Explore the Surrounding Area

While the amenities of your RV resort may be enough to keep you on-site for your entire vacation, don’t forget to explore a bit. RV resorts are usually built in places with a lot of tourist attractions, so chances are, there are some pretty cool things to see near your RV resort.

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Family Road Trips

Don’t Pass up the Shuttle

A lot of RV resorts offer a shuttle service to nearby attractions. Not everyone pulls a car behind their RV, so getting around when your only vehicle is anchored to a site can be difficult. Even if you do have a spare car, using the shuttle is a great way to keep that laidback vibe going. No stressing out in traffic or driving in circles looking for a parking space!

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

Don’t be surprised if you fall in love with RV resort camping. With the amenities, laidback vibe, and friendly neighbors, it’s a different way to travel. We definitely plan to take more RV trips in the future! Want more summer travel tips? Check out some of our other blog posts:

Mistakes & Scams to Avoid When Visiting Budapest

Posted on August 1, 2022July 26, 2022 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about the most common mistakes that travelers often make when visiting Budapest. While many travel blogs will tell you the fun things to see when you travel in Budapest, we want to be sure you also know about the mistakes to avoid when you visit Budapest.

Trusting All Taxis

There are two kinds of taxis in Budapest and they are both yellow. However, one type will say “freelancer” on the side, while the others will have a taxi company logo on the side. Make sure you choose those with a company logo. Those are generally the most regulated and you will have less chance of being ripped off.

Things You Will Love & Hate About Visiting Budapest

Not Using Public Transportation

Lots of tourists come to Budapest and don’t bother using public transportation, which is a mistake. Budapest has one of the oldest Metros in the world, and the trams are another easy way to get around. The city is spread out, so you’re not going to be walking all the time. Take a chance on the public transportation in Budapest; it’s affordable and easy. I recommend buying a single-day or multi-day ticket so you can use it as often as you’d like; just don’t forget to stamp your ticket before you board!

Thinking Gellért Is the Only Bath in Budapest

There are over 120 hot springs and nine medicinal baths in Budapest. Gellért is one of the most popular and most photographed baths, and it’s worth visiting. But it’s not the only one. There are several other smaller bath houses with fewer people that are also worth visiting. If you’re having trouble deciding, ask your hotel for their recommendation.

Getting Upset at the Service

Service in Budapest is slow. Don’t take it personally; it’s just how it is. The service is friendly and helpful, just not super fast. Knowing this, it’s helpful to have your entire order ready the first time the server comes by as it may be a while before they come back!

Not Having Local Currency

Most of us are used to putting all of our travel expenses on a credit card, but that’s not always possible in Budapest. They have their own currency as well, so you can’t use your Euros in Hungary, you’ll use the Hungarian Forint. (A few super touristy places will take Euros) If you’re not sure, ask before you buy, especially in restaurants!

When you go to the ATM to get cash out, pay close attention to what you are doing. Know the amount you want before you use the machine. The default amount option is often some astronomical number, so it’s helpful to know how much money you want to withdraw. Do not accept the conversion from the ATM; have it withdrawn in local currency and pay your own bank. The currency conversion in ATMs is usually a rip-off. The same goes for credit card transactions; do everything in the local currency and let your own bank do the conversion.

Travel Money Tips & Exchanging Currency Abroad

And it should go without saying, but never just exchange money on the street with a random stranger. Go to a bank, ATM, or currency exchange.

Avoiding Paprika & Sour Cream

The two main ingredients of Hungarian cuisine are paprika and sour cream. If you try to avoid those, you’re going to miss out on a lot of good food in Budapest! Hungarian food is hearty and heavy, with soups and chicken dishes and rich sauces. You’ll see a lot of Italian restaurants in Budapest, but give the local food a chance first. It’s delicious!

Having Too Much Palinka

The affordability of Budapest makes it a great nightlife destination. Palinka is the local schnapps in Hungary and it comes in many flavors like pear, plum, and cherry. Because it’s fruity, it’s easy to overindulge. Make sure you take it slow, especially if you are traveling alone because not everyone will have your best interests in mind.

Not Leaving Budapest

Budapest is an amazing city and there’s a lot to see. But there are tons of cool things to see outside of Budapest as well. There are Roman ruins, underground caves, baths, and more attractions just outside of Budapest.

Staying Near Parliament

The Hungarian Parliament Building is breathtaking, especially when it’s lit up at night. However, staying near the Parliament is not the best idea. It’s not the safest area of Budapest, so you are better off staying in a better part of town, visiting the Parliament during the day and enjoying the nighttime views from across the river.

Falling for These Tourist Scams

As a touristy city, there are some travel scams to look out for when you visit Budapest. I’ve been visiting Budapest for over 20 years, and while a lot of things have changed, they are still trying to pull the same scams on tourists. Here are a few to look out for:

Damsel in Distress: this is the oldest scam in Budapest and usually targets single men or a small group of men. A girl or woman might ask for your help and then offer to buy you a drink to thank you. Don’t agree to this; if you do, you’ll find yourself stuck with a pricy bar tab while your damsel in distress disappears. The bars are in on it and this is how they can make a bit of extra money. Be wary of extra friendly locals.
Menu Mix-Up: the menu you order from might be different from the menu you pay off of. You may order your food and when the bill comes, the prices will look surprisingly higher than what you thought you were ordering. They’ll show you a second menu with higher prices. This really only happens in dodgy places, so it’s not a big worry, but something to look out for. Also, be specific when you order, especially when ordering drinks or you’re likely to get the most expensive drink in the house.
Taxi Scams: as we mentioned above, try to avoid the “freelancer” taxis as they are prone to ripping off tourists. If that’s your only option, agree to a price beforehand. You can ask your hotel what you can expect to pay.
Like any big city, Budapest is subject to the usual tourist scams like pickpockets and random gifts on the street which you are then expected to pay for.

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

Budapest is a beautiful, affordable city and there’s a reason I keep coming back 20 years after my first visit. Besides the travel scams which are easily avoidable, there are so many great things about Budapest. Avoiding these mistakes will only enhance your travel in Budapest.

Want more travel tips for Hungary and Central Europe? Check out some of our other blog posts: