Author: Mark Wolters

savannah

Savannah Travel Guide: What NOT To Do

Posted on by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you visit the “hostess city” of Savannah, Georgia. While many travel blogs will tell you the best things to see on a trip to Savannah, our Savannah travel guide tells you what NOT to do so you can avoid making these common mistakes.

Don’t Visit Savannah in August

Or if you do, don’t freak out when you can’t breathe. My first time to Savannah, I literally couldn’t breathe when I stepped out of the airport. The air is so thick with humidity, it feels like you are drowning. We don’t recommend visiting Savannah in the summer months, but sometimes you have to travel when you can. If you can choose, the best time to visit Savannah is from October through April, when you’ll experience pleasant weather.

Don’t Forget Your Manners

Georgia is a Southern State, so you’ll need to mind your manners when you visit Savannah. In Georgia, people still say “yes, ma’am” and “no, sir” and they hold doors open for each other. If you want to blend in with the locals and be on the receiving end of that famous Southern hospitality, then don’t forget your manners.

Five Things You Will Love & Hate About the South

Don’t Forget Sunscreen and Bug Spray

Another feature of southeast Georgia is that it is hot and swampy. The sun is strong and even if you’re not at the beach, you’re still going to get sun just walking around town, so make sure you have sunblock and that you reapply it every couple of hours, no matter what you are doing outside. Likewise for bug spray, as there are lots of mosquitos, especially in the summer months. They also have sand gnats, palmetto bugs, and other annoying pests.

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Savannah, Georgia

Don’t be Surprised by Friendly Locals

People in Savannah will just strike up a conversation with you out of nowhere. It’s one of the reasons that Savannah is called “the Hostess City.” People will go out of their way to make you feel welcome and to share their Savannah travel tips with you.

Don’t Worry About Open Containers (downtown)

Savannah is one of the few cities in the US where you can walk around with an adult beverage out in the open. It has to be in a plastic cup, but otherwise you can enjoy your cocktails on the go. Restaurants will even ask if you want a TGC, or a to-go-cup.

Don’t Forget to Book Savannah Accommodation Early

Savannah is a very popular travel destination, so Savannah hotels book up quickly. For all the reasons we love Savannah, everyone else loves it too. It’s a popular place for girls getaways, romantic weekends, or just a great weekend destination for much of the Southeast States. St. Patrick’s Day is a huge holiday in Savannah, and hotels can fill up a year in advance for that weekend. There are lots of cool places to stay in Savannah, but don’t wait on your reservations!

Don’t Compare Savannah to Hilton Head Island

They may share airports, but the two destinations are very different and Savannah residents won’t let you forget it. Savannah is historic and charming, while Hilton Head Island has lots of golf courses and time-share resorts. They’re both popular destinations, but very different from each other. If you’re curious, they’re only 40 minutes apart, so you can make a day trip to check it out for yourself.

Take Some Day Trips from Savannah

While the historic downtown area is the best part of Savannah, there’s more to see beyond downtown. Some of the best day trips from Savannah include:

  • The beaches at Tybee Island. You can’t come this close to the coast without a little beach time.
  • If you like to golf, Hilton Head Island is a great day trip from Savannah, too.
  • Bluffton, South Carolina is another great day trip, best known for their fantastic seafood restaurants.
  • The Savannah Wildlife Refuge is just ten minutes outside of town, and you can explore on bike or by canoe.

Don’t Skip the Trolley Tours

It may seem super touristy, but the Savannah Trolley Tours are well worth it. It’s a great way to get the layout of the land, and they take you from one Savannah attraction to the next, so you can hop on and hop off without worrying about parking. Savannah has some of the best tour guides in the country. You can really learn a lot from a tour.

Don’t Be Spooked by Savannah

Savannah is one of the most haunted cities in America. When you visit Savannah, you can sign up for several different ghost tours or haunted accommodations. If you’re into supernatural occurrences, you’ll love Savannah.

Don’t Be Complacent with Safety in Savannah

Like many destinations popular with tourists, Savannah does have some petty thefts and small crimes occurring, especially downtown late at night. Use your usual travel smarts and don’t walk around alone at night in an area you are not familiar with. Don’t leave valuables lying out in your car where they can be seen.

Don’t Touch the Spanish Moss

Spanish Moss is part of what makes Savannah beautiful. It drapes from the trees and gives the parks and cemeteries a haunted feel. It’s cool to look at, but don’t touch it. There are tiny little bugs living in the Spanish moss and they will bite you and leave you itchy and bumpy. Believe us, kids will want to play with it, and it won’t end well!

Don’t Mix up the Squares and the Monuments

Part of Savannah’s charm are the monuments and squares throughout the city. But they don’t typically match up. For example, Johnson Square is one of the squares nearest to the downtown area. The monument inside the square honors General Greene from the American Revolution. So, don’t let it confuse you; just go by the square names rather than the monument names. Also, don’t hold up traffic when driving around the squares. They work just like a roundabout where you yield to anyone already in the square.

Don’t Expect Easy or Free Parking

Parking in Savannah is challenging. Don’t expect to find free or cheap parking that’s readily available, especially on the weekends. It’s worth it to spend a bit more on accommodation so you can easily walk around Savannah and not deal with the frustration of driving and parking. And don’t mess with the meter maids! They will get you if you let your meter lapse!

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

Don’t be surprised if you fall in love with Savannah! It is a gorgeous place with beautiful architecture, great museums, historic homes, cool tours, and amazing food. Start planning your trip now at Visit Savannah. Want more travel tips for the southern states? Check out some of our other blog posts:

Tanzania Vacation Guide: What to Know Before You Go

Posted on by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about visiting Tanzania, a fascinating country set on the eastern coast of Africa. A Tanzania trip is a fantastic family destination, with lots of great things to see and do. For first-time visitors, there are some things you should know before planning a trip to Tanzania.

Language in Tanzania

Tanzania is a former British colony, so English is one of the primary languages you’ll hear when you visit Tanzania. In the tourism industry, English is the main language. But there are over 120 different tribes in Tanzania, so there are over 120 different languages spoken throughout the country. However, those are exclusive to each tribe and you are not expected to learn or understand them. A secondary language spoken amongst Tanzania natives is Swahili. It does help to learn a few Swahili words:

  • Jambo – Hello
  • Asante – Thank You
  • Pole Pole – slowly
  • Simba – Lion
  • Hakuna Matata – No Worries

Currency in Tanzania

In Tanzania, the currency is the Tanzanian Shilling. Most hotels and restaurants will prefer the Tanzanian Shilling, while the US Dollar is the preferred currency when you’re on safari. If you are bringing US Dollars to Tanzania, make sure you have newer bills that are crisp. They won’t always accept worn or wrinkled bills.

Credit Cards are not ubiquitous in Tanzania; some safari lodges will take credit cards, but you should always have cash on hand as a backup. You won’t find many ATMs once you are on safari, so plan ahead to have all the cash you might need.

Shopping in Tanzania

Be prepared to barter when you go shopping in Tanzania. If you’re shopping at markets, be prepared to negotiate. Aim for paying about half of the original price of something. At first glance, prices will seem silly high, but it’s all part of the game.

What to See in Tanzania

There are so many cool things to see in Tanzania. It can be difficult to narrow down an itinerary for your Tanzania vacation. There are 16 National Parks in Tanzania, plus several conservation areas. National Parks are just protecting animals, while the conservation areas still have people living within them.

A few of the best Tanzania destinations include:

  • Zanzibar is an island off the coast of Tanzania. It’s a popular beach destination, but there are also a lot of historic buildings in Stone Town.
  • Dar es Salaam is the largest city in Tanzania and the entry point for many visitors. Most visitors to Tanzania are here for the nature and outdoors, so Dar es Salaam is not a big tourist destination.
  • Serengeti National Park is the top tourist destination in Tanzania. This is where you go to see the “big five” on safari. This includes black rhinos, cape buffalo, lions, leopards, and elephants.
  • Ngorongoro Crater is a conservation area and another popular spot for safaris to view wildlife.
  • Lake Eyasi is a good spot for wildlife and also one of the places where you can meet some of the local tribes. Many tours will include interactive experiences with the tribes, where you can learn from them and purchase crafts they’ve made. You can even tag along on a hunt with one of the tribes here.

Ten Shocks of a Tanzania Safari

Your first zebra will be amazing, the 100001st is still cool too.

Tanzania Accommodation

Accommodation choices in Tanzania will vary based on your destination.

  • In the Serengeti, you’ll stay at camps in tents. There are many different levels of safari camps, from rustic to luxury.
  • They also have safari lodges, which are like compounds. They have a main building with restaurants and then most guests will stay in cottages. These are the best places to stay with kids, as they have activities and many of them have swimming pools.
  • In the more “urban” destinations, you’ll find hostels and hotels to stay in.

What NOT to Do on Safari in Tanzania

Getting to Tanzania

Most international flights will arrive in Dar es Salaam. You can also fly directly to Zanzibar from some locations. We flew into Kilimanjaro, as that was the closest airport to our safari starting point. If you’re arriving from elsewhere in Africa, there are a fair amount of flights into Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro airports.

You will most likely need a visa to visit Tanzania; you can do this before you arrive, or you can obtain the visa upon arrival. At this time, it’s $100 for US citizens to obtain a Tanzania visa. It’s best to have a crisp $100 bill you can use to pay for the visa upon arrival. Make sure you have two open pages in your passport as they’ll paste the visa directly into your passport.

Getting Around Tanzania

Most trips to Tanzania will be through organized tours, and your transportation will be arranged in advance. The safari trips will use Jeeps to get around. There are buses you can take to get around if you’re feeling adventurous. Motorcycle taxis are a popular way to get around the cities.

Tipping in Tanzania

When eating out in Tanzania, you can expect to round up your bill or tip 5% to 10% of your bill to the server. On safari, the tipping guideline is $5-$10 per person per day. You’ll also want to tip around $20 per day to your driver. The amount will vary based on the level of safari you are taking; more expensive safaris will have higher tipping guidelines.

When staying at safari lodges, plan to tip around $10 per day per guest room for safari staff. Most lodges will have a tip box at the end of your trip that you can tip all at once, rather than tipping each staff member or tipping each day.

Food in Tanzania

The food in Tanzania is pretty good. Rice, beef, and chicken are the staples of food in Tanzania.

  • Pilau is a popular dish, which is spiced rice, with meat and vegetables.
  • Ugali is another Tanzanian dish, and it’s like a thicker porridge.
  • Bananas grow everywhere in Tanzania, so you’ll have them often. You might even have bananas cooked with meat, which is good.
  • There are also local beers you can try; Serengeti and Kilimanjaro are both decent beers.

Other Tanzania Travel Tips

Just a few other things you should know before you visit Tanzania:

  • Electrical outlets are the same as in the UK, with the three-prong plug. It’s super helpful to have an adapter that has several USB ports so you can charge multiple devices at the same time.
  • If you have a telephoto lens, bring it! If you don’t have one, consider renting one as you’ll get much better photos of the animals on safari.
  • A power bank or battery backup is also critical, as you’ll be out all day on safari and you’ll quickly drain your batteries.
  • You might have a bit of WiFi signal at some of your camps, but don’t expect to do much other than checking email. You won’t be able to stream movies or upload a lot of photos.
  • Likewise, we did have a bit of cell service for calls and texts, but we did not have 4G.
  • Do not drink tap water in Tanzania. Make sure you are drinking bottled water at all times.

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

A trip to Tanzania is a great experience for the whole family. It’s one of the safest countries in Africa. The Tanzania tourist sights are fantastic, and the food is pretty good, but what really stands out from our trip to Tanzania is the people. They were just fantastic. Tanzania is renowned for hospitality, and it doesn’t take long to see why.  Want more Africa travel tips? Check out these other blog posts:

Kentucky Vacation Tips: What NOT to Do

Posted on by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you visit Kentucky. While many travel blogs will tell you the best things to see in Kentucky, we want to be sure you know about the things you should NOT do on your trip to Kentucky.

Don’t Forget The First Saturday of May

The first Saturday of May is a sacred day in Kentucky because that’s the day of the Kentucky Derby. Derby day is a tradition in Louisville, but the whole state gets into it. It’s a chance to get dressed up in crazy hats, drink mint juleps and watch the races. The town practically shuts down for Derby, so either join in on the fun or plan your trip at a different time. Don’t forget to make reservations far in advance if you visit during Derby. And don’t call it “the” Derby; it’s just “Derby.”

Don’t Think Red vs Blue is Political

Red vs Blue is a major rivalry in Kentucky, but it’s not about politics. Red is for the University of Louisville Cardinals, while blue is for the Kentucky Wildcats. If you have a chance to see these two teams play each other, don’t miss it! Kentucky is all about basketball, so even if you don’t catch red vs blue, make sure you catch one of their games.

Don’t Lump Kentucky in With Southern States

Most people think of Kentucky as “the South.” And you will find good Southern food and Southern friendliness in Kentucky. But Kentucky also has a good dose of Midwest culture, too. After all, Kentucky shares a border with Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio.

Five Things You Will Love & Hate About Midwest Travel

Don’t Forget that Abe Lincoln is From Kentucky

Most people believe that Abraham Lincoln is from Illinois, but he’s actually from Kentucky. While Springfield Illinois has tons of Lincoln attractions, his birthplace is in Kentucky. You can visit the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Park in Hodgenville, Kentucky.

Don’t Think Colonel Sanders Makes the Only Fried Chicken in Kentucky

Of course, Colonel Sanders of Kentucky Fried Chicken is from Kentucky. But he’s not the only one to make amazing fried chicken in Kentucky. We found delicious fried chicken everywhere we traveled in Kentucky.

Simply Jocelyn Shares What to Eat in Kentucky

Don’t Miss Trying a “Hot Brown”

Besides the fried chicken, another Kentucky delicacy is the hot brown. It’s sometimes described as a turkey sandwich, but it’s so much more than that. It’s more like a turkey casserole baked on a piece of toast. It’s a huge calorie bomb, but totally worth it! The best place to try a hot brown is at the Brown Hotel in Louisville, where this Kentucky delicacy originated.

Don’t Think Kentucky is Just Derby and Bourbon

Yes, Kentucky is best known for Bourbon and Kentucky Derby. But there’s a lot more to see in Kentucky. Kentucky has amazing lakes for swimming and boating, plus tons of natural outdoor areas, like the Red River Gorge Geological Area. Kentucky is really a beautiful state. There are so many parks, waterfalls, and scenic drives in Kentucky. Kentucky even has a National Park: Mammoth Cave National Park is one of the coolest places to go in Kentucky.

Don’t Think You Can Get Alcohol Everywhere

In a state known for bourbon, there are actually still dry counties where you can’t buy alcohol or where alcohol sales are limited. If you’re staying in a dry county, you can still have alcohol, but you have to bring it with you.

Don’t Think Bluegrass is Blue

Kentucky is also known for bluegrass. Bluegrass is a kind of music, but it’s also a kind of grass. It’s green, not blue. It may have a purple-ish tint to it if the light is hitting just right, but don’t expect to find grass that’s actually blue.

Don’t Forget All the Iconic Things From Kentucky

There are tons of quintessential “American” products that come from Kentucky, including:

  • The Corvette
  • Duncan Hines
  • Fort Knox
  • The Happy Birthday Song
  • Louisville Sluggers

The Kentucky Tourism site is a great place to start planning your trip!

Don’t Miss the Bourbon Trail

One of the best things to do in Kentucky is to take a tour along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Kentucky has more barrels of bourbon than residents of the state! The Bourbon Trail stretches for 250 miles to dozens of distilleries, and Kentucky Distillery Tours are one of the best things to do in Kentucky. 

Some of our “don’ts for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail include: 

  • Don’t Expect a Cheap Tour – touring the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is not a cheap excursion. Most distilleries charge for a tour, and those fees can add up quickly.
  • Don’t Forget to Make Reservations – You may need reservations at some of the distilleries, especially if you have a large group or visit on the weekends. If there’s a particular distillery you really want to visit, make sure you have a reservation so you don’t miss out. This goes for lunch and dinner spots along the trail, as well as overnight accommodations.
  • Don’t Forget Your Bourbon Trail Passport – You can get stamps along the way, and the passport makes a great souvenir from your trip to Kentucky.
  • Don’t Confuse Whiskey and Bourbon – All bourbon is whiskey, but not all whiskey is bourbon. Bourbon has to be at least 51% corn and comes from a newly charred oak barrel, which gives it a distinct flavor. Bourbon is a type of whiskey, but it is only made in the US.
  • Don’t Forget a Designated Driver – Traveling along the Bourbon Trail is a fun thing to do in Kentucky, but make sure you have a designated driver. If nobody in your group wants to volunteer, there are tour companies that can drive you around to the best distilleries in Kentucky.
  • Don’t Get Bourbon Burnout – When you are on the Bourbon Trail, it’s easy to get burned out on the bourbon. After a while, they can all start to taste the same. It’s like touring cathedrals in Europe; they are each very neat, but after a while, they all look the same. My approach is to just visit 2 or 3 distilleries each day and spend the rest of the day exploring the nearby cities, like Louisville and Frankfort.
  • Don’t Just Slam Your Drinks – when tasting bourbon, take time to enjoy the flavors and learn the differences between different kinds of bourbon.
  • Don’t Just Drink Straight Bourbon – Kentucky is known for bourbon and a bourbon on the rocks is a great choice. But there are a lot of signature bourbon drinks that you should also try when visiting Kentucky. Old Fashioneds and Mint Juleps are two signature bourbon drinks to try in Kentucky. Mint Juleps are stronger than you might think, so one is probably enough. For a non-bourbon drink at Derby, try The Lilly.
  • Don’t Skip the Gift Shops – this is a great opportunity to stock your at-home bar with bourbons that you can’t buy anywhere else.  Candy goes great with bourbon, so stock up on some of the bourbon treats, too!
  • Don’t Expect Easily Accessible Tours – not all of the tours are easy. Some involve a lot of walking around the grounds, many involve stairs, etc. If you have mobility issues, you may have to do some research to see which stops are the best for you.
  • Don’t Forget to Hydrate and Eat Along the Bourbon Trail – even though you’ll just get small samples of bourbon along the way, it’s still important to balance it out with lots of water and not drink on an empty stomach.
  • Don’t Forget Your ID – you will get carded along the way!
  • Don’t Bring Your Kids – most of the places along the Bourbon trail are for adults only, so this is a better trip for grownups.
  • Don’t Forget to Enoy the Beauty Around You – the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is in a beautiful part of Kentucky, with rolling hills and lovely scenery. Don’t forget to look up from your glass every once in a while!

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

Don’t be surprised if you fall in love with Kentucky! Between the food, the people, the bourbon and the nature, it’s a great state to visit! We were pleasantly surprised by how much we loved our Kentucky vacation. Want more USA travel tips? Check out some of our other blog posts:

Marrakech

Five Things Tourists Love & Hate When They Travel to Marrakech

Posted on by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about visiting Marrakech, a city in Western Morocco. It’s an amazing city that’s well worth visiting, so don’t let the “hates” here keep you from visiting Marrakech. There’s a lot to love about Marrakech, but there are also a few things you might not love when you visit Marrakech, Morocco.

The great and the not so good about visiting Marrakech.

Love #1: The Marrakech Medina

One of our favorite things to do in Marrakech is to explore the medina. The medina is an explosion for your senses with sights, sounds, smells, and tastes. You’ll find monkeys and snake charmers. The best way to start is by visiting a restaurant above the medina, so you can look down into the medina from above. At night, the squares really come alive with activity, but you’ll find shopping in the souks all day long. You will see real Moroccans living their lives and buying groceries, alongside tourists haggling for t-shirts. It’s an amazing experience.

Hate #1: The Customs Line

Your first impression of Marrakech will be the customs line, and it’s hit or miss how long it will take you to clear customs in Marrakech. It can take 20 minutes, or it can take two hours. Make sure you swing through the bathrooms before you get in line! If you get lucky and get through quickly, your driver may not be waiting for you yet because they are used to having extra time for guests to clear customs. After claiming your bags, head to one of the currency counters to get some local cash; it won’t be the best exchange rate, but it’s the easiest option.

Likewise, when you are leaving Marrakech, make sure you allow plenty of time to clear through customs again. This isn’t like European airports where you can arrive 45 minutes before your flight and just board the plane. You have to go through customs all over again, and it’s recommended that you arrive three hours before your flight.

Love #2: Riads & Bath Houses

Riads are multi-family homes that have been converted into overnight accommodations. The best riads in Marrakech have a beautiful courtyard on the interior, as well as rooftop restaurants. We loved staying at riads, but you can also find resorts and hotels just outside the medina area if you prefer more traditional accommodation

Bathhouses are another fun part of a trip to Marrakech. They are a great place to relax, and many offer spa treatments in addition to time to soak in the warm baths. There are public and private bathhouses; they are well worth visiting.

Maroc Mama shares the Best Places to Stay in Marrakech

Hate #2: Bartering for Prices

Haggling over prices at the medina is just a way of life in Morocco. It might be fun at first, but after a while, the haggling gets frustrating. Sometimes you just want to buy something and go, but in Morocco, you have to negotiate over prices. Expect to pay about 25-50% of the original price that you are quoted. Haggling is just part of the culture; it’s not scamming, it’s just how they do business.

Things That Will Shock You in Morocco

Price negotiation applies to taxi rides as well, so make sure you agree on a price before you get in the taxi.

The food was phenomenal, even the kids loved it!

Love #3: Interior Design

We were blown away by the interiors of some of the buildings we visited in Marrakech. For the most part, the exterior of buildings in Marrakech is kind of drab, made of cement slabs. So, when you enter a building, it’s a pleasant surprise to see the inside. All of the architectural efforts have gone towards the interior of the buildings. The Royal Palace is amazing inside! The interior design is part of what makes the riads so special.

Hate #3: Medina Craziness

Visiting a medina in Marrakech is definitely a love/hate for me. It’s total chaos, and you’ll have motorcycles, mopeds, donkeys, and all kinds of traffic whizzing by you when you least expect it. Add to this the sights, smells, and sounds and it can be an overwhelming experience. It can also be a bit dangerous, so keep an eye on your belongings, keep your wallet in your front pocket, and always look in every direction before stepping out into the alleyway.

If it gets to be too much, find a cafe or a riad you can step into for a minute to catch your breath. It’s also easy to get lost in the winding alleys of the medina, but people are very helpful to get you back on track where you need to go. Always carry a map with your hotel marked, as well as a GPS pin on your phone so you can find your way back at the end of the day.

Love #4: Tourism Infrastructure

For a former imperial city dating back to the 12th century or more, the tourism infrastructure in Marrakech is impressive! Aside from the long customs line, the airport is very modern and comfortable. There are plenty of accommodation choices, and your accommodation will also set up all the tours you need if you haven’t booked them before you arrive. Getting around is super easy as well. Marrakech is a hub of the country, so you can easily travel to other cities by plane, bus, or train.

Taking the Train from Marrakech to Casablanca

There are plenty of restaurants, and the food in Marrakech is really good. The service is great, which really helps you to feel welcome when you visit Marrakech. We took a cooking class that was super fun, and we learned a lot about the culture and cuisine of Morocco. There are tons of great things to do in Marrakech for tourists.

Start planning your travel to Marrakech at Visit Marrakech

Hate #4: Marrakech Weather

Marrakech in summer will be oppressively hot, with temperatures over 50 degrees Celsius. In the summer, you’ll need lightweight loose-fitting clothing that will protect you from heat and sun. On the other hand, Marrakech in winter can be pretty chilly. We visited in November and we needed an extra layer in the morning and evening while exploring. Daytime temperatures were pleasant, but you do have to pack a few extra layers.

Love #5: People of Marrakech

Overall, the people of Marrakech were so nice and welcoming. The people at our riads, our drivers and tour guides, and even the shopkeepers at the souks were all very friendly. Our kids wore some Morocco jerseys during our trip and they got so many cheers and greetings.

Hate #5: Gender Differences

If you are a woman traveling to Marrakech, you may notice a difference in the way you are treated vs the men you are traveling with. Jocelyn definitely felt left out several times, especially when we were in the souks; she is usually the haggler in the family, but the shopkeepers mostly dealt directly with Mark. There are even some cafes that are for men only, so be aware if you only see men in a cafe that you may want to go elsewhere.

We never felt unsafe or uncomfortable, but we were traveling as a family. Solo female travelers may want to consult other women who have traveled solo to Marrakech.

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

As a major travel hub of Morocco, there are so many great things to do in Marrakech. When you travel to Marrakech, you will experience an overload of sensory experiences, from sights and smells to sounds and tastes! We found Marrakech to be a fascinating family travel destination!

Interested in more Morocco travel tips? Check out these blog posts!

louisville

What NOT to Do When You Visit Louisville

Posted on by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you visit Louisville, Kentucky. While many travel blogs will tell you all the fun things to do in Louisville, we want to be sure you know about the things you should NOT do when visiting Louisville.

Don’t Worry About How to Say Louisville

There are many ways to say “Louisville” and the locals have heard every iteration. They’re pretty laid back about it, so don’t worry too much if you’re not sure how to pronounce Louisville.

Don’t Miss the Bourbon Trail

While the full Bourbon Trail stretches for 250 miles through Kentucky, you don’t have to leave Louisville to hit a few of the Bourbon Trail locations. There are small distilleries you can tour right downtown Louisville, so if you don’t have time for the full Bourbon Trail, you can still have a few samples.

Don’t Think of Louisville as a Southern City

Most people think of Kentucky as “the South.” And some parts of Kentucky are very southern, but Louisville is more like a Midwest city with southern charm. After all, Louisville is right across the river from Indiana, so it’s definitely got a Midwest feel to it.

Five Things You Will Love & Hate About Midwest Travel

Don’t Think Louisville Will Break Your Budget

A Louisville vacation is actually very affordable. Louisville attractions, accommodations, and restaurants are all very reasonably priced. If you’re looking for an affordable weekend getaway in the Midwest, Louisville is a great option. If you are visiting during Derby, you can expect elevated prices and you will need to book everything way in advance.

Don’t Miss the Riverfront

Another thing Louisville has going for it is the riverfront area along the Ohio River. They have live music on Wednesdays, a nice park to explore, and beautiful views of the river.

Don’t Just Stay Downtown

Louisville has some great neighborhoods to explore besides the downtown area. Louisville has some amazing parks, many of which were designed by Frederick Law Olmstead, who designed New York’s Central Park. Start exploring Louisville at Go Louisville as you prepare for your trip.

Don’t Miss Mega Cavern

Louisville Mega Cavern is a man-made cavern that’s also an adventure park. There are all kinds of cool things here, like ziplining and a fun drive-through Christmas lights display if you visit near the holiday season.

Don’t Miss Out on Louisville Food

The food in Louisville is amazing! Yes, there’s the real Kentucky Fried Chicken, but there are tons of other great things to eat in Louisville. There’s a great cross between Midwest and Southern cuisine, plus some really great international foods, like Vietnamese and Cuban cuisine. If you eat one thing in Louisville, you have to try a “Hot Brown” at the Brown Hotel where it was invented. It’s sometimes described as a turkey sandwich, but it’s so much more than that. It’s more like a turkey casserole baked on a piece of toast. It’s a huge calorie bomb, but totally worth it! They have some great drinks at the Brown Hotel, too!

Simply Jocelyn shares what to eat in Louisville!

Don’t Forget Your Street Smarts

You may think you’re in a quaint Midwest/Southern town, but Louisville is a good-sized city with over 600,000 residents. So there are some big-city problems to be aware of. You will likely see homeless people, and they have crime like in any other city. Louisville isn’t particularly dangerous, but you should always use your travel smarts when out and about.

What NOT To Do at the Kentucky Derby

Louisville is best known for The Kentucky Derby, which happens on the first Saturday of May each year. It is a huge event, drawing locals and visitors from all over the country. We have a whole other set of “don’ts” around the Kentucky Derby.  While the event culminates with the big race, Derby season kicks off a few weeks before Kentucky Derby with Thunder Over Louisville, the largest fireworks show in the country!

  • Want to blend in with the locals? Call it “Derby” not “the Derby.”
  • Don’t wait to book your accommodations and dinner reservations. This is one of the biggest events in the country; hotels and restaurants fill up months in advance.
  • Don’t Forget to Have a Mint Julep! The mint julep is the official drink of the Kentucky Derby. It’s made from bourbon, of course, with simple syrup and muddled mint leaves. While it sounds like a nice refreshing drink, it’s actually pretty strong, so I recommend just having one for the experience. There are other great bourbon cocktails you can have that aren’t quite as strong! A Lilly is another great Derby drink; it’s made with vodka and citrus juices.
  • Don’t think Derby is just the first Saturday of May; The Oaks is another race held at Churchill Downs the day before Derby. It’s a pretty big race, and also fun to watch. Make sure you wear pink!
  • Don’t think it’s just “the big race.” Derby day has more than one horse race. There are several races throughout the day, so plan to spend a full day at the Downs. That said, remember to pace yourself as you’re in for a long day!
  • Don’t forget to plan (and budget for) parking. You can purchase parking ahead of time, pay one of the local homes to park in their driveway or take a rideshare. However, leaving Derby in an Uber or rideshare can be challenging as everyone is leaving at the same time. Expect surge pricing!
  • Don’t buy your Derby tickets from anywhere except the official Derby site. As of now, you need your physical ticket to get in.
  • Don’t think all tickets are the same. Some include food and beverage, while others just offer upgraded seating and views.
  • Don’t forget to place your bets early. The betting lines get longer as the day goes on, so it’s best to place those bets earlier in the day. Likewise, don’t forget to bring cash. They have ATMs but there are usually long lines.
  • Don’t worry if you don’t have a fancy hat. The infield seats are like a full-on party, and it’s a much more casual atmosphere than some of the grandstand areas. Infield tickets are a lot cheaper, as well!
  • Don’t forget the sunblock! You’ll be out in the sun all day long, so make sure you don’t get fried!
  • Ladies, don’t forget to bring a comfortable pair of shoes to change into if you’re wearing heels. You don’t want to stand in high heels all day long.
  • Don’t expect re-entry; once you leave the stadium, you can’t come back in.
  • Don’t forget to read the rules so you can avoid delays when you enter. Things like selfie sticks, coolers, and drones are not allowed at Churchill Downs.
  • Don’t forget to read up on how to bet on horses; learn what the terms mean, and by all means, don’t bet if you’re not comfortable with it.
  • Don’t expect Derby to be cheap! A day at the Kentucky Derby adds up quickly. Between tickets, parking, food, drinks, and betting, you can expect to spend a lot while you’re there. Not to mention, this is the most popular event of the year, so accommodation prices will be at their highest.
  • Even if you’re not into horseracing, don’t miss a trip to Churchill Downs. When it’s not Derby, you can take a tour and get a behind-the-scenes view of how the horses are kept, and how the facility is maintained. There’s also a museum on-site; it’s a great place to learn more about Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby.

Don’t Think Louisville is Just Bourbon and Derby

While bourbon and Derby are great, there are tons of other fun things to do in Louisville. Main Street is also known as Museum Row. For one ticket price, you can visit the Frazier History Museum, the Kentucky Science Center, the Muhammed Ali Center, the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, and more!

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

Don’t be surprised if you fall in love with Louisville Kentucky! Between the food, the museums, the bourbon, and Derby, it’s a great city to visit! We were pleasantly surprised by how much we loved our visit to Louisville. Want more USA travel tips? Check out some of our other blog posts:

chicago

10 Shocks to Expect When You Vacation in Chicago

Posted on by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about visiting Chicago. Chicago is a vibrant city in the heart of the Midwest and a cultural hub for the surrounding states. As with any travel destination, there are many surprises in store for Chicago visitors. If you’re thinking about planning a vacation in Chicago, don’t be surprised at these “shocks.”

The windy city has some incredible beaches in the summer time.

Chicago Drivers

Driving in Chicago can be nerve-wracking, especially when the car next to you decides to cross four lanes at once! You have to be on high alert if you’re going to drive in Chicago because they drive fast and aggressively. Luckily, if you’re staying in the city, you won’t need to drive too much as it’s really easy to get around Chicago without a car.

What NOT To Do in Chicago

Parking in Chicago

Once you’ve braved the traffic and made it to Chicago, you’re in for another shock, which is the price of parking in Chicago. Parking is hard to find and expensive. Don’t expect to find free parking anywhere in Chicago, and if you do, make sure you read all the signs around you to make sure it’s really free. Some Chicago hotels charge as much as $100 per night to park your car, so make sure you factor this in when choosing your hotel or if you’re deciding whether or not to rent a car! If you do need parking, Spot Hero is a great app to use.

Chicagoans

Chicago natives are an interesting bunch. They are a mixture of big-city attitudes and Midwest nice, and they can be intimidating, but they love to show off their city. They will tell you where to get the best Chicago pizza and how to get to the ballgame, as long as you’re going to the correct side of town. Don’t be shocked if they have different names for places than what you expect. Likewise, Comiskey Park was demolished in 1991, but true Chicagoans will still tell you that the White Sox play at Comiskey.

Want to stay on the good side of Chicago residents? Avoid these Chicago mistakes:

  • Sears Tower will always be Sears Tower, even though it was renamed Willis Tower in 2009.
  • The ‘85 Bears are the greatest football team of all time; don’t even try to insinuate otherwise
  • Don’t say you’re from Chicago unless you’re FROM CHICAGO. You will be quizzed and questioned if you say you’re from Chicago, so be prepared to back up that answer with a specific neighborhood, high school, and baseball team.
  • Don’t dawdle. Chicagoans are always in a hurry so whether you are walking or driving, speed up or get out of the way!
  • If you’re parking on the street in a snowstorm, you better dig out your own car. Chicago has this thing called “dibs” which rules that you own the spot you shoveled out. It’s an unwritten rule, but if you take someone’s spot, be prepared to pay the price.

Wrigley Field

After Boston’s Fenway Park, Chicago’s Wrigley Field is the 2nd oldest baseball stadium in the country. It’s a historic institution and well worth a visit. If you can get seats in the bleachers, you’ll have a great time in the sun. If you can’t get game tickets, the neighborhood surrounding the ballpark is full of fun bars and restaurants. There are 81 home games each season, and many of them are during the day, so it’s a fun thing to do when you visit Chicago. Of course, the prices inside the stadium are shocking.

It may be spelled “Willis” but it is always pronounced “Sears”

Chicago Pizza

If there’s one thing Chicago visitors should eat in Chicago, it’s Chicago-style pizza. There’s a pretty strong rivalry between New York-style and Chicago-style, but Chicago is all about the deep dish. Every Chicagoan has their favorite, and then there are places that cater to tourists. If you want to try Chicago pizza, here are a few suggestions:

  • Lou Malnati’s
  • Gino’s East
  • Giordano’s
  • Pizzeria Uno
  • Pequod’s

Just keep in mind how filling deep dish pizza is; you won’t be able to polish off more than a few slices! And beware, these pizzas take longer to cook, so plan ahead when going out to eat!

What to Eat in Chicago

And yes, you can put ketchup on your hot dog! It won’t be “Chicago-style” but you won’t catch too much grief over it!

The Taste of Malort

If a Chicagoan offers to buy you a shot, don’t do it! Malort is a local legend in Chicago and it is terrible! Shockingly terrible! Made from wormwood, Malort is a distant relative of absinthe, and we think Chicagoans just pretend to like it so they can serve it to unsuspecting tourists.

Food Diversity

Chicago is a big city, but it’s made up of individual neighborhoods, each with its own culture and cuisine. It’s more than just pizza and hot dogs! A few Chicago neighborhoods where you can have amazing food include:

  • Greektown
  • Chinatown
  • Pilsen for Mexican food
  • Italian Village
  • Little India

Chicago is often called the largest Polish city outside of Poland, as there are nearly two million Polish people in Chicago, so you can definitely find some amazing Polish food in Chicago!

Chicago Museums

Chicago is an amazing cultural destination. They have world-class museums and theater productions, and pretty much any kind of culture you could want. A Chicago family vacation is easy with so many educational attractions. Some of Chicago’s best attractions include:

  • The Shedd Aquarium
  • The Field Museum
  • The Museum of Science & Industry
  • The Art Institute of Chicago
  • Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago

Chicago Weather

Although Chicago is known as the Windy City because of the long-winded politicians back in the day, it actually is a pretty windy town. If you’re in the Loop where most of the tall buildings are, the skyscrapers funnel the wind down the streets and it can blow you over! In fact, Chicago winters will have two temperatures: the actual temperature and the wind chill temperature. Winter in Chicago can be horribly cold, but it’s also a beautiful city when decorated for the holidays.

Of course, Chicago summers are a huge celebration of the warm weather. Everyone goes outside to enjoy the warmth, and you’ll find tons of beer gardens and neighborhood festivals where you can take advantage of the summer weather in Chicago.

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

Don’t let these “shocks” keep you from planning a vacation in Chicago. It’s really a fun city with lots of museums, great food, and pretty good sports teams. If you’re ready to start planning your vacation in Chicago, Choose Chicago has everything you need to plan your trip!

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

Philadelphia

What NOT to Do on a Philadelphia Vacation

Posted on by Mark Wolters

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

Philadelphia
The city of brotherly love…

Don’t Slow Down the Locals

Whether you are ordering a sandwich, parking a car, or just driving or walking, the locals do not appreciate being slowed down by tourists. Philadelphia is not so different from other big cities in that everyone is in a hurry. When you get to the counter to order food, have your order ready. If you’re driving slow or don’t know where you’re going, pull over and figure it out! We’re not saying the locals are rude, they’re just rushed.

Don’t Call it Downtown Philadelphia

When you visit downtown Philadelphia, don’t call it downtown, it’s called Center City. It’s the heart of the city and there are a lot of things to see in Philadelphia’s Center City.

  • Philadelphia City Hall is one of the most beautiful City Halls in the world, not just in the US!
  • Reading Terminal Market is home to some of the best food in Philadelphia
  • Check out the Macy’s which was originally a grand retail location for Wanamakers; the inside shows a peek at how elegant retail used to be.

Don’t Count on Reliable Public Transportation

SEPTA is the Philadelphia transit system, and it can be useful for getting around, but it’s not always on time or the most reliable. Give yourself plenty of time to get where you need to be if you’re going to use SEPTA. Alternatively, Philadelphia is made up of small, walkable neighborhoods, so bring your good walking shoes and explore on foot.

Don’t Think Philly Food is Just Cheesesteaks

When it comes to Philadelphia cuisine, people always think of the Philly Cheesesteak. And those are great, but there are many other great foods to try when you visit Philadelphia. In fact,  on my last trip to Philadelphia, the soft pretzels were the highlight of all the great food we had in Philadelphia. The Reading Terminal Market is a great place to sample lots of different Philly dishes. Here are some foods to try on your next Philadelphia:

  • Water Ice
  • Tomato Pie
  • Philly Cheesesteak
  • Roast Pork Sandwich is actually my favorite sandwich in Philadelphia!

Simply Jocelyn Shares What to Eat in Philadelphia

Don’t Drive in Philadelphia if You Don’t Have To

Like many big cities, driving in Philadelphia can be a hassle. Parking isn’t exactly easy, either. The Parking Authority is on top of their job, so don’t even park illegally for a second, or you’ll get ticketed or towed. If you have to drive to Philadelphia, park your car when you get there and use buses or rideshares to get around. It’s much easier than dealing with traffic and parking. Most of the best things to see in Philadelphia are within walking distance, anyways.

You can’t pass up Rocky or the Pretzels… take my word for it!

Don’t Fall For These Phildelphia Tourist Traps

There are many cool places to visit in Philadelphia, and of course, there are some typical tourist traps. We’re not saying to skip all of them entirely, but just know they might be super touristy, or there may be better alternatives.

  • You don’t have to wait in line to see the Liberty Bell; it’s on display and you can see it through the glass from outside. You won’t see the crack in the bell, but if the lines are long, just know that’s not the only way to see it.
  • Pat’s & Genos’ aren’t the only place to get a Philly Cheesesteak; in fact, few locals go here as these are the touristy spots. Ask a local their favorite spot for a cheesesteak!
  • The Betsy Ross House is a small exhibit, but there have been a lot of questions around the true history, so I wouldn’t put this high on the list of places to visit in Philadelphia.
  • One Liberty Observation Deck has great views of the city, but you have to pay. With a little research, you can get great views for free.
  • The Italian Market isn’t as great for tourists, unless you have a home where can you cook as it’s very ingredient-based, as opposed to the Reading Market, where you can purchase food that is ready to eat.

Don’t Forget to Pre-Order Tickets for Independence Hall

Once you book your Philadelphia trip, make sure you pre-reserve tickets to visit Independence Hall. They do sell out, so get your tickets before your trip! A lot of Philadelphia museums will let you pre-book, which makes it easier to plan out your stay.

Don’t Skip the Historic Attractions and Museums

Maybe history or museums aren’t your things? Even so, don’t miss out on the historic attractions or Philadelphia museums. They are worth it! A few Philadelphia museums I recommend are:

  • The Mutter Museum (don’t go if you have a queasy stomach, as it’s a graphic medical museum)
  • The Barnes Foundation has an impressive art and horticulture collection
  • The Philadelphia Museum of Art
  • The Franklin Institute is a cool science museum
  • The Rodin Museum
  • The Eastern State Penitentiary
  • The Museum of American Revolution

There are also several universities in and around Philadelphia, and they all have their own museums. Visit Philly has some great itinerary ideas to help you take advantage of the cultural attractions of Philadelphia.

Don’t Compare Philadelphia to New York City

At least not in a less favorable way. Philly residents are proud of their city and don’t want to be put down compared to New York. This goes for sports fans as well; don’t diss the Philly teams!

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About New York City

Don’t Take Your Safety for Granted

While individual neighborhoods may give you that small-town feel, don’t forget that Philadelphia is a big city. With over 1.5 million residents, there are things to look out for and be aware of. Aggressive beggars are also known to target tourists; just don’t engage and pay attention to your surroundings. Just use the same travel smarts we always talk about and you’ll likely be just fine.

Don’t Miss the Rocky Statue

After the Liberty Bell, the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art are the best-known part of Philadelphia, thanks to the movie “Rocky.” If you haven’t seen it, watch it before you go. Sylvester Stallone famously runs up the steps and his character is commemorated by a statue near the bottom of the steps. It’s iconic, so don’t miss it!

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

Don’t be surprised if you fall in love with Philadelphia! Between the food, the museums, and the history, it’s a great city to visit! We were pleasantly surprised by how much we loved our visit to Philadelphia. Want more USA travel tips? Check out some of our other blog posts:

washington dc

10 Shocks to Expect on Your Washington DC Vacation

Posted on by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about visiting Washington, DC. DC is the capital city of the United States, so there are many cool things to see in Washington DC. It’s a must for any family traveling in the United States. As with any travel destination, there are many surprises in store for Washington DC visitors. If you’re thinking about planning a Washington DC vacation, don’t be surprised at these “shocks.”

So many things to see and do in DC.

Free Attractions in DC

Washington DC is not a cheap place to visit when you look at the accommodation or dining out, but it’s shocking how many of the DC attractions are free. The entire Smithsonian collection of museums and art galleries are free to enter, plus all of the outdoor monuments that you can see for free. It’s really a great bargain to have so many free things to do in Washington DC.

That said, don’t get sucked in to just doing free things; there are some things worth splurging on when you visit DC. Hiring a tour guide to show you around is totally worth it, especially if it’s your first trip to DC!

Seven Reasons to Hire a Private Tour Guide

Washington DC Prices

Unfortunately, outside of the free DC attractions, Washington DC is expensive to visit. Washington hotels are expensive, and it’s expensive to go out to eat as well. The museums that aren’t free can be pricey; for example, the International Spy Museum is over $25 per person for admission. That’s almost $90 for a family of four!

Follow these Washington DC Travel Budget Tips to help soften the blow on Washington DC prices:

  • Save money on Washington DC accommodation by visiting in the offseason. Washington hotel rates can double or triple from summer to winter. Local events like conventions and sports games can also affect lodging prices. 
  • You can also save money by not staying right on the National Mall; there are tons of areas to stay in DC. TripHacksDC has 11 different areas of DC to explore.
  • If you don’t want to break the bank on dining in Washington DC, check out some of the fast casual restaurants and food trucks. You can also take advantage of Happy Hour specials if you’re willing to go out a bit earlier than the typical dinner hour. Food tours are another way to get a lot of bang for your buck; you’ll typically get tons of food, plus a walking tour with lots of information.
  • When it comes to getting around DC, walking is going to be the only free option. The Metro is convenient and easy to use, but fairly expensive for public transportation. There is the Circulator bus that’s only $1 and connects most of the major DC attractions.

Distance Between Attractions

When you are planning your Washington DC itinerary, you’ll be shocked at how spread out some of the attractions are. Everything looks close on the map, but it’s actually pretty well spaced. Make sure you have good walking shoes and take advantage of the public transportation system, which is really easy to use.

DC is fun for the whole family, but be prepared to sweat a lot if you come in summer.

Washington DC Weather

Most people visit Washington DC in the summer when the kids are out of school. Summer weather in DC can be shocking as it can be really hot and humid. Add to this the crowds and being outside walking from one attraction to another, and it can be pretty miserable. Plan your day accordingly to spend the heat of the day indoors and see the outdoor attractions early in the morning or in the evening.

The National Mall

The National Mall is where you’ll find the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial, among others. While the monuments get pretty crowded, the Mall itself can often feel pretty dead, especially in the evenings. Aside from tourism, this is kind of the business center of the city, so it clears out in the evenings. You won’t find a lot of restaurants or things to do in the evenings here.

Poverty in DC

When you visit DC, you can expect to see a lot of homeless and impoverished people. It’s a sad contrast to the wealth of the surrounding neighborhoods and great monuments.

DC Attitude

While there are certainly exceptions to this, in general, DC is not a friendly city. You’ll find that out if you stand on the left side of an escalator. They will let you know you are in their way. Aside from friends we know here, we haven’t found locals to be outgoing or friendly like we have in other cities. Don’t expect to get a lot of insider tips from locals because they pretty much keep to themselves.

Changes in DC

For such a historic city with iconic memorials and monuments, DC actually changes a ton each time we visit. The restaurant scene and the bar scene particularly seem to change often; what may have been the “hot” neighborhood on your last visit, may not be any longer. Chefs move on, restaurants change ownership, and that amazing restaurant you loved four years ago may be gone or changed. Blogs are the best way to stay on top of DC restaurants because the scene changes too fast for guidebooks to keep up.

So don’t be afraid to explore areas of DC that are new to you, because you never know what you’ll stumble on! You can really find some great ethnic food once you step off the beaten path, too.

Five Things to Eat When You Visit Washington DC

Day Trips from Washington DC

Besides all of the great places to visit in Washington DC, there are also some really great day trips from the city. A few of the best day trips from DC include:

  • Mount Vernon, President George Washington’s Home
  • Alexandria, Virginia
  • Annapolis, Maryland
  • Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia
  • Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens
  • Shenandoah National Park

DC Tourist Traps

Washington DC doesn’t have the typical tourist traps you might expect, as most of the attractions are historic or educational, but there are a few tourist issues to look out for on a trip to DC.

  • DC attractions can get crowded, so plan out your day to start early so you can beat the crowds at the best museums. Also, many museums have a second entrance on the back side of the building that may be less crowded.
  • When you are booking tours, be careful! Some DC tours don’t actually have a tour guide; some of them are literally just a bus ride around the monuments. Not all DC tour companies brought their guides back after the pandemic. If you just want a ride around town, you can hop on The Circulator for $1.
  • You won’t find restaurants on the National Mall; you may see a few food trucks, but if you want a sit-down meal, you’ll need to veer away from the National Mall. It’s worth noting that some of the Smithsonian Museums have great cafeterias, but you’ll pay a premium to eat there!
  • Watch out for tourist scams; anyone who asks you to make change for them, or asks to use your phone, don’t fall for it. If someone tries to give you something, don’t let them, just walk away.
  • Don’t try to see it all in one trip. Washington DC has too many attractions; it would take a full week to see the major attractions, let alone the hidden gems and off the beaten path spots. Allow yourself the freedom to explore on your own, and know that you’ll probably need a return trip to DC. Not to mention the day trips from DC!

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

Don’t let these “shocks” keep you from planning a trip to Washington DC. It’s really a fun city with lots of museums, monuments, restaurants and day trips. If you’re ready to start planning your trip to DC, our friend Rob at TripHacksDC has some great tours you can book!

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

rwanda travel

What NOT to Do When Visiting Rwanda

Posted on by Mark Wolters

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

Rwanda is so much more than just gorillas in the mist.

Don’t Litter

You will notice that the streets of Rwanda are impeccably clean. They have a lot of pride in their clean communities. In fact, the last Saturday of every month is a day set aside for everyone to pitch in and clean up their communities. In fact, plastic bags (the kind you get at the grocery store) are actually illegal in Rwanda. So, don’t plan to bring any, even if you are just using them for storing dirty clothes. Also, don’t plan on having a lot of trash bins around, so you will have to carry your trash with you.

Don’t Be Flippant About the Genocide

In 1994, over one million Rwandans were murdered in a mass genocide over the course of 100 days. This is a very recent event and painful history for the Rwandans. You’ll see a lot of memorials around the country, and will likely visit a few of them. Don’t be disrespectful when visiting the monuments or even when discussing the genocide. The Genocide Memorial in Kigali is very moving, but it’s only for 12 and older. Children are not allowed to visit.

Ten Shocks to Expect When Visiting Rwanda

In general, politics are not a polite topic of conversation. Don’t disparage the President, or make jokes about him. Additionally, Don’t ask if someone is Hutu or Tutsi; it’s not a polite topic of conversation.

Don’t Drink the Tap Water

The tap water in Rwanda is not safe to drink. It’s not even safe to brush your teeth with it. Use bottled water for eating and brushing your teeth. It’s easy to find bottled water everywhere you go. Most hotels and guest houses will supply you with bottled water.

Don’t Miss out on the Moto-Taxis

Wherever you go in Rwanda, you’ll see these little motorcycle taxis. You may be tempted to pass it up for a regular car, but don’t! They can really come in handy, especially when you’re walking around. Rwanda is super hilly, so you’ll be glad to have help when walking uphill. They will have a helmet for you to wear, too.

Don’t Photograph Anyone Without Permission

The culture and dress in Rwanda are so different from our own, and it’s natural to want to capture a photo to remember them by. But remember, these are real people, not exhibits, so you should ask permission before photographing anyone. This goes especially for children; make sure you have their parents’ permission before snapping away. And if they do give permission, they may be expecting a small tip.

Don’t Forget to Bring Crisp US Dollars

Although the Rwanda Franc is the official currency of Rwanda, US dollars are accepted in many places. However, you have to have very crisp, new bills. They will not accept older, faded, or folded bills. Additionally, don’t expect to use your credit card very often in Rwanda. You’ll need cash for most purchases.

Don’t Wear Safari Clothes Unless You’re on Safari

The quickest way to spot a tourist in Rwandan cities is to look for the people wearing safari clothes in town. The entire country of Rwanda is not a safari, so make sure you have other clothes to wear when you are visiting cities in Rwanda. Dress in Rwanda is a bit more conservative, so keep that in mind when packing for Rwanda.

What to Pack for Rwanda

Don’t Forget to Tip!

When you visit Rwanda, you’ll likely have a driver, tour guide, and hotel staff. Make sure you are tipping them, as tips make up most of their income.

  • For drivers to and from the airport, or around Kigali, a $5 tip is recommended.
  • For taxis and moto-taxis, tipping is not expected as you will negotiate the price before the ride
  • Your Rwanda tour guide may also be your driver, or you may have one of each. It’s recommended to tip $5-$10 per day per person. If you’ll have the same guide for several days in a row, you can tip them at the end of the trip; you don’t need to worry about tipping every day.
  • Lodging Staff will often have a box near the front desk so you can tip everyone all at once at the end of your stay. It will be split up amongst the staff afterward. I recommend tipping around $10 per day for your room attendants. Of course, that will vary by the kind of places you are staying.
  • If you are trekking in Rwanda, you will likely have porters that assist you with your bags. Plan to tip them $10-$15 for the day.
  • When visiting restaurants in Rwanda, you can round up the bill or tip 10%. Tipping isn’t a Rwandan custom when dining out, but with tourism, it’s become pretty commonplace.
Gorilla Guardians Village was fun for the whole family.

Don’t Forget to Pre-Book Your Gorilla Experience

Many people visit Rwanda to trek with the gorillas in Volcano National Park. But you can’t just show up and go on a gorilla trek. There are a limited number of spots each day, so make sure you are booking your plans ahead of time. It would be a shame to travel all the way there and miss out on that experience. Keep these rules in mind when you go to see the gorillas:

  • Don’t wear bright clothes
  • Don’t use flash photography
  • Don’t approach the gorillas
  • Don’t bring your kids; you have to be 15 or older to join a gorilla trek

Don’t Think Rwanda is Just Gorilla Treks

While gorillas are the most popular thing to see in Rwanda, there are many other cool things to do in Rwanda. You can see the “Big Five” on safari in Rwanda, or visit the capital city, Kigali, where they have the Kigali Genocide Memorial. The Gorilla Guardians Village is also really cool; former poachers are now employed in the tourism industry, and you can visit to learn about their culture. Our kids learned how to shoot a bow and arrow, and we learned how they cook some of their specialties.

Don’t Forget Your Vaccines

The CDC recommends extra vaccines for visitors to Rwanda. Check with your doctor or a nearby travel health clinic to determine which vaccines you should get before you go. You might also need boosters for some of your previous vaccines. Don’t let this scare you; Rwanda is super clean and safe; the vaccines are just preventative measures to keep you healthy while traveling.

Don’t Worry if You are a Vegetarian

The cuisine in Rwanda is very vegetarian-friendly. Most of the lodges we stayed at offered multiple vegetarian options for dinner, in addition to options that included meat. We found some of the vegetarian meals to be better than the other options. Plus, there’s lots of fresh fruit in Rwanda.

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

Don’t be surprised if you fall in love with Rwanda! It’s a fantastic country, and our kids loved it, too! Our time in Rwanda was so rewarding and touching, and we can’t recommend it enough for a family vacation. Want more Rwanda tour tips? Check out some of our other blog posts:

the don'ts of visiting belgium

What NOT to Do on a Belgium Vacation

Posted on by Mark Wolters

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

Belgium has some gorgeous cities for travelers to visit.

Don’t Think Belgium is Just Brussels

Most people think of Brussels or Bruges when visiting Belgium, and those are the most popular cities to visit. Brussels is the capital of the European Union, so it’s a very International city. If you want a true “Belgium experience” you’ll have to go outside of Brussels. Additionally, you might think Brussels is a capital city, so it’s on par with Paris, Berlin, or Prague. It’s actually quite a bit smaller, so you can see all the highlights in a few days.

But there are so many other great places to go on a trip to Belgium.  A few Belgium destinations that we recommend include:

  • The WWI battlefields at Flanders Fields. Surprisingly, there are still munitions that pop up out of the ground at some WWI sites. You will really begin to appreciate how well Belgium rebuilt after the War.
  • Ardennes, an area of natural beauty in Southeast Belgium that also extends into Luxembourg, Germany, and France.
  • Ghent is a university town with river tours
  • Lieges has great museums and churches
  • Antwerp
  • Leuven

The Belgium train system will take you anywhere you want to go, and it’s a relatively small country, so you can see a lot on day trips from Brussels. Don’t be afraid to just hop off the train at a cute stop.

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Ghent, Belgium

Don’t Confuse the Train Stations

While the trains are affordable and easy to use, you should know that there are three train stations in Brussels. So you have to be sure you go to the correct station for your ticket, and if you’re connecting in Brussels, make sure you are arriving and departing at the same station! The Brussels train stations are:

  • Brussels Nord – few tourists will use this station as it’s a more residential area
  • Brussels Centrale is the main station near Old Town Brussels and the Grand Place, and is where you will go for most sightseeing in Brussels.
  • Brussels Midi is the station where most international trains will arrive, so if you’re taking the Eurostar from France, this is the station you’ll arrive at. (Midi in this case is not the same as Central!)

Don’t Waste Money on Taxis

It is so easy getting around Belgium; using taxis is a waste of money. The buses, trains, and trams are so easy to use and more affordable than a taxi. However, just because Belgians are punctual people, the trains aren’t always on time. But if you are going to Bruges, for example, there are multiple trains every hour, so it’s very easy to use public transportation as a tourist in Belgium. We’ve also noticed the public transportation is some of the most accessible in Europe. Upgrades have been made to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers, which is kind of rare in Europe!

It’s also easy to drive in Belgium. Just remember many towns have a Flemish name and a French name, so you’ll need to know both so you don’t get lost. For example, Bruges is also called Brugge. These two are pretty similar, but that isn’t always the case!

Biking is another fun way to get around Belgium; it’s relatively flat, which makes biking more pleasant. 

Don’t Confuse Wallonia and Flanders

Belgium is really like two separate countries. Flanders is the northern half of Brussels, and they speak Flemish or Dutch. Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, and Brussels are all in Flanders. Wallonia is the southern half of Belgium; this is the French-speaking region. There is a small region in Eastern Belgium that speaks German. Officially, those are the three languages spoken in Belgium, and you will likely hear a fourth, which is English.

Don’t Jaywalk in Belgium

The main towns of Belgium are very walkable, so you will do a lot of walking. However, there are also a lot of bikes,  so don’t jaywalk or just step out into the road without looking. Cross at the corners where the bikes and cars are expecting you to cross.

The kids had a fun time eating through Belgium.

Don’t Be Late

If you have reservations or appointments in Belgium, make sure you are on time. Belgium is a punctual place, so you are expected to be on time. If you are running late, it’s customary to call and let your host know the situation.

Don’t Expect Nightlife in Belgium

Belgium is not known for nightlife; the sidewalks kind of roll up after 6 or 7 in the evening. Of course, restaurants will be open for dinner, but most shops close early and do not open on Sunday. Belgium doesn’t have much of a party scene; it’s more the kind of place where you kick back in a pub with some beer rather than in all-night nightclubs. You’ll find nightclubs in Antwerp or Brussels, but Belgium is definitely not a party destination.

Don’t Expect Fast or Friendly Service in Belgium

You’ll find a more relaxed pace in Belgium, and things may take a little longer. Don’t get frustrated; just enjoy the slower pace for a change. Likewise, the service is professional, but it’s not overly friendly like what most Americans are used to. They won’t check back on you often, so make sure you have your order ready when they first come to the table as you might not see your server again for a while. Don’t take it personally, it’s just how they are. Tipping is not customary in Belgium, which is probably why service seems mediocre, but at least you don’t have to leave a tip!

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Belgium

Don’t Worry About Safety

Of course, always use your travel smarts anywhere you go, but Brussels is a pretty safe place to visit. There are some neighborhoods in Brussels to avoid, but in general, you’re not going to accidentally end up in them. The tourist areas are very safe.

Don’t Steal the Beer Glasses

The biggest crime in Belgium is probably the tourists stealing beer glasses. Belgium has great beer, and they’re all served in different glasses. It’s tempting to take one home as a souvenir, but don’t be a thief. You can buy glasses in the store, and they’ll already be packaged up for travel.

Don’t Overdo It When Drinking Belgium Beer

Beer in Belgium can be very strong, so make sure you are taking it slow and not getting in over your head. Stick to the smaller glasses as you’ll want to sample several different beers but you have to keep in mind how strong they are.

Don’t Miss Out on Belgian Food

We’ve had some great meals in Belgium. One thing to keep in mind is that Belgians are frugal and practical, so they do not appreciate wasted food. Make sure you clean your plate when you visit Belgium; the food in Belgium is not cheap, so you won’t want to waste food anyways. Here are a few of the foods you must try on your Belgium vacation:

  • Mussels are one thing you will see all over Belgium. Moules, or mussels, are prepared many different ways. My favorite is the mussels steamed in beer.
  • Mussels are often served with frites, or fries. Fries are another staple of Belgian food, and they are served with most dishes at Belgian restaurants. They are also a popular street food, so you’ll see people walking with a paper cone full of frites.
  • Croquettes are a popular appetizer in Belgium. It’s a small fried ball of dough, and they come in many flavors, like cheese, shrimp, ham, and mushroom.
  • Flemish Stew is a really tasty dish to try in Belgium. It is made from pieces of beef that are cooked in beer. It’s very good and filling!
  • If you want to try something a little more exotic, rabbit is really good in Belgium.
  • Belgian chocolate is legendary. Make sure you try some local chocolate, and it makes a great souvenir to bring home. They even have chocolate tours, where you can visit sevsseral chocolatiers in one day. 
  • Belgian waffles are everywhere in Belgium! You can get them plain, or with sweet or savory toppings. There are waffle stands in all of the tourist areas, and it’s a popular street snack or dessert to have.
  • Belgium may be best known for beer. No matter your taste, you’ll find a beer you like in Belgium. There are ales, lagers, lambic beer, and stout. You can take a beer tour, or just sample them on your own.  

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Don’t be surprised if you fall in love with Belgium! It’s a fun place to visit, and our kids love it, too! There are beautiful small towns with amazing architecture, and fantastic food! If you are traveling through Europe, Belgium is a great place to spend a few days.

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