Mark Wolters – Page 23 – Wolters World

What to Pack When You Visit Rwanda

Posted on December 12, 2020December 7, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Our family travel to Rwanda was one of the highlights of all of our world travels. Rwanda surprised us in so many ways, but it was a bit daunting trying to figure out what to pack for Africa. There were things we didn’t need and things we wished we’d had. Now that we’ve returned, we’re sharing our tips on what to pack for your Rwanda vacation.

Clothes for Rwanda Travel

If you are going on a safari, you will want to bring special clothes for the safari days. However, if you don’t want to look like a tourist, don’t wear your safari clothes all the time. Save them for safari.

What Not To Wear on Safari

For the rest of your Rwanda vacation, you can dress for the weather. Polos, t-shirts, and blouses are just fine. Since it can be buggy, we liked having long-sleeved shirts for the morning and evening. Lightweight pants and long skirts are great, provided they are easy to pack and hand-wash. A packable midweight jacket will also really come in handy. I always dress myself and my kids in layers that can be added and removed throughout the day. Make sure you also bring a swimsuit if any of your lodges have a swimming pool.

For women traveling to Rwanda, you should plan to dress somewhat conservatively. I avoided wearing low cut tops, short shorts, or tight clothing like leggings. Leggings are great if you have a skirt over them, but I always err on the side of caution when choosing clothes for a conservative destination.

Clothes for Gorilla Trekking

If you are going to see the gorilla in Rwanda, then you’ll want more outdoors-type clothing. You will be instructed not to wear bright colors, so olive or tan safari-style clothes are perfect.

Shocks To Expect When You Visit Rwanda

Footwear for Rwanda

Like your choice of clothing, your choice of footwear will depend on the activities you have planned. If you’re trekking in Rwanda, you want to make sure you have good waterproof hiking boots. In town, you can wear whatever shoes are most comfortable for walking around. Flip-flops are totally fine if that’s what you prefer. I wore flip-flops or sneakers every day when we weren’t trekking or on safari. Flip-flops also come in handy for showering in public showers.

Socks & Underwear

While you can re-wear a lot of clothes a few times over, it’s nice to have fresh socks and underwear every day. We love quick-dry socks and underwear because this saves us from packing socks and underwear for every day. With quick-dry fabric, you can do laundry in the sink and only bring 3-4 of each to be re-worn throughout your trip. Also, in the higher elevations, it’s humid so it can take longer for things to dry. Having quick-dry travel gear really helps out in that scenario.

Insect Repellant

You are definitely going to need some products to ward off the bugs in Rwanda. Everyone in our family wears bug bands on our wrists, which work really well. We noticed the mosquitos were worse in Kigali and lower elevations than in the higher elevations of Rwanda. I also prefer bug lotion over bug spray, as it lasts longer so you don’t have to reapply as often. Sawyer is a brand we often use as it’s very effective.

When traveling to places with a lot of bugs, I also pre-treat our clothes with Permethrin. It’s a treatment you apply to your clothes, and it lasts for several washes. You have to be very careful around pets and children when applying it, but it’s the best option for killing ticks and mosquitos.

Even with proper precautions, you’ll likely end up with a few bug bites, so it’s always nice to have some kind of After-Bite product to help reduce the itching.

Sun Protection

Sunscreen is another “must-have” for Rwanda travel. When choosing your sunscreen, make sure it works with (not against) your insect repellant as you’ll need both at the same time. Don’t forget lip balm with SPF as well. In addition to sunscreen, I like to have a sun hat and sunglasses to keep most of my face and head covered. Remember, you’re close to the equator so even if it’s not sunny, you can still get a sunburn.

Electronics

Of course, you should bring a camera! You will take so many pictures in Rwanda, trying to capture every moment. If you’re going gorilla trekking, you’ll want a really good camera and the biggest telephoto lens that you won. Along with your camera, make sure you have backup batteries and backup memory cards.

Of course, you’ll have a cell phone with you for photos as well. Binoculars can really come in handy, especially if you like to look for birds.

Make sure you charge all your electronics overnight while you sleep!

Medications & Vaccinations

Start at the CDC website to see what vaccinations are recommended for the area you are visiting. Then make an appointment at a travel health clinic, or with your primary care physician. (Ask first if they provide the vaccines you need or if they need to order them in.) Our whole family got Yellow Fever and Typhoid shots, while the adults also had to get a Hepatitis shot. For malaria, there are pills you can bring along on the trip and take while you are traveling. You start the pills before you leave and continue to take them until you get home from your Rwanda trip. We also were able to bring a dose of general antibiotics just in case we needed them.

When you visit Rwanda, do not drink the water or consume ice made from tap water. Traveler’s diarrhea is a common occurrence, but you want to do everything you can to prevent it. We always travel with Immodium, or some type of anti-diarrhea medicine, just in case. Anti-nausea medication is also a good thing to have on hand. You might need a prescription for it, so check with your doctor.

We aren’t doctors, but we’ve traveled the world with our kids, so we have our “first aid supplies” pretty dialed in. When you go to your doctor, bring a list of questions and items to review. If you’re traveling with kids, make sure you bring child-specific medications as well, as the adult doses aren’t usually suitable for children.

Toiletries

When it comes to packing toiletries for Rwanda, I pretty much stuck to the basic list that I bring everywhere.

Shampoo
Conditioner
Soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste (use bottled water!)
Toilet Paper in a Ziploc baggie

Miscellaneous Things to Bring to Rwanda

Rwanda has banned plastic bags, so you can’t even bring them into the country. I always stash a few reusable shopping bags in my suitcase, and our Ziploc bags were OK. I actually bought some really beautiful handmade bags in Rwanda, so that’s a perfect souvenir for our future trips.

As far as cash goes, they use U.S. Dollars in Rwanda, but they really only accept newer, crisp bills. We brought a lot of smaller bills to use when tipping all of the staff and guides we interacted with. As Americans, we had to purchase a visa upon arrival in Rwanda. We paid $30 each in cash at the border crossing.

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Hopefully, our stories from travel in Rwanda inspire you to plan your own trip and when you do, you’ll feel more prepared with this Rwanda packing list! Interested in more of our travel tips from Africa?

9 Things a Scot Wants Tourists to Scotland to Know

Posted on December 11, 2020December 7, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Scotland Travel Tips from a Local

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re about the things you need to know before you travel to Scotland. I decided to interview my friend Scott, a local to Edinburgh. I’ve visited Scotland several times and have filmed many videos, but there’s nothing better than getting travel advice from a local. I asked Scott to share the top things everyone should know before traveling to Scotland and here’s what he had to say.

What Are Some Great Ways to Save Money in Scotland?

Scots are known as being “value-oriented” which means they love to save money! Some of Scott’s favorite sites for finding deals include:

5pm.co.uk
Groupon.co.uk
Itison.com

These sites are a great way to save money as you tour Scotland.

Where Should We Go Hiking in Scotland?

Scotland is a great country for hiking; with rolling hills, jagged coastlines, and quaint villages, you can hike to your heart’s content in Scotland. Some quintessential Scotland hiking trails include:

The Westhighland Way covers 96 miles from Glasgow to Fort William. This is a common multi-day hike, so there are many companies that will transport your luggage from town to town, leaving you to hike with just a daypack.
Climbing the “Old Man of Storr” on the Isle of Skye is another popular Scotland hiking trail. It’s often voted one of the most beautiful places on Earth. At less than four kilometers in length, this is a shorter hike that’s a good way to stretch your legs while touring the Isle of Skye.

Other Places to Visit on the Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is one of the best places to go in Scotland. Some of the must-see stops when you visit the Isle of Skye include:

The Fairy Pools are a popular stop as they are the most beautiful pools along the River Brittle. A few brave tourists might even go for a swim in the pools!
You can see fossilized dinosaur footprints on the beaches along the north shore near Trotternish. They were only recently discovered in 2015, and are only visible at low tide.

How is the Weather in Scotland?

Scots like to say, if you don’t like the weather, just wait a few minutes. The best way to prepare for the ever-changing weather in Scotland is to dress in layers. The forecast could call for rain, but you might end up with a hot, sunny day! Always have a poncho or rain jacket handy in case a rainstorm breaks out.

Five Things You Will Love & Hate About Visiting Scotland

What Are Midges?

Besides the weather in Scotland, you have to be wary of midges. Midges are tiny, flying insects that will swarm you and eat you alive. They are much smaller than mosquitos, and their most prevalent season seems to be between May and September. They can’t survive a frost, so if you visit Scotland during the shoulder season, you just might be able to avoid them.

What to Eat in Scotland?

Scottish food isn’t always world-renowned as there are some famously strange foods in Scotland. Haggis is particularly well-known as a famous Scottish food that people turn their nose up at. However, there are some really great restaurants in Scotland. A particular favorite is The Kitchen in Edinburgh, and Glasgow also has a growing food scene. Scottish Smokies are a popular smoked fish snack in the north. Of course, Scotland has really fantastic seafood, especially on the Isle of Skye.

What to Eat in Scotland

What Should I Drink in Scotland?

First off, it’s safe to drink the tap water in Scotland, and it’s actually very good quality. But of course, the local beer and whiskey are most important! Beers are pretty regional, so ask your server what’s local. In terms of a soft drink, you have to try Irn Bru, an orange carbonated drink, when you visit Scotland.

Which are the Best Scotland Castles?

Scotland is known for castles, and you should definitely include a few in your Scotland itinerary. Many of them are ruins, but you can tour a few of them. If you plan to visit any Scottish castles, you might consider a membership to Historic Scotland, or the National Trust of Scotland, you can often save money on castle admission. Edinburgh Castle is probably the most-visited castle in Scotland, and Eilean Donan Castle is another very photogenic castle in Scotland, best known by fans of Highlander. (Pro tip: don’t park in the lot at Eilean Donan; cross the bridge and get your photos from the other side!)

What Are Scots Like?

Scottish people are awesome! They are so friendly and easy to strike up a conversation with. It’s so easy to make new friends in Scotland; just head to the nearest pub! Scots love to discuss world events, politics, history, or whatever you feel like. Don’t miss out on the chance to chat with locals, wherever your Scotland travels take you!

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I’ve visited Scotland so many times, and I always look forward to coming back. I encourage every world traveler to tour Scotland at some point. Looking for more Scotland travel tips? Check out these other blog posts:

What Not to Do When You Visit Lithuania

Posted on December 10, 2020August 30, 2023 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do on a trip to Lithuania. While many travel blogs will tell you what to do in Lithuania, we want to be sure you know about these Lithuania tourism mistakes to avoid.

Don’t Question Lithuanian-isms

There are lots of interesting old Lithuanian traditions. A few of the funnier ones include:

Do not shake hands over a threshold
Do not directly hand someone scissors or a knife; set it down
Do not walk on opposite sides of an obstacle, when walking with someone else. (In the US, we say “bread and butter” to avoid the bad luck)
Don’t wear your shoes inside someone’s home
If bringing flowers to someone, don’t bring even numbers. Even numbers are for funerals.

Unique European Christmas Traditions

Don’t Forget to Make Eye Contact When Toasting

If you are enjoying a beer or something a little stronger, you have to make sure you are making eye contact when you “cheers” with your fellow drinking buddies. It’s considered rude to not make eye contact, and it’s also considered rude to turn down a drink.

Don’t Be Afraid to Try a Few Lithuanian Words

Nobody expects you to be fluent in Lithuanian on your trip, but it really means a lot to them if you can learn just a few basic words and show that effort on your part. Simple words like hello, please, and thank you will go so far in gaining the locals’ trust and admiration.

Don’t Be Afraid to Meet Locals and Learn the Culture

Lithuanians are incredibly proud of their heritage and culture, so I recommend meeting as many locals as you can and really getting to know them. Once you get them talking about Lithuanian culture and cuisine, they’ll never stop! If you’re not sure how to meet locals, you can always sign up for a tour led by locals, or something like an Airbnb experience.

Snowy Lithuania — Takes me back to walking to work in Klaipeda.

Don’t Call Them Russians

Lithuania was part of the Soviet Union from 1940 until 1990, but they were never part of Russia.
If you’re not well-versed in politics from that era, it may seem like a small distinction, but it is not
small to the Lithuanians. Estonia and Latvia had much higher populations of Russians at the
time, while Lithuania was always a bit more independent. They are quite proud of that and were
the first of the Baltics to break away from the Soviet Republic.

Don’t Miss Out on Nature

The landscape of Lithuania is incredibly diverse. You can visit the Curonian Spit, with giant sand dunes. There are beautiful beaches and lakes all over Lithuania. Druskininkai is known as a spa town, thanks to nearby mineral springs. Even the capital city, Vilnius, is full of natural beauty and outdoor activities. Just Don’t Forget the Bug Spray!

Don’t Miss Out on Lithuania Food

Lithuania food is really fantastic. A lot of the food is potato-based and may look odd, but don’t be afraid to try new things. There’s a cold beet soup that is pink just like Pepto-Bismol, but it’s really tasty. The portions are usually big enough to share, too, so don’t over-order.

What to Know Before You Visit Lithuania

Don’t Trash Talk the Lithuanian National Basketball Team

They are all about basketball in Lithuania. It seems like everyone in Lithuania lives and breathes basketball, so don’t trash talk their teams. If you get the chance to attend a professional game, go for it!

Don’t Be An Ugly Tourist!
Sometimes when traveling, especially abroad, it’s easy to accidentally upset the locals without
even realizing you are doing it. Certainly, it’s no one’s intention to be an ugly tourist, but it can
happen. That’s why we want to share our tips on how to be a “good tourist” in Lithuania.

Don’t Mess with Their Cars

Lithuanian guys are really into their cars, so don’t mess with them. Don’t even pretend like
you’re going to mess with them. It won’t go over well!

Don’t Offer Processed Food

Many travelers like to bring gifts from their home country when visiting a foreign country, which
is a nice gesture. But Lithuanians really don’t like processed food. They maintain a pretty clean
diet with natural and organic food. So, if you want to bring a gift from your home country, avoid
processed snacks or heavily colored treats.

Don’t Think It’s Weird to Have Tea

If you have Lithuanian friends, or make some while traveling, they may invite you to “arbata”
which just means tea. Don’t read too much into this, it’s just an invitation to chat or catch up. It’s
totally normal for a group of guys to go have tea in the afternoon.

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Don’t let these “don’ts” keep you from becoming a Lithuania tourist. I lived here for 3 ½ years, so Lithuania always has a special place in my heart. It’s a great country and the people are fantastic! Just don’t stare at the beautiful women! Want more of our Baltic travel tips? Check out some of our other blog posts:

Five Things You’ll Love and Hate About Visiting Kyoto

Posted on December 8, 2020December 7, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about visiting Kyoto, the former capital city of Japan. Kyoto is a wonderful place that includes 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and we really fell in love with Kyoto during our trip. However, as with any destination, we like to share the good and the bad, so today we’re sharing the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate, when you visit Kyoto, Japan.

Love #1: Kyoto Temples

Kyoto has over 1,000 temples, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Adashino Nenbutsu-ji has over 8,000 statues alone! The temples, and the gardens around them, are simply stunning! Of all the cool places to visit in Kyoto, temples are a major attraction

Hate #1: Kyoto Temple Burnout

You won’t notice this on your first day in Kyoto, but after a couple of days, you might feel burned out on visiting temples. There are some amazing temples in Kyoto, dozens of them, but that doesn’t mean they don’t all start to run together after a couple of days. I recommend mixing up your temple visits with other activities like museums and markets.

Love #2: Walkability in Kyoto

While many of the best Kyoto sightseeing destinations are spread out, there are also many temples and attractions in close proximity to each other. This makes it easy to focus on one area of the city each day of your visit, but it does require some advance planning so you aren’t zig-zagging all over the city every day.

Hate #2: Tourist Crowds

Kyoto is a popular travel destination, for international travelers, as well as Japanese travelers. It’s on a small island, so you can really feel squished in the crowd sometimes. If you travel over school holidays, or during special festivals like cherry blossoms in the spring or fall foliage, you will be overwhelmed with crowds. Weekends, even in low season, can be incredibly busy, so plan accordingly.

How to Beat Peak Season Travel Prices

Love #3: Nature in Kyoto

Despite being a city of 1.5 million, Kyoto still has a lot of natural areas to enjoy. That’s why it’s such a popular place during the spring cherry blossom, and during autumn when the leaves are changing color. There are many bamboo forests in and around Kyoto, which are great destinations for hiking.

Hate #3: Travel Time Between Attractions

Many of the UNESCO Sites and important temples are located on the outskirts of Kyoto, so you may feel like you spend a lot of time traveling between the Kyoto attractions. The center of Kyoto is the least attractive, but you will pass through it several times in transit to other Kyoto destinations. Beware that the subways don’t always go to these attractions, so you might also have to take a bus to reach your destination.

slurp noodles in kyoto — Don’t forget to slurp your noodles to accentuate the flavor.

Love #4: Kyoto Market

The Nishiki Market is so much fun to explore. We love exploring local markets all over the world, and this one does not disappoint! We tried some really unusual foods, like octopus on a stick. It’s a great place to try new foods for a small price. It is a small space, so expect to be crowded, but it’s definitely an experience to have on your Kyoto trip. My son actually said the market was one of his favorite things in all of our travels.

Hate #4: Lack of English

Even as world travelers, we get used to having menus and signs in English, with a fair bit of English speakers to rely on. That’s simply not the case in Kyoto, as there are few English speakers and you won’t often find English menus. The locals, however, are very helpful, and thankfully, the Japanese are big fans of picture menus. Just note that most restaurants close between lunch and dinner, so make sure your stomach gets on a “normal” eating schedule quickly or you may go hungry until dinner!

Love #5: Cultural Opportunities

Kyoto was the capital city of Japan for many centuries, until the 17th century, so there is a plethora of culture and history here. Because of the abundance of attractions, the tourism infrastructure is also great. There are tons of accommodations to choose from, and the public transit system is readily available. There are many restaurants, entertainment options, and tours. It is also a great place to witness the Geisha culture of Japan.

Hate #5: Tight Accommodations

Space is a hot commodity in Japan, so most accommodations are very small. We could not find a Kyoto hotel to accommodate the four of us, so we ended up renting an apartment for the extra room.

Five Tips for Choosing a Vacation Rental Home

weird food in kyoto — The charcoal ice-cream was interesting.

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Less than three hours by bullet train from Tokyo, it is easy and worthwhile to visit Kyoto. Despite the “hates” we listed here, we all really loved our time spent in Kyoto. Because there are so many cool places to visit in Kyoto, I highly recommend it for any family planning a trip to Japan. It should absolutely be your number one or number two choice of destinations in Japan. Looking for more tips on family travel in Japan? Check out these other blog posts:

Nine Things That Will Shock You When Visiting Bordeaux

Posted on December 7, 2020December 7, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about Bordeaux, one of the most beautiful cities in France. It’s an amazing city full of fun surprises. So, today, we’re sharing the nine things that will shock you when you travel to Bordeaux.

The Abundance of Wine

Sure, Bordeaux is known for wine, but you will be shocked at how often you are drinking wine in Bordeaux. The wine is phenomenal, so this is not a bad thing. But truly, life in Bordeaux revolves around wine. It appears in many recipes, and many of the best things to do in Bordeaux are at the vineyards and wineries.

UNESCO World Heritage Center

Because so many people visit Bordeaux for the wine and the countryside, the city itself is relatively uncrowded. And that’s a shame, because the historic city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a city of Art and History, and there is so much to explore. The architecture is phenomenal, and the preservation is fantastic. Bring your walking shoes, because this is a walking city!

How to Choose Shoes For Your Europe Trip

The Bordeaux Food Scene

French cuisine is world-renowned, and I’ve had some of the best French food in Bordeaux. The meat and seafood in Bordeaux is phenomenal, especially the oysters. Of course, wine features heavily in the sauces, too. Don’t forget to leave room for dessert, as the pastries are amazing, too! It’s a good thing you’ll be doing so much walking because you’ll need to walk off all that fantastic Bordeaux food.

Friendly Locals

France has a bad rap for rude locals, and for the most part, we’ve not found that to be the case. The locals in Bordeaux are super friendly and totally negate that rude reputation that the French have. Even the servers are super friendly. If you speak a little bit of French, they are even more friendly, and very tolerant of beginner’s French.

Ten Things That Will Shock You in France

The Number of Vineyards

Of course, your Bordeaux trip will include a vineyard tour. There are hundreds of vineyards that are open to the public, so you can spend weeks just exploring the vineyards of Bordeaux. Just make sure you call ahead to ask for the wine-tasting hours. Most of the vineyards aren’t open all day and every day for visitors, so you need to plan ahead.

Bordeaux Day Trips

When you visit Bordeaux, make sure you also include time in your itinerary for the day trips. There are so many chateaux and villages scattered throughout the countryside here, and they’re all worth a trip. There are even beaches within an hour of Bordeaux. Having a car really gives you more freedom to explore all of the day trips from Bordeaux.

Rue Sainte-Catherine

Rue Sainte-Catherine is the main pedestrian shopping street of Bordeaux, and it’s shocking how long the street is. It’s said to be the longest pedestrian shopping street in France. There’s something for everyone along this street, so if you have any shoppers in your family, you definitely want to plan a day to stroll the Rue Sainte-Catherine. And it’s not just shopping; there are plenty of bars and cafes along the way, too.

Water Mirror

Across the street from Place de la Bourse, you have to visit the Water Mirror, or Miroir d’Eau. It is the largest reflecting pool in the world, and it’s really cool to see in person. It was created to be a reflecting pool and a “mist forest” at alternating intervals. So you get to see the cool reflections of the buildings and then play in the water jets. If you can catch it at sunset, it’s even more beautiful.

Access from Paris

We were shocked at how quickly we traveled from Paris to Bordeaux. If you take the TGV, it’s just over two hours. Despite the easy access from Paris, there are relatively few tourists in Bordeaux. You really feel like you are having a French experience with loads of culture and cuisine, without the tourist crowds of Paris. If you are planning to travel over a weekend, though, amke sure you book your tickets in advance as they do sell out.

Culture Shocks of Bordeaux — Well worth the ride.

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We always love visiting France, but we were still shocked at how much we loved visiting Bordeaux. It’s really a great destination in France, and an excellent place to escape the tourist crowds of Paris. Looking for more tips on travel in France? Check out some of our other blog posts!

Christmas in France: French Christmas Traditions

Posted on December 1, 2020July 21, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about visiting France during the Christmas holiday season. Quaint Christmas markets aren’t exclusive to Germany; there are some really great Christmas markets in France as well. We’ve celebrated Christmas in France several times over the years. Traveling over Christmas is a great way to experience a new culture and partake in new traditions with your family.

Christmas Greetings

The first thing you need to know is how to say “Merry Christmas” in France. There are two common sayings you’ll use often. Bon Noel and Joyeux Noel are the two most common ways to say Merry Christmas in France. Joyeux Noel is the most popular version though.

Ten Things That Will Shock You in France

When is Christmas Celebrated in France?

In France, the big celebration is actually on December 24th, the night before Christmas. Le réveillon is a huge family celebration with a big meal and decorations. Be ready to eat well and celebrate into the wee hours on Christmas Eve. Typically, the whole family will attend mass in the evening and then come home to the big meal. This is also when good wine and champagne come out.

After everyone has gone to bed, Père Noël delivers gifts in the night to be opened in the morning. Rather than hanging your stockings on the mantle, French children leave their shoes by the fireplace. This isn’t the only time children receive gifts during the holiday season. On December 5, children leave their shoes outside the bedroom door and Saint Nicolas fills them with candies and treats.

The Advent Calendar is another popular activity during the holiday season in France. Starting on December 1, families begin to count down to Christmas. Each day of the Advent Calendar brings new treats until finally arriving at the big celebration.

christmas in france — One of our many Christmases in France.

Christmas Food in France

There are some quintessential French Christmas foods that you should have while celebrating. Foie Gras, oysters, and smoked salmon are the three most common appetizer-type foods you should have before the big meal. The main dish will be some kind of fowl. We’ve had turkey stuffed with chestnuts, or duck is another common dish served for le réveillon. You’ll be pretty full by now, but you must have dessert, too! The Yule Log, or bûche de noel, is a cake rolled into a log and frosted to look like bark.

A snack you might enjoy as you do your Christmas shopping is Marron glacé, which are candied chestnuts. These are often sold at the Christmas markets, in addition to traditional roasted chestnuts.

Mulled wine is a holiday treat for adults that helps you stay warm while celebrating outdoors at the Christmas markets and festivals.

Christmas Markets in France

Strasbourg Christmas markets have given the town the moniker of the “capital of Christmas markets.” Fortunately, Christmas markets can be found all over France. You absolutely have to experience Christmas markets if you visit France during the holidays. It’s a great place to do some Christmas shopping, and they always have fun activities for the kids. Some will even have a small carnival with games and rides.

The Best & Worst of Celebrating Christmas in Europe

The Christmas Crèche

Another Christmas tradition in France is the Christmas Crèche. It’s really fun to go around to the different churches to see their nativity displays. Some of them are quite elaborate. There are even museums about the Christmas crèche.

Day of the Three Kings

The holiday season in France doesn’t end with Christmas. January 6th is Three Kings Day. This is actually the 12th day of Christmas and marks the close of the holiday season. This is when King Cake is served in France. Hidden inside the cake, there is a small toy and whoever gets the piece with the toy gets to wear the King’s crown for the day.

Some parts of Christmas are international, even in France.

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We really enjoy the French Christmas traditions, which is why we’ve spent so many holiday seasons in France. The food and the festive atmosphere are fun for the whole family. I hope this inspires you to consider exploring a new culture over the holidays with your family. For more tips on family travel, check out some of our other blog posts:

Why Traveling with Friends SUCKS… and rocks all at the same time

Posted on September 21, 2020September 14, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about the best and worst of traveling with friends! I have done a lot of solo travel and of course, travel with my family, but a trip with friends can also be fun from time to time. These are the things we love, and the things we hate, about traveling with friends!

Love #1: Sharing Experiences

Sure, solo travel is fun, but having a travel companion is even better. Whether it’s a drinking buddy to share pints with or someone to explore a new city with, traveling with a buddy always beats traveling alone.

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Solo Travel

Hate #1: Differing Expectations & Plans

People have different reasons for wanting to travel and different expectations of what a trip should entail. If one of you wants to be up at sunrise for photography or sightseeing while the other wants to stay out all night at the clubs, then you’re going to have to find a compromise.

It helps to talk about some of this ahead of time, and figure out a game plan that works for everyone in the travel group. Have a plan in place so that everyone can buy in and be ready to take on a new city. That said, it’s OK to spend time apart on a friends’ trip. It’s just all about expectations and communication.

advice on traveling with friends. — Sometimes you love your friends… and sometimes you wish they got on the wrong bus.

Love #2: Splitting Costs with Friends

Traveling with one friend automatically cuts your hotel costs in half. A lot of times you can get two-for-one discounts to various attractions. Even when eating out, you can sample more items on the menu by sharing plates with your friends.

Hate #2: Financial Differences

Budgeting for your own travel can be difficult. Planning for varying budgets within your travel group is even more difficult. You don’t want to let money, or lack thereof, interfere with having a good time with your friends. However, not everyone will be at the same spending level. If one person can’t afford the activities you’ve planned, that can put a damper on the day. The best way to deal with this is communication. Ask everyone upfront what their budget is, and try to work with that.

Love #3: Sharing Perspectives

When traveling with friends, you all have different perspectives, and get to share those perspectives with your friends. I have friends who love to look at art and antiques, while others may prefer history and science-based attractions. When traveling together, my friends might drag me to something I might not go see on my own, but that I inevitably end up enjoying. Sharing each others’ interests can open you up to new experiences that you wouldn’t have on your own.

Hate #3: Friends Can Cramp Your Style

If you’re used to the freedom of solo travel, traveling with friends can be an adjustment. You can’t just take off and do your own thing all the time, and you have to get used to compromise when making decisions on what to see and where to go.

Love #4: Safety in Numbers

Solo travelers are easier targets for scams and crimes. Traveling with friends doesn’t guarantee your safety, but your odds of staying safe are better when you are with other people. You also have someone looking out for you and watching your back. Maybe they keep you from drinking one too many beers, or from buying too many pairs of shoes.

Honest Safety Advice for Travelers

Hate #4: One Person’s Problems Become Everyone’s Problems

When you travel as a group, you are sharing experiences, but you might also be sharing problems. For example, if one person in the group has too much to drink, then the rest of the group has to babysit that person. And the next morning, the group plans could be ruined by the person with a hangover who won’t get out of bed.

Love #5: Travel Stories & Memories

Travel memories are best when shared with friends. Reminiscing on old trips and creating new memories are the best reason to travel with friends. Travel is a great bonding experience and sharing the good and the bad of travel together can really strengthen your friendship.

Hate #5: Too Much Friend Time

Inevitably, your friends will do something to annoy you, especially if you are used to traveling on your own. It happens, and everyone needs their own space sometimes. Even the best travel companion can get on your nerves after a while. The longer the trip, the greater the opportunity for you to get on each others’ nerves.

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Traveling is such an amazing experience, whether you travel alone or with friends and family. Obviously, we think the best parts of travel with friends outweigh the worst parts by far, and we plan to keep traveling with friends as long as we can. Communication is the key to a successful trip with friends. Want more of our travel tips? Check out some of our other blog posts:

What Not to Do When You Visit Santa Fe New Mexico

Posted on September 20, 2020September 14, 2020 by Mark Wolters

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

Don’t Visit Santa Fe if You Don’t Like Art

Santa Fe is all about art, and the best Santa Fe attractions feature a lot of art and art galleries. Performance art is also very important in Santa Fe, as well as museums and churches. Georgia O’Keeffe lived here and the museum of her artwork is amazing. If you love art, you’ll love Santa Fe. If you are not into art exhibits and galleries, you might not love visiting Santa Fe.

Don’t Miss Out on the Non-Art Attractions in Santa Fe

Ok, so there’s a lot of art in Santa Fe. But there are lots of other things to do that are not art-related. Northern New Mexico is also an outdoor paradise, so there are lots of opportunities for hiking. The Santa Fe National Forest and Bandelier National Monument are two great places to hike near Santa Fe.

santa fe chilis — Celebrate Christmas everyday with all those chilis

Don’t Skip the Churches

In the US, churches don’t always rank high as tourist attractions, but the churches in Santa Fe are a definite exception. There’s the cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, and the Loretto Chapel has a cool spiral staircase. My favorite Santa Fe church is the Santuario de Guadalupe, which was built in the late 1700s.

Don’t Use the Train to Commute From Albuquerque

There’s a train, the Rail Runner, that runs from Santa Fe to Albuquerque. It sounds like it would be a great way to get from the Albuquerque airport to Santa Fe, but it’s not. The Albuquerque train station is not anywhere near the airport, so you’ll have to find a way to get between the two, and the train schedule is not very conducive to visitors. There are shuttles from Albuquerque to Santa Fe, or you can take rideshare, as it’s only an hour’s drive.

Don’t Miss Out on Christmas Dinner

In Santa Fe, dinnertime is Christmas-time year-round. In Santa Fe, or anywhere in New Mexico, if you order something “Christmas-style” you’ll get both red and green chile sauce, giving your meal a festive look. New Mexico is famous for chiles, so make sure you try both red and green sauces during your trip. And don’t assume all chiles are the same, heat-wise. Some of them might catch you off guard, although in general green chile is milder than red chile.

Santa fe fun — So much to love in and around Santa Fe.

Don’t Skip the Other Cuisines in Santa Fe

The southwest food is amazing in Santa Fe, but that’s not all they have. We had excellent French and Italian food in Santa Fe, as well as really good American food. Santa Fe is a foodie paradise; you will eat really well on your Santa Fe trip. And don’t go looking for Tex Mex; New Mexico Mexican food is different than the more Americanized version you might be used to.

Don’t Forget Your “Margarita Trail” Passport

If you like margaritas, then you’re going to want to check out Santa Fe’s Margarita Trail. You can download a free app, or an upgraded version, that directs you to the best margaritas in town. You can get a stamp at each place, and you can earn swag based on how many stamps you collect. Remember that alcohol can affect you differently at this elevation, so take it easy when you first arrive.

Don’t Forget Good Walking Shoes

You will do a lot of walking in Santa Fe. Whether you are taking in some of the trails at nearby Bandelier or taking in an art walk in the historic district, you will need good shoes. Santa Fe has several areas that are great for shopping so plan to be on your feet a lot. Also, as you walk around Santa Fe, don’t forget to watch where you’re going. In the older parts of town, the doorways and walls are much lower than you might expect.

Don’t Ignore the Elevation

Santa Fe is at an elevation of over 7,000 feet, so it’s really easy to get a sunburn. You might not even plan to be outdoors, but you will be walking from one area to another, and that’s enough to get a sunburn at this altitude. There are over 300 days of sunshine in Santa Fe, so you’ll definitely need sunblock during your trip. Make sure you drink a lot of water to help with any altitude issues you might experience, too.

How to Deal with Altitude Sickness

Don’t Expect a Young Crowd

Santa Fe is a popular retirement destination, so the demographics skew a bit older. While the margaritas are good, there’s not a huge nightlife scene in Santa Fe. It’s more of a relaxing destination than a party scene.

Don’t Be in a Rush

Things move at a slower pace in the Southwest, especially the drivers. Whether it’s all of the retirees converging on Santa Fe or just a more relaxed attitude, it’s easy to get frustrated when driving here. As a driver, you should always be on high alert for tourists who might just step out into the road. That’s another reason cars drive slowly in Santa Fe!

Don’t Expect a Low Season in Santa Fe

Santa Fe is a year-round destination; there is no one “best time to visit Santa Fe.” There are festivals throughout the year so there’s never really a low tourist season in Santa Fe. October is the big international Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque, and the holiday season is always busy in Santa Fe. Because of this, you don’t want to wait on booking your accommodation. Places fill quickly, and prices can be high.

Don’t Expect Santa Fe to Be Cheap

The Southwest has some great budget destinations, but Santa Fe is not one of them. Prices are higher than anywhere else in New Mexico, including hotels and food. It’s worth it, but you need to be prepared and know what to expect. Wealthy tourists love Santa Fe, so you can also expect to see some astounding prices in some of the shops downtown.

Souvenirs: What Not to Buy When Traveling

Don’t Miss Meow Wolf

Meow Wolf is one of the newer art installations in Santa Fe, and it’s really worth a visit. It’s a wild experience that is really hard to describe, but you’ll have a good time when you go. You can buy timed tickets online in advance to save some time. If you are claustrophobic or have seizures, some parts may not be suitable for you. Do some research online to see it will work for you.

Don’t Forget to Look Up

The dark skies of Northern New Mexico are perfect for stargazing. You can see a lot of stars right in town, but if you drive even a little way out of Santa Fe, you’ll see the most incredible night skies you could ever imagine. The sunsets are pretty spectacular, too.

Don’t Skip the Santa Fe Day Trips

There are some great day trips from Santa Fe. If you’re visiting for a while and have time, make sure you explore some of the nearby destinations. Bandelier National Monument is one of the best day trips from Santa Fe, and Taos is a great little ski town about 90 minutes away.

Don’t Get “Turquoised Out”

Turquoise is everywhere in Santa Fe. Nearly every store you see in Old Town has turquoise for sale, from home decor to jewelry and accessories. Don’t buy the first thing you see, and don’t be afraid to ask questions about the jewelry if you plan to buy some. A reputable dealer will not be offended if you ask about the origin of the turquoise.

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Don’t let these “don’ts” keep you from visiting Santa Fe, New Mexico. It’s a really neat city with a unique culture and cuisine to die for. I really hope you will decide to visit Sanat Fe because it’s worth it! Want more of our Southwest US travel tips? Check out some of our other blog posts:

What NOT to Do on a Road Trip

Posted on September 18, 2020September 14, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about road trips. 2020 is definitely the year of the road trip, but we’ve always loved road trips both at home and abroad. We’ve had some great road trips all over the world. Whether you are traveling with friends or family, taking a weekend getaway, or a cross-country road trip, these road trip tips include the things you should NOT do on a road trip.

Don’t Worry About a Late Start

Many people start a road trip already stressed out about getting on the road late. Go easy on yourself and don’t stress about getting an early start. The best part of a road trip is an open timetable. There’s no plane to catch, so take it easy!

Don’t Rely Solely on GPS

GPS is a game-changer for road trips, and they can definitely make your trip easier. But don’t rely solely on your GPS! Take a look at a road atlas before you leave to figure out your approximate route. Not only will this help you if your GPS malfunctions for some reason, but you might also see some interesting sites along the way. GPS is made to get you quickly from Point A to Point B, but there might be some really cool things lurking just a few miles off the interstate. Don’t be afraid to get off the interstate!

Pre-trip route planning can also help you avoid hitting major cities at rush hour. Rather than spending an extra hour sitting in traffic, you can spend an hour at a roadside attraction and wait until rush hour is over to pass through.

Don’t Skip the Roadside Attractions

Another reason to be lenient with your schedule is to allow time for all of the fun roadside attractions along the way. There are quirky museums all over the country, as well as scenic overlooks, parks, and hikes to be taken along the way. Don’t be so focused on the destination that you totally miss out on cool things on your journey. You’re going to have to stop for bathroom and food breaks, so why not incorporate some sightseeing into those breaks?

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About the Family Road Trip

Don’t Start With a Dirty Car

Yes, your car will get messy on a road trip, especially a family road trip with kids. But starting out with a dirty car will only stress you out further. It’s nice to have a clean car, both inside and out, to start your journey.

Don’t Forget to Get a Tune-Up

Before your road trip, take it in for an oil change, tire rotation, and a top-up of any fluids. Have them check that your spare tire is properly inflated. They might catch something that could save you from having an accident down the road. It can also save you time from having to deal with any car issues during your vacation. AAA roadside assistance is great; if you have a flat tire, lockout, or empty gas tank, they will come to your rescue.

Don’t Miss Out on Local Food Joints

Every exit will have a McDonald’s, Wendy’s or Subway, but look for something that’s unique to the region. This doesn’t have to mean going to a sit-down restaurant; there are plenty of regional fast-food chains to check out. We like to hit up a Bojangles when we’re traveling in the south. In Texas, it’s Whataburger and on the West Coast, everyone flocks to In-N-Out.

Road trip mayhem — Sadly, you can’t leave the kids behind…

Don’t Overdo It

If you have more than one driver in your party, make sure you take turns driving throughout the trip. This gives everyone a chance to rest, and ensure the driver is always alert and awake. If there’s just one driver, allow yourself plenty of time and don’t push yourself to drive 600 miles in a day. If you’re getting tired, pull over and get a hotel room. You can continue your journey more safely in the morning after a good night’s rest.

Don’t over plan your trip, either. Give yourself the flexibility to stop along the way if you get tired, or if something sparks your interest. We arrived almost a full day late on our last road trip, but we had so much fun along the way; it was totally worth it.

Don’t Wait to Fill Up

Depending on where you are road tripping, it’s always a good idea to top off your gas as often as possible. You never know when the next gas station will be, especially in states with a lot of wide-open spaces, like Wyoming or Nebraska. We like to fill up at night when we stop at a hotel, so that’s one less thing we have to worry about in the morning.

Don’t Forget These Road Trip Essentials

We love having a soft-sided cooler filled with drinks in the back seat. Everyone can help themselves to cold beverages without having to stop. We freeze a couple of water bottles the night before and use them to keep the cooler cold. We also recommend having some kind of trash receptacle in the car.

Find more Road Trip Essentials

Don’t Forget About Road Trip Games

There are lots of fun games you can play on the road. Games will make the time go faster, and keep everyone from burying their heads in their phones and tablets. From the old-school license plate game or “I Spy” to modern BINGO cards you can print from the internet, be prepared with a few road trip games.

Don’t Forget the Rules of the Road

The best long-distance driving tips aren’t tips at all. These are the rules of the road and they are important both at home and on vacation!

Don’t Text & Drive
Don’t Cut off other drivers
Don’t forget to use your turn signals
Don’t drive in the left lane if you’re not passing

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I hope these long-distance driving tips help you start planning a trip to the beach with your friends and family. If your beach trip runs smoothly, you’ll be more likely to start a tradition and take more beach trips! Do you have favorite destinations for beach getaways? Tell us about it in the comments! Looking for more travel tips? Check out some of our other blog posts:

What NOT to Do on a Beach Trip

Posted on September 18, 2020September 14, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about beach trips. Most of our trips are pretty active, exploring far-away countries and cities, but every once in a while, we long for fun beach vacations. We’ve had some great beach vacations all over the world. Whether you are traveling with friends or family, spending a week at the beach, or just a day, these are some things you should NOT do on a beach vacation.

Don’t Forget to “Go” Before You Go

Depending on the beach you are visiting, there may or may not be public toilets. Do your research ahead of time and make sure you go to the bathroom before you go to the beach! Even if there are public toilets, they might not be the cleanest, so be prepared.

Don’t Get Burned

It’s so easy to get a sunburn when you spend a day at the beach. But it’s also not that hard to protect your skin and avoid sunburn. Every beach trip packing list should include high SPF sunscreen. And don’t forget to reapply it throughout the day. Even if it’s waterproof, you still need to reapply. A bad sunburn is not only painful, but it can ruin some of your vacation plans.

*Depending on where you are traveling, be sure to use “reef-safe” sunscreen that won’t damage the ocean life

beach vacation fun — Beaches make a great vacation anywhere in the world.

Don’t Overpack

Make it easy on yourself by packing light. There’s always one family that is loaded to the gills with wagons, coolers, and backpacks full of beach furniture, toys, and games. Truthfully, kids will have fun at the beach with just about anything. You don’t need to bring a ton of stuff to the beach. It will just stress you out and exhaust you when you are hauling it around looking for the perfect beach spot.

Beach Trip Packing List for Turks & Caicos

Don’t Forget Drinks and Snacks

If you’re going to be at the beach all day, you do want to have some drinks and snacks on hand. Depending on the beach you visit, you might be able to buy these things, however, prices and options will vary quite a bit. If you’re in the States, be prepared to spend top dollar for a soda and a bag of chips at the beach. Sometimes, it’s better to just bring your own. Rather than packing everything in ice, just freeze your water and juice bottles the night before so you’ll have cold drinks and you won’t have the extra weight of ice.

*Skip the glass containers for your drinks and snacks. Glass + bare feet do not mix!

Don’t Litter on the Beach

Now, we’re sure none of our readers would intentionally litter, but accidents happen. A wind gust can send your trash particles flying all over, or sand can bury some of your trash out of sight. I recommend digging a little trash hole in the sand and lining it with a grocery bag to keep your trash in one place. This makes cleanup easy and leaves the beach nice for the next visitors.

Don’t Forget Beach Etiquette

Use common sense when you are at the beach. A little bit of common courtesy can go a long way. Don’t shake your beach towels and spray your beach neighbors with a bunch of sand. Don’t blast music right next to your neighbors, and if you are listening to music, try to be respectful of young ears. Try to spread out if possible rather than setting up right on top of another party. And don’t take up more space than you need!

Don’t Feed the Wildlife

This is especially true for seagulls. Once you feed seagulls, they will never leave, and more and more of their friends will show up for free food. It’s never a good idea to feed any kind of wildlife. They lose their fear of humans and can lose their ability to hunt for food.

Don’t Ignore Warnings

If the beaches have red flag warnings or posted signs, make sure you adhere to them. If the lifeguards tell you not to go into the water, then don’t go into the water. Whether it’s riptides, high surf, jellyfish, sharks or even high pollution levels, there’s a reason they tell you to stay out of the water. It’s for your own good.

Don’t Mess With Riptides

Riptides are a hidden danger at many beaches. The water can seem perfectly calm, but strong riptides can exist under the surface. People try to fight the riptide and they get exhausted. If you get caught in one, you have to swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the riptide. Again, heed the warning signs, especially when it comes to riptides.

Don’t Expect Every Beach to Have a Lifeguard

While many public beaches have lifeguards, not all of them do. If you are traveling with kids, they are still always your responsibility. Even if there is a lifeguard, they are focused on the entire beach, not just your kids.

Don’t Forget Beach Shoes

Walking barefoot on sand can be very hot, so we always make sure everyone in the family has beach shoes. Whether it’s flip-flops or water sandals, you need something to protect your feet from hot sand and sharp items that are lurking in the sand. Not all beaches are sandy. Many beaches in the Mediterranean are pebble beaches, so you really need a good water shoe that will cushion your feet.

Don’t Be Ashamed to Bring Your Own Beach Gear

Many people take a beach vacation once a year and just buy or rent gear upon arrival. If you visit the beach often enough, there’s nothing wrong with having dedicated beach gear that you bring along. Saving money is always a good thing, and when it comes to things like snorkel gear, it’s nice to have your own that you are accustomed to using.

Best Advice for Traveling with Kids

Don’t Forget to Bring Waterproof Bags

You can purchase dry bags or special waterproof cases for your electronics and wallet, but oftentimes, a Ziploc bag is good enough. You just want something to keep the water and sand out of your wallet, cell phone, and other electronics.

Don’t Forget Baby Powder

We always keep a small container of baby powder in our beach bag or in the car. Baby powder is our secret trick for getting those last bits of stubborn sand off your skin before you get into the car or the house. It works great and keeps your car and house clean!

Don’t Expect Easy or Cheap Parking

Depending on the beach you visit, you might have to drive around a bit before you find a good parking spot. You might find easy parking, but it won’t be cheap. And if you find cheap (or free) parking, it’s probably not going to be super easy to reach the beach. This is something to think about when choosing your beach accommodation. Sometimes it’s worth it to spend a little more to be within walking distance of the beach and save yourself the hassle of parking. Do NOT park where you aren’t supposed to; you will get towed!

Don’t Miss Out on Non-Beach Activities

While you might plan your vacation around the beach, make sure you explore the other things to do in the area. A few days at the beach are usually enough for us before we want to explore other options. You can rent kayaks or jet skis for the day, go fishing, or explore nearby museums. Always have a rainy day plan in case your beach day gets rained out.

Don’t Forget to Make Dinner Reservations

If you are traveling to a beach town during high season, you’re going to need dinner reservations as the best restaurants will be very busy. After a long day at the beach, the entire family will be hungry and exhausted, so the last thing you want to do is wander around trying to find a restaurant that doesn’t have a two-hour wait time.

Don’t Forget to Try on Your Swimsuit Before You Leave

If it’s been a while since you have been in your swimsuit, you might want to try it on before vacation. Just to make sure it still fits! You don’t want to get to the beach to find out your trunks are too small, or your swimsuit has become threadbare and see-through. Otherwise, you’ll end up spending a lot of money on a new swimsuit at an overpriced tourist shop.

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I hope this helps you start planning a trip to the beach with your friends and family. If your beach trip runs smoothly, you’ll be more likely to start a tradition and take more beach trips! Do you have favorite destinations for beach getaways? Tell us about it in the comments! Looking for more travel tips? Check out some of our other blog posts: