Mark Wolters – Page 7 – Wolters World

Weird Things Travelers Need to Know about South Carolina (aside from the huge bugs)

Posted on May 25, 2024May 22, 2024 by Mark Wolters

Shocks to Expect When Visiting South Carolina

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about visiting South Carolina. This southern state is known for a lot of things, including beautiful beaches and Southern hospitality. As with any travel destination, there are many surprises in store for South Carolina travelers. If you’re thinking about visiting South Carolina, don’t be surprised at these “shocks.”

South Carolina Travel — What to enjoy in South Carolina

Palmettos

Palmetto is the state tree of South Carolina, and you’ll see it on the license plates. But the proliferation of palmetto trees is not shocking. It’s the palmetto bugs that are the first shock when you arrive. Palmetto bug is just a fancy word for flying cockroaches.

Those aren’t the only bugs in South Carolina, though. The mosquitos can be pretty bad, and there are little invisible bugs hiding in the Spanish Moss. Bug spray is a must for any trip to South Carolina.

South of the Border

In most places, South of the Border means Mexico. But here, it is a famous roadside attraction just over the North Carolina and South Carolina border on I-95. It’s super kitschy, and you’ll see signs for it for miles ahead. It’s kind of like the Wall Drug of the Southeast.

If you decide to try Blenheim Ginger Ale when you are there, you’re in for another shock. This is not the ginger ale you’re probably used to. It’s spicy! It’s good, but totally different from Canada Dry or Schweppes.

Diversity of Landscapes

It’s a pleasant surprise how quickly you can go from the ocean to the mountains in South Carolina. There are lowland, swampy areas like Congaree National Park. There are beautiful beaches and islands, like Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach, both very popular travel destinations.

South Carolina Accent

Outside of the I-95 corridor, the accent is THICK. You may have a bit of trouble adjusting to it at first, but the people are super friendly, so they will make sure you get what you need! You will be well-fed and watered on your South Carolina trip.

South Carolina BBQ

If you order BBQ in South Carolina, you might be in for a surprise. The most popular BBQ sauce here is a mustard-based sauce. It’s much lighter in color, with a definite mustard flavor, but it’s still fantastic. You can get other BBQs here, like vinegar-based or sweeter sauces, but the true South Carolina sauce is the mustard sauce.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is frequently rated as one of the top cities in the United States, but it’s still shocking how great it is. Whether you are walking through the Battery and admiring beautiful historic homes and cobblestone streets, enjoying some of the museums, or indulging in the food, you’ll love Charleston. Charleston has Southern Charm with a European vibe.

What NOT to Do in Charleston South Carolina

Georgetown is another nice destination in South Carolina. It’s the third-oldest city in South Carolina, so it has a similar historic feel to Charleston.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach can also be shocking, and it’s not always a pleasant surprise. If you visit Myrtle Beach during spring break or summer, be prepared for insane crowds. There are tons of fun things to do in Myrtle Beach, with amusement parks, beaches, and restaurants. But the traffic and parking can be frustrating.

Hilton Head Island is a quieter alternative, but a lot of those beaches are private, so make sure you have beach access if you decide to go there. With almost 200 miles of coastline, there are plenty of South Carolina beaches to explore!

Alligators in South Carolina

When you are driving around South Carolina, you might see some strange lawn decorations, but they’re actually real, live alligators! If you’re near water or have little kids or small dogs, you need to be on high alert for alligators.

Summer Heat in South Carolina

The level of heat and humidity in South Carolina summers is shocking. Nine months of the year, South Carolina is amazing! You won’t want to do anything but hit the beach or the pool in June, July, and August.

South Carolina Plantations

There are many plantations in South Carolina that have been restored and are now open to the public. Many offer tours where you can learn about the history of the plantation. Some locations are more white-washed than others, but some will give you the good and the bad. I recommend visiting a plantation that tells both sides of the story. Some plantations have even been converted to B&Bs so you can stay overnight.

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Don’t let these “shocks” keep you from planning a trip to South Carolina; it’s full of pleasant surprises. It’s such a diverse state, with beaches, mountains, great food, and friendly people! Deciding where to go in South Carolina can be overwhelming because it’s such a big state, but you’ll have a good time no matter which South Carolina destination you choose!

Want more tips for traveling in the South? Check out some of our other blog posts:

Five Things You Will Love & Hate About Visiting the South

The Do’s & Don’ts of Visiting San Francisco for 1st Time Visitors

Posted on May 24, 2024May 22, 2024 by Mark Wolters

What NOT to Do When Visiting San Francisco

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you plan a trip to San Francisco. While most travel blogs will tell you the best things to see in San Francisco, we want to be sure you know what NOT to do when visiting San Francisco. (Not Frisco, nobody calls it that!)

the don'ts of san francisco — The Do’s and Don’ts of San Francisco, including the food

Don’t Forget to Check the Weather & Pack Layers

San Francisco weather can vary greatly within a day. It’s not Southern California with sunshine and warm weather all day. Packing layers is a must, as is being prepared for wind and rain any time of year.

While San Francisco has beaches, they are not warm, sunny beaches for sunbathing. You’re better off bringing hiking boots than a swimsuit as you can walk along some of the beaches, but you’ll be glad to have a jacket! The water is cold, and they have pretty gnarly riptides, too.

Don’t Forget to Prepare for Walking and Hills

San Francisco is a super walkable city, but it’s also very hilly. If you can train a bit before your San Francisco trip, you’ll have a much better time exploring the city on foot. Good walking shoes will also make it much more pleasant.

As an older city, you can also expect a lot of uneven pavement, so watch where you’re walking. It’s so easy to twist an ankle on a cracked sidewalk.

Don’t Feel Like You Have to Walk the Entire Golden Gate Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge is the symbol of the city, and many people want to experience it by walking across. The bridge is nearly two miles long, so you’ll be walking about 3 ½ miles out and back. If you’re not up for a 90-minute walk, then there are other options to see the bridge. You can take a ferry tour, or drive across the bridge. There are also some great viewpoints where you can get photos of the bridge.

Don’t Skip Fisherman’s Wharf

Yes, it’s super touristy with a lot of souvenir shops, but it’s still worth visiting Fishermans’ Wharf. The Aquarium of the Bay is right there, and it’s also where you’ll catch any boat tours or ferries, including the Alcatraz tours. The Musee Mecanique is also a fun stop, especially if you’re into arcade games.

You can expect overpriced food when you visit Fisherman’s Wharf, though. Just like any popular destination, restaurants charge a premium in this area, so keep that in mind.

Don’t Miss Out on San Francisco Food

Food and travel go hand in hand, and San Francisco is no exception! San Francisco is a great melting pot of cultures, including Asian, Latin American, Italian and more! San Francisco food is pricey but worth it as there are some things that are just better here.

Sourdough Bread is famous in San Francisco, thanks to the unique climate in the Bay area. You can’t get sourdough like this anywhere else!
Clam Chowder in a Sourdough Bread Bowl is a great way to try two San Francisco specialties in one go.
Dungeness Crab is another specialty on this part of the West Coast. It’s a smaller type of crab, and it can be difficult to get the meat out. Don’t be afraid to ask your waiter the best way to clean the crab, or you can order Crab Louie, which is the crab meat already cleaned out and on top of a salad.
Pacific Oysters are also a local specialty; they are super fresh and delicious!
If you want to try several types of seafood, order Cioppino, which is a seafood stew. This dish originated with Italian immigrants in San Francisco; you’ll usually find calamari, mussels, and clams in there.
Dim Sum is a Chinatown must! You can also get upscale Chinese food, Thai Food, Korean food and Japanese food in this area. Take advantage of the local Asian population and try their cuisine where it’s done really well.
Mission Burritos come from the Mission District, which has a lot of Latin restaurants. Chipotle burritos are inspired by Mission Burritos, so picture the whole kitchen sink wrapped up in a giant tortilla.
Ghirardelli Chocolate is made in San Francisco; in fact, Ghirardelli Square is right off of Fisherman’s Wharf. There are several stores around town, and the most popular thing to try is an ice cream sundae with Ghirardelli chocolate on top. On a cold day, their hot cocoa really hits the spot.
America’s first Irish Coffee was created in San Francisco, and there’s even a plaque to prove it. The Buena Vista Cafe is the place to go for the original formula, and it’s right by the Fisherman’s Wharf Trolley stop.

When you are eating out in San Francisco, don’t expect restaurants to be open all day. Many restaurants are lunch-only, or dinner-only, or they may close between lunch and dinner. If there’s a place you really want to try, make sure you check their hours ahead of time and see if you need a reservation!

A great place to go if you want to try a bunch of different food is the Ferry Building Marketplace. They have several stalls with artisanal cuisine, and there’s a farmer’s market several days each week.

Unless otherwise specified, plan to tip 15 – 20% of your total bill when eating at San Francisco restaurants. Check your bill, though, as some places may automatically add a service charge.

Don’t Forget to Explore Different San Francisco Neighborhoods & Day Trips

Make sure you explore some of the many neighborhoods of the city and don’t just stick to what’s within walking distance of your hotel. A few of the best San Francisco neighborhoods include:

Chinatown, where you should definitely have dim sum. Fortune cookies actually originated here, not in China! You can even tour the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory!
North Beach is where many of the best Italian restaurants are found, so if you’re craving pizza or pasta, head to North Beach!
The Mission District is where you’ll find great Latin American food and murals.
Haight-Ashbury became famous in the 60s as the hippie neighborhood where the Grateful Dead lived. The neighborhood feels pretty commercialized these days, but if you’re looking for a tie-dye t-shirt, you’ll find plenty here.
Sausalito is its own city, but it’s a fun little ferry trip from San Francisco.
Muir Woods is also a popular day trip from San Francisco, but don’t forget your Dramamine! It is a winding road to get there from SF. Don’t forget to look for banana slugs when you get there!

You can probably skip Union Square unless you’re looking for a new Louis Vuitton bag or other luxury stores.

Don’t Drive in San Francisco

Driving in San Francisco is not fun, and I don’t recommend it unless you have to. Parking is difficult and expensive, directions can be confusing, and Uber & Lyft are widely available. This goes double for Lombard Street; it’s actually quite stressful to drive down. It’s more fun to walk down and watch the people trying to drive down the “crookedest street in the world.”

Don’t Forget to Buy the Clipper Card

The Clipper Card will get you access to all of the public transportation in San Francisco. You can preload it and use it all over the city. It’s so much easier than trying to figure out tickets at each bus and train stop. (If someone offers to sell you their Clipper Card, don’t accept; it’s probably already been used)

Don’t Have High Expectations for the Cable Car

You’ve seen the San Francisco cable cars in movies and TV shows, but it’s not quite so “romantic” in real life. They have been a National Historic Landmark since 1964, so it’s worth going, but keep your expectations in check!

If you board at Fisherman’s Wharf, you can expect a pretty long line that you’ll have to wait in before you can hop on. And it’s $8 for a single ride, so it’s not exactly a cheap way to get around San Francisco. For a family of four, it will cost you $32 for a single ride, unless you have kids under four.

Don’t Miss Out on Art, Architecture & History

San Francisco has beautiful architecture, like the Coit Tower or the Painted Ladies, the row houses featured on Full House, and so many cool murals in the Mission District and elsewhere throughout the city.

There are some fantastic museums as well, which are especially great for those cold, rainy days! de Young has classic paintings and sculptures, while the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is one of the best in the country! The Wells Fargo Museum is an interesting one that is often overlooked, especially if you’re interested in Gold Rush-era history.

A few other favorite San Francisco museums include:

Railway Museum
Cable Car Museum
Asian Art Museum

Don’t Expect An Affordable Vacation

Between San Francisco hotels, attractions, and restaurants, you will probably spend a lot of money in San Francisco. It is one of the most expensive cities in the world, not just in the United States. It’s totally worth it, as it’s such a unique city, but be prepared to shell out a lot of money for your trip.

How to Save Money When Traveling

Don’t Mess with the Homeless

Yes, San Francisco has a large homeless population. As a tourist, it’s not much of an issue, other than you will likely be shocked at how many people are living on the streets. As a city with a lot of tourism, they do tend to keep the tourist areas fairly cleaned up, so you deal with it as much as the residents do. On my last visit, I felt that bad press was overblown, and it was still a great city to visit, with friendly locals. So, don’t let the media dissuade you from visiting San Francisco; come and judge for yourself.

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San Francisco is definitely a must-visit city in California and one of our top cities in America! It’s one of those cities where even the “tourist traps” are worth visiting. Between art, architecture, outdoor attractions, and fantastic food, San Francisco really does have it all. With your basic travel smarts, it’s a safe city to visit, with lots to see and eat!

Want more California travel tips? Check out these blog posts!

The Craziest Surprises Tourists Have When They Visit Greece

Posted on May 23, 2024May 22, 2024 by Mark Wolters

Culture Shocks to Expect When Planning a Trip to Greece

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about planning a trip to Greece. Greece is a popular destination for history buffs, foodies, and sun seekers. With so many things to see in Greece, it’s important to do some research and know a few things ahead of time so you’re not shocked when you arrive!

visit Greece the fun way — Cultural surprises in Greece

ναί (Nee) Means Yes

It’s not uncommon to butcher the Greek language; it’s not an easy one to learn. In most countries, you can at least decipher a few words like yes and no. In Greek, though, yes actually almost sounds like no. So, if you ask if a menu item is good, or if the beach is open, and you hear “nee” that means yes! (oxi or ochi means no)

Purple Tourists

Greece is known for its beautiful beaches, and you may see a lot of “purple” tourists who spend too much time in the sun. Sun poisoning can be real, so make sure you have plenty of sunblock and reapply it as often as needed. It can also be breezy, so you might not feel like you’re getting a sunburn, but rest assured, that sun is strong! Don’t ruin your trip to Greece with a bad burn.

Greek Time

Your concept of time does not apply in Greece. If someone says it will take five minutes, it could take anywhere between 5 minutes and 30 minutes. If you receive a dinner invite, don’t plan to arrive on time or you will be the first ones there! It takes a bit of getting used to, but you can never be late in Greece!

This does not apply to trains and planes, though! Those typically run on time, or as close to “on time” as anywhere else you might travel. Don’t show up an hour late for your flight!

Line Culture

Greeks aren’t really into orderly queues, like some other countries. So, whether you are boarding a plane or waiting to get into an attraction, there will inevitably be a mad rush of chaos as everyone tries to enter at the same time. It can be frustrating when you arrive early to get in line for something, and it all turns to chaos. Just remember, it’s a cultural experience, just like anything else!

Driving in Greece

We do recommend renting a car for some parts of Greece, as you’ll be able to explore a bit more at your own pace. If you’re visiting Greece from the United States, you will need an International Driver’s License in order to rent a car. If you’re coming from the EU, you will not need one. (*Always double-check with the car rental agency for the latest regulations!)

Not surprisingly, driving in Greece can be a bit chaotic. They will zip in and out of the lanes, and pass you on two-lane roads. There are usually pretty good shoulders, so if someone is trying to pass you, just move off the road a bit to give them some room.

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Greece

Greek Hospitality

Most Greek people are so friendly and welcoming. If you try to speak a little bit of Greek, they will be thrilled! Don’t be surprised if you easily make friends and get invited to someone’s home or church. Jocelyn’s family is from Greece, and we’ve made so many friends on our many visits to this country!

Scams in Greece

Given the hospitality of most Greeks, it’s surprising but there are some tourist scams that you need to watch out for when you visit Greece. Most of these issues arise in very touristy places where you will find crowds of visitors.

Nobody is going to give you something for free on the street. Many people might approach and offer you a flower, a bracelet, or a toy, but it’s not going to be free. If you’re visiting with kids, make sure they know not to take any “gifts” from anyone.
Pickpockets are often around the major attractions as well. Use your normal travel awareness, leave the valuables at home, and keep a hand on your wallet at all times when you are in super crowded spots.
You might also see beggars around; it’s up to you whether you give them money, but the Greek government recommends against it as there are social programs in place to help them.
When you use taxis in Greece, make sure they are using the meter rather than just charging you a flat rate.
We’ve seen all the usual tourist scams in Greece: card games on the street, bird poop on your shirt. Watch our travel scams video before you go and you’ll be prepared to fend off any scams!
If someone seems a little too friendly, especially in a bar or nightclub setting, be cautious! Sometimes people are hired on commission to chat up bar patrons and encourage them to spend more money.
Apartment rentals often charge an additional fee for air-conditioning. It’s not a scam, it’s actually fairly common, but it catches a lot of people by surprise, and if you don’t read the fine print of your rental agreement, you might think it’s a scam.

Greek Food

Most of the time, when Americans travel abroad, they have to adjust to smaller meal portions. Not in Greece! The portion sizes are huge, and food is the language of love in Greece, so they just want to keep feeding you more and more. Even in the restaurants, you can plan to share dishes amongst your group; you definitely don’t need an entree for each person.

The food in Greece is phenomenal. Every region has its own specialty, and there are different types of fresh produce each season. Along the coast, you’ll have a lot of seafood, and you’ll also have a lot of grilled meat, including lamb, chicken, and goat. Some of the things you must eat in Greece include:

Moussaka is a layered dish, with eggplant, meat, and bechamel.
Pastitsio is another layered dish, like a Greek version of lasagna, with noodles and meat with a bechamel layer on top.
Dolmades is a bite-sized meat mixture wrapped in grape leaves
- Dolmadakia is similar, but typically with rice instead of meat
Tomato and cucumber salad is a popular item made with fresh produce
Grilled octopus is also delicious and fresh; you can even catch your own and have it grilled up!
Spanakopita is a spinach pie and one of many kinds of savory pies you’ll find in Greece.
Don’t forget about Greek desserts, too! Of course, there’s Baklava, which is a Mediterranean dessert that’s not specific to Greece. Dessert is often yogurt or fruit and the super sweet desserts are often just for the weekends.

When you are eating out in Greece, the flow is a bit different. For starters, dinner is usually around 8:00 or later. In very touristy places, you can get dinner earlier, but Greeks eat very late.

The bread and water they bring to the table when you arrive is not free. They will usually ask if you want bread, which is a sign that it’s not free. Some people might think it’s a scam, but it’s just a cultural difference.

When you ask for the check, they will bring you a digestiv or liquor to signal the end of your meal. When you do finally get your bill, take a second to review it. We’ve noticed small mistakes several times when dining out in Greece. Nothing major, but sometimes there are extra beverages or small charges on there.

Greek Architecture

Of course, the classics are… classics. But you might also notice a lot of buildings in Greece that appear to be unfinished. There are stairwells without railings, or rebar sticking out of the top story of a building. Safety standards are a bit loose here, and in some cases, you don’t have to pay property taxes on unfinished buildings, which is why some are intentionally not finished! If you’re visiting Greece with kids, just use a little bit of extra caution, but otherwise, it shouldn’t impact your trip.

Greek Islands

The Greek Islands are a shock in many ways. They are stunningly beautiful with amazing food, but you probably already knew that. However, what you might now know is that they are insanely crowded in the summer, and dead in the winter. In fact, Crete even gets snow in the winter! It may be tempting to visit the islands in the off-season, but you will find shuttered businesses and cold weather.

The Greek Islands are well worth visiting; just make sure you splurge on a flight or a room on the ferry!

If you’re visiting the Greek Islands, May through September is really the only time to go. You may want to avoid crowds, but a lot of places will close for the seasons. Even the ferries and flights will wind down quite a bit. We visited Santorini in February and it was hard to even find a place to eat dinner each night!

If you can only visit Greece in the winter, then I recommend Crete, as there are larger cities and historic attractions that aren’t quite as seasonal as the beach towns. Of course, the rest of Greece is fine to visit in winter, it’s just the islands and beach towns that are so seasonal.

Ancient Ruins

Besides the beaches and the food, you are coming to Greece for the history. Even though you know there are amazing ancient ruins in Greece, it’s still shocking the first time you visit. It’s not just the well-known ruins; they are everywhere! And the Greeks are incredibly proud of their history and the sites around the country.

Smoking in Greece

Most countries have drastically reduced smoking and do not allow it in public areas. That’s not the case in Greece! Sometimes, it seems as though everyone smokes in Greece. There are ashtrays everywhere, and you’ll definitely have to deal with some cigarette smoke at some point.

Bathrooms in Greece

Like a lot of things in Greece, the plumbing systems can be quite old. If you see a sign in the bathroom warning you not to flush toilet paper, then make sure you are following it. There will be a basket to put your used tp. It takes some getting used to, but some of the pipes just can’t handle paper.

Another shock is that a lot of places will have toilets but no seat covers. Don’t be surprised if you see this!

Destinations in Greece

With so many trips to Greece in our past and future, it’s hard to narrow down the best places to visit in Greece. If it’s your first trip to Greece, these are some of the best destinations that I recommend.

What NOT to Do in Athens

Athens is home to the Acropolis, and the ruins will take your breath away the first time you see them. Athens also has fantastic museums and great tourist infrastructure
Nafplio is the old capital of Greece. It has a beautiful old town right on the water, and a fortress on a rock.
Mystras (near Sparta) is a nice change from other ruins, with Byzantine architecture, so you’re seeing slightly more “modern” architecture than ancient Greece.
Monemvasia is also in the Peloponnese; this unique city is the result of an earthquake that created an island. The only way to get around inside the city is by donkey. This is definitely a unique experience!
Olympia – home of the Olympics and a very historical experience
Oracle of Delphi – the number one day trip from Athens; see where the Oracle was, and there are lots of ruins. From temples, theaters, and mini-olympics\
Vergina – King Philip II (Alexander the Great’s Father) tomb is here – it’s spectacular
Crete – has a lot of history and beaches
Santorini – is touristy but worth it; it’s a city built on the edge of a volcano. This is where you’ll get your postcard island views with white buildings and blue roofs that match the color of the sea.
Rhodes is another island to visit; it has the largest medieval town that is still inhabited, and the fortress is one of the coolest.

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We will be shocked if you don’t fall in love with Greece. It is such a beautiful country, with interesting history, beautiful natural landscapes, amazing food, and friendly people.

Want more travel tips for visiting Greece? Check out these blog posts:

The DON’Ts of Taking the Train in Italy

Posted on May 22, 2024 by Mark Wolters

What NOT to Do When Taking the Trains in Italy

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you take the trains in Italy. Train travel in Italy is the best way to get around, but there are some things you should NOT do along the way.

Don’t Think You Can Visit Italy Without Taking the Train

Driving in Italy can be frustrating. Between the mopeds and the Vespas zipping around, and the unfamiliar traffic patterns, it’s not the most pleasant holiday experience. The train system in Italy is so easy to use; we highly recommend it!

Don’t Expect Your Train to Be on Time

The fast trains in Italy are usually pretty punctual, however the regional and local trains are not always super timely. If the board says “retardo” then your train is delayed. Sometimes it’s just five or ten minutes; when we were traveling to Bolzano, our train was delayed over two hours! Make sure you aren’t planning your schedule so tight that a train delay can ruin your trip! We would rather plan a a longer layover than risk missing our connection. Ten minutes between trains is just too tight!

When you are looking at the timetables, Arrivi is the arrivals board, and Partenze is the departures.

Don’t Forget There are Different Types of Trains

The Freccia are the super-fast trains, and also the most expensive. Regional trains also have a fast version, which is the Regionale Veloce train. The regular Regionale trains will stop in every little village along the way, so they take quite a bit longer.

This means that a regional train that leaves at 9 am might actually arrive at your destination later than the train departing at 10 a.m. You have to check the arrival and departure times, as well as the stops along the way, to ensure you choose the right train in Italy.

Don’t Think All Prices Are Equal

When you buy your train tickets in Italy, you will pay more for faster service. So you can’t just buy “a ticket” to Milan and then hop on any train heading to Milan. Prices vary quite a bit between different options.

If you buy early, you can often get first class tickets for the same price as you would pay for same-day coach class tickets. By planning ahead, you can have a more comfortable ride.

Don’t Be Afraid to Skip the Ticket Window

The ticket window at Italian train stations can often have a long line. If you’re in a rush or already know what you want, just head to one of the kiosks in the station. They have everything in English and they are super easy to use.

However, when you are at the kiosk, don’t accept help from anyone who is not an official employee of the rail line. A common scam in the larger cities in Italy is to “help” tourists by selling them invalid tickets or distracting them while someone else picks their pockets.

Tourist Scams to Avoid in Italy

You can also skip the ticket window by purchasing your train tickets online in advance. You can save a lot of money doing this, and you’ll also be able to take your time to make sure you have the right tickets before you buy! On our last trip to Italy, we saved over 500 Euros by pre-purchasing our train tickets in Italy.

Don’t Forget Seat Reservations

If you have a Eurail Pass, your fare may be covered, but you still have to reserve your seat on the train. The fast trains can, and do, sell out, so make sure you have a seat reserved! Your reservation will have a car number and a seat number, so make sure you board the correct car before finding your seat.

Every once in a while, they may change trains and you might find that two people have booked the same seat. Don’t let it stress you out; it will work out in the end. Definitely don’t lose your cool with the conductors; they are generally very helpful and friendly.

Don’t Forget to Validate Your Train Ticket

Pay attention to other train travelers. If you see a little stamp machine before the train entrance, that’s where you need to validate your ticket. If you board the train without first validating your ticket, it can be problematic.

Six Rules for European Train Travel

Don’t Expect a Lot of Luggage Space

Packing light for your Italy trip is crucial, and train space is just one reason. No matter which Italian train line you are on, from the Freccia to the locals, there is no space for a large suitcase. You also have to be sure you can lift your suitcase above your head, which is another reason to pack light! Getting assistance with your luggage is another time you can be easily scammed!

Sometimes, First Class will have extra space, but don’t count on it!

Don’t Let Your Guard Down

Train stations are a common place for pickpockets, so always be on alert at the station. It’s easy to be distracted by all of the people and not realize you’ve lost your wallet. Getting on and off the city trains is another place to be careful because you are probably already brushing up against people.

Don’t Forget to Potty Before the Train Station

Train Station bathrooms aren’t always free, and they aren’t always clean. Long distance trains will also have bathrooms, but they aren’t the cleanest. It’s a good idea to use the bathroom at your hotel or restaurant before you go to the train station. In any case, it’s a good idea to have small change just in case you do need to pay for the restroom at the train station.

Don’t Forget Food for the Train

Many longer trains will have a restaurant car, but the food is overpriced and mediocre. You’re better off buying food at the train station or before you arrive. Some train stations have some pretty good food options. If you’re traveling from Rome’s Termini Station, there’s a fantastic food market, the Mercato Centrale.

Don’t Overheat on the Train

Some of the regional and local trains do not have air-conditioning, so it can get quite hot in the summer. Make sure you are staying hydrated and wearing clothes that are comfortable for the climate.

Don’t Forget to Look Out the Window

Not only will you see the beautiful countryside of Italy passing outside of your window, you’ll also see some pretty cool historic sites. You’ll see palaces and cathedrals, mountains and coastlines.

Don’t Assume “Centrale” is the Main Train Station

Many Italian cities have multiple train stations, and there is often one called “Centrale.” In Milan and Bari, Centrale IS the main tration, but that’s not always the case. In Florence, you want the Firenze Santa Maria Novella station. In Venice, the station on the island is the Santa Lucia station. Always do your research and make sure you are going to the correct train station.

Don’t Forget to Download the App

The Trenitalia App is very useful. You can purchase tickets, keep your tickets on your phone, and look up different timetables. However, not all trains and train lines are on the app. There are some private trains in Italy that are not listed on the Trenitalia.

Don’t Forget About Baggage Storage

Many Italian train stations have baggage storage, or deposito bagagli. This is a great option if you want to explore a city along your route but don’t want to spend the night. You can arrive in the morning, store your luggage, and depart to your next destination in the afternoon or evening. It’s usually just a few Euros and way easier than lugging your bags around town! There are luggage storage options outside of the train stations, as well.

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Train travel in Italy is easy and cost-effective as long as you do your research and plan ahead. Flights within Italy can also be affordable and much faster, so don’t forget to consider all of your options when traveling in Italy!

Need more travel tips for visiting Italy? Check out these blog posts!

The WORST Part of Holiday Travel

Posted on December 9, 2023December 9, 2023 by Mark Wolters

The Don’ts of Holiday Travel

Ho ho ho, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you travel over the Christmas holidays. Whether you are traveling to be with family, or simply taking advantage of having some extra time off work, there are some things you should NOT do when traveling over Christmas.

Don’t Wait to Make Reservations

The December holidays are a busy time for travel, so don’t wait to book your flights, hotels, or train tickets because you might miss out! Some hotels in popular Christmas destinations will take reservations up to two years in advance, and most flights can be confirmed up to 11 months ahead. This doesn’t just apply to New York City or Munich, your hometown hotels might book up quickly as well, so even if you’re just going to visit your parents, you still might want to plan ahead.

Don’t Expect Deals or Discounts

Since this is peak travel season, there are rarely any discounts or deals on travel over the holidays. If you are normally a bargain hunter when it comes to travel, you may have sticker shock, and the best thing you can do is to plan ahead. Sometimes, you can find cheaper flights by traveling on the actual holiday because most travelers don’t want to spend Christmas on a plane, but don’t count on it.

Don’t Expect Everything to Be Open

Some destinations, like ski resorts, will be “business as usual” over the holidays, but other destinations may be a bit quieter. For example, in the UK even public transportation is closed on Christmas Day. Grocery stores may be closed entirely, or close early, so you may need to plan ahead and make sure you have what you need before the holiday. Don’t assume anything will be open, and if that’s not the case, then you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Don’t Feel Like You Have to Bring Presents With You

Traveling with kids over Christmas can be challenging, because they still want to open presents on Christmas, regardless of where you are. Some years, we’ll take photos of the gifts and wrap the photos, so they still have something to open and then they have new presents when they get back home.

We’ve also celebrated Christmas early, before a trip, or late, when we get home from a trip. Opening gifts after vacation is a nice way to have something to look forward to at the end of your trip.

Don’t Expect European Christmas Markets to Be Open After Christmas

If you’re traveling to Europe to visit the Christmas markets, make sure you check the dates as they vary widely. A lot of the small-town markets close on the 23rd of December, so if you’re traveling between Christmas and New Year’s, you might miss it. Other markets may extend into early January, but make sure you know the dates ahead of time so you don’t arrive at an empty square.

What NOT to Do at European Christmas Markets

That said, you can travel before Christmas and markets are usually open. In Europe, they typically open the first Sunday of Advent, while US markets often open Thanksgiving weekend.

Don’t Forget to Pack Appropriately

We always advocate for traveling light, but winter travel typically requires more gear. Snow boots and parkas take up a lot more room than flip-flops and swimsuits! But even if you are traveling to a cold weather destination, check the forecast right before you leave because winter weather can change quickly. Last Christmas in New York, rather than cold and snow, it was rainy and mild.

Don’t Book Tight Connections

Delays are common this time of year, so give yourself plenty of time if you have connections to make. Weather delays or just general congestion could set you back and you don’t want to miss your connections over the holidays as it can be really hard to rebook if everything is already full. I have even been delayed by someone wrestling with an oversized gift in the overhead compartment of an airplane. An easy way to take the stress out of holiday travel is to book longer layovers.

Don’t Book Late Flights

Early morning flights have fewer delays and cancellations, and more options for rebooking if something does happen. If you’ve got the last flight of the day and something happens to cause a delay, you’re probably going to be stuck at the airport overnight.

Don’t Forget an Emergency Kit if You’re Driving

Holiday travel doesn’t always involve flights or trains; you may just be driving a few hours home for the holidays. If you’re driving, especially in cold climates with snow, you need to make sure you have an emergency bag and extra blankets. Traffic and bad weather can delay you, so make sure you are prepared by stocking your car with cold-weather supplies, plus snacks and drinks.

Top Ten Road Trip Essentials

Don’t Forget to Partake in Local Holiday Traditions

If you’re traveling abroad, or even to a different part of the country you live in, the Christmas traditions could be very different from what you are used to. Whatever the local tradition is, make sure you take time to enjoy it. From New York’s Christmas windows to Germany’s Christmas markets, find out what the locals do. In Japan, they eat Kentucky Fried Chicken!

Don’t Go to Orlando Between Christmas and New Year’s

We normally don’t tell you to avoid destinations altogether, but for this, we make an exception. Because of the school holidays, this is the busiest time to visit the Orlando theme parks. It’s crowded all the time but double-crowded over the holidays. Don’t do it. If you do, don’t say we didn’t warn you!

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The December holidays are a great time to travel, if you are prepared! Don’t let these tips keep you from planning your holiday travel. Want more holiday travel tips? Check out these blog posts!

What NOT to Do When Visiting Polignano a Mare, Italy

Posted on November 7, 2023October 17, 2023 by Mark Wolters

The Don’ts of Polignano a Mare

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you visit Polignano a Mara, Italy. If you are visiting the Puglia region of Italy, this is the beach town that you HAVE to visit! While most travel blogs will tell you the best things to do in Puglia, we want to be sure you know what NOT to do when visiting Polignano a Mare Italy!

Don’t Just Visit the Free Beaches

The free main beach right in town is quite small and rocky. It gets very crowded, so it’s not our favorite beach in Puglia, even though it is scenic. There are plenty of beaches around Puglia to explore and spread out a little bit. If you want a bit of a nicer experience, go to a beach that is not free. Ask at your hotel if they can arrange a beach spot for you.

Don’t Forget Your Sunscreen

You don’t just need sunscreen at the beach; you’ll need it as you explore the town as well. Most of the buildings are white and seem to reflect the sun back at you, so you’re getting sunshine from all directions!

Don’t Think It’s Just a Day Trip from Bari

Bari is another fantastic village in Puglia, and you can visit Polignano a Mare on a day trip from Bari. It’s pretty easy to travel between the two, as the train is less than an hour. But we think Polignano a Mare warrants a few nights of your trip to Puglia. Two to three nights should be sufficient to get a good feel for the area.

Don’t Be Confused By Your Accommodation

A lot of hotels and apartments in Polignano a Mare have a check-in desk that is not located where you are staying. You may need to check in at a central office, and then make your way to your overnight accommodation. It’s part of the adventure, but it’s also a good reason to pack light!

Don’t forget to save a pin of your accommodation location so you can find your way home at the end of the day.

Don’t Miss Out on the Sea Views

A lot of the town is built up on cliffs overlooking the sea. So many of the restaurants and shops have fantastic views! It’s one of the reasons that this area is so popular on Instagram. That said, don’t be surprised if you end up in a lot of photos, especially if you have a table with a view!

Don’t Worry About Finding Great Food

Polignano a Mare is a popular destination for Italian travelers, so there are some really great Italian restaurants. Even in the most touristy areas, they are used to Italian tourists, so all of the food we tried was very authentic.

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Italy

One thing you have to try is a Panino Col Polpi, which is a grilled octopus sandwich. Pescaria has the best, and you’ll find it by the long line outside. But don’t worry, it moves super fast and the panino is totally worth the wait!

Don’t Forget to Make Dinner Reservations

If there is a specific restaurant you want to try for dinner, make sure you have reservations because it can get very busy during peak travel season.

Don’t Forget to Greet the Nonnas

As you roam the streets of Polignano a Mare in the evenings, make sure you look up and give a wave to the Nonnas out on their balconies. They often gather in the evenings to watch the nightlife below.

Don’t Forget to Pay Your Respects to Dominico Modugno

You’ll see references to Volare all over town and may hear the song being played as well. The 1958 hit song was originally recorded by Dominico Modugno, who was born in Polignano a Mare. There’s even a statue dedicated to him in town.

Don’t Be in a Hurry

You are in the most laidback region of Italy, so nobody is in a hurry, and you shouldn’t be either. The people are super friendly, but things take a bit longer than what you might be used to. Just like being on “island time” in the Caribbean, you’re on Puglia time here.

What Not to Do in Italy

The one instance where the locals seem to be in a hurry is when you are trying to practice your Italian. Most people in the service industry speak English, and will immediately switch to English before letting you blunder your way through an Italian sentence. Don’t take it personally.

Don’t Miss Out on Other Attractions

Yes, it’s a beach town and you will spend lots of time at the beach. But there are other things to see in Polignano a Mare besides the beach. The old town area is great for a day of shopping and exploring, and the Chiesa Matrice di Santa Maria Assunta is a beautiful cathedral that is worth touring.

Don’t Skip the Tuk Tuks

When you are getting around Polignano a Mare, many of the taxis are actually little tuk-tuks. They usually hold up to three people, but there are some larger ones around too. It’s a fun way to get to some of the beaches near Polignano a Mare. If you ask for their card, you can reach out to them for a ride back, or if you really like them, you can use them throughout your trip. Just make sure you have WhatsApp on your phone, as that’s the easiest way to communicate.

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Polignano a Mare Italy is a great place to visit if you want a more relaxing vacation, and it’s a great place to stay for exploring the surrounding region of Puglia. Visiting Polignano a Mare Italy is just as beautiful as the Amalfi Coast, but feels a lot less touristy. Need more travel tips for visiting Italy? Check out these blog posts!

The Do’s & Don’ts of Visiting Italy’s Amalfi Coast

Posted on November 4, 2023October 17, 2023 by Mark Wolters

The Dont’s of the Amalfi Coast

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you visit Italy’s Amalfi Coast. It’s arguably one of the most beautiful destinations in Italy, but it’s also one of the most popular destinations in Italy! While most travel blogs will tell you the best things to do along the Amalfi Coast, we want to be sure you know what NOT to do when visiting!

Don’t Just See Amalfi or Positano

There are 13 seaside towns along the Amalfi Coast. Most people know of Amalfi or Positano, but there are several towns where you can stay during your trip. The coastline stretches for 50 kilometers, so there are a lot of different options for choosing the best town along the Amalfi Coast.

When deciding where to stay at the Amalfi Coast, budget will be your main factor. If you want to save a bit of money, you can stay in Salerno, Sorrento, or Naples and visit the Amalfi Coast towns on a day trip.

Don’t Forget to Make Reservations!

If you decide to stay on the Amalfi Coast, you have to book your accommodation pretty far in advance. Even with very expensive prices, hotels and B&Bs fill up quickly.

Restaurants can book up quickly as well, so if there is a certain restaurant you want to try, make sure you have reservations! When you eat out in Italy, tipping is accepted, but not expected. Save your tipping for exceptional service, and only if you want to.

Don’t Puke on the Bus!

There is a bus between all of the villages of the Amalfi Coast, but its unofficial nickname is the “puke bus.” The buses drive along narrow cliffside roads with many switchbacks and tight turns. Additionally, you have hot weather and a crowded public bus, and you’re liable to see someone puke on the bus. I’ve seen a fellow passenger throw up five times out of seven times I’ve ridden the bus. If you’re prone to motion sickness, be prepared or consider hiring a driver.

There is also a ferry from Sorrento, but don’t expect late-night service. The Amalfi Coast ferry service is seasonal and also stops at sunset, so make sure you know the ferry schedule and don’t miss the last ferry back if you are staying in Sorrento!

Don’t Be Afraid to Hire a Driver

There are a lot of reasons to hire a driver to give you a tour of the Amalfi Coast. You can even stay in Naples or Salerno and do a full-day trip to the Amalfi Coast. A private guide & driver will take you to each of the Amalfi Coast towns, and you can enjoy all the limoncello you want without driving or being on a crowded, hot bus.

Driving along the Amalfi Coast can be super stressful, so we don’t recommend it!

Don’t Pass Up the Seafood

Eating seafood along the Amalfi coast is a must! It’s so fresh and delicious; you can get grilled or fried fish, or fish in a pasta dish. Whether it’s a white fish, mussels, or clams, you can’t go wrong with Amalfi Coast seafood.

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Italy

Don’t Skip the Limoncello

After a meal, you will often receive a small shot of limoncello. It’s quite strong and can also be very sweet. It comes from this region and is often served as a digestif. It’s actually the second-most popular liqueur in all of Italy, so you have to try it! (Campari is number one!)

Don’t Expect a Cheap Vacation

The Amalfi Coast is a hugely popular destination between May and September, and it’s not a cheap place to visit. Prices escalate during peak season, and there’s really no way to get around it if you want to visit the Amalfi Coast.

Don’t Pass Up a Chance to Meet Locals

It may seem like everyone on the Amalfi Coast is a tourist, but there are actually some locals who live there and they are pretty cool. Of course, the locals working in the service industry may be a bit rushed for too much conversation, but if you meet them out and about, they are quite friendly.

When you are interacting with servers and hotel staff, don’t bother trying to speak Italian unless you are very fluent. They are super rushed and will switch to English so that things move along more quickly than waiting for you to find the correct Italian words!

Don’t Forget Sun Protection

I’ve seen a lot of sunburned tourists who look pretty miserable, so don’t become one of them! Make sure you pack your sunscreen, hat, and whatever you need to ensure your skin doesn’t get fried in the hot Italian sun. Make sure you stay hydrated and wear good shoes, too!

How to Pick the Best Shoes for Europe

Don’t Miss the Vesuvius Sites as Well

When you visit the Amalfi Coast, don’t miss out on the chance to visit the Vesuvius sites like Pompeii and Herculaneum. It’s very doable as they are about an hour from the Amalfi Coast, so you can book a tour to visit Pompeii or Herculaneum on a day trip.

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I think the Amalfi coastline is one of the most beautiful places in the world, and it’s very popular for that reason! Whether you plan a stay in one of the Amalfi coast towns or visit as a day trip, don’t miss the Amalfi Coast on your next trip to Italy! Need more travel tips for visiting Italy? Check out these blog posts!

What NOT to Do in the Dominican Republic

Posted on October 28, 2023October 3, 2023 by Mark Wolters

The Don’ts of Visiting the Dominican Republic

Hey there fellow travelers! Wondering what to do in the Dominican Republic? Well, we have the do’s and don’ts of visiting this Caribbean Island. Whether you are staying at the all-inclusive resorts at Punta Cana or going for the colonial zone in Santo Domingo there is so much to enjoy and love about the Dominican Republic, but we do need to talk about some of the un-fun stuff too. So here are the don’ts of the Dominican Republic.

Don’t Be in a Hurry

Remember, you’re in the Caribbean, so everyone is on “island time.” Everything moves at a slower pace, and it can take a few days to adjust. It’s a good idea not to wait until you are starving to sit at a restaurant because it will be a while before you get your food. Once you’ve adjusted to island time, it’s pretty relaxing, but the first few days can be frustrating!

This also applies to airport immigration lines and baggage claim. It can take a bit of extra time, so make sure you allow plenty of time at the airport before your flight!

Don’t Get Upset with the Locals

The locals in the Dominican Republic are so friendly, but they are on island time. Don’t get upset with them just because you haven’t adjusted to their culture. We met so many fantastic locals, and they loved sharing their island with us and giving us their favorite recommendations.

The locals here have great pride in their country, and it’s pretty obvious from the moment you land. Enjoy their enthusiasm and their slower pace of life!

Don’t Forget to Speak a Little Spanish

You don’t have to be fluent to get by in the Dominican Republic, but it’s a great sign of respect to learn a few words of Spanish before your trip. Most people in the tourism industry, especially at the all-inclusive resorts, will speak English, but they’ll appreciate the effort if you use “por favor” and “gracias.”

Seven Tips for Learning a Foreign Language

Don’t Take Your Safety for Granted

It’s not a good idea to flash a lot of bling around the Dominican Republic. Leave your expensive jewelry and watches at home. Flashing your wealth, or even just counting your money as you leave the ATM, can make you a target for thieves. Likewise, don’t leave your belongings unattended at the beach or the pool. Use the safe in your hotel room for any valuables.

Don’t Use Public Transportation

In most of our travel guides, we often recommend taking public transportation. However, in the Dominican Republic, we recommend not using public transportation unless you absolutely have to. Taxis and rideshare services are widely available, although taxis are not as cheap as you might expect!

We also don’t recommend driving in the DR. Driving is a bit chaotic and can easily fluster you if you’re not used to it. Unless you are used to high-stress driving, let someone else drive you around.

Whether you are driving or a passenger, brace yourself for the speed bumps. They are huge and you can easily fly out of your seat and hit your head on the ceiling of the car.

Don’t Be Afraid to Explore the Island

Many visitors to the Dominican Republic stay at all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana. They are built so that you never have to leave. However, we recommend going off-property so that you can actually experience a little bit of the culture and history of the area. There are so many cool places to visit in the Dominican Republic, like national parks and colonial cities.

There is so much natural beauty to see here; it’s not just beaches! The highest peak in the Caribbean is Pico Duarte, with a summit over 10,000 feet above sea level! You can go hiking, horseback riding, zip-lining, and much more!

Don’t Worry About Exchanging Currency

The official currency is the Dominican Peso, but they get so many American tourists here that most places will accept U.S. dollars. It is a good idea to have cash on hand for smaller shops and for tipping. Make sure you have smaller bills as you might get change back in Dominican currency. We recommend at least $50 to $100 in single dollar bills for tipping. Credit cards are accepted in most places, though.

The electrical outlets are also the same as in the US so you don’t have to worry about bringing a power adapter.

Don’t Think the Price You See Is The Final Price

Negotiating prices is something people do at the smaller shops and markets in the Dominican Republic. Additionally, there is a sales tax in the Dominican Republic. This is applied to purchases and food, and restaurants will often add a service charge on top of the tax.

That said, it’s a very affordable destination. Aside from your airfare, everything in the Dominican Republic is reasonable. You can eat very well without spending a lot of money, and tours and attractions are also very reasonable.

Don’t Miss Out on Dominican Republic Cuisine

There is a ton of great food in the Dominican Republic. If you’re staying at an all-inclusive resort, you’ll have to search for authentic food, but it’s there. Here are a few traditional Dominican dishes we think you should try!

La Bandera – La Bandera is actually the flag of the Dominican Republic, but it’s also a dish made with red beans, rice, stewed meat, and a salad. It matches the colors and design of the flag.
Sancocho is a stew with up to seven different types of meat. It might feel weird to order a hearty stew in a tropical climate, but it’s delicious!
Chivo is goat meat, and it’s served in a lot of dishes, including Sancocho. It’s really tasty, but watch out for small bones as they sometimes can splinter.
Mangu & Tres Golpes are great breakfast items. Mangu is like a mashed potato made with plantains and mixed with onions and spices. Tres Golpes means the “three hits” and it includes fried cheese, eggs, and fried salami.
Chicharron and Bistec are good meats to have in the Dominican Republic. Chicharron is pork, and you can get some pretty good steak here as well. Salami is also very popular!
The staple of Dominican cuisine is rice and beans. Or beans and rice. They come with pretty much every meal.
Plantains and mofongo are also popular Dominican dishes. Mofongo is similar to mangu but often mixed with meat or seafood for lunch or dinner rather than breakfast. Tostones are sliced and smashed plantains that are fried up like a chip. It’s a very tasty snack or appetizer. Yuca is another popular starch served in a lot of dishes.
The Dominican Republic is on an island, so of course, there is fantastic fresh seafood and shellfish. Pescado con coco is fish in coconut milk; it’s a delicious way to try seafood here.
The fruit in the Dominican Republic is also fantastic! They have fresh fruit year-round and fantastic, fresh juice and smoothies for breakfast every morning.
Empanadas are great snacks to eat on the go; they come in many varieties from sweet to savory. The meat and cheese empanadas make an easy, portable snack. There are empanada stands all over when you go into town.
Pasteles de Hoja is another small snack item. It looks like a tamale but wrapped in plantain leaves rather than corn leaves.
Rum is the most popular kind of alcohol here, and there are always plenty of rum drinks wherever you go. Mama Juana is a rum drink you would try. It’s made with rum, red wine, honey and herbs. It’s pretty strong, so don’t go overboard. (Mama Juana is not to be confused with Marijuana, which is illegal in the Dominican Republic.)
If you want to try a local beer, try Presidente.

Don’t Drink the Tap Water

It is not safe to drink tap water in the Dominican Republic. Stick to bottled water, which is plentiful especially if you stay at a resort. Most of the ice machines have filtered ice, so that’s usually safe to drink, but you can double-check with the hotel or restaurant if you’re not sure.

Don’t Pass Up a Baseball Game

A lot of MLB players come from the Dominican Republic. Alfonso Soriano and Sammy Sosa are just a couple of names you might recognize. Baseball is a major pastime here; from kids playing in the street to minor league games. If there’s a game happening while you’re in town, you won’t regret going!

Don’t Forget Your Beach Supplies

There are dozens of beautiful beaches in the Dominican Republic. Most all-inclusive resorts are located on a beach, but most of the kids’ activities will be at the pool area or in the kid’s club. So make sure you bring your beach toys from home so the kids aren’t running wild driving everyone else crazy. You can buy anything you need at your resort, but you’ll pay a premium.

Likewise, make sure you are packing sunscreen and bug spray for your trip, or you might end up paying triple at your resort. It’s not enough just to bring them; you have to apply and reapply them throughout the day!

Water shoes are also great to have, whether you are on the beach or hiking to waterfalls and swimming holes.

What Not to Do at All-Inclusive Resorts

Don’t Throw Toilet Paper in the Toilet

The plumbing on the island wasn’t built to handle toilet paper or any foreign objects. There will always be a little basket next to the toilet where you should put your toilet paper. These are emptied frequently, so it’s not as gross as it sounds, and it’s pretty common in Latin countries.

Don’t Forget to Fill Out Your Arrival and Departure Forms Ahead of Time

There is paperwork you need to arrive or depart from the Dominican Republic. You’ll save a lot of time and frustration if you fill these out before you get to the airport. You can download them from the internet and save a lot of hassle by doing it in advance.

Don’t Expect a Quiet Experience

Dominicans are a lively bunch, and they love music! There is music everywhere, from the moment you enter the arrivals hall at the airport. It is a lively, boisterous culture!

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

We really enjoyed visiting the Dominican Republic, with a nice mix of all-inclusive resort relaxation and exploring this island nation of diverse landscapes. Interested in more tropical vacation tips? Check out these blog posts!

Biggest Surprises for Tourists to Texas

Posted on October 24, 2023October 3, 2023 by Mark Wolters

Shocks to Expect When Visiting Texas

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about visiting the great state of Texas. This southern state is known for a lot of things; as they say “everything is bigger in Texas!” As with any travel destination, there are many surprises in store for Texas travelers. If you’re thinking about planning a trip to Texas, don’t be surprised at these “shocks.”

Texas Pride

How can you tell someone is from Texas? They’ll tell you! Texans LOVE Texas and have huge pride in their state, their food, their sports teams, and just about anything in Texas. The Texas flag is everywhere, and you can buy just about anything in the shape of the state of Texas: from waffle makers to coffee mugs!

Texas Proportions

You don’t just “visit Texas.” You have to choose where to go in Texas because it’s a huge state! At the widest part of the state, it’s nearly 12 hours to drive from El Paso to Galveston, Houston, or Beaumont. That’s about the same distance it would take to drive from Paris to Vienna, which takes you through at least three countries. 12 hours on a Texas road trip doesn’t even get you out of Texas!

When they say everything is bigger in Texas, they mean it! From serving sizes at Texas restaurants to gas stations and stadiums.

Texas Weather

A lot of retirees move to Texas for the mild winters, but the Texas summers can be brutal! You have heat plus humidity and that can be daunting for sightseeing, but there are also some great beaches in Texas. So, plan accordingly, because Texas weather can vary quite a bit from season to season.

Tornadoes are a real thing in Texas, especially in late spring through summer. Pay attention to tornado watches and warnings, and know what to do in the event of a tornado. (A “tornado watch” means conditions are good for spawning a tornado, while a “warning” means one has actually been spotted.)

Buc-ee’s

You might think you are just pulling into any other gas station to fill up and take a potty break. But you are in for a shock the first time you visit Buc-ee’s. Imagine if Target and a big truck stop had a baby: that is Buc-ee’s. They have amazing food inside, including brisket sliced right before your eyes! You have to try their proprietary snack, Beaver Nuggets. They are also known for having super clean restrooms, so it’s a great pit stop on your Texas road trip!

What NOT to Do in Texas

Texas Food

The food in Texas is shockingly good, and of course, most things come in Texas-sized portions. From BBQ to Tex-Mex to breakfast tacos, the food in Texas will surprise and delight you!

Texas BBQ is fantastic, and you want to get the brisket, which is Texas’ specialty. It will probably ruin you from eating brisket anywhere else, but you have to try it! Pulled pork is not a Texas thing; we’re in cattle country!
Tex Mex is Texas’ own take on Mexican food. It’s different from Mexican food, but it’s still delicious!
Our favorite Texas food has to be the breakfast tacos. They come in all kinds of varieties, with additions like chorizo, cactus, bacon, sausage, and cheese. We tried a lot of breakfast tacos and our favorite was Torchy’s Tacos in Austin. But I don’t think we had a bad breakfast taco in Texas; they were all pretty tasty!

Five Foods You Have to Eat in Texas

Diversity of Texas Landscapes

Texas has a lot of varied landscapes throughout the state. There are deserts, mountains, beaches, hill country, swamp country, and cosmopolitan cities. You can drive a few hours in Texas and have an entirely different experience. That’s why you need a lot of time to really experience the diversity of Texas.

If you can spend two weeks in Texas, we’ve listed some of the best places to visit in Texas:

Galveston is a great best destination in Texas; it’s close to Houston so you can fly in and be on the beach by afternoon. There are 32 miles of beaches in Galveston, as well as many outdoor activities. It’s not just a beach town, as they have a nice historic district, museums, and amusement parks. Learn more at Visit Galveston. Corpus Christi and South Padre Island also have fantastic beaches in Texas.
Houston is just about an hour from Galveston and has a fantastic Museum District. They have a great Children’s Museum and the NASA Space Center you can tour. Visit Houston Texas to start planning!
San Antonio is another worthwhile Texas destination. Of course, there’s the Alamo, but there are actually several missions in San Antonio. There’s also the Riverwalk and tasty Tex-Mex food. San Antonio was even recognized by UNESCO as a City of Gastronomy!
Austin is not just the capital of Texas, but also the Live Music Capital of the World! Visit Austin for a weekend getaway with live music, shopping, and great dining choices.
Fredericksburg is the hub of Texas Hill Country. It started as a place with many German immigrants, and you’ll still see German influences today in the names of some of the landmarks. There are some great museums here, too!
Dallas-Fort Worth is now a sprawling metropolitan area that includes Arlington, Irving, and Plano. Besides the Kennedy Assassination sites, there are tons of fun things to see in Dallas. There’s a lot of money in Dallas, which means the fine arts are well-funded.

Texas Football

Texans love their football. If you’ve seen “Friday Night Lights” or “Varsity Blues” you have an inkling of how big Texas football is. It’s not just the Dallas Cowboys or the Houston Texans; college and high school football is HUGE in Texas.

Friendly Texans (And How to Stay on Their Good Side)

Texans don’t just love their state, they love sharing it! They will gladly tell you what to eat in Texas, and where to go in Texas, along with their own personal tips. Texans are known for being loud and boisterous, but it’s in a friendly way, so we love Texans.

That said, there are a few ways to anger Texans, so heed our warning and don’t be an ugly tourist in Texas! After all, one of their mottos is “Don’t mess with Texas.”

Texans are friendly but stay out of their way on the roads. They love to drive shockingly fast, so get up to speed or get out of the way!
Don’t badmouth Texas! Whether it’s their football teams, their accents, or Bluebell ice cream, don’t diss their favorites. (this includes What-A-Burger and Buc-ee’s too!)
Don’t question whether Texas is part of the South or not. You can’t win no matter which way you lean because Texans both defy and embrace those labels.
It is part of the South, so manners are key! Please, thank you, and holding the door open are just basic common sense in Texas.
Texans love visitors; they don’t necessarily love transplants, so be careful about telling them you want to move to Texas! Especially if you’re from California!
Pretending to “know” Texas when you’ve spent 3 days in Austin might ruffle some feathers. As we’ve mentioned, Texas is pretty diverse and Austin is only one part of the puzzle. (Also, Austin is very different from most other places in Texas!)
Don’t schedule something during football season. Football season includes Friday (high school) Saturday (college) and Sunday (NFL.)

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Don’t let these “shocks” keep you from planning a trip to Texas; it’s full of pleasant surprises. It’s such a diverse state, with beaches, cities, museums, and friendly people! Deciding where to go in Texas can be overwhelming because it’s such a big state, but you’ll have a good time no matter which Texas destination you choose!

Want more tips for traveling in Texas? Check out some of our other blog posts:

The Don’ts of Visiting Punta Cana

Posted on October 21, 2023October 3, 2023 by Mark Wolters

What NOT to do in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Don’t Forget to Arrange Your Airport Transfer in Advance

The arrivals hall at the Punta Cana airport is chaotic and full of taxi drivers yelling to get your attention. It can be overwhelming. If you already have your transport arranged, you can just breeze by all of them straight to your waiting vehicle. Most all-inclusive hotels in Punta Cana will pre-arrange this for you.

Don’t Freak Out at the Airport Lines

After you deplane, you’ll have to go through passport control. The line can be quite long and snakes through several areas, but it moves pretty quickly. This is a good time to remember you are entering the “island time” zone so just take a deep breath and go with the flow. It took us about 40 minutes and the line was ¾ full when we arrived, so that gives you a bit of an idea of what to expect. There is a VIP service where you can pay to skip that line if you are in a hurry.

Don’t Expect a Lot of Hotels that Aren’t All-Inclusive

The majority of resorts are all-inclusive hotels in Punta Cana. If you’ve never tried an all-inclusive resort, you might actually like it, provided you research the resort ahead of time. They can vary quite a bit in terms of price, offering, and audience. In fact, our #1 “don’t” for staying at an all-inclusive resort is: don’t forget to do your research!

What Not to Do at All-Inclusive Resorts

Other tips for all-inclusive resorts:

Don’t expect a lot of authentic local food at the resort. You might have to search for it.
Don’t lose your wristband; it will cost you!
Don’t forget to make dining reservations for some of the nicer places on property. And don’t forget to bring a nice outfit for the nicer restaurants. Some may have a dress code!
Don’t forget your beach supplies, like toys and sunscreen.
Don’t expect Uber or Lyft to be able to access your property.

Lastly, don’t feel bad if you don’t leave your resort. All-inclusive resorts are made for relaxing and if that’s what you want to do on your vacation, then enjoy it! Everyone has a different travel style, and sometimes we all need a few days to lay on the beach!

Don’t Forget to Bring a Lot of Single Dollars

The official currency is the Dominican Peso, but they get so many American tourists here that most places will accept U.S. dollars. Most places in Punta Cana accept credit cards, but It is a good idea to have cash on hand for smaller shops and for tipping. We recommend bringing at least $50 to $100 in single-dollar bills for tipping. (don’t forget to tip!)

Don’t Forget to Barter

Negotiating prices is something people do at the smaller shops and markets in Punta Cana. This includes your excursions, as we’ve seen some people pay twice as much as someone else on the same tour! As long as you use an officially licensed tour company, they’re all pretty much the same.

Don’t Assume All Excursions are Nearby

You will have many excursions to choose from during your trip to Punta Cana. The Sea Aquarium and the zipline are near Punta Cana, but the trip to Saona Island is a 12-hour day. And you only get a couple of hours on the island because it takes a while to get there. Make sure you research all the Punta Cana day trips and be reasonable with the time that you have.

Don’t Drink the Tap Water

Don’t Forget to Chat Up the Locals

The locals are always going to be your best bet for insider intel. Whether you’re looking for hidden beaches or just the best restaurant on property, ask the locals!

Don’t Forget to Speak a Little Spanish

You don’t need to know Spanish to get by in Punta Cana, but it’s a nice sign of respect to learn a few words of Spanish before your trip. Most people in the tourism industry, especially at the all-inclusive resorts, will speak English, but they’ll appreciate the effort if you use “por favor” and “gracias.”

Seven Tips for Learning a Foreign Language

Don’t Forget You’re on Island Time

Don’t Worry About Safety in Punta Cana

One of our don’ts of the Dominican Republic is to keep safety in mind when you are out and about. However, Punta Cana is very tourist-centric, so safety is less of an issue here than in other parts of the Dominican Republic. Of course, still use your usual travel safety smarts, and keep valuables in the safe. Pay attention when you are in town, but for the most part, Punta Cana is pretty safe.

Don’t Forget to Fill Out Your Arrival and Departure Forms Ahead of Time

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We really enjoyed visiting Punta Cana and staying at an all-inclusive resort with various excursions around the island. Interested in planning a trip to Punta Cana or other tropical destinations? Check out these blog posts!