Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you visit Bari, Italy. This port city on the Adriatic Sea is the capital of Italy’s Puglia region. While most travel blogs will tell you the best things to do in Bari Italy, we want to be sure you know what NOT to do when visiting Bari!
Don’t Forget to Pay Respect to St. Nicholas
One of the most popular things to see in Bari is the 11th-century Basilica di San Nicola, which holds the tomb of St. Nicholas. It’s a pilgrimage site and you’ll see them praying at the tomb alongside tourists. The San Sabino cathedral is also beautiful.
Don’t Forget to Buy Orecchiette from the Nonas
Orecchiette comes from Bari and the name means “small ear.” There is a street in Bari, known as Strada delle Orecchiette, where older women set up little tables and sell their fresh handmade pasta. Many people come, take photos with the nonas, but then don’t buy from them! Make sure you buy some of their pasta!
Don’t Forget to Try Focaccia Barese
Another local specialty in Bari is focaccia bread. It’s kind of a fluffy bread to start with, and they put tomatoes and olives in it. It almost looks like a pizza, but it doesn’t have sauce. If you can get it fresh out of the oven, it will change your life! It’s even good reheated, so you can take it back to your apartment and warm it up.
Don’t Miss Out on A Cooking Class in Bari
When you are researching your trip to Bari, you’ll notice that many of the top Bari activities are cooking classes. There’s a reason for that! The food in the Puglia region is fantastic, and if you learn how to make it at home, you can keep those memories from your Bari trip alive!
Don’t Forget Sun Protection
The sun in Bari is strong and it gets super hot. Make sure you have your sunscreen and a hat, plus lightweight clothing that covers your skin. And don’t forget to reapply your sunscreen throughout the day. Don’t let a bad sunburn ruin your trip to Bari!
Don’t Think Pane e Pomodoro is a Sandwich
It sounds like a sandwich, and it translates as bread and tomatoes, but in this case, it’s actually one of the most convenient beaches in Bari. Depending on where you stay in Bari, you can walk to this beach or take the bus. This is the most convenient beach from Bari, but it’s not the best beach. You’ll need to take a day trip to reach some of the best beaches in the region.
Don’t Miss the Norman-Hohenstaufen Castle
This Norman Castle in Bari has been preserved and offers a true glimpse at how Norman fortresses were built. While the inside does not contain many original artifacts, it is used for exhibitions, so you can usually tour the inside as well. When viewing the exterior, take notice of the pillars, which each have a different motif carved into them.
Don’t Feel Pressured to “Do Anything” in Bari
Bari is a great destination for relaxing. It’s a great town to just walk around. Old Town and the old walls are great for wandering, the piazzas are great for relaxing with a drink and a snack. The piazzas come alive in the evenings, with music and lights.
Don’t Be Lax with Safety in Bari
Bari has a reputation for theft. It’s been cleaned up a lot, but it’s still a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and not be careless with your belongings. We didn’t feel in any danger when we visited Bari, but we were also cautious with our wallets and did not wear flashy watches or jewelry. These are good tips no matter where you travel.
When deciding where to stay in Bari, we recommend staying in Bari Vecchia, or Old Town. This neighborhood is very centrally located, so you won’t have to travel far to see the best sites in Bari. There are tons of small alleys filled with sidewalk cafes and bars. Don’t be afraid to venture down some of these alleyways!
There are tons of apartment rentals in the area, and we wouldn’t stay anywhere else. Just don’t forget to ask where the fuse box is in your rental; the grid in Bari is old, and it’s pretty common to lose power temporarily.
The beaches of Puglia can be crowded, so finding a spot can be difficult. You will probably end up paying for a beach chair and umbrella. It’s worth it, just know ahead of time that your beach day won’t be totally free.
Don’t Shy Away from the Locals
The locals in this region are awesome. They don’t see as many tourists, so they are super friendly. This is a great place to practice the Italian language because they are patient and will let you fumble through the words. It’s also a great place to study abroad. Eye contact and a smile are all you need to meet the locals; it goes a long way.
Don’t Miss These Day Trips from Bari
The best way to plan a Puglia road trip is to fly into Bari, rent a car there, and then drive to your destinations. At the end of your trip, return the car to the Bari airport and enjoy Bari using public transportation as you really don’t need a car to enjoy Bari.
Matera is one of the oldest cities in Europe. Many of the original homes were carved into the rocks. You can tour some of these cliff dwellings but be prepared for a lot of steps and uneven pavement. It’s really beautiful, especially at dusk when the lights come on. Matera is about an hour from Bari, whether you are driving or riding the bus. There’s also a train, but that takes quite a bit longer.
Alberobello is best known for the trulli houses with cone-shaped roofs; they look like little bee hives all over town. You can actually stay in one of these cave houses or in the newer part of town, but it’s also very doable on a day trip.
Polignano a Mari has the best beaches in the area; the beach in town fills up quickly, but there are many beaches just outside of town. Your hotel can pre-arrange your beach chair and umbrella rental so it’s ready for you when you arrive. This area is about 45 minutes from Bari on the train.
Monopoli is a great combination of beaches and history; it’s less than an hour from Bari, so this is a great day trip if you don’t have a ton of time. You’ll see a little bit of everything.
Ostuni is another white-walled city and a beautiful day trip from Bari. It’s just 90 minutes by train from Bari.
The Castellana Caves are more of an outdoor adventure day trip from Bari. The caves are only entered with a tour guide, and there are English tours daily at 11 and 4. It’s one of the biggest cave systems in the world, and the longer the tour, the more you will see.
Bari 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 Bari is a nice change of pace from other more touristy destinations in Italy. Need more travel tips for visiting Italy? Check out these blog posts!
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you visit Wisconsin. While many travel blogs will tell you all the fun things to see in Wisconsin, we want to be sure you know about the things you should NOT do when you plan a Wisconsin trip.
Don’t Miss Out on Wisconsin Food
Wisconsin is known as America’s Dairyland, and the residents are lovingly known as cheeseheads. So that gives you a hint of what the state is known for. If you are lactose intolerant, I’m sorry because you are going to miss out on some of the best Wisconsin food!
When you visit Wisconsin, these are some of the foods you have to try!
Cheese curds – they can be eaten plain, deep-fried or in poutine (the good ones squeak when you eat them!)
Beer cheese soup is also a popular Wisconsin dish, combining two of the state’s most popular products. You might also see beer cheese on a burger – get it, it’s delicious!
Maple syrup is also made in Wisconsin. If you get local butter and local syrup, it’s better than the pancake it’s served on!
Bratwurst is another Wisconsin staple; if you drive in from Chicago, you’ll see the Brat Stop and the Cheese Castle shortly after you arrive in Wisconsin
Frozen custard in Wisconsin is delicious! You might even have a Culver’s near you where you can try this tasty treat. (Try their butter burger too, yum!)
Cream puffs are another tasty dessert you might see in Wisconsin
Cranberries are grown in Wisconsin, so you’ll see a lot of fresh cranberry products.
You’ll see a lot of Scandinavian influence in Wisconsin, including in the food.
Norwegian meatballs are a larger version of Swedish meatballs
Swedish pancakes are thin like a crepe, often served with lingonberry sauce
Danish Kringle is a pastry similar to a coffee cake, that is baked in a large circle. They freeze really well, so it’s a nice souvenir to take home.
Fish Fry Friday is a huge Wisconsin tradition. You’ll see churches, event centers, bars, and restaurants all advertising their Friday fish fry. The tradition started with Lent, a religious holiday when Catholics abstain from meat on Fridays. There’s also an abundance of fish in Wisconsin, particularly walleye. The tradition continues today with fish fries throughout the state; stopping at a fish fry is a great way to meet locals.
Wisconsin beer is also a must! The Major League Baseball team is the Milwaukee Brewers, so beer brewing is a major part of Wisconsin history. Miller, Schlitz, Pabst, and Leinenkugels all come from Wisconsin. I rate Wisconsin as one of the best states for beer. There are dozens of craft breweries in Wisconsin and a lot of fantastic beer that you can’t get outside of Wisconsin. Every time we visit Wisconsin, I stock up on New Glarus Brewing Company’s Spotted Cow; it’s only available in Wisconsin.
If you prefer cocktails, the Wisconsin drink is a Brandy Old Fashioned. Typically, an Old Fashioned is made with whiskey, but in Wisconsin, they use Brandy so it’s even sweeter.
In Wisconsin, it’s not only what you eat, but where you eat. The best food in Wisconsin is found at the bars and the supper clubs. This is where you’ll find the best version of these Wisconsin specialties. Supper clubs are totally a Wisconsin thing; you have to check one out during your trip!
Don’t Forget to Engage the Locals
People in Wisconsin are super friendly, so be sure to ask them the best way to get where you are going. Or maybe you want to know the best supper club or custard shop. The locals love sharing their favorite spots, so don’t miss out on the best insider knowledge. The key to getting along with the locals is to be friendly. If you are friendly, they will be friendly right back. That also means waving if somebody lets you cut in while driving!
If you’re from Illinois, you might hear FIB tossed around. It doesn’t mean Friendly Illinois Buddies! There is a not-always-friendly rivalry between Wisconsin and Illinois, and FIBs are F@#$% Illinois B#$%^ – we’ll let you fill in the blanks on that one!
This is the Midwest; people are friendly and chatty. So, it’s not that the service is bad, but it’s slow because the servers and customers like to chit-chat. Don’t be the guy from Illinois who is impatient and demanding service. Take the time to slow down and enjoy a calmer pace.
Don’t Underestimate the Size of Wisconsin
If you are planning a trip to Wisconsin, make sure you are realistic about how much ground you can cover. It is over five hours to drive from the south of Wisconsin to the north. And don’t always trust Google Maps to properly calculate the time or distance to your next destination.
Don’t Think Water Parks Are Just for Summer
Wisconsin Dells used to be a summer resort area known for huge water parks. At some point in recent history, they started building indoor water parks, so now the Dells are a year-round destination. There’s Kalahari, Great Wolf Lodge, Mt. Olympus, and many more! Many of these parks have on-site lodging and dining, so you don’t ever have to leave the property.
Don’t Miss Door County
Door County is the favorite weekend getaway for Wisconsin residents. It’s the little thumb-like peninsula that sticks out into Lake Michigan. There are over 300 miles of shoreline, with cute little resort towns all along the peninsula. When you talk to the locals, they all have their favorite town to recommend, whether it’s Fish Creek, Sister Bay, or Washington Island.
Don’t Hit a Deer!
The Milwaukee NBA team is called the Bucks for a reason. There are a LOT of deer in Wisconsin. It can be hard to avoid deer, but the best you can do is pay attention and obey the speed limits, especially at night!
Don’t Worry if You Don’t Speak Wisconsinese
This is still the United States, but they seem to have their own vocabulary in Wisconsin, and they definitely have an accent. Some strange words you might hear in Wisconsin include:
Bubbler: a drinking fountain
Stop-and-Go light: a traffic light
Ope: the Wisconsin “oops”
Don’t Think Kwik Trip is Just a Gas Station
Kwik Trip is like the Bucees of the North. Yes, it’s a gas station. But they sell everything! I had mashed potatoes and gravy with turkey from a Kwik Trip! It’s part convenience store, part grocery store, part gas station.
Don’t Trust the Weather in Wisconsin
Wisconsin weather can be all over the place. Especially if you are near Lake Michigan, as the lake sometimes makes its own weather. Summer is generally hot and humid, and winter is typically pretty cold and snowy. Spring and fall weather are unpredictable, so it’s best to be prepared for anything. And don’t forget the bug spray in the summer months – the bugs here are thirsty!
Don’t Forget that Orange is the State Color of Wisconsin
Whether it’s blaze orange during hunting season or orange traffic cones for road construction, there’s orange everywhere in Wisconsin! If you do go hiking in Wisconsin, make sure you know if it’s hunting season and wear blaze orange if it is.
The fall colors are pretty spectacular, as well!
Don’t Make Plans During a Packers Game
The state practically shuts down when the Packers are playing. If you get a chance to go to a Packers game, don’t miss it! It’s super fun. Just know that if you’re not at the game or watching the game on TV, everyone else probably is.
Don’t Pass Up a Trip to “the Lake”
Minnesota may be the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” but Wisconsin has around 15,000 lakes! Every Wisconsin family has their favorite lake they go to in the summer. If someone from Wisconsin invites you to “the lake” don’t pass it up! Whether it’s boating in the summer or ice fishing in the winter, they love their lakes in Wisconsin. (Just don’t be surprised if you can’t pronounce the names of the lakes!)
Don’t be surprised if you fall in love with Wisconsin! Between the food, the friendly people, and the beautiful lakes, it’s a great state to visit! We visit often and there are always new reasons to plan a Wisconsin trip! Want more USA travel tips? Check out some of our other blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about visiting Northern Ireland, which is a bit different from visiting Ireland or other parts of the United Kingdom. Northern Ireland does not have as many tourists as Ireland, so we wanted to share our tips for visiting and the things you should know before you plan a trip to Northern Ireland.
What to Call It
Northern Ireland is NOT Ireland, so calling it Northern Ireland is best. However, you will hear people call it Ulster, or Six Counties. Different names have different connotations, so as a tourist, stick to calling it Northern Ireland.
Safety in Northern Ireland
If you’re over 40, you probably only ever heard about the turbulent and dangerous times of The Troubles. From the late 60s through the late 90s, Northern Ireland was a dangerous place, with lots of bombings and assassinations. The Good Friday Agreement ended the Troubles in 1998, and now Northern Ireland is the safest place to visit in the United Kingdom! Using our usual travel smarts, we’ve felt super safe and comfortable visiting Northern Ireland with our kids.
I do recommend avoiding any of the marches that are typically held in June and July. This is known as Marching Season, and it’s not inherently dangerous, but as a tourist, you may feel uncomfortable, so just avoid those areas during a march.
Crossing the street may be your most dangerous activity in Northern Ireland if you forget to look to the right!
Northern Ireland Locals
We found the locals in Northern Ireland to be super, super friendly. They love to share their favorite destinations, routes, and any other Northern Ireland travel tips. Just don’t bring up religion or politics; those are hot-button issues and as a foreign tourist, it’s best to just stay out of it. Remember, if a local buys you a drink, the next round is on you!
Getting around Northern Ireland is super easy! I highly recommend renting a car so you can get out and explore beyond the cities. You can travel between Ireland and Northern Ireland easily as well with a rental car. The roads are a bit better in Northern Ireland than in the Republic and gas is slightly cheaper, although still fairly expensive. This is the best way to see all the castles and the coastline. Make sure you get a GPS!
They do drive on the left, and a lot of cars still have manual transmissions i.e. stick shift, so if you’re not comfortable with that, don’t worry. You can still get around on buses and trains. If you’re staying in Belfast, use the Great Victoria Street station, rather than Belfast Central Station. Cabs and ride-share apps are also easy to use in larger cities like Belfast.
There are also some Belfast tours and Northern Ireland tours to check out; they will drive you around and give you some insight and details!
Getting to Northern Ireland
If you are flying into Northern Ireland, the main option is the Belfast Airport. You can also fly into Dublin and drive from there. It’s about two hours to drive from Dublin to Belfast, and only about an hour before you cross into Northern Ireland. If you are coming from the United States, you’ll find flights to Dublin for about half of what you would pay to fly to Belfast. You can even get a bus or train from Dublin to Belfast if you don’t want to drive.
What to Eat in Northern Ireland
A lot of the meals in Northern Ireland are the same UK staples you would expect, like fish and chips, sausage rolls, and meat pies. However, there are a few unique dishes to eat in Northern Ireland, many of which include potatoes, of course!
The Ulster Fry is their version of the English breakfast, with the addition of soda bread and potato bread, which are also called potato farls.
Soda bread with Irish butter is delicious! (there’s a reason we buy Irish butter in the States!)
Champ is mashed potatoes with scallions and usually lots of butter.
Colcannon is another variation on mashed potatoes, with cabbage or kale mixed in.
Irish stew is made with lamb or beef in a hearty stew, with potatoes and vegetables. There are lots of soups and stews to warm you up on a cold day!
If you want a filling meal, try the lamb shank.
The seafood here is fantastic. Oysters, lobsters, salmon, and mussels are all really good seafood to try in Northern Ireland. Jocelyn’s favorite is the Irish oysters.
Pies or pasties are a great meal on the go; it’s like a pot pie with meat and veggies.
Barmbrack cake isn’t really a cake, but more like bread with dried fruit. It’s like fruitcake, but way better!
Fifteens is a dessert made up of lots of ingredients and different varieties, like marshmallows and coconut.
Yellowman is sold at fairs and festivals. It’s a chewy toffee that looks a bit like a honeycomb. It comes broken up into pieces like peanut brittle and makes a great souvenir to take home.
Pubs and restaurants alike have great food and friendly service. While there, you may want to sample local beverages as well while you are here. Whiskey from Bushmills is a good choice, and you can even visit the Old Bushmills Distillery along the northern coast.
Things to See in Northern Ireland
Belfast is the capital city and you should definitely include Belfast in your Northern Ireland itinerary.
Giant’s Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and my favorite place to go in Northern Ireland. The Coastal Causeway to get there is also fantastic!
Londonderry, or Derry, is another fun city to visit in Northern Ireland.
So much of Northern Ireland is surrounded by beautiful nature, so make sure you bring good walking or hiking shoes so you can fully explore the mountains and the castle grounds. You’ll also want an umbrella or rain jacket, as rain showers are frequent and can often come out of nowhere.
Where to Stay in Northern Ireland
What’s cool about visiting Northern Ireland is that you will have a lot of choices for accommodation. From hotels to bed and breakfast inns, you’ll find plenty of Northern Ireland accommodations. There are plenty of hostels, too! Northern Ireland is a very affordable destination; it’s nowhere near as expensive as visiting London or Dublin or other parts of the United Kingdom.
In the smaller villages, we like to stay in a local inn, which usually has a restaurant and lodging. Northern Ireland is becoming a popular weekend destination for Europeans, so be sure to book your weekend accommodations in advance.
What is the Difference Between Ireland and Northern Ireland?
Ireland and Northern Ireland are two separate countries and have been since 1921. Of course, a shared history means there are some similarities, but there are also a lot of differences, too. Many travelers wonder if it’s worth visiting both, and of course, we think it is absolutely worth visiting Northern Ireland and Ireland. So you can see for yourselves the differences!
The currency is different in each country. Northern Ireland uses the British Pound, while Ireland uses the Euro. Fortunately, Credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are easy to find as well.
Ireland is part of the European Union, but Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom. Even so, there are not any border formalities to deal with. You won’t get a passport stamp if you cross from Ireland into Northern Ireland or vice versa. Visa rules still apply, so do your research ahead of time!
The Republic of Ireland is much larger. Northern Ireland has around 1.8 million people, while the Republic has 4.8 million. Geographically, the Republic is also much larger. The entire island isn’t super big, so you can still see a lot of both countries in a one or two-week vacation.
The accent between the two countries is also different. Most Americans are familiar with the usual Irish accent from movies and TV. However, the Northern Irish accent is very different. It may take you a bit longer to acclimate to the accent in Northern Ireland.
Both capital cities (Dublin and Belfast) are worth visiting and have many attractions to see during your trip. Dublin is much more expensive than Belfast, though!
While both countries drive on the left, the signs in Ireland are in kilometers, but Northern Ireland uses miles to measure distances. This is why a GPS is helpful; it will calculate the travel time for you.
Both countries use the same electrical plugs as Great Britain; the one with three flat prongs. Additionally, WiFi is widely available in both countries, but you may lose service or not have data when you are driving around the countryside.
Northern Ireland is well worth visiting! The people are amazing, the food is hearty, and the landscapes are stunning. Need more travel tips for the United Kingdom? Check out these blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do on a trip to Aruba. This Caribbean island is part of the Dutch Antilles, which is part of the Netherlands. While many travel blogs will tell you all the fun things to see in Aruba, we want to be sure you know about the things you should NOT do when you plan an Aruba vacation.
Don’t Take the Dutch Part Too Seriously
Aruba is a sovereign country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The residents are typically polyglots who speak Papiamento, which is the local language, as well as Dutch. Being such a popular tourist destination, you’ll also hear English, Spanish, Portuguese, and other languages. One major difference for travelers is that things that are legal in the Netherlands are not necessarily legal in Aruba, including marijuana.
Don’t Be in a Hurry
Remember, you’re in the Caribbean, not in the Netherlands. 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 to not wait until you are starving to sit down 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 the airport in Aruba. If you are returning to the United States, you’ll clear customs in Aruba rather than when you land. It can take a bit of extra time, so make sure you allow plenty of time at the airport before your flight!
Don’t Worry About Weather in Aruba
Many Caribbean islands have a rainy season and of course, hurricane season, but Aruba is a desert island. It’s actually very dry and doesn’t get that much rain. It’s located just outside of the hurricane belt, so Aruba doesn’t see hurricanes very often. This makes Aruba a great destination any time of year.
Don’t Worry About Aggressive Touts
A lot of tropical destinations, especially beaches, feature a lot of aggressive touts trying to sell you souvenirs. Aruba still has them, but they’re a lot more laid back than in other places we have visited. Once you say no, they will move on or just have a friendly chat with you, but you won’t feel pressured to give in to them.
Don’t Forget Your Sunblock!
The sun is strong in Aruba! Aruba is pretty close to the equator, so it’s sunny almost every day. Even with a hat and SPF50, I still got burned on my face! If you’re out on the water, the sun reflects back up off the water, so you have to apply and reapply often! Of course, you’ll pay more for sunscreen in Aruba, so bring your own from home.
Don’t Forget to Stay Hydrated
Because Aruba is dry and not as humid, you might not feel like you are sweating as much as you are. But it’s important to stay super hydrated because the sun will zap all of your hydration if you aren’t careful. Fortunately, the tap water in Aruba is safe to drink, so bring your water bottles and keep them refilled!
Travel pro tip: Beer and rum will not hydrate you; you need water!
Don’t Just Take a Palapa
Palapas are the little thatched roof huts all over the beach. They are great for enjoying the beach but having some shade from the sun. However, they are not free! You need to reserve them with the hotel or look for an attendant nearby and you can ask if there is one available. They are nice to have and worth the splurge to get out of the sun!
Don’t Worry About Exchanging Money
In Aruba, the official currency is the Aruban Guilder, but they accept US Dollars everywhere. You might get change back in the local currency, but you can spend your dollars wherever you go. And spend you will!
Don’t Have a Heart Attack When You See Aruba Prices
Aruba is expensive, especially when you are going out to eat. Remember, you’re on an island so most things have to be shipped in. And, Aruba is an extremely popular year-round tourist destination, so there’s no high or low season. It’s expensive year-round. For our family of four, dinner was typically around $200 and that’s not with a bunch of wine or cocktails. Tipping in Aruba is also customary, so that is another expense to account for.
If you’re visiting Aruba on a budget, consider Aruba accommodations that have a kitchen so you can cook meals rather than eat out. There are mini-marts all over the island so you can at least pick up snacks and drinks to save you a little bit of money. If your hotel includes breakfast, fill up and skip lunch for an early dinner.
Aruba restaurants do not stay open all hours. Many close between lunch and dinner, so between 3:00 and 5:00, you might find that a lot of restaurants have closed. There are fast food restaurants that are always open if you are hungry and find most of the restaurants closed. However, you’re going to want to enjoy at least one nice dinner seated outside looking at the beach.
Don’t Miss Sunset
Aruba sunsets are spectacular, so make sure you catch at least one during your Aruba vacation! Even our boys commented on how beautiful the Aruba sunsets are!
Don’t Miss the Rest of the Island
Most Aruba visitors stay in the high-rise hotels in the tourist district or at the smaller resorts in Eagle Beach. But there’s actually a lot to see outside of these areas, so we highly recommend renting a car to see Aruba. Outside of the beaches and resorts, there are a few things to see in Aruba:
The California Lighthouse has a great observation deck with amazing views, although I don’t recommend it if you are claustrophobic or scared of heights.
The Aruba Donkey Sanctuary is a fun stop where you can visit with donkeys and learn about their role in the island culture.
The Aruba Ostrich Farm offers guided tours every day, with the chance to interact and learn about these animals.
The East side of the island has rougher beaches, but you can visit the Natural Bridge here. East side beaches are not recommended for swimming or watersports, especially if you have kids. However, it’s great for sightseeing.
Arikok National Park is a beautiful National Park with hiking trails and cave paintings.
Don’t Think You Have to Take Tours
If you want to explore Aruba, it’s very easy to rent a car and drive. There are sightseeing tours in Aruba, but we prefer to go at our own pace, so we rented a car. The roads are good and people are friendly if you need directions. Just make sure you rent your car ahead of time, as there is a limited supply. We had to go to three car rental counters before we could get a car.
If you can visit during Carnival, it’s a huge party in Aruba. Similar to Mardi Gras festivities, Carnival in Aruba kicks off after the new year and lasts through Lent.
Don’t Take the Coral
Aruba is surrounded by coral reefs, and you’ll see a lot of coral washed up on the shore. But don’t take it home; it’s part of the ecosystem and should be left on the beach.
Don’t Forget to Check the Cruise Schedule
If you plan on spending any time in town, check the cruise schedule ahead of time and try to avoid those days, especially if there are two ships in port on the same day. Oranjestad can see an extra 10,000 tourists when there are two cruise ships in town. Save yourself the frustration and go on a different day!
Don’t be surprised if you fall in love with Aruba! We found it to be a super safe family destination, with fantastic food, beaches, and things to see. Want more Caribbean travel tips? Check out some of our other blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about travel scams you might run into when visiting Italy. Italy tourist attractions receive a lot of international tourists all the time, so naturally, there are scammers who are going to try to take advantage of those tourists. Visiting Italy is typically pretty safe, but there are a few things worth mentioning so you can stay one step ahead of the scammers.
Free Gifts or Found Items
This is one of the most common scams in Italy. A stranger will approach you with something free, like a flower or a bracelet, or they might say you dropped something and try to return “your” item to you. Once you accept the item, they will demand money from you. The best way to avoid these scams is to just say “No Thank You / No Grazie” to any stranger approaching you on the street. Then just keep walking, don’t stop to explain yourself.
If you are taking the trains in Italy, you will need to purchase tickets. The train stations have easy-to-use kiosks with multiple languages, but it might take you a minute to sort out which ticket you need. Oftentimes, someone will approach you and offer to help. They may offer to buy the ticket for you and take your money, or they may also be scoping out your luggage and distracting you. Again, you just have to say “No Grazie” and then move on.
Petition Scams
We see this in cities all over the world. A nice-looking young person will approach you with a clipboard and offer you the chance to help save the world. They will tug at your heartstrings to save sea turtles or whales. Don’t feel like a bad person by turning them down. You’re in a foreign country; your vote doesn’t matter. So most likely, they are scouting you out or actively picking your pockets while you are distracted and signing the “petition.”
Pickpockets
Pickpockets are a real problem in Italy, especially in crowded areas like the top Italy tourist attractions or public transportation. Yes, even in the Vatican under the eyes of the Pope, there are people who shall dare to steal! Not only should your valuables stay at home or in your hotel safe, but you should also take extra precautions to avoid being targeted. Money belts and front pockets are the best options for keeping your cash and cards safe.
Beggars
You might also see a lot of beggars in Italy, especially in the larger cities. You’ll see grandmothers, mothers with young children, and even children themselves begging for money. These people may be poor and they may actually need money, but giving to them is not helpful in the long run. This is especially detrimental to children who may be pulled from school to make money begging instead. If you show any interest, you may be harassed for quite some time, so just keep your head down and keep walking.
“The Spill”
Another Italian tourist scam is the accidental spill. Someone may bump into you and “accidentally” spill something on your shirt. Or they might try to kindly point out that a bird has pooped on you. Then, they will try to help you remove the spill or poop. They are attempting to distract you so their accomplice can pick your pockets. If someone approaches you to wipe something off you, just step back and say no thanks.
Receipt Checkers
Some businesses may be monitored by an official who asks patrons for receipts as they exit. This is to ensure the businesses are paying their taxes, so there’s nothing needed from you. We have heard that some people may impersonate an official, ask for receipts and then demand money as a fee. This is a scam; the true purpose of gathering receipts is to ensure the business is above board; there’s no reason a patron would ever be asked to pay a fine.
Price Gouging & Fakes
These aren’t necessarily scams, but Italian tourist attractions that cost way more than they should! For example, the gondola rides in Venice or the carriage rides in Rome. These things are insanely expensive, so while you’re not actually being robbed, the price tag feels like highway robbery. Before you jump in, make sure you are clear on the price.
You might also see characters dressed like ancient Romans in the street posing for photos with tourists. If you’re visiting Italy with kids, they’ll have your kid begging for a photo opportunity and then they’ll expect money in return. If you say no, then you’ve got an upset kid. It’s not a scam per se, but it’s going to cost you money so be prepared for that!
Additionally, those guys selling Louis Vuitton on the street? Those are definitely fakes, so don’t think you’re going to get a deal on an authentic Italian leather handbag!
Hopefully, by discussing these travel scams and rip-offs, we can help you avoid becoming a victim during your Italy vacation. The majority of Italians are quite nice and helpful, and the police are used to the scams, so they can help you get the proper paperwork for claims and things. Hopefully, that won’t be needed, though! Need more travel tips for visiting Italy? Check out these blog posts!
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about taking a European cruise. You’ll most often find river cruises in Europe or small-ship coastal cruises like the Croatia cruise I took along the Dalmatian coast. The huge ocean liners are also becoming more popular in Europe, but we’re focusing on the smaller ships sailing in Europe. As you know, we like to share a realistic picture of our travel destinations, so you’re getting the best and the worst about taking a European cruise.
Best of Cruising in Europe:
Turn Key Traveling
For those of us used to planning our own travel itineraries, a European cruise is so refreshing because everything is planned for you. You don’t have to worry and you barely have to think! Choosing which cruise may be tough, but once you’ve decided, they handle everything else. No deciding between restaurants and hotels. They can even bundle your airfare if you don’t feel like shopping for flights!
Port Locations
Unlike major cruise ships, the smaller European cruises often dock right in town. So, many times you can just walk off the ship and start exploring. You won’t have to board a bus or a train to get to the good stuff. If your ship is docked overnight, you can skip the cruise dinner and walk into town for a local experience. You also get a nice, close view of the shore as you pass by. Some of my favorite moments were just enjoying a beer on the deck and watching activities on the shore.
Finding New (to you) Towns
On these smaller cruises, you really get to niche down and explore some areas you might never have visited on your own. A lot of the European river cruises have a theme, like wine, castles, or Christmas markets. When the ships relocate overnight, you get to cover a lot more ground than a typical vacation itinerary. The downside is that you’re going to have limited time to visit each town, but it’s perfect for seeing which towns you’d like to return to on your next trip.
Laid Back Atmosphere and Relaxed Attitudes
My experience with the European cruise is that it was much more laid back and relaxed. The passengers are typically older than on a Caribbean cruise, so you don’t have the spring break atmosphere, and many European river cruises don’t even allow passengers under 18. You won’t find casinos and ice skating rinks and water parks on board, so you really do feel like you can kick back and relax when the ship is moving. Part of this, too, goes back to Love #1 and not having to worry about catching trains and buses and packing up your luggage every time you move to a new city.
The People You Meet
It’s fun being thrown together with like-minded travelers and the relaxed atmosphere helps everyone get along so much better. With the smaller ship size, you also have a better opportunity to get to know the staff. These cruises are so targeted, that you will probably have a lot in common with your fellow passengers. My parents have made friends on all their cruises and they end up planning future travel with their cruise friends.
Worst of Cruising in Europe:
Lack of Independence
We tend to be independent travelers, and we know a lot of our readers are as well. So giving up that independence to go on a cruise is probably the biggest downside for us. You don’t set the schedule; your schedule is set for you. Meals and excursions are at set times, so if you prefer a more leisurely start to your day, you might not like it. However, the schedules are set to maximize what you can see in each port, so you really can pack a lot into your itinerary.
Additionally, these smaller boats will often wait for late passengers, unlike the major cruise ships. So, if you have a few passengers who are constantly late reboarding the ship, you’re going to get frustrated that the entire ship is affected.
Excursion Selection
If you’re used to the larger cruise ships, you know they offer a ton of shore excursions at each port. European cruises tend to have fewer options for excursions, and they can be quite pricey. You don’t have to do the excursions and tours, so deciding which ones to take is going to take up some of your planning time before you leave.
Walking City Tours
Nearly every port will offer a walking city tour as the excursion. If you sign up for these every day, they can get a bit tedious. Spend some time thinking about which cities you want a tour guide for, and which you prefer to explore on your own. Maybe alternate days of the walking tours and choose other excursions on the alternate days, if there are other options available.
Cruise ships are known for having cramped quarters. The cabins are quite small, with very limited storage space, This means limited electrical outlets as well. Make sure you pack light so you aren’t tripping over your belongings every time you stand up. The cruise line will often provide a packing list for guidance. Think of your room as a place to sleep, and get to know the common areas of the ship. You can relax outdoors and watch the scenery float by.
Oftentimes, you will be assigned a table for dinner and you’re often seated with the same people for the entire trip. If you get seated with a fun group, then it’s great and you will have new friends for the duration of your trip. But if you don’t get a great table, you are stuck with those people for the duration.
I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed my Croatia cruise along the Dalmatian Coast. Granted, I was the youngest on the ship by 20 years, but it was a really nice change of pace from our usual travel style. And the food was fantastic! Looking for more travel tips?
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do on your Madrid vacation. I’ve been to Madrid many times and always enjoy returning to Spain’s capital city. While many travel blogs will tell you all the fun things to do in Madrid, we want to be sure you know about the things you should NOT do when you plan a Madrid vacation.
Don’t Expect a Lot of English
Even though Madrid is a very popular tourist destination, not everyone here speaks English. Even in tourism. Of course, you can hire English-speaking guides, but it’s very helpful to learn a little bit of Spanish before you go. Even if you just learn hello, please, and thank you, it will go a long way with the locals.
In European terms, Madrid is a relatively new city. Compared to the US, the buildings are historic and seem pretty old, but Madrid was developed to get the government away from the Catholic Church. At the time, Madrid was kind of a backwater town, and it was then built up so it definitely feels more modern than other parts of Spain.
Don’t Miss the Top 10 Sites in Madrid
Of course, there are more than ten fun things to do in Madrid, but sometimes you have to narrow it down. After many, many trips to Madrid, these are my favorite things to do in Madrid.
Museo del Prado (Prado Museum) is one of my favorite museums in the world, and probably one of the top 3 art museums in the world.
Plaza Mayor is one of the best and busiest public squares in Madrid.
Puerta del Sol is another fun square in Madrid to visit and it’s within walking distance to Plaza Mayor so you can visit both in the same trip. Don’t miss the famous statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree.
The Palacio Real has guided tours of the palace, and the surrounding outdoors is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of Madrid
Parque del Buen Retiro is the “good, relaxing” park. It’s behind the Prado Museum and it’s full of fun activities like paddle boats, bike rentals, buskers, food vendors, and music.
Reina Sofia Museum contains an art collection from more recent artists like Picasso and Dali.
Madrid’s nightlife is world-famous. They don’t even eat dinner in Madrid until 10 pm, so the partying doesn’t get started until after midnight! Don’t feel bad if you can’t keep up with the locals!
Madrid is also well known for its tapas bars. If you can’t stay out late enough for the nightlife, then head to a tapas bar and you’ll have drinks and tapas and conversation.
Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum is the result of a huge private collection that the city of Madrid agreed to house. The other two Madrid art museums are either modern or classic, while this one has a little bit of everything.
Explore the different Madrid neighborhoods. Get out of the city center and explore some of the other parks and plazas. You’ll see many different types of architecture.
Don’t Miss out on Spanish Food in Madrid
Of course, you might just be visiting Madrid for the Spanish food, and we wouldn’t blame you! Like any major city, you’ll get the most authentic food if you leave the main squares and go off the beaten path a little bit. You don’t have to go far, but there are a few rules to follow when eating in Madrid.
Don’t order paella from tourist restaurants; it won’t be fresh. If a restaurant serves several different types of paella, it’s most likely being reheated. (this applies to Flan, too!)
Arroz Caldoso is a rice dish with meat and a safer bet than paella if you are eating in the tourist area.
Sangria is probably going to be watered down in the touristy restaurants too. I recommend trying the Tinta Verano instead as it’s easier to make so it will be fresh and fruity no matter which Madrid restaurant you’re visiting.
Don’t be stingy with your tapas! It’s meant to be shared, so everyone orders different things and you get little samples of everything.
Don’t plan on an early dinner! Everything in Spain is a bit later than the rest of the world. So, lunch is usually around 1:00 or later, and dinner often doesn’t start until 9:00. It’s not uncommon to see families with children dining out past 10 pm!
Don’t confuse raciones with tapas.
Tapas are small plates of food served with beer or wine; it’s meant to be a light snack to enjoy while you are drinking. Sometimes, they are complimentary, sometimes, they cost a few Euros.
Raciones are larger portions that are comparable to an entree on the menu. If you don’t specify tapas, you might end up with raciones, and you’ll definitely pay more for them.
Don’t miss the “menu of the day” if you see it. Many restaurants will have a daily special that is a 3-course meal for a very affordable price. This is a great way to have a filling meal mid-day and you’ll save money at the same time!
Lastly, it’s OK to drink tap water in Madrid, so you don’t have to buy bottled water. You can get tap water for free when dining, and bring a refillable water bottle to use when you are walking around Madrid. You’ll save money and help reduce plastic waste!
Don’t Miss These Day Trips from Madrid
While there are so many cool things to see in Madrid, there are just as many amazing day trips! So be sure to set aside time in your Spain itinerary for some day trips from Madrid.
Segovia is about 90 minutes by bus or 30 minutes by high-speed train from Madrid. The ancient Roman aqueduct in Segovia has more than 160 arches. The Alcázar de Segovia and Segovia Cathedral are other Segovia attractions. (If the Alcazar looks familiar, it’s because it was the inspiration for one of Walt Disney’s castles.)
Toledo was the capital of Spain for a long time and is the seat of the Catholic Church in Spain, so there’s a lot of history there. Of course, the cathedral in Toledo is fantastic. Toledo also has an Alcazar, which contains an Army museum. This is a great city for just walking around, and it’s only about an hour from Madrid.
El Escorial is a royal retreat located in the mountains about an hour from Madrid. From the outside, it doesn’t look super amazing, but once you go inside, it’s actually super cool. You’ll see the royal palaces and apartments, and you’ll really see the importance of this site in the history of Spain.
Avila is a city with huge walls surrounding it, and you can walk up on the walls around town. It’s a beautiful site and just under two hours from Madrid.
Remember, there are two main train stations in Madrid. Madrid Atocha is in the south part of the city, and Madrid Chamartín is in the north.
Don’t Be Afraid of Public Transport
The public transport system in Madrid is pretty good, so I highly recommend using it to get around. It goes to most major locations you’ll be visiting, and it’s very affordable. You can get a week-long ticket for around 30 Euros. Do keep in mind, though, that the trains are pretty small, so if you have a lot of luggage you’re toting around, consider taking a taxi to the airport rather than the train.
Don’t Forget to Pack for the Weather
Spain is known for beautiful beaches and tropical islands, but Madrid actually has seasons. It gets cold in the winter and super hot in the summer. It can even snow in Madrid sometimes! In August, the city empties out as everyone goes to the coast or the mountains because it’s way too hot in Madrid. Make sure you do your research and come prepared for Madrid weather.
If you need directions or help to get where you are going, don’t worry! The police and the locals are very friendly. But pay attention to their hands when they are giving you directions; there will be a lot of non-verbal cues as to how far you need to go! (While the police are friendly, don’t take their photo)
Don’t Let Your Guard Down
We’re not saying Madrid is dangerous, but many tourists have been pickpocketed here. Use the same travel smarts you would in any city, and keep a hand on your wallet or purse at all times. It’s not quite as notorious as Barcelona is for theft, but you still should take precautions because it’s a hassle to lose your wallet or your phone.
If you do get pickpocketed, don’t freak out! First, retrace your steps to where you have been. Many times, the thief is just looking for cash. Often, they will pull the cash out and toss the wallet on the ground, so there is a chance of finding your wallet and credit cards.
I’ve visited Madrid so many times and I just keep coming back. The culture of Madrid is so enticing and entertaining, you can’t help but want to see more. Between the food, the people, and the nightlife, a Madrid vacation is so much FUN! Need more travel tips for visiting Spain? Check out these blog posts!
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about traveling to Los Angeles California. The “City of Angels” is the home of movie studios, celebrities, and American beach culture. If you’ve never been to Los Angeles, your first visit can be overwhelming. So we’ve put together some travel tips to help you figure out the best places to visit in Los Angeles.
Getting Around Los Angeles
Los Angeles traffic is notorious, and you will inevitably get stuck in it at some point! There’s never a time when there isn’t traffic; it just goes from bad to worse at certain times of the day. The only thing you can really do is try to plan around rush hour. When you are flying home from Los Angeles, make sure to leave plenty of time to account for traffic. If you get there too early, see our LAX tips below!
Driving a rental car can be intimidating, but it is the best option for getting around Los Angeles. Make sure you have GPS set up and programmed ahead of time. There are some Los Angeles neighborhoods that you should avoid, so don’t just drive around aimlessly. If you aren’t sure what areas to avoid, check with your hotel front desk or concierge.
Keep in mind that parking in Los Angeles is expensive, frustrating, and even confusing at times. If you’re not on a tight budget, you can valet park almost anywhere and save yourself the headache of finding a spot. Otherwise, just pay close attention to the parking signs because the rules can be different depending on the time of day.
If driving in Los Angeles is not for you, there are other options.
Rideshare options like Uber/Lyft are widely available in Los Angeles. Just beware of surge pricing during rush hour. I’ve seen the same ride triple in price from one hour to the next. If you’re in an outlying area like DisneyLand, you may want to pre-schedule your ride home as there may not be a lot of rides late at night in the “suburbs.”
Public transportation in Los Angeles is available, and it’s kind of hit or miss depending on where you want to go. I don’t recommend the buses, but sometimes the subway can be useful. Most trains depart from downtown, so you may have to go downtown first. If you are on a tight budget, then taking public transportation will save you money, but it may take you much longer to reach your destination.
Los Angeles Neighborhoods
Los Angeles is a huge city made up of much smaller cities. What we think of as Los Angeles is actually many surrounding cities, like Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Brentwood, and others. It can take an hour or more to get from one side of town to the other. When you start planning out your places to visit in Los Angeles, it’s a good idea to plot them out on a map. Grouping LA attractions by location can save you a lot of frustration and travel time, and also help you decide where to stay in Los Angeles.
I even recommend staying in multiple Los Angeles neighborhoods for a few days at a time. It might seem like a hassle to switch hotels mid-trip, but it’s an even bigger hassle to cross the city multiple times in one day.
If you’re thinking about grouping various Los Angeles neighborhoods together, these are some good options:
Beverly Hills, West Hollywood & Hollywood
Santa Monica & Venice Beach
Downtown has a lot of museums and the La Brea Tar Pits
Amusement parks like Disney Land and Knott’s Berry Farm are in Anaheim
Hollywood may have once been all glitz and glamour, but it is no longer that way. It’s more grit and grime. To follow the glamour, you want to go to Beverly Hills, not Hollywood. Hollywood is still home to iconic attractions like Grauman’s Chinese Theater, but it’s not a squeaky-clean tourist destination, it’s a bit rough around the edges.
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is iconic, but there are almost 3,000 stars. If there’s one you really want to see, it may be worth visiting but don’t expect to know who all the stars are. Be prepared for lots of buskers and street performers ready to relieve you of your loose change and small bills. If you take their photo, you should be prepared to pay them something. They will not give you change, so make sure you have some small bills!
You can visit some show tapings in Hollywood, but be prepared for an all-day event. A 30-minute sitcom can take hours and hours to film.
Tours of the Stars is another popular Hollywood attraction, aka tourist trap. You might see some homes where celebrities used to live, but these days, celebrities live in gated communities. If you’re just looking to get off your feet for a bit, then go for it, but keep your expectations in check if you decide to join a Hollywood Homes tour.
The other iconic destination in Hollywood is the Hollywood Sign. But the sign itself isn’t really a destination because once you get up close, you lose the view of the whole sign. It’s best to get your photos from afar where you can get the whole sign in the photo. Don’t pay someone to take you up there; it’s not worth it.
West Hollywood sits between Beverly Hills and Hollywood, and there are some great clubs and restaurants to check out in this area.
When we think of Hollywood, we think of movie stars. But you’re more likely to see movie stars in Beverly Hills than in Hollywood. It’s still pretty rare to see a celebrity, but Beverly Hills has famous hotels like the Beverly Hilton and the Beverly Hills Hotel. It’s also home to some fantastic restaurants, so it’s a great place to splurge on a nice dinner out on the town.
Two main attractions in Beverly Hills include the famous sign which you have to get your photo with, and Rodeo Drive. (Ro-DAY-o, not rodeo like the cowboy contests!) Rodeo Drive is famous for shopping, but it’s only about three blocks long, so it’s a quick stop. You can also find some high-end shopping along Beverly Drive or Wilshire Boulevard.
Beverly Hills is one of the more expensive areas of Los Angeles, so it’s nice to visit for a day, but I don’t recommend staying there unless you really want to splurge.
Unlike a lot of other cities, downtown Los Angeles isn’t full of attractions. In fact, many tourists don’t even venture downtown. There are some great ethnic neighborhoods for affordable and amazing food, but it’s also where you’ll find skid row and lots of homeless encampments.
Venice Beach is another popular Los Angeles neighborhood. If you’re coming to LA, you have to at least check out the Pacific Ocean! Venice Beach can get super crowded on the weekend, so plan a mid-week visit if you can. It’s a great spot to rent a bike and cruise the boardwalk that’s been featured in so many movies and TV shows. You might even start to see why the city was named after Venice, Italy.
Other Los Angeles beaches include:
Santa Monica Beach
Huntington Beach
Manhattan Beach
Hermosa Beach
Redondo Beach
Be warned, though, the water is cold! This is not a tropical beach destination; most of the surfers you see will be wearing wetsuits to stay warm.
Other Los Angeles Attractions
Besides the beaches and touristy Hollywood attractions, there are actually some great cultural attractions in Los Angeles. Just a few of my favorite places to visit in Los Angeles include:
Greater Los Angeles is home to several amusement parks as well, including Disney World. There’s also Universal Studios and Harry Potter World, Knott’s Berry Farm, and Pacific Park at the Santa Monica Pier.
Of course, there are lots of outdoor attractions in Los Angeles as well. LA is surrounded by National Forest and National Recreation land, and locals love to get outside and explore nature. Whether it’s hiking, mountain biking, golf, or surfing, make sure you get outside and take advantage of the sunny Southern California weather!
Before your trip to LA, make sure you download the LA Times 101 Restaurants list. The list is a great tool for deciding where to eat in Los Angeles. It ranges from high-end fine dining to food trucks. There is a ton of great food in LA, so the list will really help you narrow down your options.
Don’t be afraid to branch out and try new types of food. LA has restaurants from all over the world, and it’s worth trying some new cuisine. Of course, In N Out and Del Taco are worth trying if you don’t have them at home, but balance those out with unique cuisines you’ve never tried before.
Don’t pass up the street food in LA as well! Food trucks are a huge part of LA culture, and this is really where they became so popular. If you’re visiting LA on a budget, eating at food trucks is a great way to save some money and enjoy delicious food!
Is Los Angeles Safe?
LA isn’t always shown as a safe destination for travelers, and there are definitely some areas to avoid. However, as a tourist, you’re not likely to accidentally wander into a gang fight or a dangerous situation. Of course, anything bad can happen anywhere, but I don’t feel like LA is worse than other cities in the US. That said, I do have some safety tips for visiting LA.
Don’t mess with the homeless people in LA. You will see them nearly everywhere you go; it’s not concentrated in one area over another. If you do see a large encampment, don’t go wandering around in it. Leave them alone and they will probably leave you alone.
LA used to be known for smog, and it was a real safety concern for many years. But California has some pretty strict clean air policies now, so it’s not much of an issue. Some summer days can be bad, so if you have serious breathing issues, you may want to visit in spring, fall, or winter.
Some people worry about earthquakes when visiting LA, and it’s always a possibility, but it’s not something you can predict, so there’s no use worrying. LA has pretty strict building codes that can withstand some very large earthquakes.
Jaywalking can be very dangerous in Los Angeles. Because of the notorious traffic, LA drivers are always in a hurry, so don’t assume they will follow traffic signals. Be on high alert when walking around LA.
Cigarettes are typically frowned upon in LA, but you will smell marijuana just about everywhere. It is legal and has created a funny double standard, but cigarette smokers should beware of disapproving looks from locals.
Besides these safety tips, use your usual travel smarts that you would anywhere in the world. Don’t leave valuables in your car, don’t flash money or expensive jewelry, don’t wander alone after dark in a compromised state, etc.
Los Angeles is such a diverse city; you can go all out and live like a movie star, or you can set a strict budget and stick to it. Most of us are probably somewhere in the middle. I do have a few tips for saving money when you visit Los Angeles.
Buy breakfast and snacks at the grocery store, rather than eating out for every meal. And if a store sells Oscar statues, their prices are probably too high. Buy your groceries and sundries elsewhere!
Eat at food trucks instead of sit-down restaurants.
Factor transportation costs into your accommodation costs. It doesn’t do you any good to save $30 on a hotel each night if you’re going to spend that much on Ubers to get where you are going! Don’t be afraid to change hotels!
Avoid surge pricing when using Uber and Lyft by planning your trips outside of rush hour
Consider public transportation for the parts of your trip where it makes sense.
Besides these budget tips, many of the Los Angeles attractions I mentioned already are FREE! LA has lots of free museums, and even the other museums often have a free day once a month. It may be worth looking into the Go Pass or City Pass; if a lot of the covered attractions are on your itinerary, then it might save you some money.
Getting To Los Angeles
More than likely, you will fly into LAX for your trip to LA. It is the main airport in Los Angeles, but it’s not the only airport. Make sure you check the surrounding airports when you are watching flight prices. LAS has the most flights and is generally cheaper, but it doesn’t hurt to check Burbank, Orange County, Long Beach, Ontario, and others. Make sure you factor in your transportation costs, too. You might spend a bit more to fly to a different airport which will save you time and money on ground transportation.
If you do fly into LAX, there are some things you should know:
While baggage claim is on the lower level, you might need to then go up one floor for shuttles and taxis. Pay attention to the signage when exiting the airport.
The buses can be confusing, so make sure you get on the right bus!
Ask your hotel if they have an airport shuttle. If they do, ask them for very detailed instructions on where to go for the shuttle. (see the previous bullet point)
Make sure you go in the right door! The doors are labeled by the airline, but inside, there may be walls dividing the various airlines. So you can’t always go in one door and expect to connect to another airline’s desks.
Don’t freak out when you see the security line. They’re actually pretty efficient.
If you have TSA Precheck or Clear, they’re not as easy to find, so look to the right of the main line. Or just ask a staff member to point you in the right direction.
Space is cramped at LAX and it doesn’t seem like the gates have enough seats. If you have to get some work done, it may be worth investing in a lounge pass because you won’t find much space at the gates and you’ll get free food without the long lines at the food court!
Bathrooms are kind of few and far between as well, so don’t pass one up if you have to go!
Surprisingly, there aren’t a lot of food options at LAX. Of course, there’s food to be had, but the lines are always long. It’s best to just eat before you get to the airport. There’s also an In N’Out across the street, so make sure you try that iconic California burger chain!
There’s also a park next to the airport, across from In N Out. If you have a long layover at LAX, you probably won’t have time to go into town in less than five hours, but you can get some fresh air at the park. It’s marked Airplane Landing ViewPoint on maps, and it’s right in the approach path. If you’re traveling with kids, it’s also a great place for them to run around a bit and burn some energy.
Los Angeles Myth Busting
We asked our friend and Southern California Resident, Chris from Yellow Productions, to talk about some of the common myths about Los Angeles, and why they might not always be true!
Los Angeles is not one big city; it’s composed of 88 smaller towns and cities. The city of Los Angeles has four million people, while the county has ten million!
Movies are not usually made in Hollywood. All of the movie production that made Hollywood famous has now moved out to places like Studio City or Burbank.
Los Angeles weather is not always amazing! In fact, they are known for having “May Gray” and “June Gloom” as those tend to be cloudy and rainy months. However, it’s always a good idea to have sunscreen and sunglasses because you will probably need them!
Los Angeles isn’t as smoggy as people might think. They’ve made a lot of strides in terms of emissions regulations. The biggest issue now with air quality in Los Angeles is when there are wildfires in the area.
While Californians love their cars, there are actually some walkable areas in Los Angeles. If you plan properly when choosing where to stay in Los Angeles, you can probably spend at least one day exploring on foot.
Between public transportation and walking, you don’t absolutely have to drive to get anywhere in LA. You might need to Uber to your final destination from the train station, but you don’t have to rent a car.
Downtown Los Angeles isn’t just skid row. Yes, there are a lot of homeless in downtown LA, but there are also some great neighborhoods. Little Tokyo, Chinatown, El Pueblo, and Union Station are all great places to visit in downtown LA.
Contrary to what some might say, Los Angeles does have culture! There are some great museums in Los Angeles, including the Getty, the Brode, and the Griffith Observatory are all great cultural attractions in Los Angeles.
You might expect LA to be expensive, but visiting Los Angeles does not have to be expensive. A lot of museums are free, the beaches are free, hiking is free, and some of the best food comes from food trucks.
Los Angeles locals are not unfriendly. It’s actually a very friendly city, although it doesn’t necessarily have that reputation. Part of that is because they are always running late, but it’s typically because of the notorious traffic.
These are our travel tips for visiting Los Angeles. It may be super touristy, but there are many worthy destinations to visit, whether you are into food, culture, nature, or sports. Interested in more California travel tips? Check out these blog posts!
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re discussing what NOT to do when visiting Europe. While many travel blogs will give you tips for European travel, we want to be sure you know about the things you should NOT do when you plan a trip to Europe.
Don’t Lump All of Europe Together
While we’re doing just that for this blog post, remember that Europe has 50 countries, and the variety of cultures and climates is astounding. You simply cannot compare Poland to Portugal, or Finland to France. Just because you’ve been to London, doesn’t mean you’ve “seen Europe.” If you have a bad time in one part of Europe, don’t write off the rest of the continent!
Don’t Overpack
Our best tips for European travel are for packing. Don’t overpack!!! The less stuff you pack, the more likely you will enjoy traveling around Europe. Part of experiencing new cultures is shopping for groceries or clothes or visiting the local pharmacy. Besides, cobblestone streets are not very comfortable for dragging a suitcase around and if you are struggling with your luggage, it makes you an easy target for pickpockets.
Yes, Europe has incredible museums and by all means, you should visit museums in Europe if it interests you. But don’t forget that European culture is a living, breathing, evolving aspect of your European travels.
Enjoying dinner with locals or a picnic in the park is just as enjoyable as going to the most popular tourist attractions. The more time you spend away from the tourist attractions, the better you will begin to see the culture of the country you are visiting.
Don’t Be Afraid to Explore Europe
For many travelers, London or Paris is often the “intro to Europe” and many travelers stick to these popular cities, as well as Rome, Dublin, or Athens. A lot of capital cities are homogenized and international, while the smaller villages and towns still hold that authentic European feel.
Europe is super easy to get around, so there’s nothing to lose by exploring some smaller villages during your travels.
Don’t Skip Public Transportation
If you’re from the United States and you’ve never been to Europe, the public transportation options will blow you away. It is so easy to get around, whether by bus, train, or subway. You’ll get a better feel for the culture as you commute with locals, and you’ll save a lot of money over taking taxis or rideshares. In cities with a lot of traffic, taking the subway will even save you time as you’re not stuck in traffic.
But remember: don’t be loud on public transportation! Most European cultures are more subdued than American culture, so being loud can be frowned upon. Some trains have special quiet cars, but regardless of what car you are in, take a cue from your fellow passengers. If it’s pretty quiet except for your group, consider taking it down a notch.
Don’t Be Fooled by Cheap Flights
When you are traveling within Europe, there are several low-cost carriers like RyanAir that will tempt you with very cheap flights. But keep in mind, these airlines are going to have “a la carte” pricing so you will pay for seat assignments, luggage, or food. And they often fly into more remote airlines, which means you might have a 40 Euro flight but then spend 60 Euros to take a taxi into the city! Just make sure to examine all options when planning your travel within Europe.
Don’t Worry About Safety in Europe
Of course, this is a blanket statement, but don’t ruin your trip with excessive worrying. There may be pickpockets and scammers, but if you keep your wits about you and use common travel sense, you shouldn’t have any major issues.
Don’t Forget a PIN for Your Credit or Debit Card
Some places in Europe will require you to have a PIN for a credit card transaction. You’ll also need one to withdraw cash when you arrive. Some places don’t take cash, others may only take cash, so always have a couple of payment options at your disposal. And make sure you get the PIN for your credit cards as well as your debit cards before you leave.
Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted. If American Express is your primary card, make sure you have a backup card as a lot of places still don’t take American Express.
You should also make sure you have some small bills on hand, as a lot of merchants prefer not to take larger bills. It’s not uncommon to find a bathroom that costs a few coins to enter, so that’s another good reason to have some loose change. This is very common at train stations but also applies to some restaurants and bars as well.
Most European servers don’t rely on tips as their main source of income, so you’re not going to see the overly friendly and attentive service that you are used to in the United States. Service may take longer as well, as Europeans have a more relaxed approach to dining. Most places don’t mind if you take a table for hours at a time because that’s the culture.
Don’t Forget a Power Adapter
Your U.S. plugs won’t work in most European outlets, and the outlet types may change from one country to another. Most adapters you can buy have different types of plugs on each side, so it’s pretty easy to transition from one place to the next. Newer travel adapters typically have USB ports as well, so you can charge all of your devices at once.
Don’t Forget to Learn a Few Words
No matter where you are traveling, it’s always a good idea to learn a few words in the local language. Hello, please, and thank you will go a long way with the locals! They do not expect you to be fluent, and they won’t fault you for mistakes. It will simply show that you’ve made an effort to learn about your destination before visiting.
If you are speaking English and having a hard time getting your message across, speaking louder is not going to help. That’s when it’s time to whip out your phone and use a translation app!
We’ve already established that you can’t lump all of Europe together. But even within a specific country, there are vastly diverse regions. Germany has a strong Bavarian culture in the southern part of the country, and Barcelona is part of Catalonia, which has the heaviest influence on the culture there. It’s no different than lumping Texans in with New Yorkers and Californians.
Don’t Get Discouraged
Before you visit a European city, you’re going to have an idea of what to expect. But Europe is not Disney World; there are good and bad parts no matter where you go. Sometimes you might have to learn the hard way about some differences in cultures, but don’t let it get you down. If you don’t love Paris, that doesn’t mean you won’t love other places in France or in Europe. Don’t let one place ruin all of Europe for you.
This also applies to stereotypes, both good and bad. Go into your European travels with an open mind, and learn as you go, rather than bringing your preconceived stereotypes and expectations with you. You just might be pleasantly surprised.
We love visiting Europe any chance we get. I have lived in several European countries and enjoy experiencing the different cultures and regions within Europe. Keep an open mind and don’t be afraid to go off the beaten path when you visit.
Need more travel tips in Europe? Check out these blog posts!
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you visit Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. While many travel blogs will tell you all the fun things to see in Pittsburgh, we want to be sure you know about the things you should NOT do when you plan a Pittsburgh vacation.
Don’t Miss Out on Pittsburgh Food
There are some classic Pittsburgh foods to try when you visit, and if you know someone from Pittsburgh, they’ll make sure to tell you all their favorite places! Fair warning: they put fries in or on everything! Deli sandwiches, burgers, even salads, just might come with fries on top!
Primanti Brothers is the spot to go for deli sandwiches in Pittsburgh. It’s a local chain of sandwich shops, and they are known for putting fries and coleslaw on their sandwiches. Their Pittsburgher is a burger, with fries on top! It’s messy and it’s super filling, and it’s the first place any local will tell you to go.
Sheetz is a gas station/convenience store/mini-mar. It’s like a Pittsburgh version of WaWa. If you want snacks, go to Sheetz. They also have a full deli-grill inside, so you can order your food at the kiosk and it’s made to order. If you order a salad, you won’t be surprised when they ask if you want your fries on top or on the side. Because this is Pittsburgh.
Pierogies are another popular food to eat in Pittsburgh. They have a lot of Polish immigrants, so they also have great pierogis. They often come with meat or cheese inside, but you can also get fruit inside for a sweeter pierogi.
Chipped ham is something you might see in Pittsburgh; typically it’s something you would eat at home or take to go. It’s not necessarily a restaurant item, but a BBQ chipped ham sandwich is a Pittsburgh staple.
For breakfast, Pamela’s Diner is a great spot. They have a few locations around Pittsburgh. The food is delicious; I get the crepe pancakes, while Jocelyn swears by the chorizo hash.
Of course, I always sample the local beer when traveling and Pittsburgh is no exception. Iron City Beer is brewed by the Pittsburgh Brewing Company and comes in many different variations.
When it’s time for dessert, don’t miss these Pittsburgh spots:
The Milkshake Factory has the best milkshakes I’ve ever had.
Billy’s Ice Cream
Eat n Park for smiley cookies
Gus & YiaYia’s Shaved Ice Cart at Allegheny Commons Park
If you’re invited to a wedding in Pittsburgh, you’ll get to experience the Pittsburgh wedding cookie table. It’s a Pittsburgh staple!
Don’t Just Stay Downtown
Downtown Pittsburgh is great, but you should also get out and explore beyond the downtown area. Pittsburgh is really a city of neighborhoods. A few Pittsburgh neighborhoods to check out include:
Mount Washington – take the incline (Don’t call it a funicular, it’s called the Incline) which is a little trolley on track up the hill. If the trolleys look familiar, it’s because Mr. Rogers was from Pittsburgh and modeled his trolleys on the incline. The views are phenomenal!
The Strip District is a narrow strip of land along the Allegheny River. The neighborhood has great restaurants, as well as many markets and sidewalk vendors.
South Side Pittsburgh is a National Historic District due to a row of Victorian homes, and is also a great destination for nightlife in Pittsburgh.
Pittsburgh North Shore sits across the Allegheny River from downtown Pittsburgh, and is where the major sports stadiums (Heinz Field and PNC Park) are located. Don’t ever call Heinz Field anything other than Heinz Field, regardless of the “official name.” Like Chicago’s Sears Tower, it will always be Heinz Field.
The Mexican War Streets District is another historic neighborhood that is recently emerging as an art district, with art destinations like Randyland and the Mattress Factory.
South Oakland is the academic and healthcare center of Pittsburgh as there are three universities, as well as hospitals and museums.
There are so many unique neighborhood places to visit in Pittsburgh, so make sure you include a couple in your plans!
Don’t Miss Out on Pittsburgh Museums
Besides eclectic neighborhoods and delicious Pittsburgh food, there are also some fun and unique museums in Pittsburgh.
The Heinz History Center is a Smithsonian museum and also includes the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum and Fort Pitt Museum
Andy Warhol was born in Pittsburgh, and the Andy Warhol Museum has the largest collection of his art and archives in the entire world.
The Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh include the Carnegie Museum of Art, the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Carnegie Science Center, and the Andy Warhol Museum.
The Frick Pittsburgh Museum offers a glimpse into the gilded age at the 19th century residence of industrialist Henry Clay Frick
Don’t Skip Point State Park
Besides all of the great Pittsburgh neighborhoods, there’s Point State Park. It’s where Three Rivers Stadium used to be; there are three rivers that all converge here. It’s a beautiful spot on the river and if it’s a nice day, you’ll find plenty of locals enjoying the great outdoors in the heart of the city.
Don’t Miss Kennywood
Kennywood is THE amusement park of Pittsburgh. Every local probably spent a lot of time there as a kid. If you ask a local, they will tell you to ride the Steel Curtain, and the Terminator. If you like amusement parks, this one is kind of a throwback, and it’s super fun for all ages.
Don’t Avoid Talking to Locals
Pittsburgh has a reputation as a tough town, but the locals are actually very neighborly. They are super friendly and they love having tourists because it’s not a huge tourist destination. They will gladly share their recommendations for where to eat and what to see in Pittsburgh. We had so many recommendations from Pittsburgh locals; we were pleasantly surprised!
Don’t Be Surprised if You Can’t Understand the Locals
Don’t feel bad if you have to ask a local to repeat themselves, there are still a few language differences in Pittsburgh. It’s not so much an accent, but totally different words that they use, like yinz!
Yinz is basically local slang for the plural “you.” Someone might say “how yinz doing?” and it’s basically just the Pittsburgh version of y’all. People from Pittsburgh are sometimes even called Yinzers.
Don’t Ever Confuse Pittsburgh and Philadelphia
They’re both located in Pennsylvania and both start with a “P” but that’s where the similarities between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia end. The two cities are major rivals in all things, including sports and especially hockey. There’s also a bit of a rivalry with Cleveland, as they are just two hours apart.
Pittsburgh has a lot of nicknames and not all of them are positive. Sometimes, the city gets a bad rap as it’s had some rough times as it went from the reigning steel-producing city to a sharp decline in manufacturing jobs. However, there’s actually a lot of cool stuff to see and eat in Pittsburgh. Don’t write it off; it’s an awesome city worth visiting.
The locals have a lot of pride in their city! They are passionate about their sports teams, their museums, and their food.
Don’t Be Caught Off Guard by the Pittsburgh Left
When you’re driving around Pittsburgh, you’ll notice something called the Pittsburgh Left. It’s a sudden left turn when the light goes green, also sometimes called a holeshot. Be prepared and when you’re at an intersection in Pittsburgh, be on alert for someone to turn in front of you.
Yinzers have a similar disregard for crosswalks; just because it says “don’t walk” doesn’t mean they won’t just dart out into the intersection.
Downtown Pittsburgh has a lot of one-way streets, so driving is already a bit confusing, even without other drivers turning left in front of you and pedestrians ignoring the traffic lights.
Don’t Miss the Fort Pitt Tunnel
If you’re driving to Pittsburgh from the West, take the route through the Fort Pitt Tunnel. You instantly go from rolling hills and small communities, through the tunnel, and you’re downtown. It’s a cool transition and offers great views of the Pittsburgh skyline. It’s beautiful at all times, day or night.
Don’t Rely on Public Transportation
In Pittsburgh, they have the “T.” It includes light rail lines and subway lines, but as a tourist, it’s not that useful. There are a lot of stations on the south side, but on the north side, there aren’t many stops. It’s much more of a commuter system than a tourist one. It doesn’t even go to the airport!
Don’t be surprised if you fall in love with Pittsburgh! Between the food, the museums, and the history, it’s a great city to visit! We were pleasantly surprised by how much we loved our visit to Pittsburgh. Want more USA travel tips? Check out some of our other blog posts:
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