Hey there, fellow travelers! Mark here with Wolters World, and today we’re talking about the don’ts of visiting Panama — because Panama is an amazing country, but there are a few things you really need to know before you land.
From Panama City’s skyline to the Caribbean beaches of San Blas, this place has a lot going for it. But if you don’t understand the local culture, prices, transportation, and expectations, you might find yourself frustrated instead of enjoying your trip.
Let’s help you avoid that.
1. Don’t Assume Panama Is “Cheap Central America”
Panama is not the budget backpacker paradise some people expect.
Compared to places like Guatemala or Nicaragua, Panama is one of the more expensive destinations in Central America — especially Panama City. Tours, restaurants, and nights out will cost more than you might anticipate.
It’s not insane, but it’s definitely not “$2 beers and $10 tours” cheap.
Plan accordingly.
2. Don’t Stress About Currency — It’s the U.S. Dollar
Yes, technically Panama’s currency is the Balboa — but in reality, you’ll use U.S. dollars.
You may receive Balboa coins, but paper money is USD.
Pro tip:
Bring small bills.
Get change inside the bank.
Street vendors and taxis often won’t have change for large notes.
3. Don’t Skip the Panama Canal
Yes, it’s “just a canal.”
But it’s also one of the most important engineering feats in the world and a massive part of Panama’s economy and identity.
Visit:
The Miraflores Locks
The Canal Museum
Monkey Island tours
Just… maybe skip the geopolitical debates while you’re there.
4. Don’t Forget to Greet People
A simple “Buenos días” goes a long way.
Whether you’re:
Entering a shop
Getting into an elevator
Sitting down at a restaurant
Greeting people matters in Panama. It sets the tone.
Lots of great do’s and don’ts of visiting Panama
5. Don’t Expect Super Fast Service
Service here is more relaxed. You may need to:
Ask for the menu
Ask for the bill
Ask for refills
The people are kind, but the service style is slower and less attentive than in Costa Rica or Belize. Don’t take it personally.
6. Don’t Compare Panama to Costa Rica or Colombia
Locals take pride in being Panamanian.
Avoid:
“Well, in Costa Rica…”
“Didn’t Panama used to be part of Colombia?”
Panama is its own country with its own identity — and they’re proud of it.
7. Don’t Flush Toilet Paper (In Many Places)
In many areas, especially rural spots:
🚽 Toilet paper goes in the bin — not the toilet.
Also:
Bring tissues for hikes.
Some public bathrooms require a small payment.
Don’t expect toilet paper everywhere.
8. Don’t Worry About the Tap Water (In Panama City)
In Panama City, tap water is safe to drink and brush your teeth with.
Outside major cities? Stick to bottled water.
9. Don’t Skip the Local Food
Panama’s food scene is underrated.
Must-try dishes:
Sancocho (flavorful chicken soup with yuca)
Ropa vieja
Coconut rice on the coast
Ceviche
Carimañolas (deep-fried yuca stuffed with meat or cheese)
Street food is totally fine — enjoy it.
10. Don’t Complain About the Heat, Humidity, or Bugs
It’s tropical. Close to the equator.
That means:
High SPF sunscreen
Bug spray
Hydration
Morning hikes instead of afternoon hikes
Those little “chitra” bugs? They’re real.
11. Don’t Assume All Beaches Are the Same
Caribbean Side (San Blas, Bocas del Toro)
White sand
Crystal-clear water
Classic Caribbean vibe
Pacific Side
Darker sand
Great surfing
More chill atmosphere
Both are beautiful — just different.
12. Don’t Expect Luxury in San Blas
San Blas (Guna Yala) is incredible.
But:
Limited electricity
Little to no WiFi
Basic accommodations
If you want more amenities, Bocas del Toro may be a better fit.
Also: Don’t underestimate the travel time from Panama City. It’s a long day if you’re doing a day trip.
13. Don’t Dress Sloppy in Panama City
Panama City is modern, upscale, and stylish.
People dress well.
If you’re going out at night or shopping, step it up a bit.
14. Don’t Rely Only on Taxis
Uber works well in Panama City.
If you take a taxi:
Negotiate the price beforehand.
Confirm the rate before getting in.
Taxi scams happen everywhere — including here.
15. Don’t Forget to Carry ID
Police can request ID at any time.
Best practice:
Leave your passport locked up.
Carry a photocopy.
Keep a digital copy on your phone.
16. Don’t Forget to Tip — But Don’t Tip Twice
Tipping in Panama:
About 10%
Check if “propina” or service charge is already included.
No need to tip street vendors.
Always check the bill before adding more.
17. Don’t Visit During Peak Rainy Season (If You Can Avoid It)
October sees heavy rain.
Even in dry season, you’ll get short downpours.
Pack:
A light poncho
Patience
18. Don’t Forget the Eco-Tourism
Panama isn’t just Panama City and beaches.
You can:
Hike rainforests
Zipline
Visit Monkey Island
Explore indigenous communities
The interior of the country is worth your time.
Final Thoughts
Panama is modern, proud, tropical, and full of contrast.
You’ve got:
Miami-style skylines
Indigenous island communities
Rainforest hikes
World-famous engineering
If you come prepared, respect the culture, and understand the differences, you’ll have an incredible time here.
If you’ve been to Panama, what would you add to the don’ts list?
Let’s help fellow travelers enjoy this beautiful country the right way.
Mistakes to Avoid on Your First Netherlands Vacation
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re discussing common mistakes we see from first-time tourists in the Netherlands. It’s a wonderful country, with a variety of destinations to visit, but it is culturally quite different from the US. We’ve learned many lessons throughout the years. If you are about to embark on your first Dutch vacation, take care to avoid these travel mistakes!
Taking “Dutch Directness” Personally
The Dutch are very efficient, direct, and practical. They don’t mince words, and sometimes it can feel a bit too direct. They’re just stating how it is, and it’s not meant to be mean. It’s just their culture to be direct. They can also be very sarcastic with a dry sense of humor. Jocelyn thinks they are the funniest people in Europe because of their dry humor, but not everyone would agree.
Some other “Dutchisms” to look out for include:
Going “Dutch” is an expression we use for splitting the bill. We won’t say the Dutch are cheap, but they are careful with their money.
They love a good deal, like a Buy One Get One sale. They will gladly accept free samples, too. That said, if someone on the street offers you something for free, it’s probably a scam.
Not Connecting with Locals
It can be hard to get to know the Dutch; they aren’t the most outgoing people. But with a little effort, they open up pretty easily. If you learn a few words of Dutch before your trip, they will love it. They won’t go out of their way to meet you, so you have to go out of your way to meet them. It’s worth it, though. Once you have a Dutch friend, you’re in!
Dutch is Not Deutsch!
Germany and the Netherlands are not the same. The languages may sound similar, but they are not the same. This can be a cause of contention for the Dutch, so don’t confuse the two! The cultures, food, people, and language are all different.
Being Late
Ok, here’s one similarity with the Germans. The Dutch are prompt. And they schedule everything out. You can count on them to show up, on time, for plans. And you don’t even have to remind them. So make sure you are also on time!
Thinking a Private Conversation is Private
The Dutch have no qualms about interjecting themselves into your conversation. Locals may try to put their two cents in, especially if they don’t agree with what you’re saying. Even if you weren’t talking to them, they’ll give you their opinion.
Forgetting to Have Change on Hand
Of course, most businesses will take credit cards, but it’s a mistake not to have some cash on you, including coins. This is for the public toilets, which often cost a few coins to enter. If you have a bathroom emergency, you’ll be happy that you already have coins to enter! Having small bills is useful, too, as large bills aren’t always accepted. The delicious snack vending machines also require coins, and you don’t want to miss out on those!
Other businesses only take credit cards and won’t accept cash, or vice versa. So it’s best to be prepared with multiple forms of payment. If you are paying in cash, sometimes they will round up or down to the nearest five cents. So don’t be shocked if you don’t get all of your change back, or if you get a little extra change back. It all evens out in the end.
Some stores don’t display the prices of their items, so you have no idea how much they cost. It’s ok to ask, so you don’t have sticker shock at the checkout. If you’re in a touristy area, definitely ask because you can’t assume the prices are reasonable!
Only Seeing Amsterdam
When you think of the Netherlands, you probably first think of Amsterdam. But there’s so much more to this country! This is like thinking New York City is representative of all of the United States. Of course it’s not! Even if you don’t have a lot of time, use public transportation to get out of Amsterdam and explore other areas. The Hague, Haarlem, Keukenhof, and Rotterdam are all reachable from Amsterdam. They even have miles of coastline and beautiful beach towns!
Skipping Public Transportation
It is so easy to take public transportation here. The entire country is only slightly larger than the state of Maryland, so you can pretty much go anywhere on a day trip from Amsterdam. Between trains and buses, you can travel all over the country. It’s a good value, too. Just make sure to weigh your options and get on the right train. Some are express trains with fewer stops, while some are slower but have more destinations.
Taxis and rideshares are quite expensive, especially in Amsterdam, so taking the train will save you quite a bit of money.
Buying Tickets for Public Transportation
The Netherlands is very progressive in some areas, including public transportation. If you have a chip credit card, you can just tap it on your way in and out of the bus or train. No more figuring out routes and ticket tiers, just tap and go! Just don’t forget to tap it on the way out as well. That’s how they figure out how much to charge you, based on the distance you traveled.
Forgetting to Pre-Book Tickets
If you are visiting popular attractions in the Netherlands, like the Anne Frank House or Rijksmuseum, you should purchase tickets in advance. Sometimes they fill up and you can’t even visit; other times, you’ll just save yourself a lot of time waiting in line for tickets. As you’re planning your trip, if an attraction has a pre-book option, take it!
Skipping the Tourist Traps
Just because something is a tourist trap, doesn’t mean it’s not worthwhile! Madame Tussaud Wax Museums are huge tourist traps, but Jocelyn and the boys love going there, so we have been to the Amsterdam wax museum before! Other “tourist traps” in the Netherlands include Body World, the Sex Museum, the Amsterdam Dungeon and the Torture Museum.
Thinking Tulips are Year-Round
Tulips are synonymous with the Netherlands. But they’re not always there. Like anywhere else in the world, there are growing seasons, so you can’t show up in November expecting to see huge fields of tulips. Tulip season is typically from the end of March through the beginning of May. If someone offers you a tulip tour in the off season, it’s a scam. You may get a tour, but you won’t get the postcard view of the tulips in bloom.
Thinking Biking is a Fun Pastime
Biking is an essential mode of transportation in the Netherlands. It’s how locals get to work and school, how they go to the grocery store. It’s serious business in the Netherlands, so don’t just hop on a bike when you get there. It’s also not about fitness; it’s their primary mode of transportation. So you don’t have to be in good shape to ride a bike in the Netherlands. It’s pretty flat and easy!
Pay attention to others and see how they ride before trying to jump in on a bike. For leisurely biking, head out to the countryside, but stay out of rush hour traffic. (You also don’t need a fancy bike; look around, the kind of bike you ride doesn’t matter!)
If you rent a bike, though, make sure you test it before you take off. You don’t want to be riding on a bike that doesn’t fit you well. Make sure you have a helmet and a bike lock, and try to avoid rush hour. Ask the bike rental shop or hotel where to go that won’t be so busy with daily bike commuters. It’s also a great idea to attach an AirTag to your bike and/or drop a pin on the map where you left it. Take a picture, too, because there are a lot of bikes in Amsterdam!
Whatever you do, do not step in the bike lanes! This is like stepping out into traffic, and it can be fatal or at least very dangerous.
Underestimating the Stairs in the Netherlands
When many of the buildings went up in the Netherlands, it was necessary to build very narrow buildings, which means the staircases are also very narrow. In some places, they’re actually more like ladders. Pretty much everyone I know has fallen down or off the stairs in the Netherlands.
Going to Coffee Shops for Coffee
If you want coffee, go to a cafe. If you want cannabis, you go to a coffee shop. These aren’t such a big deal, now that it’s legalized in many states back home, but it is still part of the culture, especially in Amsterdam.
If you do imbibe, don’t assume you know what you’re doing. Products here can be very different from what you are used to back home, so start slow. The people who work there are quite knowledgeable and used to tourists, so don’t be afraid to ask questions.
If you buy anything at the coffee shops, make sure to scour your luggage before you fly back home. Otherwise, you might get to see a special part of the airport that is reserved for bad tourists.
If you don’t imbibe, you should still be aware and on the lookout for what we call “tweek-end tourists” who over-imbibe and get messy. Weekends especially get a little rowdy in Amsterdam.
Taking Photos of Window Models
In Amsterdam, especially, you’ll see women posing in the windows of the Red Light District. This may be a new sight for you, but don’t take their picture. They are just doing their job and are not there for your photo opportunities. If you must have a photo, you can probably buy a postcard with a similar scene.
Safety Mistakes to Avoid
Overall, the Netherlands is pretty safe, but there are the usual scams and safety issues of any tourist destination. A lot of tourists use caution in Amsterdam, but then throw that out the window when they leave the capital. This is a mistake.
Pickpockets are probably the biggest danger to look out for. They tend to be in the areas with a lot of tourists, like main sights, trains, and train stations. Amsterdam and other Dutch cities are subject to the same common scams all over Europe. Just use your usual travel smarts, keep your wits about you, and you’ll be fine.
The canals aren’t just for commuters. Anyone can enjoy them from a boat tour or their own boat rental. It’s a great way to experience both the city and the countryside from a new perspective. In some places, you can even rent kayaks if that’s more your speed.
Falling into Canals
The canals are nice to look at, and fun to experience from a boat, but tourists are always falling into the canals. Whether it’s too many Space Cakes or walking and looking at their phones, it’s easier than you think to fall into a canal. They don’t always have a guardrail, so be careful around the canals. This goes for parking, too. The locals will park right up against the edge, but don’t try that unless you’re extremely comfortable with the car you’re driving.
Missing Out on Dutch Cuisine
The Dutch aren’t necessarily known for their cuisine, as evidenced by the fact that you almost never see Dutch restaurants in other countries! Street food and vending machine food in the Netherlands is where it’s at, though. That said, there are some must-try items to eat in the Netherlands.
Pancakes aren’t just for breakfast here! They are served all day, and they can come with sweet or savory toppings. They’re thinner than American pancakes, but not quite as thin as a crepe.
Poffertjes are another pancake-like food to try. They are quite small, served in a batch, with butter and powdered sugar. (There are other toppings, but this is the best one!)
Croquettes are a great snack; they come in many varieties, and you’ll see them at restaurants but also in the Febo vending machines. It’s deep-fried goodness, but take care not to burn your mouth! (Don’t skip the vending machines!)
Bitterballen is like a deep-fried ragu or beef stew. It’s one of the best street foods to get from the Febo machine. The Bahn Mi version is also fantastic. Deep-fried Bahn Mi!
Frites, or fries, are another common snack. What makes them amazing is all of the sauces. Peanut sauce, mayo, and curry ketchup are some of the more common ones.
Frikandellen is like a deep-fried sausage without the skin.
Stamppot is like a mashed potato casserole. It’s not much until you add toppings like meat and gravy, and then it’s delicious.
Satay Chicken is one example of great Southeast Asian food you can have in the Netherlands.
Cheese is really good in the Netherlands. Gouda is actually a Dutch city between Amsterdam and Rotterdam, so definitely try some Gouda during your trip. If you’re a big fan, plan a day trip to Gouda!
Kibbeling is a snack made with little chunks of battered and fried fish. It’s delicious and usually fried up to order.
Pea Soup is a great thing to eat on a cold day. It’s not just peas, but a pea base with lots of good stuff inside. Pea soup and a pancake is a pretty good meal!
Kapsalon is a street food that’s like a doner salad. It has a French Fry base, doner meat, gouda cheese baked to gooey, with a salad on top. Doner kebabs are great street food on their own, too.
Stroopwafel is a classic Dutch treat! You can buy them prepackaged, just like they serve on United Airlines, or you can sometimes order them fresh. A plain Stroopwafel is good on its own, but they like to dip them in chocolate and add toppings like sprinkles or marshmallows. If you are having a coffee, put your Stroopwafel on top of the mug, and the steam will melt the caramel. Delicious!
Other tasty Dutch desserts are Butter Cake and Apple Tart.
It wouldn’t be a list of Dutch foods without herring. They love herring in the Netherlands. There are many different ways to eat herring, so give it a shot. If you don’t like it, at least you can say you tried it.
Lastly, if you don’t like black licorice, don’t try any of the black candy. They love the flavor, but most Americans do not.
Of course, there are some unique beverages in the Netherlands, too. It would be a mistake to miss out on these!
Jenever is a gin-like spirit in the Netherlands. It’s often served in what looks like a shot glass, but it’s meant to be sipped. Be careful, though, as they usually fill the glass right up to the brim.
Heineken and Amstel are beers made here and available worldwide. You can even tour the Heineken Brewery in Amsterdam!
Try some of the local beers at brewpubs around town, but remember, they like foam on their beer in the Netherlands. The more foam, the fresher the beer.
For kids of all ages, Chocomel is thick chocolate milk in a can or bottle. This is Mark’s airport tradition when leaving the Netherlands. (Make sure you shake it before you open it!)
Don’t expect over-the-top service at restaurants; you may need to flag down your server from time to time. They aren’t going to be checking on you frequently.
Planning Too Many Hot Meals
It’s pretty common for the Dutch to only have one hot meal per day. The other meals are treated more like a snack, with bread and cheese. Cheese sandwiches are a very common lunch in the Netherlands. If you are traveling with Dutch friends, keep this in mind.
Planning Late Dinners
In the Netherlands, they like to have dinner early. Dinner is usually around 5:30 or 6:00, and often restaurants close early as well. If you are used to eating late, you might not have many options. Of course, Amsterdam has late-night restaurants and lots of street food, but in smaller towns, everything might close at 9:00 or 10:00. No matter what time you have dinner, reservations are always a good idea in the larger cities.
Don’t wait to start planning your first Netherlands vacation! It’s such an amazing country full of culture, nature, and delicious snacks. For more tips on travel in the Netherlands, check out these other blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re discussing common mistakes we see from first-time tourists in Finland. Mark studied in Scandinavia, and we’ve been back many times with our kids. We’ve learned many lessons throughout the years. If you are about to embark on your first Finland vacation, take care to avoid these travel mistakes!
Missing the Top 3 Cities in Finland
Having lived and studied in Finland, there are three things you must do during your trip to Finland!
Helsinki is a must! It’s the capital city with so many things to see. You can spend a full vacation in Helsinki or at least spend a day or two.
Turku is another favorite. There’s a cathedral, castle, market hall, and a beautiful riverfront.
Lastly is the sauna experience. No matter where your Finland vacation takes you, don’t miss out on the sauna experience in Finland.
Sauna is a national pastime in Finland; missing out on this would be a huge mistake! Even if you’re just on a day trip, make sure you visit a sauna at least once during your trip to Finland. Because it’s such a cultural experience, there are several mistakes to avoid during your sauna (sown-na) experience.
Most people will be naked in a sauna; it’s totally normal and nobody is judging you, but if you’re uncomfortable, you can wear a swimsuit into the sauna. They will give you towels to sit on, too.
Leave your jewelry in your hotel room; it can get really hot and burn your skin!
Sexualizing the sauna experience is a mistake; even though everyone is naked, it’s just not a sexual thing.
Saunas are only co-ed if it’s at someone’s home. Public saunas are separated by gender, so don’t worry that you’ll be naked in front of members of the opposite sex. There may be two different saunas, or some places have different hours for men and women.
Forgetting to hydrate can be a mistake when you sauna. You’re sweating out a lot of hydration, so make sure you replace it!
The floor of a sauna can be slippery with all of the condensation; don’t horse around and watch your step when you get up from your seat. (This is also why glass is not allowed in the sauna!)
Don’t let the heat out! When entering and exiting, close the door right behind you or the other guests will get a cold blast of air.
Trying to “keep up” with your Finnish friends in the sauna. They’re used to the heat and the steam; you might need to take a break or end the sauna before they do. You can also move around in the sauna; the higher seats are hotter.
You might also find a stick on the floor of the sauna; this is actually to whip yourself in the back. It stimulates your skin. Sounds weird, but it feels great.
You are supposed to shower before and after the sauna. Hotels or public saunas will have a shower, or if you’re out in the wilderness, you might jump in a lake or snowbank to cool off.
Always leave the water bucket full when you are done with the sauna. This is a common courtesy for your fellow sauna-goers.
Enjoying the sauna is also a great way to chat up the locals in Finland! It’s the only time they really open up!
Trusting the Weather
You never know what weather you’re going to get in Finland! We’ve had snow in the spring and sunny days in the winter. Snowstorms in April are fairly common, so it’s best to be prepared for all weather no matter what time of year you visit Finland.
Missing Out on the Market Halls
Finland has so many fun market halls, like the Kauppahalli in Turku. It’s not just like a grocery store, although those are always fun to explore in a new country. It’s a gathering place. Sure, you can get groceries or pre-made food but you can also buy souvenirs and specialty items. Markets in Finland are great for people watching.
Missing the Cafe Culture of Finland
Sometimes, my favorite thing to do in Finland is to grab a seat at a cafe and soak in the cafe culture with a coffee and a cinnamon roll. The cinnamon rolls (Korvapuusti) are fantastic, and there are many other delicious pastries to sample in Finland. It’s the best way to meet locals and blend in amongst them.
Not Talking to Locals
Finnish people are generally more reserved and not prone to small talk, but they can actually be quite friendly once you get to know them. If you land on a topic they are passionate about, they can talk your ear off. They probably won’t start a conversation with you, but they will probably continue it if they are interested.
If you are on the stricter side of parenting back home, you may need to dial that back a bit in Finland. They are all about gentle parenting without corporal punishment in Finland, so even a quick flick to the ear may ruffle some feathers.
Waiting Too Late for Dinner
In many European countries, it’s common to eat dinner quite late at night. That is not the case in Finland, so you should plan to eat dinner at more “American” times like 7 or 8:00. There are always fast food options like Hesburger or street carts, but restaurants are not generally open super late.
Expecting Amazing Food
There are Mexican, French, Thai and Italian restaurants in pretty much every city in the world. Have you ever seen a Finnish restaurant in your hometown or nearby city? Probably not, and there’s a reason for that. Even in Finland, you’ll find a variety of cuisines, but finding traditional Finnish food can be a challenge.
That said, there are some classic Finnish meals to eat when you are here. Besides cinnamon rolls, of course! Those are a given.
Rye Bread, or Ruisleipa, is very common in Finland. Bread in general is very popular, and they often make a meal out of bread and cheese.
Salmon soup in Finland is amazing! It usually comes with rye bread, and it’s absolutely delicious. Beyond the soup, all salmon is pretty tasty in Finland.
You’ll see a lot of soups in Finland; many of them are very good. If you are visiting Finland on a budget, soup and bread can be quite filling.
Karelian pies or pasties are quite delicious. It almost looks like a baked potato, but it’s a hand pie made with a rye bread crust filled with rice pudding and egg butter. They are delicious!
Blueberry pie is delicious in Finland! It’s more like a cobbler than a traditional American pie. A lot of berries grow in Finland in the summer, so take advantage of all the fresh fruit pies!
Reindeer is served in many ways. Meatballs or stewed reindeer are two of the more popular types. It’s delicious, but don’t let your kids think you are eating Santa’s reindeer. We learned that the hard way!
Hesburger is Mark’s favorite fast food in Finland. It blows McDonald’s out of the water, so don’t even compare the two!
Mushrooms are abundant in Finland, and living here cured Mark of his disdain for mushrooms. Mushroom sauce or mushroom soup, it’s all good!
Being close to Sweden is an added bonus; the meatballs are great!
If you are offered candy, beware! Salmiakki is very popular, and you might like it if you like salty black licorice, but it’s an acquired taste for most Americans. It comes in many forms, including gummies, syrup, and ice cream. Tyrkisk Peber is a runner-up as the worst candy in Finland. All other candy in Finland is pretty good, so check out a Fazer Candy store on your trip to Finland.
Not Learning a Few Finnish Words
Finnish is not an easy language to learn, and you don’t need to be fluent before you visit Finland. However, learning a few words is helpful. Almost everyone you meet will speak English, but they will get really excited if you speak a few words of Finnish. Hello (Moi) and thank you (Kiitos) would be enough to gain their attention and respect.
If your Finnish friends try to teach you some words, they will probably go for the V.S.P. They are not kid-friendly words, so use with caution!
Cutting in Line
There is a strong line culture in Finland, so it’s best to get in line along with everyone else. If you cut the line, they are too polite to say anything, but they’ll be fuming inside. This goes for bus stops, cafes, shopping and pretty much any place you can think of.
The same goes for jaywalking. Regardless of traffic, you should follow the rules and do not jaywalk. It’s just not done here.
Thinking All of Finland is Expensive Like Helsinki
Helsinki is the capital of Finland and is naturally quite expensive to visit. Because Helsinki is the first place most people visit in Finland, it’s easy to assume that all of Finland will be this expensive. Now, Finland is not a budget destination, but you can save some money if you don’t spend your entire vacation in Helsinki. You’ll find other cities are a bit more affordable.
Underestimating the Distance to Lapland
Lapland is the northernmost part of Finland, and is known as being the home of Santa Claus, the North Pole, reindeer and Northern Lights. It’s become a popular winter destination for tourists, but don’t think it’s just a quick day trip from Helsinki. It’s about a 12-hour train ride, so if you plan to visit Lapland, make sure you account for all of the travel time!
Don’t wait to start planning your first Finland vacation! It’s such an amazing country full of culture, nature, and fun traditions. For more tips on travel in Scandinavia, check out these other blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re sharing some of the don’ts for traveling through the airport. From check-in to baggage claim, these are the mistakes to avoid as you begin or end your next vacation!
Don’t Forget to Check Which Airport You’re Flying From
Many cities have multiple airports, and often, the budget airlines fly from airports that are further from the city. New York has three main airports, for example. You could be flying out of JFK, LaGuardia or Newark. Don’t lose extra time by going to the wrong airport on the day of your flight!
Likewise, when buying your ticket, don’t forget to check the other airports. You might get a better deal by flying into a different airport. Just make sure you always take additional costs into account! Don’t save $40 on a flight to a remote airport only to spend $50 on a taxi getting into town. This applies to your departure as well. We have two airports relatively close to us; one has free parking and the other charges for parking. It’s worth it for us to drive a little extra to save money on parking, especially on a long trip!
Don’t Assume Economy Parking is the Best Option
The long trek to economy parking isn’t always worth the money. The shuttles don’t always run frequently, so it could take a long time to get to your car. For a short trip where we’re only saving $10 or so, we think it’s worth it to upgrade the parking. Wherever you park, make sure you snap a picture of your parking spot so you can find it easily when you return.
Don’t Park at a Random Hotel for Free Parking
You might think you can sneak into one of the nearby airport hotel parking lots and take their shuttle to the airport. Don’t do it. Most hotels offer a park and fly option, so they definitely keep track of which cars belong and which don’t.
Don’t Arrive Last-Minute
Some airlines close the check-in gate up to 45 minutes prior to departure. If you are checking bags and you miss the cutoff, you’ll have to rebook for a later flight. Once you’re through security, don’t dawdle finding your gate. The doors will close 20 minutes before the departure time on your ticket.
Many airlines have multiple check-in lines to address various situations. One may be just a bag drop line, while others have full-service check-in. Don’t be afraid to ask someone if you’re in the right line. You can also use the kiosks or curbside check-in to check in and tag your bags. Curbside check-in is the best!
Don’t Act Shocked at Overweight Luggage
Each country has a different luggage weight limit, so you have to research all of the places you are visiting. If your bag is deemed to be overweight, you may have to pay extra or shuffle your belongings to balance the weight. Better yet, follow our best travel advice and pack light!
With your carry-ons, make sure your carry-on luggage fits the required dimensions. Some airlines are very strict and will charge you extra if they consider your carry-on to be oversized. If they suggest you gate check your carry-on, just do it. It will save a lot of time if you give them your bag before boarding.
Don’t Forget the TSA Rules
TSA rules can change so make sure you’re up to date on the latest rules for your origin and destination. Don’t hold up the line with your full-size shampoo bottles and freshly purchased sodas. Do your best to be prepared for a smooth screening by wearing shoes that are easy to take off and put on. Have your laptop easily accessible for the screening. It goes without saying, but don’t make jokes around TSA. They don’t take jokes lightly!
Don’t Feel Bad About Being at the Bar at 8 am.
The airport is kind of a timeless and lawless place. Nobody will even bat an eye at drinking a beer in the morning. As the saying goes, “it’s 5:00 somewhere!” Just make sure you get your bill right away so you don’t have to wait for it.
Don’t Block Traffic in the Terminal
Walking through the airport is just like driving. Slower walkers stay to the right so faster walkers can pass on the left. And don’t ever just stop in the middle of the concourse. If you need to stop, step to the side and figure it out. The same goes for escalators and moving sidewalks. If you’re not in a hurry, step aside so those who are in a hurry can get by you.
Don’t Expect to Have Electrical Outlets
More airports are increasing the number of electrical outlets available to travelers, but it’s best to have a backup plan rather than count on being able to access an outlet or charging station. Not all of them work, either. It’s always a good idea to have a backup battery on hand.
Don’t Forget to Keep Checking the Boards
You might get to your gate and go into autopilot mode. But gates change, and the announcements aren’t always super clear. Make sure you periodically check the boards or the airline app on your phone to make sure you’re still at the correct gate. It’s also important to listen to the gate announcements; don’t ignore the gate agents, as they might be sharing important information.
Don’t Forget to Download the Airline App
Having the app of your airline is essential on travel day. You can use your mobile boarding passes, track your luggage, and receive notifications of delays and boarding by group numbers. You can also get perks like free Wi-Fi through the app on some airlines.
Don’t Book a Short Layover
If you are traveling internationally, you will typically need to clear passport control at the first airport you land in. So, you need to make sure your layover is long enough to account for this process. You might even have to retrieve your luggage and recheck it.
Don’t Overestimate the Lounges
Not all airport lounges are created equally. These days, many of the lounges are so full that it doesn’t feel any different than the main terminal. The food can be picked over or not replenished, so it’s not always worth the extra cost. Of course, if you have complimentary access through a credit card or status, go for it! They are great for super long layovers.
Don’t Lose Your Cool
Don’t yell at any of the airline or TSA agents. They’re all just doing their job of enforcing and following the rules. The frontline workers are rarely the ones responsible for the decisions that impact you. The airlines are pushing back against this kind of behavior, and yelling at their staff can earn you a spot on the no-fly list.
While gate agents can be very helpful, there are some things they just can’t do. Don’t give them a hard time for something that’s out of their control. One thing they cannot do is reopen the boarding gates. Once they are closed, they are closed.
Don’t Be Gate Lice
Everyone is always in a hurry to get on board and claim the overhead space. But pretty much every airline boards by group, so wait until your group is called to approach the gate. Don’t slow the process down by getting in the way of people who are legitimately trying to board. If you try to board with an earlier group, you might get sent to the back of the line.
Don’t Be Unprepared at the Gate
When it’s your turn to board, have everything out and ready to hand over to the gate agent. If you’re traveling internationally, you’ll need your passport out. You’ll need your boarding pass, so have it out or have it already open on your phone. Don’t hold up the process by being unprepared.
Don’t Beg for an Upgrade
Airlines have made status pretty easy to achieve, so there are more high-tier travelers than ever before. It’s ok to ask for an upgrade, but never expect one. And certainly don’t take it out on the gate agent; it’s all handled by an algorithm, so there’s not much they can do about it.
Don’t Judge People for Running to The Gates
There’s always one person running through the airport, on the verge of missing their flight. It can be easy to roll your eyes and judge them for being late, but you never know what caused this. Their connecting flight could have been delayed. Don’t judge them; it could easily be you next time!
Don’t Accept Rides Outside the Airport
Most airports have an official taxi stand that will assign you to a taxi driver. However, a lot of airports also have independent taxi drivers approaching passengers as they exit the airport. It’s not worth the risk of a scam to just pick a random taxi. Don’t be afraid to hire a driver if that makes you feel better. They can meet you inside and escort you out to a waiting vehicle.
Don’t Forget to Research Public Transportation
Taxis are convenient, but in some places they can be ridiculously expensive. There are always other options, and it’s worth considering before you grab a taxi. Major cities often have an express train to the city center, or shuttle buses where you can share a ride with other travelers.
Don’t Block the Baggage Claim
If you’ve checked a bag, don’t crowd the baggage claim belt when the bags start dropping. Stand back so everyone can see the bags! Remember that baggage claim is different in various parts of the world. When traveling internationally, you usually get your bags before you clear customs. Sometimes, the baggage claim is right next to the exit.
Don’t Expect a Quick Luggage Recovery
If you do happen to have your bags lost by the airline, don’t expect speedy service. The more documentation you have, the easier it will be. Make sure you save the luggage tag from the airline, which has a barcode on it for tracking. It also helps to have the app of your airline, as you can track your luggage in the app.
Don’t Expect the Best Exchange Rate
The best option for getting currency when you land is to go to the ATM and let your home bank do the conversion rather than the bank that owns the ATM. You’ll get the best rate this way! Skip right by the currency kiosks. You should get some cash at the airport so that you’re prepared to tip anyone and you won’t have to search for an ATM on the streets.
If your layover is long enough, you might have time to go into town and explore. When I traveled to Lithuania often, I usually had a 7 or 8-hour layover in London. That was enough time to take the Tube into the city, have lunch, and return to the airport in time for my next flight. The viability of this will vary greatly by destination, but places like London, Amsterdam, and Brussels are great for this, thanks to public transportation.
Don’t Forget About Airport Hotels
Another option for a long layover is getting a room at an airport hotel. Some hotels even have day rates, and it’s just a nice way to get some extra space and not spend your whole time pacing the airport.
Don’t Count on Early Morning or Late Night Meals
The airport restaurants seem geared toward the lunch crowd. If you have a super early flight, don’t count on getting breakfast at the airport. It’s always a good idea to have a few snacks on hand. This goes for late arrivals or redeye departures as well; if it’s late at night, you might have trouble finding restaurants that are open.
Don’t Expect Vouchers for Delayed Flights
Sometimes, if a flight is delayed, the airline will offer meal vouchers to the passengers. They aren’t always a given, but in some countries, they are required by law to offer them. If you do get a voucher, make sure you use it right away or read the small print. We’ve had some expire within a couple of hours before we could even use them!
Don’t Expect Normal Prices
Airplanes have what is called captive pricing. There are no other options for their customers, so they can charge you whatever they want. Sometimes, fast-casual restaurants like Chili’s are about the same price as fast food. If you’re paying $9 for a bottle of water, you can see why people opt for a beer at the bar instead!
Don’t Lose Track of Your Belongings
Traveling internationally can be frazzling sometimes, and there is a lot to keep track of, but always make sure you have your passports and travel documents at all times. Put them away as soon as they are given to you.
If you don’t remember any of our other airport tips, just remember to bring a little patience and kindness. Patience will help keep you sane, and kindness goes a long way with airline and airport staff. Remember, this is just the journey; your destination awaits! For more family travel tips, check out some of these blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re sharing some of the don’ts of visiting Colombia. While many travel blogs will tell you the best things to do in Colombia, we also want to share what you should NOT do on your trip to Colombia!
Don’t Forget to Brush Up on Your Spanish
English isn’t as widely spoken as you might expect for such a popular travel destination. You definitely want to know a little bit of Spanish just to get by. You don’t have to be fluent but learn a few words. The locals will appreciate you for trying!
Don’t Expect a Quiet Vacation in Colombia
Colombians are a lively bunch! The cities are full of music and dancing and celebration, while nature is loud with birds and animals. Colombians are night owls, though, so you might find it pretty quiet before 10 in the morning.
Don’t Neglect Your Safety
Colombia has become much, much safer than the 80s and 90s so it’s not a dangerous place. However, you do have to watch out for yourself as you would in any other city. Our usual tips apply here, like not wearing flashy jewelry or expensive clothing. Pickpockets are not unheard of, so keep your wits about you. Stay in the tourist areas of town and don’t go wandering out into other neighborhoods. Ask your hotel if there are specific areas nearby to avoid.
If you’re partaking in the nightlife of Colombia, always keep an eye on your drink. It is possible to be drugged, so use caution.
Cocaine is often what people associate with Colombia. That is a dark part of the country’s past, and it’s not something to be joked about. Fortunately, it is in the past and Colombia has emerged as a beautiful, vibrant country with so many redeeming qualities.
Don’t Think Anything is Free
While Colombians are very friendly, they sometimes seem to offer you something for free. But usually it’s not free. This happens often on the beaches, where you’ll be offered a “free massage.” Others may want to give you a street performance or have their photo taken with you. You do need to tip them!
Remember, everyone is just doing a job to support their families. Don’t be rude to the street vendors, even if they are a bit pushy. Be polite and move on. If you speak a little bit of Spanish, they will actually be very nice and might even offer you some travel tips. Talking to the locals is the best way to get intel on the destination!
Don’t Be Anti-Soup or Anti-Arepa
They LOVE soup in Colombia, even for breakfast! There are a ton of great soups in Colombia.
Caldo de Pescado and Sancocho are two favorites.
Arepas are everywhere; it looks like a cornmeal pancake, and they can be filled with a variety of things from sweet to savory.
Don’t Flush Your TP
Colombia is one of those countries with old plumbing, so the pipes cannot handle toilet paper. There will always be a little basket next to the toilet where you can put your used toilet paper.
Don’t Forget to Have Cash
Cash is still king in Colombia. Some of the more popular tourist areas will take credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to have a little bit of cash for street food and tipping. It’s easy enough to get cash upon arrival at the airport and then you don’t have to worry about it.
Don’t Pass up the Street Food in Colombia
There are so many delicious things to eat from the food carts on the streets. You’ll find fresh fruit and types of fruit you’ve never heard of, as well as arepas, sweets, and so much more. We don’t usually eat the meat that’s sold on the street, but everything else is usually delicious.
Don’t Be Shocked by the Cheese Obsession
They love cheese in Colombia! It’s everywhere; they even put cheese in their hot cocoa drinks! It sounds weird, but the sweet and salty combo is actually delicious! You’ll find cheese soups, cheese bread, empanadas with cheese, arepas con queso, and on and on. One of Mark’s most interesting meals was a plantain with cheese and guava paste. Shockingly delicious!
Don’t Think Yes Always Means Yes
Colombians often respond “Si” to anything, so if you ask a yes or no question, you might just get a quick “si”.” So it’s better to ask an open-ended question if you want more details in the answer.
Don’t Underestimate the Altitude
Some parts of Colombia, like Bogota, are high in the mountains. Bogota sits at over 8,600 feet above sea level. That can be a major adjustment if you are arriving from sea level! Don’t plan too much for your first day as you might feel sluggish and dehydrated. It’s a good time to just walk around and take in the scenery without doing anything strenuous.
Colombia is a big, diverse country and it has several climates. Bogota has high altitude weather, and it can be cold any time of year, while Cartagena is sunny with beaches. If you are visiting multiple regions within Colombia, you may need a lot of different types of clothing!
Whether you are enjoying the beaches of Cartagena or the mountains of Bogota, make sure you are wearing sunscreen. The sun is stronger at high elevation, so even if it’s not hot and sunny, you’re getting those UV rays! (Bug spray is also a necessity!)
Don’t Expect Great Service
Colombians are friendly, so you shouldn’t have bad service, but it can be kind of slow. The service charge (propina) is usually already included, so they’re also not hustling to earn your tips.
They just live at a different pace here. Even though you’re not on an island, you could say Colombians run on “island time.” This goes for tours, restaurant service, parties, etc. So just be patient and have a good time without being in a hurry!
Don’t Pass Up the Local Drinks
Aguardiente is the local spirit in Colombia, so you should try that at least once. Mark’s favorite is anything with Lulo in it. Lulo is a tropical fruit that looks like an orange but has a tart flavor. Lulolada is like a limeade made with Lulo. All of the fruit juices and smoothies are so fresh in Colombia! Cholado is extra tasty; it’s like a fruit cocktail with sweetened condensed milk. YUM!
One exception, surprisingly, is the coffee in Colombia. Even though Colombian coffee beans are shipped all over the world, the roasting is what usually gives coffee its flavor. So don’t expect the “best coffee ever” in Colombia. It’s just OK. While the coffee isn’t amazing in Colombia, the chocolate is so eat lots of chocolate.
In the big cities, you can drink the tap water, but in more rural areas, bottled water is the safest option.
Don’t Be Afraid to Splurge on Flights Between Cities
There are buses throughout Colombia, but they can be very slow. Colombia has a lot of mountainous terrain, so traveling by bus from one city to the next can take forever! This is one instance where we encourage you to spend a bit more for a flight. Avianca is a great airline and flies to most destinations in Colombia.
Colombia is a beautiful country with a lively culture full of dancing, celebration and good food! It’s A friendly country, so say hello when you enter a business and don’t be afraid to explore beyond the major cities.
Want more tips for visiting Colombia? Check out these blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re discussing common mistakes we see from first-time tourists in Sweden. We’ve traveled to Sweden many times and learned many lessons throughout the years. If you are about to embark on your first Sweden vacation, take care to avoid these travel mistakes…and please, don’t be an ugly tourist in Sweden!
Missing Fika
Fika is one of the best parts of Swedish culture, and it would be a huge mistake not to experience it when you visit Sweden. Fika is not easy to define, but it’s akin to taking some time to chat with friends. It might involve coffee or a snack, but it’s more than just a quick coffee break. It’s about conversing with your friends and escaping life for a brief bit.
Not Chatting Up the Locals
Granted, Swedes are not the chattiest people, so getting them to engage in conversation can be difficult. They aren’t big on small talk. But if you can get them to open up, they are actually super friendly and helpful. They are reserved, but it’s just part of their culture; don’t take it personally! Don’t try to engage on public transportation, but if you’re in a social group, that’s the time to try and strike up a conversation.
Here’s a tip from @EEmB, one of our Swedish followers:
“If you want to talk to a local, just ask something specific. Don’t just say “Hi, how are you?”. Ask us something specific like “hi, I just arrived here from x, could you recommend a place to eat/something I have to see or do while I am here/what is something I need to know about Sweden/this town?” Some might be shy to speak English, or be reluctant to talk for whatever reason, but most will give you good answers and even will continue a conversation a bit.
But not on public transport. We are very mindful of our spaces and not making anyone feel uncomfortable, and being in a bus/metro/train is a place we most likely want to have that space, also we are “trapped” in a box with you. Swedes might be reluctant to talk in places we are trapped in. If you are in Stockholm, it’s a big city like any big city, some people are just busy, but for most, Swedes LOVE to tell you about Sweden or give you tips, so just ask!”
Missing Midsummer
The best time to visit Sweden is at the summer solstice when they throw the Midsummer Festival. The festival marks the arrival of long-awaited summer, and there is dancing, folk costumes, flowers, and all kinds of fun activities. It would be a mistake to miss it!
In Sweden, liquor is only sold at the Systembolaget liquor stores. Anything over 3.5% ABV can only be sold in government-owned liquor stores. Like the government, the stores are closed on public holidays and Sundays, so you have to plan ahead. If you go on Friday or Saturday, expect long lines and don’t even try to cut in line; the Swedes are very strict about line etiquette.
It’s not just line etiquette; Swedes are very strict about rules in general. They like rule followers and are not going to bend the rules for tourists. This applies to being on time as well. Swedes are very different from people in Spain or Portugal where 30 minutes late is still early. In Sweden, you should always be on time. Don’t be early, but especially don’t be late or you will insult your hosts.
Trying to Impress Locals
Swedish culture is also very humble; they don’t like bragging. So while you might be eager to make friends in Sweden, they won’t respond to bragging. Be humble and you’ll have better luck making new friends!
Expecting Amazing Service
The Swedish disdain for small talk carries over to service as well. You will not find over-the-top friendly service in Sweden, and the customer is not “king” here. There’s no tipping in Sweden, so they’re not going to go out of their way to ensure an amazing experience. It’s punctual, efficient service.
Assuming all of Sweden is Priced Like Stockholm
Stockholm is very expensive to visit, especially the taxis. But not all of Sweden is super expensive. Nearly every other part of the country is much more affordable than the capital city. So, if you want to stretch the budget of your Sweden vacation, spend a few days in the capital and then go to the smaller cities and towns where your money goes a lot farther. Exploring beyond Stockholm is more than just a way to save money, it’s the only way to experience the amazing nature of Sweden. If you don’t have much time, you can take a day trip to Uppsala on the train.
Getting Cash in Sweden
You really don’t need any cash when you visit Sweden. It’s a very modern country, so you can pay for everything with a credit card or tap-to-pay. We’ve even come across places that won’t accept cash, so don’t bother exchanging money when you get to Sweden.
Missing Swedish Cuisine
Sweden has a lot of international cuisines, especially in Stockholm, so sometimes it can be difficult to find traditional Swedish cuisine. (it’s not just meatballs!) Some of the traditional foods to try in Sweden include:
Meatballs are the first thing most people think of when picturing Swedish food. (they’re not called Swedish meatballs here, just meatballs) They are served with Lingonberries and pickled cucumbers that are meant to be eaten with meatballs for a sweet/savory/sour flavor combination.
Seafood is a staple in Sweden. You’ll see a lot of herring, including pickled herring. Salmon is another popular fish to eat in Sweden. Gravlax is smoked salmon, usually served on a sandwich. Open-faced shrimp sandwiches are also common.
Crawfish parties are common in late summer. If you get invited to one, go!
Sandwiches are easy to find in Sweden, and the best choice for eating on the go.
Lingonberries are plentiful, and they are not only served with meatballs. You’ll see lingonberry jam, beverages, and desserts like ice cream. They really love their forest berries in Sweden.
Potatoes are common in Sweden, and you can have them in many forms. You’ll have mashed potatoes, fried potatoes, bulb potatoes, and they are all delicious.
Hot dogs and kebabs are everywhere and make an easy late-night snack. You can get them on the street and in convenience stores.
Pastries in Sweden are amazing! This includes, but is not limited to, cinnamon rolls.
Sweden has a coffee culture. They drink coffee frequently, and it’s not hard to find a good cup of coffee in Sweden.
Chocolate Balls are another sweet treat in Sweden.
Princess Cake is popular; it’s basically a sponge cake with fruit filling and a marzipan outer layer.
Breakfast is usually a simple meal; maybe a Wasa cracker with butter or cheese, or some yogurt. Wasa crackers are a thick cracker, often made with rye bread.
Pancakes in Sweden are super tasty, too. They are thinner than American pancakes, but thicker than a crepe. Served with some fresh berry jam and cream, they are delicious!
Candy stores in Sweden are so fun! Swedes definitely have a sweet tooth! They love their salted black licorice, too, although that’s more of an acquired taste.
When it comes to beverages in Sweden, besides the fresh berry juices, you can find a lot of local beer, schnapps, and of course, vodka.
Many of the museums in Sweden have a small cafe, and that’s usually a good place to try traditional Swedish food.
Picking McDonald’s Over Max
If you’re getting food on the go, there are all the usual international fast food chains, but give Max a try instead. It’s the local fast food chain, and their Max sauce is so good!
Wherever you grab a bite, make sure you bus your own table! This is pretty standard at cafes or cafeterias, and there will be spots to return your tray and dishes. This doesn’t apply to sit-down restaurants, but pay attention to those around you and take a cue from the locals.
Missing the Lunch Buffet
A great way to save money while traveling in Sweden is to eat at lunch buffets. They are widely advertised and you can get a lot of food for a great price. So if you’re traveling Sweden on a budget, fill up at the lunch buffets and have a light dinner. It’s also a great opportunity to try lots of local Swedish food at one time.
Upsetting the Locals
Swedes are pretty chill, in general. But their culture is very different from other countries, especially America. So, it could be easy to accidentally upset a local if you’re not familiar with the culture. Here are a few tips for not upsetting the locals on your Sweden vacation:
Respect their personal space. Whether you’re in line at the liquor store or on the bus or train, take the open seats with nobody around. Don’t stand or sit right next to someone.
Don’t wear your shoes indoors. If you’re lucky enough to be invited to a Swedish home, make sure you remove your shoes upon entry.
Cutting in line is a cardinal sin in rule-abiding Sweden.
Being loud anywhere, especially on public transportation. Swedes are so reserved and quiet, that they really don’t like loud talking or shouting. When filming our travel videos, we try to find spots away from people so we don’t disturb them.
Confusing Switzerland with Sweden. It happens more often than you think. Swiss are in Switzerland, and Swedes are in Sweden. They are two very different countries.
Don’t even think about doing your impression of the Muppets Swedish Chef!
Don’t think Sweden is too expensive to visit! Although it’s pricier than Southern Europe, it’s still way more affordable than destinations like New York or London. Especially if you get out and explore the country beyond the capital city, Stockholm.
Want more tips for visiting Sweden? Check out some of our other blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re discussing what NOT to do on your trip to Liverpool. From the architecture to the people, it’s a great city! Don’t believe the stereotypes or the negative reviews of Liverpool! While many travel blogs will tell you all the fun things to do in Liverpool, we want to be sure you know about the things you should NOT do when you plan a trip to Liverpool.
Don’t Skip A Liverpool Beatles Tour
Of course, Liverpool is most famous for being the home of the Beatles. And while there are many more attractions in Liverpool besides the Beatles attractions, the Liverpool Beatles Tours are fantastic. You’ll get to see where they grew up and where they all came together, as well as some venues they played in their early days. The Beatles Story is a great museum to check out, and many of the tours leave from here. Do this at the beginning of your trip, and you’ll get a good sense of the layout of the city as well.
Don’t Miss Out on The Other Attractions in Liverpool
Once you’ve gotten your fill of the Beatles history and memorabilia, there are still plenty of things to do in Liverpool. I met up with Liverpool local Shebs from ShebsTheWanderer and talked about some of his favorite things to do in Liverpool.
Royal Albert Docks is an area that has been revitalized from commercial docks to an entertainment district. You’ll definitely spend some time here, as there are also some great museums at the docks.
Pierhead is another Liverpool destination worth exploring. In addition to museums and attractions, you can take a ferry from here. There are many different boat tours to choose from, as well as a simple ferry across the river.
The Baltic Market is Liverpool’s first street food market. While I didn’t run into any Baltic citizens there, it is a great spot to grab a drink or a bite to eat.
Outside of London, the Walker Art Gallery has one of the largest art collections in England, with pieces dating back to the 13th century.
The Palm House at Sefton Park is a beautiful glass garden dome, often used for weddings and special events.
The Williamson Tunnels Heritage Centre is a hidden gem of Liverpool. Tour the underground tunnels and chambers and take a guess at why they were built.
Of all the things to do in Liverpool, you really should experience the Liverpool nightlife scene. There are tons of bars, clubs, pubs, and things to do at night.
Another classic Liverpool experience is attending a football match. People come to Liverpool from all over the world to see a match! If your schedule doesn’t align, they also do stadium tours when there are no matches scheduled.
A lot of these Liverpool attractions, including many museums, are free! This makes Liverpool a very affordable travel destination. I spent a fraction of what I would spend on a vacation to London.
Don’t Skip the Day Trips from Liverpool
Liverpool has an excellent train system, making exploring some day trips from Liverpool easy. Some of the best day trips from Liverpool include:
Chester is about 35 minutes from Liverpool by train. It’s a quaint town, and people come from all over the UK to visit the Chester Zoo.
New Brighton is a seaside resort just 30 minutes from Liverpool
Blackpool is another seaside resort, sometimes called the “Vegas of England” and is about one hour from Liverpool
Southport sits on the Irish Sea coast and is about one hour from Liverpool
If you want to visit another country, there is a ferry to Bangor. It takes about four hours from Liverpool.
Manchester is just 45 minutes away if you really need to see Manchester United play!
These destinations, and the transportation there and back, are also very affordable.
Don’t Use Liverpool Central
If you’re getting to Liverpool by train, you don’t want Liverpool Central. The naming is a bit confusing, but the main train station is the Liverpool Lime Street Station. If you try to find a ticket to Liverpool Central, you’re going to have a hard time finding anything.
Don’t Confuse Red and Blue
In Liverpool, there are two choices for football: red or blue. Red is Liverpool FC, and Blue is Everton; surprisingly, the rivalry is pretty friendly. But if you’re wearing blue or red, you might get ribbed a bit by the locals for your team choice. It’s all in good fun and just part of the Scouser humor.
No matter what, don’t wear your Manchester United jersey! If you do, prepare to be heckled!
Don’t Worry About Safety
Liverpool has a reputation for being unsafe, and it may have been in the past, but I think it’s overblown. Of course, you should always use the same common travel sense that we recommend for any destination. But I did not feel particularly worried about my safety in Liverpool.
Don’t Call it John Lennon Airport
The airport in Liverpool is the Liverpool John Lennon Airport, but locals refer to it as the Speke Airport, which is the name of the town it’s located in. You wouldn’t be wrong calling it John Lennon, but you won’t stick out like a tourist as much if you use the local name for it.
Don’t Have a Thin Skin
The locals in Liverpool have a wicked sense of humor, and they like to joke around a lot. They might even give you nicknames based on your physical appearance or your name. I received several nicknames referencing my husky physique, and it was all in good fun. Outside of Australia, I’ve never been called “mate” so much in my whole life; the Liverpool locals are really endearing, even if it’s sometimes in a sarcastic way.
Don’t Forget: The Locals are Scousers
A person from Liverpool is not a Liverpooler or Liverpoolean; they are called Scousers. Formally, they are called Liverpudlians, and this applies to all of the surrounding areas of Liverpool, whereas Scousers refers to a specific area of Liverpool. Scouse is actually a local stew made from beef that you should definitely try when you visit Liverpool. The best place to try it is at the Liverpool Cathedral. One bowl won’t make you a Scouser, though!
Whatever you call them, the locals of Liverpool are awesome! Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance when you are traveling. They might even approach you if you look like you need some help! Even before I visited, I received so much great advice from our fans and viewers in Liverpool!
Don’t Piss Off the Scousers!
Even though the Liverpudlians are very nice, there are a few things you could do to inadvertently piss them off.
Don’t compare Liverpool and Manchester; see “Don’t Confuse Red and Blue” above for an explanation!
Don’t make jokes about crime in Liverpool; there may have been some issues in the past, but this stereotype of Liverpool is undeserved.
It should go without saying, but don’t bad-mouth Liverpool. They’re very proud of their city and don’t take that lightly.
Don’t bring up “the Sun” newspaper. There’s some bad blood there.
Don’t attempt a Scouser accent. They won’t appreciate it.
Don’t assume they all love the Beatles. They’ve had Beatles music on repeat their entire lives, so they probably prefer listening to anything else.
Don’t Miss Out on Liverpool Cuisine
Obviously, when visiting Liverpool, the first food you have to try is Scouse. See where the locals get their nickname! With some bread on the side, you can’t go wrong! The restaurant inside the Liverpool Cathedral is actually a really good place to have scouse.
Other things to eat in Liverpool include:
Pub grub! Pub culture is strong in Liverpool, so the pub food is really good. Everything from bangers and mash, steak & ale pie, toad-in-a-hole, black pudding, and burgers!
Liverpool actually had the first Chinatown in Europe! You can still get really good Chinese and international food in Liverpool.
Gravy on chips seems to be a Northern England kind of thing. The curry gravy on chips was really good!
Seafood is super fresh in Liverpool. Potted shrimp or fish and chips are both really good here.
A Liverpool Bun Loaf looks like a fruitcake but has a different consistency. It’s a good snack to have with tea.
A Wet Nelly is like a bread pudding. It can be hard to find, so if you see it on the menu, give it a try!
Among the many desserts in Liverpool, the Liverpool Tarts are quite good. It’s a pastry crust with a fruit filling.
For souvenirs, get the Everton Mints. It’s a minty hard candy with toffee in the center.
The Baltic Triangle and the Baltic Market are both great areas for foodies. There are lots of options along Bold Street as well. If you’re out by the docks, there are lots of restaurants there, too. Finding a place to eat in Liverpool is not difficult; choosing between all of them is.
Liverpool is an international port town; you can get a really good version of many different cuisines in Liverpool, so don’t be afraid to branch out and try some Mediterranean or Indian food.
Don’t Forget About the “Other” Cathedral
There are actually two cathedrals in Liverpool. There’s the Gothic Liverpool Cathedral, which is an Anglican church. (This is where you get the good Scouse!) The Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral is the Catholic cathedral in Liverpool, affectionately known as “Paddy’s Wigwam.” By visiting both Liverpool cathedrals, you’ll learn a lot about the city’s history.
Don’t Be Surprised if You Feel an Irish Vibe in Liverpool
A lot of Irish emigrated to Liverpool during the potato famine of the 1840s. It’s estimated that up to 50% of Liverpool’s population has some Irish ancestry, so there’s a definite Irish vibe in the city.
Because of the mixed ancestry of Liverpool, the accent can sometimes be difficult to understand. Not all the time, but there are definitely times when I had to really concentrate to understand them.
Don’t Count on Nice Weather in Liverpool
You might get nice weather in Liverpool, but you’d better be prepared for every possible weather at any time of year. The seaside location means wet or windy weather can appear out of nowhere. So, always be prepared with a rain jacket and some layers you can add or remove as needed.
As with any destination in Europe, good walking shoes are essential! Liverpool is very easy to explore on foot, but only if your feet are comfortable. You will most likely do a lot of walking in Liverpool. If you forget good shoes, the public transportation in Liverpool is pretty good, too.
There are a lot of statues in Liverpool. And not all of them are Beatles statues. There’s Superlambanana, Queen Victoria, Eleanor Rigby, and more! I think Liverpool has one of the highest concentrations of statues of any city in England. It’s fun to just walk around and check out all the Liverpool statues and learn more about the city.
I really loved my time in Liverpool. The sights of Liverpool are fun to visit, but it’s the locals that make this a fantastic travel destination. Even Hollywood has noticed the accessibility and affordability of Liverpool, as it’s been featured in many movies, like Batman. You can spend two weeks in Liverpool for what you’d spend in five days in London.
Need more travel tips for visiting the UK? Check out these blog posts!
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re sharing some of the don’ts of visiting Stockholm, the capital city of Sweden. Mark studied in Scandinavia and has spent a lot of time in Stockholm.
While many travel blogs will tell you the best things to see in Stockholm, we also want to share what you should NOT do!
Don’t Bother with Cash
There is no need for cash in Stockholm; we never ran across a business that did not accept credit cards. Some places wouldn’t even accept cash. This may not apply to all cities in Sweden, but no cash is necessary in Stockholm. Just bring a credit card. Or three.
Don’t Worry About Speaking Swedish
The people of Stockholm are generally very well-educated, and most of them speak English quite well. Swedish is not a common language to speak outside of Sweden, so they don’t expect you to know anything other than English. Even if you try to speak in Swedish, they’ll switch to English pretty quickly.
Don’t Be Shocked if Nobody Speaks to You
Swedish culture is pretty reserved, so they aren’t super outgoing or chatty. If you get to know someone from Stockholm, they are great fun people, but getting to know them is the hard part. Don’t expect anyone to just strike up a conversation with you, and don’t take it personally.
Likewise, when you’re out and about, be sure to respect their personal space whether you’re on the train or bus, waiting in line, or grabbing a seat at the bar. It’s kind of taboo to sit right next to someone if there are other spots available. Don’t even try to make small talk!
This is reflected in the service in Stockholm as well. There’s no tipping, so the service can often seem indifferent.
Of course, summer is the best time to visit Stockholm. You’ll have tons of sunny days, and the parks of Stockholm come alive in the summer. Everyone eats dinner outdoors and savors the extended hours of daylight. Summer in Stockholm is unforgettable.
Don’t Visit Stockholm in Winter
If you have a choice, we don’t recommend visiting Stockholm between October and March. Winter in Stockholm is cold and dark, and usually rainy or snowy. The lack of daylight can really put a damper on your plans, as there’s just not enough daylight hours to do too much sightseeing.
If you don’t have a choice, then winter is a good time to visit some of the best museums in Stockholm. These are just a few:
Additionally, much of the Royal Palace is open to the public, even though it is still the official residence of the King and Queen.
Don’t Miss the Vasa Museum
The Vasa is a beautiful wooden warship that sank before it even left the harbor. In seafaring terms, it wasn’t much of a success. But once the ship was brought up from the sea floor, the Vasamuseet was built around it, and it’s one of the most popular things to see in Stockholm. It’s one of the best museums in the world. Mark has been to this museum on every single trip to Stockholm.
Don’t Forget to Explore the Surrounding Islands
Stockholm is part of an archipelago that is made up of 14 islands. There are ferries you can take between them, as well as sailing or sightseeing cruises. There are dozens of bridges so you can walk to some islands as well, but getting out on the water will really help you see the beauty of Stockholm.
Don’t Miss Old Town
While Stockholm is a modern city, they have preserved the Old Town so you still get that old European feel when you visit Old Town (Gamla Stan) Stockholm. Take in the colorful buildings and architecture which ranges from Medieval to Art Deco. The bridges are extra picturesque and you can easily fill a whole day just wandering through Gamla Stan.
Don’t Skip Skansen
Skansen is an open-air museum that recreates a village from past centuries. There are shops and businesses as you would have seen back in the day, as well as community gardens. This living museum is a great way to see the evolution of life in Stockholm. If you’re visiting Stockholm with kids, this is a must!
Don’t Pick the Wrong Airport
Stockholm has two main airports; they are not all close to the city but don’t take taxis from the airport. It’s super expensive. Arlanda is the main airport for international arrivals, and there’s a train that takes you straight to the city center in less than 20 minutes.
Don’t Worry About Safety in Stockholm
Stockholm is a pretty safe city, where there’s not much to worry about. If you’re out late at night you may see some drunken scuffles in the street, but it’s not a city that anyone would consider dangerous. Use your usual travel smarts, and you’ll probably be just fine.
Don’t Let Prices Scare You Away
Yes, Sweden is more expensive than many European countries, but it’s not prohibitively so. Prices are comparable to US cities and much more affordable than visiting London. You might spend a little more, but don’t let that keep you from visiting Stockholm. It’s totally worth it.
Fika is a Swedish tradition that is like a coffee break for your soul. It often involves coffee, conveniently. You might do Fika with a friend for a quick catch-up in the afternoon, perhaps with a pastry and coffee or tea. This is one time when you might actually get some locals to open up and chat.
Don’t Forget to Dress for the Clubs
If you’re here to enjoy Stockholm nightlife, you can’t assume you will get into the nightclubs. They have face control, so if you don’t look the part, they might not let you in. So, do your best to look the part and cross your fingers that you can get in.
Stockholm is such a beautiful city, with the surrounding archipelago islands, beautiful museums and lovely people. Just don’t feed the seagulls and don’t walk in the bike paths! Want more tips for traveling in Scandinavia? Check out these blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re sharing some of the don’ts of visiting Innsbruck, a winter Olympics host city and beautiful mountain destination. With outdoor adventure set against the cultural legacy of the Hapsburgs, Innsbruck is a beautiful destination in Austria. While many travel blogs will tell you the best Innsbruck attractions, we also want to share what you should NOT do when you visit Innsbruck.
Don’t Miss The Top Innsbruck Attractions
For a small town, there are a lot of things to see in Innsbruck. Unlike some other cities, the Innsbruck Card for multiple attractions is well worth the price! You’ll have access to several of these attractions, and you have a year to use it.
Goldenes Dachl, or Golden Roof, is the most popular thing to see in Innsbruck. It was built by Emperor Maximilian, and it’s where he watched parades and festivals. You can also go inside to tour his collection.
The Tirol Folk Art Museum is fantastic. They’ve taken rooms from cabins all over Tirol and replicated them to show how the people of this region lived over various centuries. The woodwork and wood carvings in some of the rooms are quite impressive
The Hofkirche, or the Court Church, is also a popular Innsbruck attraction. Inside, 28 bronze statues are standing around a tomb representing Maximilian even though he’s not in there. Maximilian’s Last Will and Testament is not a must! If you don’t like the dark, definitely don’t go! But it does explain about Maximilian and his life, if that interests you.
The Ferdinandeum has art that ranges from prehistoric to contemporary art
The Alpine Zoo is great for kids and adults; it has animals from the region on display. Be warned, though, it’s built into the side of a mountain, so it’s steep!
The Swarovski Crystal Museum has a lot of cool displays, both indoors and outdoors.
The Christmas Markets in Innsbruck are spectacular! They’re not as touristy as some other cities, so it feels like an authentic experience.
Ambras Castle is a quick taxi from downtown and well worth visiting. Even the views from the drive to the castle are amazing! Don’t miss the Wunderkammer and the Spanish Hall.
Buy a ticket to climb to the observation deck of City Tower for the best views of Innsbruck
Hofburg Imperial Palace which was built by Maximilian in the year 1500.
The Innsbruck Archaeological Museum has over 1,000 ancient artifacts and artworks.
Don’t Miss the Outdoor Attractions in Innsbruck
Innsbruck hosted the Winter Olympics in 1964 and in 1976; there are 12 ski resorts in and around the Innsbruck area. If you are a skier or snowboarder, you definitely should hit the slopes if you’re visiting Innsbruck in the winter!
In the summer months, hiking is fantastic in the mountains surrounding Innsbruck. You can take a funicular or cable car up to the top of Nordkette for amazing views and hiking trails. If it’s a cloudy or foggy day, though, skip it because you won’t be able to see anything.
Don’t Forget to Pack the Right Shoes & Clothing
Depending on what time of year you are visiting Innsbruck, you’ll need to have the right shoes and clothes. Of course, in the winter you need to be prepared for snow with good waterproof shoes. In the summer, you’ll want hiking boots. No matter when you visit Innsbruck, you want to also make sure you have comfortable walking shoes for exploring the town’s cobblestone streets.
Innsbruck is a very safe city to visit; we’ve visited with our kids and parents, and never worry about pickpockets or any of the usual travel scams. It’s a great place to bring your kids! Not only is it safe, but there are also tons of family-friendly activities and museums in Innsbruck.
Don’t Worry About Speaking German
Yes, they speak German in Austria, but you’ll find plenty of English speakers. There is a university in Innsbruck, so lots of young people who speak English, as well as lots of tourists. Of course, it’s always nice to know a few words, but you can get by ok without speaking German. You should know “Gruss Gott” as it’s common to greet someone in the morning with this phrase.
If you get a chance to talk to locals, do it! They are the nicest of all the cities in Austria; even the service is pretty good!
Don’t Forget to Try These Innsbruck Specialties
Innsbruck has lots of great options for traditional Austrian cuisine and there are also some regional specialties to try while you’re here.
In Innsbruck, they eat a lot of dumplings, or knödel. There are many varieties of knödel and the three you have to try include the bacon dumpling, spinach dumpling, and the cheese dumpling. They’re all fantastic. You can even get a platter with multiple types of dumplings if you want to sample them all. They love their bacon, as well. You’ll see entire stores selling speck, or bacon.
Tiroler Gröstl is roasted potato, bacon, onion, and fried egg, and is a great warm dish for a cold winter day.
Käsespätzle, which are cheese noodles served with onions, and they love wild meats in Innsbruck. We’ve had several venison dishes here.
Kiachl is kind of like a fried funnel cake, but you can opt for sweet or savory versions.
Don’t Worry About Crowds
Now, Innsbruck is not exactly a hidden gem. But it’s also not overrun with tourists, so it never feels insanely crowded. It is significantly less crowded than Salzburg or Munich. Both of those cities are about 1:45 from Innsbruck by train, so you can base yourself in Innsbruck and visit other cities by train for the day.
Don’t Forget to Plan Your Shopping Hours
Most shops in Innsbruck close early and do not open on Sundays, so you need to plan your shopping to ensure you get in before they close for the day. If you really need something, the train store shops are typically open later and on all days.
Don’t wait to start planning your first trip to Innsbruck! It’s such an amazing city, and we visit often because we love it so much! Between the beautiful architecture and mountain views, it’s a great city to visit year-round. For more tips on travel in Austria, check out these other blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about safety in Colombia. The biggest question we get from our followers is, “is Colombia safe?” If you were around in the 70s or 80s, it’s a logical question. Colombia has not always been the safest country to visit, but thankfully that has changed. Yes, it is safe to visit Colombia, and we’re sharing our tips for staying safe during your trip to Colombia.
There are some safety issues to consider when visiting Colombia, but it’s not what you think!
The Sun is one of the biggest safety concerns in Colombia! Cartagena is hot and humid, and Bogota is at high elevation, so the sun is super strong there. Make sure you are prepared with lots of sunscreen, a hat that offers sun protection, and if you are fair-skinned, lightweight long sleeves and pants. Heat stroke and sunburn are two of the biggest dangers in Colombia.
The altitude in some parts of Colombia can be dangerous. Bogota sits at 8,661 feet above sea level, which is high enough to cause problems for some travelers. When you are visiting any high-altitude destination, always take it easy on the first day so your body can acclimate to the elevation. Follow our tips for high-altitude travel, and listen to your body!
Driving in Colombia is not for the faint of heart; we don’t recommend it. But even as a pedestrian, you have to watch out for cars at all times. Crossing a street in Colombia can be a real safety concern if you are not paying attention.
Old cobblestone streets can also pose a safety issue for you. Make sure you have good shoes that are comfortable for lots of walking, that also have good tread so you don’t slip on the street!
Of course, there are safety concerns in Colombia just like any other popular travel destination. It’s not the overhyped kidnapping capital people would have you believe, but you do have to keep your wits about you and use common sense.
Don’t leave your belongings unattended! This includes leaving valuables in your rental car, or setting your phone on a cafe table.
Leave the bling at home! Don’t flash expensive jewelry, watches or handbags. Showing off expensive items can make you a target.
When getting cash, use the ATM inside the banks and at the airport. It’s just safer; you might have to wait in a line at the bank, but there’s less chance of getting scammed or robbed.
Pickpockets are not unheard of at some of the busier tourist attractions. This isn’t unique to Colombia; pickpockets will go where the tourists are!
If you’re enjoying the nightlife in Colombia, keep an eye on your drink; make sure nobody can put something in your drink.
Should the worst happen and you are robbed or mugged, don’t fight back! They just want your money, so there’s no need to get physically hurt, too. Again, this can happen anywhere and is not more likely in Colombia than anywhere else, so don’t spend time worrying about it. Just take your usual travel precautions.
While not necessarily dangerous, there are some scams aimed at tourists that you should be aware of. These aren’t specific to Colombia, but if you’re worried about safety in Colombia, you should be aware of these travel scams.
Dating app scams are common in Colombia. Be careful who you talk to and who you meet up with. And don’t give anyone money!
Nothing is free! If someone tries to give you something for free, it’s most likely a scam. Whether it’s a street performance, a free bracelet, or a massage on the beach, you are going to be asked for money at some point. Even if it’s “free.”
A distraction scam involves someone distracting you while their partner picks your pocket or runs off with your bag. They might try to clean bird poop off your shirt, or cause a commotion to distract you.
Likewise, when locals are overly helpful, or offer unsolicited advice. Colombians are super friendly, so this is a tough one to detect.
Cell phone thefts are common. Keep your phone tucked away at all times. Don’t set it on your table at the restaurant.
Taxis are an easy way to scam tourists, so we recommend pre-arranging your transportation, either through an app or through your hotel. If you’re dining out, the restaurant can also call a car for you. This reduces your chances of being taken the long way. If you do grab a taxi on the street, negotiate your price before you get in.
There are some things in Colombia that seem like a scam, but actually aren’t.
Street vendors are everywhere in Colombia. They are there for photo opportunities, or they may be selling fruit or offering carriage rides. It’s how they make a living, so if you want to get a photo, make sure you tip them.
Haggling over prices can feel scammy, but that’s just part of the culture here.
I can’t emphasize enough how much we loved visiting Colombia. It’s safe, historic, beautiful, and affordable. There is a lot of variety in the things to see, and the food is amazing, too! Looking for more Colombia travel tips? Check out these other blog posts:
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