What NOT to Do When Visiting Bath, England

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re sharing some of the don’ts of visiting the Cotswolds; one of the most beautiful destinations in England, with some of the prettiest villages you’ll ever see. While many travel blogs will tell you the best things to do in the Cotswolds, we also want to share what you should NOT do!

Don’t Miss The Roman Baths

The hot springs under Bath are the only hot springs in England, and they are really what “put Bath on the map.” The Roman Baths of Bath are one of the top attractions in Bath! While you can’t get in the baths here, you can learn a lot about the history of Bath, and how the foundations were discovered and restored into the museum you see today. Get the audio guide, which comes in many languages, and a special version for kids. Make sure you don’t forget to pre-book your ticket!

If you want to soak in the healing waters, you have to go to Thermae Bath Spa.

Don’t Miss Bath Abbey

One of the highlights of a trip to Bath is Bath Abbey. Both the exterior and interior are worth seeing. The frescoes and artwork are incredible, and there are so many details. There are over 1,500 memorials on the walls, and the acoustics are phenomenal if you get the chance to see a live performance. You can also climb the tower for amazing views of the surrounding landscape.

Don’t Expect Solitude in Bath

Bath is a very popular day trip from London. It can get very crowded with tour groups. But, you can stay in Bath and enjoy the town before and after the day tourists arrive. And then you have a lot of cool day trips from Bath, like Stonehenge or the Cotswolds. There’s even a direct train to Cardiff that only takes about an hour.

Don’t Wait to Make Reservations

Because Bath is so popular, especially on the weekends, you really need to plan ahead. While there are a lot of options, you should book early for the best choice. Once your Bath hotel is reserved, then you can begin planning the rest of your stay.

You’ll want dinner reservations as well, as a lot of the restaurants fill up quickly. You don’t need to reserve as far in advance as your hotel, but if you see a place that looks good, pop in during the day and ask for a reservation that evening.

Don’t Miss High Tea

You’re in England, so of course you have to have afternoon tea. There are plenty of places that serve tea in Bath, whether you want a light service or the full afternoon tea. Bath is one of our favorite places to have tea, because it feels like you are in historic England.

Don’t Pass Up Parking

Parking is hard to come by in Bath, so if you see a spot, grab it! If you are driving to and from Bath, make sure you choose a hotel that offers parking or you will be spending a lot of extra money and time parking your car off site.

Don’t Skip Public Transportation

If you can’t get a hotel in the center of Bath, don’t worry! Public transportation in Bath is affordable and easy to use, so you can easily get to the town center no matter where you are staying.

Getting to Bath is easy as well. The train is a couple of hours from Heathrow, or less than one hour if you fly into Bristol. The main station in Bath is called Bath Spa, and the bus station is in the same location.

Don’t Expect a Cheap Vacation

The UK is expensive, especially when you are visiting areas that are popular with tourists. Accommodation, food, parking, and attractions all add up to a pricey trip. It’s not as expensive as London, but you’re definitely paying tourist prices, not small-town England prices.

Don’t Count on Having an Elevator

Many Bath accommodations are in historic buildings with steep, narrow staircases. If you have any mobility issues, make sure you call the hotel directly and inquire about options. When Mark and his mom visited Bath, they made sure his mom had a room on the ground floor, while Mark had 4 flights of stairs to climb to his room.

Don’t Confuse the Buns

When you visit Bath, you’ll see Sally Lunn’s Buns and Bath Buns. They are not the same. They’re both from Bath, so people often confuse them. You should try them both and then you’ll see the difference.

• A Bath Bun is a sweet bun with raisins inside and sugar sprinkles on top. They actually bake it with a sugar cube inside the bun. It’s super sweet and best if you cut it in half and spread clotted cream in the middle!
• The Sally Lunn buns are much bigger, like a hamburger bun, and taste more like a brioche.

Don’t Miss the Museums in Bath

Besides the Roman Baths and the Bath Abbey, there are some great museums in Bath that you should include in your itinerary.

• The Holburne Museum has a fantastic art collection
• The Victoria Art Gallery has a diverse collection of paintings and sculptures
• The Jane Austen Centre is really for die-hard Jane Austen fans. Jocelyn is a big fan!
• American Museum & Gardens are set on a beautiful estate just outside of town
• Herschel Museum of Astronomy is located where William Herschel discovered Uranus in 1781.
• No. 1 Royal Crescent is the perfect example of the Georgian architecture that Bath is known for

Don’t Be Shocked by Period Costumes

The famous English author Jane Austen lived in Bath for a short time, and she is now part of Bath history. The annual Jane Austen festival is held here in late summer, but you might see Victorian costumes any time of year. Of course, you can learn all about Jane Austen at the Jane Austen Centre.

If your literary tastes run a bit darker, you can visit Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein just up the road.

Don’t Forget to Prepare for Walking

You will most likely be doing a lot of walking in the Bath, so it’s important to have good shoes that are comfortable for walking. It’s hilly, too, so if you’re not used to a lot of up and down walking, a bit of training will make your trip more enjoyable. Of course, it’s England, so it can be rainy any time of year, so you also want shoes with a good traction for slippery sidewalks.

Tips for Choosing Shoes to Pack for Europe

Don’t Miss Outdoor Activities in Bath

If you are more of an outdoor adventure traveler, you’ll still find things to do in Bath. There are cycling tours, hiking paths, and canals for boat tours. Activities might vary by season, but you can enjoy a lot of outdoor activities in and around Bath. You can even take a day trip to the Cotswolds!

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

Bath is so much more than a day trip from London, so we hope you’ll decide to visit Bath. It has such a unique vibe, with history, architecture, and art along with a lot of tourists, buskers, and students. It’s a fun vibe any time of year; just don’t feed the seagulls!

Want more tips for traveling in the United Kingdom? Check out these blog posts:

• What to Know Before Visiting the UK
• What Not to Do in England
• Best & Worst of Visiting York, UK

What the Government Shutdown Means for Travelers

Hey there travelers, Mark here from Wolters World — and today we’re tackling something that’s not exactly fun, but really important if you’ve got plans to travel within the U.S. or to the U.S.: the federal government shutdown.

When the U.S. government shuts down, it doesn’t just affect politicians in Washington, D.C. — it impacts airports, national parks, visas, and even your travel timeline. Whether you’re visiting from abroad or exploring your own backyard, here’s how the shutdown can affect your trip and what you can do to prepare.

How the Shutdown Is Already Affecting U.S. Travel

1. Airport Security & Flights

The good news: airports are still open, and flights are still operating.
The not-so-good news: TSA and FAA employees are working without pay, and that can mean longer security lines, more call-outs, and potential flight delays. Jocelyn and I have both flown during the shut down both domestically and internationally and we have had no hiccups so far (knock on wood).

If you’re flying soon, arrive at least an hour earlier than usual, especially if you’re flying through major airports like Chicago O’Hare, Atlanta, or LAX. It’s better to grab a coffee at the gate than sprint through security. The lines may be a bit longer and you will probably feel a bit better with the extra time.

2. National Parks and Federal Sites

Planning a trip to Yellowstone, the Grand Canyon, or any of America’s incredible national parks? Check before you go. Some are closed, but many parks stay partially open, but visitor centers, restrooms, and trash collection often close during a shutdown. That means fewer rangers, fewer services, and sometimes messy conditions.

Pro tip: Have a Plan B — nearby state parks or local outdoor areas are usually unaffected and just as beautiful. We took advantage of the state park near Las Vegas when we were there.

3. Economic Impact on the Travel Industry

According to the U.S. Travel Association, the shutdown could cost over $1 billion a week in lost travel spending. That affects airlines, hotels, restaurants, and tourism jobs.

Even if you don’t see it directly, it can mean fewer staff, longer response times, and reduced services at destinations that rely heavily on federal resources. So, be kind to travel industry workers as many of them are feeling the economic impact of the government shutdown.

---

How International Travelers Are Affected

If you’re coming to the U.S. from abroad — don’t panic. You can still come. The flights are still going, the passport checks are still checking.
Here’s what’s still running and what might slow down:

• Passports and visas are mostly still being processed, since they’re funded by application fees.
• However, if the shutdown lasts weeks, some embassies and consulates may reduce staff, which could delay new visa appointments.
• Work visas (like H-1B) that require Department of Labor certification may experience delays or complete pauses.

Bottom line: you can still travel to the U.S., but give yourself extra time for paperwork and don’t cut it close with visa renewals or passport expiration dates. And remember you need more than six months valitidy on your passport to enter the US and many other countries.

What Could Happen If the Shutdown Lasts Longer

If this shutdown drags on, expect these possible issues:

• Longer TSA and customs lines at airports. And that means getting to the airport even earlier.
• Flight delays and cancellations as staffing shortages increase. So fly early in the morning for less chances of cancelations and a better chance to get on a standby flight.
• Fewer air traffic controllers in training, meaning slower recovery after the shutdown ends. Yep, that means even when this is over, we will still feel the lingering effects as travelers.
• Closed Smithsonian museums and federal monuments in D.C. as well as other national parks and sights.
• Backlogs in visa and immigration processing. Expect things to take awhile to get back to usual schedule.

It’s not the end of the world, but if you’re traveling during the shutdown, patience and flexibility are your best friends.

Tips for Travelers During a U.S. Government Shutdown

Here’s what I recommend, the same advice I’d give my family before we travel:

1. Arrive Early for Flights

Give yourself an extra 30–60 minutes at the airport. Security lines can slow down without warning. All those dad travelers can now be vindicated for wanting to get to the airport so early.

2. Stay Informed

Download your airline’s app, sign up for text alerts, and keep an eye on TSA line updates or airport social media accounts. This can be super helpful if you miss a connection as the app can help you just as well as the people at the airport and there is no line when you deal with the app.

3. Have Backup Plans

If a park, museum, or tour is closed, have an alternate destination ready.
State parks, local attractions, and private museums are great alternatives. So, if you are looking to go to a major federal travel destination like Washington, DC or a National Park, you may want to consider other options.

4. Be Flexible with Bookings

Book refundable hotels and flights when possible. That flexibility can save you a lot of stress if plans change. It does cost more, but being able to get all your money back has its advantages.

5. Check Travel Documents

International travelers should confirm their passport and visa validity before departure. If renewals or interviews are needed, schedule them early. This is the most important part. It will take time for the reviews to get back to speed after the shutdown is over.

6. Be Kind to Travel Workers

TSA officers, customs agents, and air traffic controllers are still showing up even without paychecks. A smile, patience, and a “thank you” go a long way. Believe me, they are not happy about the shutdown either.

The Outlook for Travelers

If Congress resolves the shutdown soon, the effects will mostly be minor inconveniences.
If it continues for weeks, expect deeper disruptions to flight schedules, tourism sites, and visa services.

Most of the country hotels, restaurants, state attractions remains open and operating as usual. So, while it might take extra planning and patience, your U.S. trip can still be fantastic.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Panic, Just Prepare

We travelers are a resilient bunch. We’ve survived canceled flights, lost luggage, and pandemic travel, a government shutdown is just another bump in the road. It has happened before and sadly it will probably happen again.

So, take a deep breath, plan ahead, and keep that sense of humor handy. Travel is still possible, still worth it, and still full of amazing moments even when the government isn’t running on all cylinders.

Stay safe, stay patient, and as always happy travels, my friends.

Mark

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about visiting Helsinki, the capital city of Finland. Finland is a beautiful country, and Helsinki is a fantastic travel destination. We like to share the good and the bad with our readers, so here we’re sharing the best of Helsinki and the worst of Helsinki.

Best of Helsinki

Summer in Helsinki is amazing! With long daylight hours and constant activity on the Esplanade, you will quickly fall in love with Helsinki. It’s the place to be in summer, with bands, food carts, buskers, and more!

Central Market & Market Hall is another place to fall in love with Helsinki. It’s at the end of the Esplanade and sits right on the harbor. You can catch a ferry here, and it’s the best place to try some traditional Finnish food. You can try reindeer meat, and the strawberries are so good in season! If you’re visiting Helsinki in winter, there’s an indoor market as well, so you can still enjoy Finnish food without freezing to death!

The architecture and museums of Helsinki are fantastic! It’s a more modern city than other European capitals, so there’s a lot of art deco, modern art. If you only visit one Helsinki museum during your trip, make it the Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma. This is the museum where Mark grew to love modern art; it’s one of the best contemporary art museums in the world.

What Not to Do in Helsinki

It’s so easy to get around Helsinki. No matter your age or abilities, you can get around on Helsinki public transportation. There are trains, trams, buses, and even public bikes you can rent! Helsinki is a very compact, walkable town. There’s even an affordable train from the city center to the airport.

The sauna experience is one of the coolest traditions of Finnish culture. The sauna is the central hub for Finns; they say “Sauna is life.” It’s a place to make new friends or bond with your family. There are public saunas, but they’re not always easy for tourists to find. They are divided by gender, as clothing is optional.

The cleanliness of Helsinki is amazing. The streets and the parks are so pristine, the air is fresh and clean. You just feel healthier in Helsinki because it’s so clean. As Jocelyn says, “the air in Helsinki is so clean, it sparkles.” It also just feels super safe being in Helsinki. 

Worst of Helsinki

Helsinki is expensive. Finland tends to be more expensive than a lot of other European countries, and Helsinki is the most expensive spot in Finland. Flights, restaurants, and accommodation are all pricey in Helsinki. However, it’s the capital city, so that’s to be expected. It’s not much different than comparing prices in New York, Paris or London to other parts of those countries. It’s totally worth the splurge, just don’t expect a cheap trip to Helsinki.

Best & Worst of Scandinavia

Winter in Helsinki can be brutal. It’s not just cold, it’s also very dark. Mark lived here for a while and can still remember November mornings when the sun didn’t appear until 10:00. Then it’s gone again before 4 pm. If you’re visiting Helsinki in the winter, be prepared to make the most of your short daylight hours. And of course, research the weather for your trip and make sure you have the right clothes to keep you warm!

Helsinki lacks the Old World European charm that you might expect after seeing other European capitals. It’s a relatively new city, and even the famous cathedrals were built in the 1800s. Old by United States standards, but pretty new in terms of European capitals. If you’re visiting Helsinki and want to experience a historic European capital, take the ferry over to Tallinn, Estonia.

Surprisingly, finding Finnish food in Helsinki can be tough. Helsinki is a very cosmopolitan international city. You can find all nationalities of food in Helsinki, from pasta to sushi, but finding traditional Finnish cuisine is not that easy!

Meeting locals in Helsinki can be difficult, too! First of all, it’s a large city, so they won’t notice tourists as much. Finland also has a very reserved culture, so people don’t go out of their way to have conversations. That can make you feel like you’re missing out on some of the local culture.

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

Clearly, our “worst” things about Helsinki are mild annoyances and not a reason to avoid planning a trip to this beautiful city. Helsinki is a safe and clean city, with plenty for families to do. Want more Scandinavia travel tips? Check out these blog posts!

• Best Scandinavian Cities and Baltic Capitals to Visit
• 10 Shocks of Visiting Finland
• What Not to Do in Finland

What NOT to Do When Visiting Bamberg Germany

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re sharing some of the don’ts of visiting Bamberg, a medieval city and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Germany’s Bavaria region. While many travel blogs will tell you the best things to see in Bamberg, we also want to share what you should NOT do when you visit Bamberg. This is Mark’s favorite town in all of Germany, so don’t pass up the opportunity to visit!

Don’t Miss the Old Town Hall

Bamberg’s Old Town has over 2,000 historic buildings that make it a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but the Old Town Hall is the must-see of all of them. The Altes Rathaus is one of the prettiest buildings in all of Germany. The Baroque structure sits on an island and is covered with beautiful frescoes that have stood the test of time. They often have interesting exhibitions indoors as well.

Don’t Worry If You Don’t Know German

While Bamberg is a popular travel destination for Germans, especially older Germans, you will still find plenty of English speakers. There is a university in Bamberg, and there used to be a US Army base here. It’s always a good idea to learn a few key phrases of the local language, but you’ll get by with English in Bamberg.

Seven Tips for Learning a Foreign Language

Don’t Miss These Bamberg Attractions

There are so many fun things to see in Bamberg! Besides the Old Town Hall, these are just a few of our favorites.

• The “New Residence in Bamberg” only dates back to the 1700s so it is “new.” Inside, you can see some of the state rooms that are still furnished with period pieces. The real attraction, though, is the Rose Garden. The views are incredible, even if the roses aren’t blooming!
• The Bamberg Cathedral was completed in the 13th century. It’s right next to the Residenz so you can visit both in one day. Look for the Bamberger Ritter in the Cathedral, a famous statue and symbol of the city.
• Besides the cathedral, there are dozens of churches in Bamberg. Michaelsberg Abbey is one that is worth the extra distance. Technically, it’s a monastery, but there’s a beer museum inside! It sits above the town, so the views are incredible.
• The Bamberger Krippenmuseum is a nativity museum that is only open around the holidays and features dozens of nativity sets and antique cribs
• There’s also the Historisches Museum Bamberg, or the Bamberg Historical Museum, that is worth a visit.

If you’re into antiques, Bamberg has several antique dealers in the Old Town area.

Don’t Forget that Bamberg is a Catholic City

The history of Bamberg is rooted in the Catholic Church, and that carries through to this day. This means that many things will close during the holidays, or on Sundays. This history is why there are so many cool churches to see in Bamberg.

Don’t Expect Venice When You Hear “Little Venice”

Sometimes Bamberg is called Kleiner Venedig, or Little Venice. There are two rivers that flow through town and there are beautiful buildings along the river. But that’s about the extent of similarities between Italy’s Venice and Germany’s Bamberg. However, it’s still a great place to take a boat ride so don’t miss that opportunity!

Don’t Be Surprised If Bamberg Feels Like Multiple Cities

If you take the train to Bamberg, as you leave the train station, it really feels like you are walking backward through time. The historic center has been well preserved, so you go from the modern area of the train station, through neighborhoods built in the 50s and 60s, then the 1800s, and eventually back to the medieval times of the Old Town. Bamberg fortunately did not have a lot of damage from WWII, so you can still see some very old buildings. Bamberg is very walkable, so you can experience multiple eras in one stroll.

Don’t Be Fooled By Your First Sip of Rauchbier

Rauchbier is a smoked beer that is local to Bamberg. The first sip kind of tastes like pork rinds, and the second sip adds a bacon flavor to the pork rinds. Halfway through your first pint, you’ll fall in love, but it’s not love at first sip!

If you don’t fall in love with Rauchbier, there are plenty of other beers to try in Bamberg. Although it is the “smoked beer capital of Germany,” there are tons of breweries with flavors to suit every taste.

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate in Bamberg Germany

Don’t Feel Weird Having Sausage and Beer for Breakfast

Traditionally, white sausage (weisswurst) is only served in the morning, and the Schlenkerla brewery sticks with tradition! You might need a reservation, but for a classic Bamberg brunch experience, go have your Weisswurst with Rauchbier and a Bavarian pretzel. Don’t forget the sweet mustard!

Don’t Miss Out on Local Franken-Food

Although Bamberg is in Bavaria, the region is also Franken, so the cuisine is often called Frankenfood. Here are a few items you have to eat in Bamberg:

• Schäufele is grilled pork shoulder; it has a crispy skin and usually comes with potato dumplings.
• Similarly, Haxe is a pork knuckle dish that’s also delicious.
• Krenfleisch is a traditional boiled meat dish. It tastes like boiled meat, so it doesn’t have as much flavor as the other two pork dishes mentioned previously.
• Sauerbraten is not a brat, but more like a roast made with marinated meat.
• Bamberger Wurst is a thinner longer version of a regular bratwurst.
• Bamberg Zwiebeln is a tasty meatball inside of a big onion
• Blaue Zipfel is a “blue” sausage but it’s better than it sounds. It’s just a slight blue tint from the spices, but it’s worth trying.
• If you have a sweet tooth, there are lots of bakeries around. One thing you should try is the Hoernle, or Bamberg croissant.

If you’re visiting Bamberg on the weekend, make sure you have dinner reservations! It’s a popular weekend getaway for many Germans, so it gets busy!          

Five Things to Eat in Germany

Don’t Pay for the ICE Train from Nuremberg

If you’re coming to Bamberg from Nuremberg, it’s not worth the extra money for the ICE train. It only saves you about 10 minutes. However, if you’re coming from Munich, it is worth it for the time you save.

Don’t Be Afraid to Use Bamberg as a Home Base for Day Trips

Many people visit Bamberg on a day trip from Nuremberg or Frankfurt, but consider doing the opposite! Make Bamberg your home base and visit other cities on day trips from there. There are dozens of great day trips from Bamberg, including Nuremberg, Frankfurt, and Würzburg. Bamberg is super affordable, so you can save money by staying here and visiting other towns on day trips. 

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

Bamberg is such a beautiful town, and you can see why we visit every couple of years. There is always something new to experience when visiting Bamberg. Small towns like Bamberg are why we love Germany so much. Each one is unique and repeat visits are never boring.

Want more tips for traveling in Germany? Check out these blog posts:

• What Not to Do in Freiburg, Germany
• Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About the Harz Mountains
• Travel Scams to Avoid in Germany

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re sharing some of the don’ts of visiting the Cotswolds; one of the most beautiful destinations in England, with some of the prettiest villages you’ll ever see. While many travel blogs will tell you the best things to do in the Cotswolds, we also want to share what you should NOT do!

Don’t Be Shocked by Weekend Crowds

The Cotswolds villages are a popular day trip from London, so weekends and holidays can be very crowded. Try to plan your visits to the most popular villages during the week so you can avoid crowds. Bibury is the most-hyped village in the Cotswolds, but there are other villages that are just as nice and less crowded.

Fortunately, visiting the Cotswolds is great in any season. Spring is beautiful and lush, summer brings longer days for more exploring, fall has changing leaves, and Christmas in the Cotswolds is full of Christmas markets!

If you are driving through the Cotswolds, be aware that most other drivers are also tourists, so be on high alert. Make sure you pull over if you’re going slow, and watch out for tourists wandering into the roads.

Don’t Feel Like You Have to Rent a Car

While having your own car offers more flexibility, there are other ways to visit the Cotswolds. There are plenty of tours that bus you through the different villages, and you can even use public transportation to many of the Cotswolds villages. You can take the train to the area, then use local buses to get between villages.

Don’t let fear of driving on the left keep you from visiting the Cotswolds; they are spectacular no matter how you get there. Even if you can only visit on a day trip from London, it’s well worth it! You can really see a lot in one day. There are also day trips from Birmingham, Manchester, Bath, and other towns.

However you tour the Cotswolds, if you are prone to car sickness, be prepared. The roads are hilly and winding, and you will be spending a lot of time in the car between villages.

Don’t Be Afraid to Explore Lesser Known Areas

There are almost 100 villages that make up the Cotswolds, so you don’t have to stick to Bibury and Chipping Campden. There are plenty of other places to explore, and you just might avoid some of the crowds in the more popular villages.

That said, Chipping Campden is worth the visit as it’s a beautifully preserved market town.

Don’t Be Surprised by the Large Churches

For such small towns, you will see some very large churches in the Cotswolds. Many of these are “wool churches,” built with profits from the medieval wool trade. Meant to show off the success and wealth of the merchants, these churches are quite elaborate and well worth visiting a few during your trip to the Cotswolds. 

Don’t Forget to Bring the Right Shoes

You will most likely be doing a lot of walking in the Cotswolds, so it’s important to have good shoes that are comfortable for walking. The Cotswold Way is a 100-mile trail that stops in several villages along the way.  There are lots of other trails too, and you can easily spend your whole trip walking. (Just don’t forget to close any gates behind you along the path!)

Tips for Choosing Shoes to Pack for Europe

Don’t Miss the Festivals

There are tons of fun festivals in the Cotswolds, especially in summer. There are food festivals, drinking festivals, literary festivals, and the Cotswolds Olympics. They get a bit crazy with their competitions; you can see everything from sheep tossing to shin kicking.

Don’t Forget to Make Reservations

Many of the restaurants in the Cotswolds are small, and they can fill up quickly, especially on the weekends. You can make reservations for both lunch and dinner; we highly recommend doing so, especially if there is a particular place you really want to try.

If you plan to join a tour or hire a driver, you should also arrange that in advance.

If you want to stay in the Cotswolds, that also needs to be planned in advance. However, there are larger cities nearby, like Bath, that have more accommodation options.

Don’t Expect Late Nights

The Cotswolds villages are not nightlife destinations. The pubs and shops close early, so if you are staying overnight in one of the villages, make sure you get dinner before everything closes!

Don’t Miss Out on Local Treats

A few things you should eat in the Cotswolds are the cheese and the bread. You can make a meal just out of these two things, but there are also lots of lamb dishes, given that this is sheep country. The pork here is usually really good, too.

Don’t Think Visiting the Cotswolds is Expensive

You might assume that visiting the Cotswolds will be expensive because it’s such a popular tourist destination. However, most of the things to see in the Cotswolds are free, as a lot of it is just walking around looking at buildings and scenery. If you’re coming from London, you’ll notice the prices are much more palatable here, even for accommodation.

10 Shocks of Visiting England

Don’t Invade Locals’ Privacy

Part of the allure of the Cotswolds are the darling homes and cottages with thatched roofs. People still live in these homes, so don’t go peeking in the windows and trampling in their yards.

Don’t Pass Up a Parking Spot

Parking in these small villages can be tricky, so if you see a parking spot, take it! Often, you will park on the edge of the village and walk in.  Each village is quite small, so you can see a lot of them in one day. It’s not like other areas where you might spend an entire day in the village. This means you’ll probably be in and out of the car a lot, so stay organized and have what you need at your fingertips.

Don’t Think London is Your Only Airport Option

If you’re coming from the US, then Heathrow or Gatwick will likely be your arrival airport, but if you’re traveling within the UK or Europe, you can fly into Bristol which is at the southern end of the Cotswolds. Birmingham is at the north end of the Cotswolds. London is still just 90 minutes away, but make sure you explore all your options before booking a flight.

Visiting the Cotswolds is truly an amazing experience. These quaint villages feel like a step back in time. A tour of the Cotswolds can be a great day trip from London or a destination on its own.

Want more tips for traveling in the United Kingdom? Check out these blog posts:

• What to Know Before Visiting the UK
• What Not to Do in England
• Best & Worst of Visiting York, UK

Shocks to Expect On Your Maine Vacation

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about visiting the state of Maine. This New England state is known for many things, including a rugged coastline, a healthy moose population, and lobster.  As with any travel destination, there are many surprises in store for your Maine vacation. If you’re thinking about visiting Maine, don’t be surprised at these “shocks.”

Maine Lobster. Everywhere.

When you think of Maine, you probably think of lobster, so it’s not surprising to see lobster in Maine. But the shock is just how prolific lobster is when you visit Maine. It’s served in ways you could never imagine, and plenty of ways you may have only dreamed about like lobster grilled cheese or lobster mac and cheese.  Most of the souvenirs even have a lobster theme.

Some of the best forms of Maine lobster include:

• Steamed lobster is Jocelyn’s favorite. It’s simple and delicious. If you’re not sure how to get the meat out, ask your server or a local.
• If that seems like too much work, a lobster roll is the next best thing.
• Classic dishes like macaroni and cheese or grilled cheese are even better with some lobster thrown in!

Unlike other parts of the world, lobster isn’t a fancy thing to order in Maine. Many times, the divey roadside stands have the best lobster!

Five Foods You Must Try in New England

Flavors of Maine

Besides the delicious, fresh lobster in Maine, you’ll be shocked at all the amazing local food! A few things you should try when visiting Maine include:

• Clams! Like lobster, clams come in a lot of varieties:
  • Steamers, or steamed clams
  • Fried clam strips or whole belly clams
  • Clam chowder
• There are so many other ocean creatures that are also delicious: oysters, mussels, crabs, and scallops are just a few. Try them all!
• We already mentioned clam chowder, but they also have good corn chowder, fish chowder, seafood chowder, and others. If there’s a chill in the air, chowder is the answer.
• Maine baked beans are at the heart of what they call Bean Suppers. The supper is basically a potluck, but definitely try the baked beans in Maine.  
• Wild blueberries are everywhere and they are so good! Blueberry muffins, donuts, cobbler, ice cream and so much more. Eat everything that has Maine blueberries in it!
• Maine has a ton of strawberry farms, too. We’ve had a lot of fresh, tasty fruit in Maine.
• You might want to try an Italian Sandwich at Amato’s when you’re in Maine. This Portland tradition dates back to 1902.
• Red Snappers; not fish, but hot dogs in a red casing. They snap when you bite into them; hence, the name.
• Humpty Dumpty Chips are the perfect Maine road trip snack
• Moxie soda, which Jocelyn likes, but Mark says it’s an acquired taste. Don’t buy a lot until you’re sure you like it.
• The Holy Donut in Portland serves potato donuts in a huge variety of delicious flavors.
• Whoopie Pies are a Maine thing, and they’re sold everywhere from gas stations to bakeries.
• For beer drinkers, there are a lot of tasty local brews to sample. Just ask for something local!
• Maple syrup is another Maine staple, and you can also get maple candy or maple sweetener for your coffee and tea.
• The Maine Needham Company produces a very popular local candy made with chocolate, coconut, and potatoes. You can get them in various flavors like blueberry and maple, but make sure you try the famous potato candy!

Watch: Eats of Maine

Natural Dangers

Maybe “danger” is a bit overblown, but the Maine mosquito jokes are not. Between mosquitoes and black flies, you might feel like you’ve donated pints of blood to the Maine wildlife. Maine has ticks, too, and those can be quite serious and lead to Lyme Disease. If you go hiking in Maine, and you should, always do a tick check on yourself, your kids, and your pets before coming inside.

Moose can also be dangerous, whether you are driving or hiking. The moose in Maine are massive and can destroy your car if you hit one. They are so big that they are usually pretty easy to spot, but make sure you give them lots of space if you see one on the trail.

Maine Coastline & Lighthouses

Most people visit Maine to see the extraordinary coastline and are still shocked at its beauty. Acadia National Park is one of the most beautiful National Parks we’ve visited and is a great showcase of Maine’s rugged coastline.

Aside from the National Park, the Maine coast is lined with cute villages and historic lighthouses. Places like Bar Harbor, Boothbay Harbor, Camden, and Old Orchard Beach are all fantastic places to visit in Maine. There are plenty of lesser-known towns and villages to check out as well!

Leaf Peeping in Maine

People come here just to see the leaves change in the fall. And it’s still shocking just how incredible it is. The crowds can also be a shock, as leaf peeping in Maine is extremely popular! When you see all the spectacular colors, you’ll know it’s worth it and you’ll see why they call Maine “vacation-land.”

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About New England

B&B Culture in Maine

Maine is chock full of bed and breakfast accommodations, and we think it’s the best option for choosing where to stay in Maine. You can find chain hotels in some of the larger towns in Maine, but you want to stay in the smaller towns. There are some pretty neat cabins and campgrounds. We love our hotel points, too, but when you’re visiting Maine, go for the small stuff. And don’t forget to make reservations far in advance, especially if you’re visiting Maine in the summer or fall!

Inland Maine

Even though most of us visit Maine for the coastal views, inland Maine has some worthy destinations as well. The hiking is incredible, and there are beautiful lakes and rivers. If you’re into outdoor adventures, you will love Maine. It’s the home of LLBean if that tells you anything! Hiking, kayaking, whitewater rafting: it’s all there in Maine!

Winter in Maine

We don’t know what’s more shocking. How cold it gets in Maine, or the fact that cold doesn’t seem to phase the locals at all. They bundle up in their LLBean flannels and head outside year-round. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are super popular, and there are over a dozen downhill ski resorts in Maine.

Maine Locals

We have friends who live in Maine, but we were still shocked at how nice all the locals are. They are super hospitable unless you are from New York. They really despise New Yorkers and have quite the rivalry. It’s a shock how friendly they are to everyone BUT New Yorkers.

Prices in Maine

New England tends to be pricier than the Midwest or the South, so it shouldn’t be a shock, but Maine seems to be even more expensive than other New England destinations. Especially in the summer. You can expect to pay top prices for accommodation. You might expect lobster to be cheap since it’s so plentiful, but it’s still pricey. Probably cheaper (and definitely fresher) than what you get at home, but be prepared to spend a few bucks on food in Maine.

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

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

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

• What Not to Do in New England
• What NOT to Do in Massachusetts
• What NOT to Do in Connecticut

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re sharing some of the don’ts of visiting Latvia. While many travel blogs will tell you the best things to do on a trip to Latvia, we also want to share what you should NOT do on your Latvia vacation!

Don’t Expect a Lot of Tourists

Latvia is not a huge tourist destination, believe it or not. So you won’t be dealing with crowds too much, especially if you leave the larger cities. You’ll also have a chance to meet more locals this way, and they’ll be intrigued by you, rather than annoyed like some destinations that are overrun with tourists.

However, there is one exception to this—weekends in Riga. It’s very popular for European bachelor and bachelorette parties because it’s very affordable and easy to reach from many European cities.

Don’t Doubt Latvian Pride

Whether it’s their sports teams or their culture and food, Latvians love their country. They love to celebrate their culture and host tons of festivals every summer to celebrate. When choosing a region to place them in, they prefer Baltic Europe or Northern Europe, rather than Eastern European.

One of the best places to learn about Latvian culture is the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia in Riga. It really makes you appreciate the people and what they went through under different regimes. You’ll quickly realize that it would be in poor taste to joke around about the USSR as many families have ties to this time and it’s not anything to make light of.

They are also really proud of the natural beauty of their country, so don’t mess it up! Take the chance to enjoy the parks, beaches, and scenery, and always leave it better than you found it.

Don’t Miss Out on the Best Foods in Latvia

I’ve had many, many meals in Latvia and there are some foods you have to try on your trip. Latvian food is very natural, so you don’t find a lot of preservatives or dyes, just natural, delicious food. Lido is a chain of cafeteria-style restaurants, and it’s a great place to sample several traditional Latvian dishes in one spot.

• Šašļiks is type of skewered meat, often made with pork or chicken and marinated a number of different ways. This is a common dish to make at home on the barbeque, but you can also get it at restaurants.
• Karbonāde is the Latvian version of a schnitzel, often served with mushroom gravy.
• Smoked fish is also very popular, so that’s worth trying, as well as smoked cheese. Herring is one of the fish varieties seen most often, and you’ll find it pickled or smoked, served alone or in soups.
• Black beans and bacon is a popular side dish in Latvia. It looks weird, but it’s delicious!
• Cold Borscht is one of the most unique dishes in Latvia, and it has become one of Mark’s favorites, even though it took him years to try it. It’s pink, so it kind of looks like Pepto Bismol, but it tastes so much better. In the winter, you can have a hot version as well.
• Potato pancakes in Latvia are delicious! It’s almost like a giant hash brown patty, and I recommend getting it with salmon and sour cream. Yum!
• Dairy features heavily in Latvian cuisine. Cheese and sour cream seem to be in every dish, so pack your Lactaid! If you want to try a local cheese, get Jevas Siers, which is sold everywhere.
• Fried Garlic Bread is a very popular appetizer. It looks like burned french fries because it’s made with dark rye bread, but it’s super delicious. Some would say life-changing. You can also just buy the brown bread and do whatever you want with it; it’s so good!
• Piradzini are little crescent-shaped dough pockets. They are often filled with meat or sauerkraut and sold at markets like the Central Market.
• Pelmeni are dumplings stuffed with meat or cheese. Of course, they are served with sour cream like everything else in Latvia!
• If you visit Latvia in the summer, which you should, the berries are fresh and delicious. Don’t pass them up if you see a farmer’s market.
• When you visit the Central Market in Riga, don’t pass up the sweets and desserts! Rye bread pudding is one of the most popular desserts in Latvia, so make sure you try some!

There are good drinks in Latvia, too! The country is best known for balsam. The black currant is one of the better tasting balsams. Some of them are very earthy, so a fruity flavor helps balance out the tree taste. If you mix your balsam with ginger beer and lime, it makes a pretty good cocktail.

Riga Black Balsam Explained by a Local Bartender

Latvian beer (Alus) is actually pretty good, too. Kvass is something you’ll find on tap as well. It’s almost like near beer, with a very low alcohol content. If you like the idea of drinking bread, try Kvass!

Eating out in Latvia is super affordable, so you can try lots of dishes without spending a ton of money!

Ten Most Affordable European Cities

Don’t Miss the Riga Central Market

It’s right by the bus station and is filled with all kinds of vendors. From candy to sausage to souvenirs, it’s a quintessential old-school European public market. If you’re trying to learn Latvian, it’s also a good place to practice or just listen to conversations in passing.

Don’t Forget to Pack Good Shoes

If you’re spending much time in Old Town Riga, you’ll need some good, sturdy shoes. The streets are cobblestone and they’re also very uneven. Twisting an ankle is almost inevitable, especially if your shoes don’t have any grip. There are also grates on some sidewalks, so high heels aren’t a great idea.

Five Rules to Shoes to Wear in Europe

Don’t Skip the Churches

Latvia has beautiful churches and there are two churches in Riga to see. St. Peter’s Church offers amazing views from the tower, but it can be very cold and windy, so bundle up! Riga Cathedral is also worth checking out.

Don’t Miss Out on Architecture in Riga

Old Town Riga is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in part due to the fantastic architecture. You’ll see a lot of Art Deco styles, as well as Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and more. There’s a whole museum dedicated to art nouveau in Riga. If you can book a walking tour around the city, your guide will likely point out a lot of cool buildings.

Don’t Forget to Explore Beyond Old Town Riga

The majority of attractions are found in Old Town Riga, but to really get a sense of Latvia, you have to explore beyond Old Town. Riga has beautiful parks to explore, and you can even take a boat tour through the park.

Don’t Forget to Buy Amber

If you’re into souvenirs, then you’ll want to buy amber when you’re in Latvia. You’ll see shops selling it everywhere, and you can even find it washed up on the beaches. It makes a great souvenir, especially if you have someone who loves jewelry on your gift list.

Don’t Forget to Learn a Few Latvian Words

Because there are so few tourists, Latvians love it when you can speak a little bit of their language. A few words can go a long way!

• Paldies = Thank You
• Sveiki = Hello
• Ata = Goodbye

Don’t Skip Public Transportation

You can rent a car and drive around Latvia pretty easily, but you can also just use public transportation. There aren’t as many trains in Latvia, especially for tourist use, so buses are the way to go. If there is an express bus, take that one, as they are usually more comfortable. In Riga specifically, the trams are a great way to explore other neighborhoods.

They are expanding the trains, so it’s worth researching again in the future as more options become available.

If you prefer rideshare apps, the one in Latvia is called Bolt. You can take them anywhere, and you can even rent a car through them for a short time.

Don’t Visit Latvia in the Winter

Between October and March, Latvia is cold, dark and windy. If you must come in the winter, bring lots of warm layers because you’ll need them. Locals also tend to withdraw during winter, so you won’t have as much opportunity to meet locals. Don’t think they’re unfriendly; once the sun comes out for the summer, they’re some of the friendliest locals you’ll meet!

If you do happen to visit Latvia in winter, plenty of things stay open, so you can still visit museums and markets. You can even enjoy the great outdoors, as long as you pack appropriately.

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

Latvia is the perfect travel destination for families looking for history, culture, and nature on a budget. The lack of tourists makes it easy to meet locals and have a unique Latvian experience. Want more tips for traveling in the Baltic region? Check out these blog posts:

• 10-Day Itinerary for the Baltics
• What to Know Before Visiting Lithuania
• Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Visiting Eastern Europe