Five Things You’ll Love & Hate When You Visit Shanghai

Posted on by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit Shanghai, China! It’s one of the coolest cities in Asia and I love it here. As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate on your Shanghai vacation.

Hate #1: Prices in Shanghai

If you’ve been traveling around China, you’ll notice that the prices are pretty affordable. In general, China is not an expensive destination, however, Shanghai is the most expensive city in mainland China. Shanghai attractions, hotels and restaurants tend to be more expensive, but still, offer a better deal than other major Asian cities like Hong Kong or Singapore.

Love #1: Shanghai Skyline at Night

Seeing the Shanghai skyline lit up at night is such a cool experience. I highly recommend taking a nighttime boat tour so that you can see the lights of Shanghai from the river. It’s one of my favorite things to do in Shanghai.

Shanghai skyline
The city is just so cool to look at, the skyline is always changing

Hate #2: Lack of “Old China”

There’s not a lot of the “Old China” in Shanghai as it’s quite a modern city. The city has changed entirely in the last 20 years. In 1990, there were no skyscrapers. There are some Shanghai day trips you can take to experience that Old World China, like Suzhou and Hangzhou.

Love #2: French Concession Area

Europeans ruled this area for quite a while and it’s still evident in the architecture and the food. The French Concession area of Shanghai is where it’s most evident. It feels like a little slice of Europe in one of Asia’s largest cities. It’s a great place for shopping, and if you get tired of Chinese food, come here for good Western food.

Hate #3: Pickpockets & Safety Issues

We traveled through China for six weeks before arriving in Shanghai and it was the first time I felt that I needed to keep an eye on my pockets and my belongings. I still feel pretty safe here, but less so than in other parts of China. This goes back to being a more modern, global city as opposed to some of the more traditional areas of China.

Liam was done with having his picture taken

The Most Common Pickpocket Techniques Used on Tourists

Love #3: International Vibe

While Shanghai doesn’t have the “Old China” feel, it’s absolutely a global city of international cultures. There are tons of ex-pats living in Shanghai, plus the European influence we already mentioned. As a port city, there’s just a huge mix of cultures and cuisines, so you aren’t just limited to a Chinese experience. You’ll also find more English speakers than in other parts of China. People are used to seeing Westerners in Shanghai, so you won’t be gawked at like you are in Chinese regions.

Hate #4: Crowds & Chaos

This is something I’ve noticed all over China and it definitely takes some getting used to. It’s just a different culture here. The cities are unbelievably crowded, which leads to smog and pollution. People spit in the streets everywhere, and there is no organization when it comes to lines. If you value your personal space, you’ll definitely notice that it’s not something that is respected in China.

12 Things to Know Before You Visit China

Love #4: Shanghai Cuisine

The food in China is different everywhere you go, but I thought Shanghai had the best food in China. The local specialty are the dim sum dumplings, and one in particular that you must try is xiao long bao. It’s a dumpling served with a straw. It has soup in it that you suck through the straw before eating the dumping. It is delicious.

bund shanghai
Filming on the Bund in Shanghai

Hate #5: Shanghai Weather

Shanghai has a tropical climate, and it gets very hot and humid. If you visit Shanghai in the summer, you can expect temperatures above 100 degrees during the day. My wife never sweats and Shanghai made her sweat! Plan your Shanghai sightseeing accordingly so that you are not outside in the heat of the day. Always have a bottle of water with you so that you can stay hydrated.

Love #5: Day Trips from Shanghai

While you can’t get the Old China vibe in Shanghai itself, there are plenty of great day trips from Shanghai where you can get a better experience of older Chinese culture. Suzhou is sometimes called the Venice of the East because it has so many gardens and canals. The city has more UNESCO recognized gardens than any other place in the world. You can even take a gondola on the canal, for a fraction of what they charge in the “real” Venice. In Hangzhou, visit West Lake, with islands, temples, bridges, and gardens. My favorite Shanghai day trip is to Xitang, an old river town. Your hotel can help you arrange day trips from Shanghai during your visit. It’s worth getting out of the city at least once.

Shanghai is a great city; you will have a nice time when you visit.  The “hates” are really just things to have a heads up on rather than a reason not to plan a Shanghai vacation. Want more China travel tips? Check out these other blog posts:

Five Things You Will Love & Hate About Salvador de Bahia, Brazil

Posted on by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit Salvador, the capital city of Bahia Brazil! It’s a pretty cool city and a great place to experience Brazilian culture. As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate when you visit Salvador, Brazil.

Hate #1: Guys Tying Ribbons on You

As you walk around Salvador, you’ll have a lot of guys trying to tie ribbons on you. These are called fitas, and it gets annoying after a while because they are constantly after you and you just keep saying “no thank you,” “no thank you.” We visited in June for the festival and it was one of the things we noticed right away.

Love #1: Pelourinho Historic District

This area of Salvador is also called the “high city” and is full of interesting historic attractions. The Sao Francisco Church is spectacular, and the whole district is filled with historic colonial buildings. The area is full of colorful buildings and quaint squares with small side streets that are the perfect way to wander through Salvador.

the ribbons in brazil
You will get a few of these don’t worry

Hate #2: Photo Opportunities with Locals

Another way you’ll be targeted as a tourist in Salvador is by women dressed in traditional Bahian clothing. It’s a really cool thing to see, but they are there to have their picture taken so they can ask you for money.  If you decide you’re willing to pay for the opportunity, make sure you negotiate the price upfront, or you will be overcharged.

How to Avoid Travel Scams & Ripoffs

Love #2: Taking the Elevator to Lower Town

A unique thing to do in Salvador is to take the elevator to travel from upper town to lower town. It’s a cool feature of the city and the locals are proud of it. It only costs about 25 cents, so it’s definitely worth it for the experience. Once you’re in the lower town, you can visit the indoor market and of course, more churches and interesting architecture to explore. The Portuguese Colonial influence is very prevalent here.

Hate #3: Pace of Life in Bahia

Most other parts of Brazil make fun of Bahia for being a little bit slower than everywhere else. Everything takes just a little bit longer in Bahia, so be prepared for a more relaxed pace. When you go out to eat in Bahia, it can feel like it takes forever to get your food and, eventually, your bill. But as love #3 will tell you the wait is worth it.

They started at $50, we got down to $5. Negotiate those pictures with locals.

Love #3: Bahian Cuisine

The location on the sea means you can get really great seafood in Bahia. Make sure you try Dende Oil, which is a spicy oil that’s very popular in Bahia. Other Bahian dishes that you have to are acarajé, which is a fried bean curd product, and moqueca, which is a stew often served with seafood. If you stay at a resort in Salvador, they may not be serving a lot of traditional Bahian cuisine, so make sure you get off property to have some local dishes.

Hate #4: Salvador Safety

Salvador is not one of the safest places in Brazil to visit. While it’s absolutely worth a visit, you do have to be vigilant about your safety. Be especially careful if you are out at night, and stay close to your hotel. If you want to head out for the night, stay in a group of friends and don’t go out alone. We do not recommend visiting the favelas alone at any time. Ask your hotel which parts of town to avoid.

Is Brazil Safe? Safety Tips to Visit Brazil

Love #4: Bahian Culture

In addition to amazing cuisine, Bahian culture is one of my favorite things about this part of Brazil. It’s really the hub of Afro-Brazilian culture, so it’s such a unique culture that is derived from a couple of different cultures. If you get the chance to bring your kids to Salvador, it’s really an educational experience to witness the unique culture here. Something special you can do is to get a feta, or ribbon, and tie it outside of the church while you make three wishes.

bahia brazil
The kids loved the beaches and running around to grab some ice cream

Hate #5: Proximity of Tourist Attractions

Some of the best things to do in Salvador Brazil are far from the city center. There’s the high city and the low city, but then you have to travel quite a bit to see some of the churches and attractions in Salvador. Traveling around Salvador isn’t always easy, so this is a challenge for those visiting Salvador.

Love #5: Bahia Beaches

There are over 45 kilometers of beaches here. The beaches are super pristine, with nice soft sand and warm water. There are bars and cafes set up along the beaches, so you don’t even need to leave at lunchtime. A bit further north at Praia do Forte, there’s a turtle refuge which is really cool. At certain times of the year, the riptides can be a bit strong, but in general, the beaches of Bahia are very family-friendly.

Salvador de Bahia is a pretty interesting travel destination in Brazil. Other than the crime and safety issue, the “hates” are really just small annoyances and by no means a reason not to visit Salvador. Want more tips for planning a trip to Brazil? Check out these other blog posts:

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Visiting Cancun

Posted on by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit Cancun, Mexico! I love it here; the beaches and the Cancun activities really make it a great family vacation destination. As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate (or find mildly irritating) on your Cancun trip.

Hate #1: Lack of Mexican Culture

While technically, you are in Mexico when you are on a Cancun vacation, it doesn’t really feel like Mexico. There are so many tourists in Cancun, and the entire town is geared towards the tourist industry, so you don’t really meet many “local” or get a good feel for Mexican culture. Most people choose to stay at all-inclusive resorts in Cancun, so you really have to make an effort to go off-property and experience authentic Mexican culture, which you can find.

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About All-Inclusive Resorts

Love #1: Cancun Beaches & Cenotes

Most people visit Cancun first and foremost for the beaches. The beaches are fantastic and there are a ton of excellent beach activities around Cancun. Scuba diving, snorkeling, and parasailing are just a few of the things to do in Cancun. When you need a break from the beach, you can go swimming in the cenotes around Cancun. Cenotes are sinkholes filled with freshwater, and they are so fun to swim in. When it’s time to decide what to do in Cancun, you’ll have lots of options. Helpful hint, if you go to a cenote and use the lockers pay extra special attention to the key they give you. If you lose it you have to pay for another one, and you would be surprised how easy they slip off when you are in the cenotes.

Hate #2: Driving Around Cancun

If you want a bit more freedom during your Cancun vacation, you really need to rent a car. Driving around Cancun can be frustrating, though. When you see a sign that says “topes” it means speed bumps and they can really mess up your car if you don’t slow down. Traffic in Mexico can also be a bit nerve-wracking, so take your time and make sure you have all the proper insurance and permits needed for driving in Mexico. Additionally, we would not recommend driving after dark.

Love #2: Cancun Tourism

The tourist infrastructure in Cancun is pretty great. Around the 1970s, the government decided to build up Cancun as a beach destination. Before that, there really wasn’t anything around as far as tourism goes. This is why there are so many amazing Cancun resorts to choose from, so many people speak English and it’s really easy to get around. Cancun was pretty much built for tourism, so it’s really an easy destination to visit. If you’ve traveled to other parts of Mexico, you’ll appreciate the tourist infrastructure in Cancun.

Hate #3: The $1 Touts

When you visit the major tourist sites, like Chichen Itza, you’ll run into a lot of touts shouting “One dollar!” What they actually mean is they’ll give you $1 off the price of whatever it is they are selling. Also, a lot of the tours will take you a craft market at the end of the tour and they all have the same kind of tourist stuff. It can get annoying after a while and it almost feels like the amusement park rides that let you off but force you to go through a gift shop before exiting.

Souvenirs: What Not to Buy When You Travel

Love #3: Cancun Nightlife

One of the main reasons that travelers visit Cancun is for the party scene. Whether you are partying at your hotel or hitting the town and checking out the pubs and bars there, the Cancun nightlife scene has something for everyone. There is fun for all ages in Cancun, so don’t think it’s just a destination for college kids. Many of the All-Inclusive resorts in Cancun are geared towards the nightlife crowd, so be sure to do your research and if you choose the right spot, you’ll have a great time!

Hate #4: Cancun Prices

If you are traveling around other parts of Mexico, you’ll notice that the prices in Cancun are a bit higher. It’s still a very affordable vacation destination, however, the prices are higher because it’s such a popular tourist destination. And the ATM fees are insane high. So just bring US dollars with you as they are accepted all over Cancun.

Love #4: Cancun Weather

Cancun has great weather, especially if you are coming from a cold-weather destination. It’s the perfect winter break from gray skies and snow back home. Cancun is warm and sunny almost all year-round. Of course, the summers can be hot and hurricane season can have an impact on the weather in Cancun, but it’s generally pretty pleasant all the time. Don’t forget your sunblock!

Hate #5: Cancun Seasons

If you come at the wrong time of year, you might regret it. Cancun in the summer is oppressively hot, so it’s not enjoyable to do anything but stay in the swimming pool or ocean. The other bad time of year to visit Cancun is March when most colleges are on spring break. If you are looking for a wild party atmosphere with lots of drunk college kids, then you’ll love Cancun during spring break. However, if you want to visit Cancun with kids, make sure you pick the right time of year and the right kind of resort.

Love #5: Mayan Sites

This was a major hub for the Mayan civilization, so there are great sights you can visit around Cancun. Chichen Itza is probably the most popular, and there’s also Coba and Tulum. There are so many fantastic day trips from Cancun that allow you to see some of the Mayan histories in the area.

There are so many more things I love about Mexico, including the weather, but you get the point. I love Mexico! The “hates” are really just things to have a heads up on rather than a reason not to plan a Mexico vacation. For more tips on what to do in Cancun, check out these other blog posts:

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About a Beijing Vacation

Posted on by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit Beijing, China! There are tons of cool things to do in Beijing. As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate on your Beijing vacation.

Hate #1: Beijing Air Quality

The air pollution in Beijing can be pretty bad. There are times when you can’t even go outside because Beijing air quality is downright dangerous. On our first two days in Beijing, the warnings said that children and the elderly should not be outdoors. It’s possible to have some clear days with blue skies but be prepared with some face masks just in case. You can get better quality masks for a better price if you buy them in your home country.

kids at great wall in china
If you have kids be prepared to have their pictures taken a lot

Love #1: Visiting the Great Wall of China

China’s Great Wall is one of those icons of world travel, and you absolutely have to see it when you visit Beijing! It’s definitely one of the coolest things to do in Beijing and possibly the coolest thing you’ll see in all of China. Though don’t expect to get those Instagram pictures of you alone on the Great Wall, it is busy all the time outside of Beijing.

Visit the Seven “New” Wonders of the World

Hate #2: Size of Beijing

Beijing is huge and there are people everywhere. It can feel like complete chaos at all times, but especially when you’re on the Metro. There are 25 million people living in Beijing, so you will be surrounded by lots of people all the time. Every tourist attraction near Beijing, including the Summer Palace, and the Great Wall, will be packed with people.

Love #2: Beijing Sightseeing

There are many interesting Beijing attractions to check out. Yes, the Great Wall is one of them, but there are so many other historic things to see in Beijing. There’s Beihai Park, the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, and so many other interesting Beijing sites. Don’t expect to see all of the Beijing attractions in a couple of days. No matter how long you are in Beijing, it won’t feel like enough time to cover all the cool stuff.

great wall of china
This is not by Beijing, the Beijing version all you see is people in the picture 🙂

Hate #3: Language Barrier

There are not many people in Beijing who speak English, so unless you speak Chinese, it can be challenging to communicate. Even if a guidebook says your hotel has English-speaking staff, it may mean they have one person on staff who speaks English and that person may or may not be working at all times. So, it helps to know a few words of Chinese and if you can recognize a few Chinese characters, it will be helpful. Make sure you take a couple business cards from your hotel to give to taxi drivers to help them find where you want to go. A lot of taxi drivers  are not from Beijing and do not know the city very well, so also have a major sight that is near your hotel written down in Chinese so that might help the taxi driver.

Love #3: Beijing Food

The food in Beijing is fantastic. You can get different cuisines from all over China, and there’s some really great street food in Beijing, too. Eating out in Beijing is a fun experience, and there is plenty of after-dinner evening activity to enjoy, too.

Everything You Need to Know About Traveler’s Diarrhea

Hate #4: Beijing Traffic

Whether you are a driver, passenger or pedestrian, the traffic in Beijing is insane. Crossing the street is nerve-wracking, to say the least, so just follow the lead of the locals and try to get in the middle of a pack of people who are crossing. Better yet, look for an overpass you can take to avoid crossing the street. When taking a taxi, make sure you have a card from your hotel that you can give the driver. Most aren’t from Beijing and they won’t speak English, so you need a way to communicate your destination.

summer palace in beijing
no idea how we got both of them to look at the same time

Love #4: Green Space in Beijing

For such a huge, crowded city, Beijing actually has a lot of green space you can enjoy. Beihai Park is a nice place to escape, and there are bamboo gardens around the city as well. It’s nice to have the green space to balance out the pollution of Beijing.

Hate #5: Beijing Guidebooks

Beijing is changing so quickly that the guidebooks can’t keep up. Museums move, metro lines are extended, rail stations move, and hotels open and close regularly. No matter how new your guidebook is, some information will likely be outdated. We ran into this with Metro lines in particular.

Love #5: Safety in Beijing

For a city of 25 million, Beijing is incredibly safe. Tourist crimes are practically unheard of, and the Chinese culture is just one where crime and safety aren’t an issue for travelers. The locals are typically pretty friendly and want to be helpful, even when it’s hard to communicate with them.

Even with crowds and congestion, Beijing is an amazing city! The “hates” are really just things to have a heads up on rather than a reason not to plan a Beijing vacation. Want more China travel tips? Check out these other blog posts:

Five Things You Will Love & Hate About Latin America Travel

Posted on by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re visiting Latin America. Latin America extends from the Sonoran Desert of Mexico in the North, all the way down to Tierra del Fuego in Chile in the South. I’ve lived in South America and have been to some of the best places to visit in Latin America, so it’s a part of the world that I really love. As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate about Latin America Travel.

Hate #1: Safety Concerns

This not only applies to your physical safety but also your physiological safety, financial safety, and the safety of your health. There are definitely places in Latin America that are not safe. There are other places that are marginally safe, where you need to exercise more caution and not be flashy. And there are areas that are completely safe where you don’t have to worry in the least. There are some areas where robberies are common or even kidnappings (though this is not something most tourists need to worry about). The best thing you can do is to research your destination thoroughly and talk to travelers like you who have recently been there. You can also check out the US State Department’s website on safety issues in various countries.  

Safety Advice for Visiting Brazil

On the health front, make sure you are traveling with bug sprays and sunblock, and also ensure you have a method for water purification if heading on hikes. There are very few places in Latin America where it’s OK to drink the water from the tap. It’s important to stay hydrated, but you don’t want to get sick from the water, either.

latin america tourism

Love #1: People & Culture of Latin America

Hands down, the best thing about Latin America is the people who live here. I’ve traveled to nearly every continent (sorry Antarcticans) on the planet and Latin Americans are the most fun and friendly people I’ve met. They will go out of their way to make sure you feel welcome. They are so proud of their culture and they want to share it with visitors. Knowing a bit of Spanish will go a long way to helping you get to know the locals better. If you get invited to a party, don’t miss the chance! They love any excuse to celebrate!

Hate #2: Distance Between Cities & Attractions

Obviously, Latin America covers a huge area. Even within each country of Latin America, there are huge distances between major cities or between attractions. There really aren’t any trains to speak of and flights can be pricy, so chances are, you’ll be taking buses between cities in Latin America. There can be a huge discrepancy in the quality of buses, though, so don’t always take the cheapest fare you can find. Sometimes it’s worth the extra money to get a nicer bus, especially for those long-haul trips. This is not like Europe where you can get from city to city in a couple of hours; I’ve taken bus rides in Latin America that were 18 hours or more!

Love #2: Natural Beauty of Latin America

The cities in Latin America are pretty great, but the natural attractions are even better! There’s Iguazu Falls in Argentina, Angel Falls in Venezuela, Mexico’s Sonoran Desert, plus hundreds of amazing beaches. Sunsets and sunrises, lakes, oceans, islands, mountains, glaciers and more! Even if you are mainly visiting the cities of Latin America, plan at least one nature tour during your visit. There are so many to choose from; one of my favorites is Pantanal in Brazil.

Hate #3: Language Barrier

Unless you are in Cancun or another very touristy area, you won’t find many people that speak English. You really need to know a bit of Spanish (or Portuguese) to get by in Latin America. The more Spanish you know, the easier it will be to get around, meet new people and experience Latin America. Without it, you might really struggle to communicate with the locals and you’ll be left to speak only with those working in the tourist industry.

skinny mark
I’ve been traveling in Latin America so long some of my friends there know me as skinny

Love #3: Low-Key Tourism

You’ll notice that Latin America is not overrun with tourists like other parts of the world. Sure, Cancun and the Mayan sites get a lot of tourists, but it’s still nowhere near the crowds you might see in European or Asian cities. This is especially true if you get off the beaten path and visit some smaller towns in Latin America; you’ll be one of the few tourists in town. If you’ve traveled to places like China or Venice, you’ll really notice how “uncrowded” the tourist sights of Latin America really are.

Hate #4: Lack of Tourist Infrastructure

In some areas, like Cancun, the tourist infrastructure is the backbone of the city. In most major cities, however, there isn’t a tourist infrastructure like you might expect. There aren’t as many tours, buses, hotels, and guides. Depending on your destination, you may be on your own and reliant on travel guide books or the Internet rather than local tours. If you are traveling to locations without a lot of hotels or hostels, you need to plan ahead and make sure you have your accommodation sorted out before you arrive.

Love #4: Latin America History

There is a lot of interesting history in Latin America, from Native history to Colonial history and much more. The Spanish Colonial cathedrals are prolific throughout Latin America, but there are ancient ruins from Mayan, Aztec and Inca civilizations. Chichen Itza and Machu Picchu are two well-known examples, but these types of sites exist throughout Latin America.

5 things to love in latin america

Hate #5: Extreme Weather & Rainy Season

For the most part, the weather in Latin America is great and it’s what draws many tourists down here for the first time. However, there is a rainy season and it’s possible to encounter some extreme weather. The sun is extremely powerful, so you have to be super diligent about sunscreen. Again, you have to research your destination to find the best time to visit. Rainy season can cause floods and metro closures in a city like Buenos Aires, so choose your time of year carefully. Even the Inca Trail is closed for a bit during the rainy season.

Rainy Day Travel Advice

Love #5: Laidback Latin Vibe

At first, this can be confusing or frustrating, but after a few weeks in Latin America, you’ll come to appreciate the laid-back attitudes and the relaxed atmosphere. Everything just moves a bit slower; things get done “manana” instead of right away, and once you learn to go with the flow, you’ll find yourself more relaxed as well. Some vacations, especially in Europe, can be taxing as you rush from sight to sight, but I feel like you can really relax on a Latin America vacation. The pace of the locals pretty much forces you to relax!

There are so many amazing places to visit in Latin America. It’s home to some of my favorite places and people. The “hates” are really just things to have a heads up on rather than a reason not to plan a Latin America tour. Want more tips for planning a Latin America vacation? Check out these other blog posts:

Five Things You Will Love & Hate on a Prince Edward Island Vacation

Posted on by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit Prince Edward Island, Canada! With cool history and awesome beaches, PEI is really a great place to visit. As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate on your Prince Edward Island vacation.

Hate #1: Getting to Prince Edward Island

It used to be that you could only get to PEI by ferry. While you can still take a ferry to Prince Edward Island, there’s now the Confederation Bridge connecting the island to the mainland. It’s a very long bridge, about ten miles long, so if you are leery of long bridges, or bridges with low sides, it can be a bit nerve-wracking. There are even some stoplights on the bridge, so you will be on it for a while. Fortunately, the views are amazing, especially if you are crossing the bridge at sunset. However, if you are squeamish about long bridges, I recommend taking the ferry to Prince Edward Island.

Love #1: PEI Nature and Beaches

Prince Edward Island is an outdoor paradise, with several beautiful beaches to explore. Cavendish Beach is one of the most popular things to do in PEI, or you can go out to the East End and see the lighthouse. Basin Head Beach was once voted the best beach in North America. Surprisingly, the water here is a bit warmer than some of the East Coast beaches that are further south, so in the summer, you can get a true beach experience.

Prince edward island coast
The red from the beach isn’t coming out of any white clothing, just fyi

Hate #2: PEI in the Off-Season

The best (and some say only) time to visit Prince Edward Island is from May through September. PEI is absolutely beautiful in the summer. However, winter lasts a really long time in this part of Canada. They don’t measure the snow in inches; it’s measured in feet. By February, the locals are getting cabin fever. A lot of tourist places close up for the winter, so it’s not the best time to visit Prince Edward Island.

Love #2: Prices on Prince Edward Island

A Prince Edward Island vacation is actually pretty affordable, especially compared to other destinations in Canada. Most Americans visit Canadian cities, like Toronto or Vancouver, which tend to be on the pricier side. While Canada is generally a bit more expensive than the US, Prince Edward Island is very reasonable. The hotels, food, and attractions are all fairly priced. If you are planning a Canada road trip, plan to end it on Prince Edward Island and you’ll love having lower prices at the end of your trip.

What to Know Before You Visit Canada

Green gables in prince edward island
Yes, Anne does come out and chat. It’s pretty fun.

Hate #3: Summer Crowds

PEI is gorgeous, and attractions like the Green Gables house bring a lot of tourists to visit. Since we know the best time to visit Prince Edward Island is in the summer, the majority of tourists are all visiting in the same short window. This means you need to plan ahead when reserving your PEI accommodation, as there aren’t a ton of hotels and cottages to rent, so they can book up quickly.

Love #3: Prince Edward Island History

There is so much history to take in on Prince Edward Island. Some of it is fictional history, like at Green Gables. But this is actually where Canada was founded, and PEI recently celebrated 150 years anniversary. In Charlottetown, you can see the historical government buildings like the Province House, and there are interpreters who give historic tours as well.

Hate #4: Green Gables Attractions

One of the most popular things to do in PEI is to visit the Green Gables house. The house itself is pretty small, but it seems an entire tourist industry has built up around the house, making it feel a bit over-commercialized. The house itself is worth visiting, but the hype around it gets old after a bit. There are so many interesting historic attractions on Prince Edward Island but they tend to get overshadowed by some of the tourist traps.

eating ice cream in prince edward island
Eat the ice-cream where you see the cow… trust them

Love #4: Eating and Drinking in PEI

Yes, you will eat lobster when you visit Prince Edward Island. It’s fantastic and much better than the lobster you can get at home, even when it’s out of season. All of the seafood in PEI is fantastic. Make sure you get out into some of the smaller villages and eat at the mom and pop places, which are more authentic and less expensive. Something you must try when you visit PEI is the Raspberry Cordial. It’s part of the Green Gables lore, but it’s actually really tasty. There are some pretty good local beers in PEI, too!

Hate #5: Driving on Prince Edward Island

Driving on the island can be a bit frustrating, especially when you first arrive and are finding your way around. A lot of drivers on the island are from New Brunswick, and they are typically aggressive East Coast drivers. There are also a lot of cyclists and pedestrians, so you really have to pay attention when you are driving on Prince Edward Island.

Love #5: PEI Locals

Canadians, in general, are a friendly bunch and the locals on Prince Edward Island are no exception. We’ve had great conversations with locals, including bartenders and the folks at our hotel. Everyone has been very nice and forthcoming with travel tips. You might think a small island that gets overwhelmed with tourists for a short window each summer might be annoying for the residents, but if they are annoyed by tourists, they certainly don’t let on.

Ten Things That Will Shock You in Canada

We really enjoyed our Prince Edward Island vacation, it’s really a neat place to visit in Canada. The “hates” are really just things to have a heads up on rather than a reason not to plan a Prince Edward Island vacation. Want more tips for planning a Canada trip? Check out these other blog posts:

Five Things You Will Love & Hate on Your Toronto Vacation

Posted on by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit Toronto, Canada, an awesome city with so many amazing things to do and sights to check out! As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate on your Toronto vacation.

Hate #1: Driving & Parking in Toronto

Toronto is the largest city in Canada, with over six million people living in the metropolitan area That’s a lot of traffic! As with any big city, expect to fight traffic, especially if you are trying to drive at rush hour. Once you get downtown, it can be nearly impossible to find parking and once you do find parking, it’s super expensive. Fortunately, Toronto has a good metro system, so you can park your car at your hotel and just use public transportation to get around during your Toronto vacation. Also, have a heads up when you are driving downtown as we have seen more than our fair share of fender benders just walking around downtown Toronto.

you feel the prices are about as high as the CN Tower

Love #1: Culture & Entertainment

As a huge city, there are a ton of interesting things to do in Toronto. The nightlife and restaurants are fantastic. They have amazing museums, including the Royal Ontario Museum. There’s also the Art Gallery of Ontario and they even have a shoe museum in Toronto. The Stanley Cup lives at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto. No matter your travel style, you’ll never run out of things to do in Toronto. And that is not even getting into the markets and shopping.

Hate #2: Prices in Toronto

As with many large cities, Toronto is expensive. Toronto hotels, parking, and restaurants are on the pricier side, but since it’s such a large city, there are plenty of options to choose from. If you want to, you can find deals in Toronto, especially on food. Check out Chinatown, Little Italy and the St. Lawrence Market where you can get tasty food without spending a fortune.

14 Tips for Saving Money While Traveling

Stanley Cup
Lord Stanley in the house!

Love #2: Toronto Outdoor Activities

Although it’s a huge city, Toronto has a lot of green space and outdoor activities. Take a ferry over to Center Island, which is car-free, so you can rent bikes and explore the island. Niagara Falls is an easy day trip from Toronto, and Lake Ontario is right here, so there are lots of activities on the lake. In the summer, everyone loves to be outside, so you’ll also have outdoor cafes, outdoor markets and tons of fun street festivals. 

Hate #3: Construction & Delays

It seems like there is always construction in Toronto. Between buildings and roads, it can feel like one big construction site. This makes driving and parking even more frustrating than normal because it can disrupt the traffic flow, cause traffic delays and result in fewer parking spots available. Even public transportation can be affected by construction delays, so give yourself a bit of extra time to get around during your Toronto vacation.

Love #3: Toronto Neighborhoods

One of the best things to do in Toronto is just wandering the various districts. There are so many interesting and unique districts in Toronto, from the financial district to Chinatown. There’s even a district underground where you can use tunnels to get around the city when it’s cold outside. There’s the waterfront area and islands to explore as well. Make sure you get out and explore some of the neighboring districts to get a feel for the “real” Toronto.

How to Eat Cheap & Well While Traveling

Hate #4: Not as Walkable as You’d Expect

Most people don’t associate Canada with huge cities, so it’s kind of a shock how large Toronto really is. Even when you look at a map of Toronto, it seems like it would be pretty walkable, but it’s not. Toronto is actually huge, and it takes a lot longer to get from one place to another if you are walking. Fortunately, the streetcars and the subway are convenient and easy to use, so you don’t have to walk everywhere.

hockey hall of fame
CN Tower and Hockey hall of fame, what more do you need?

Love #4: Toronto Small Businesses

As you explore the various districts of Toronto, you’ll see that there are a lot of independent businesses to check out. You don’t have to just frequent the chains, as there are small boutiques, pubs, and restaurants that independently owned, which is always our preference when traveling. And the local business owners seem to appreciate the business a bit more than some of the chain stores.

Hate #5: Summertime Crowds in Toronto

As one of the largest cities in North America, Toronto is crowded! It’s the financial center of Canada, and there are tons of people who work downtown and live in the metropolitan area. Then you add all of the tourists who visit Toronto in the summer, and it can be really crowded. There are lines to get into Toronto attractions, lines for the ferries and of course, this also leads to traffic and parking problems. If you plan to visit Toronto in the summer, make sure you are planning ahead and booking your hotel, rental car, and excursions in advance.

Love #5: Toronto City Vibe

The overall vibe in Toronto is just cool. The architecture is interesting (hello CN Tower), the attractions are great for tourists, and the history is pretty cool, too. There’s a great mix of sports, entertainment, and art that make Toronto such a neat place. The people are what really give Toronto a good vibe. Canadians are great, so it’s fun to visit such a large city where people are so friendly.

There are so many fun things to do in Toronto. It’s one of our favorite cities in North America. The “hates” are really just things to have a heads up on rather than a reason not to plan a trip to Toronto. Want more tips for planning a Canada vacation? Check out these other blog posts:

Mexico Travel Tips: Five Things You’ll Love & Hate about Visiting Mexico

Posted on by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit Mexico, our neighbor to the south! There are so many things I love about Mexico and we keep coming back. As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate (or at least find a bit annoying) on your Mexico trip.

Hate #1: Security Issues

A lot of people have concerns about security in Mexico. People worry about kidnappings and murders, but those really aren’t a major concern in any of the major places where a traveler might go. Generally, the areas with the most issues are along the borders and specifically the U.S. border. While you do need to be aware of your surroundings, most of Mexico is not nearly as dangerous as you might think. Just take the usual precautions: check the state department’s website, use your hotel safe, keep your money in your front pockets and don’t flash expensive jewelry or electronics.

Where do Pickpockets Work?

Love #1: People of Mexico

Mexican people are so friendly and helpful. They’re so proud of their culture and their history; they love to share it with visitors and take you around to the important sights. Make sure you take a bit of time to get to know the locals. If you’re staying at an all-inclusive resort, set aside some time to go off-property and hang out with some locals. The people are so fantastic in every place I’ve ever been in Mexico. My father worked in Mexico for a number of years and one of my childhood highlights was traveling with him throughout Mexico and meeting so many wonderful people.

mexico vacation guide

Hate #2: Traveling Within Mexico

There aren’t really any trains in Mexico to get between cities, so your options are to fly or take a bus. While there are some nice buses, it can be a long journey between two cities in Mexico. If you are visiting a resort town, this won’t be an issue, but if you are traveling through the heart of Mexico and wish to explore several places to visit in Mexico, either budget for flights or plan enough time to account for a long bus trip.

Love #2: Historic Sights in Mexico

Chichen Itza near Cancun is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. There are Mayan and Aztec ruins all over the country, Spanish Colonial cities like Aguas Calientes, and so many ornate churches and cathedrals. The cities are full of amazing architecture and they do a great job of maintaining and preserving history. Even if you can only get to Mexico City you will see so much history within the city.

coba mayan ruin
exploring Mayan ruins is one of my favorite parts

Hate #3: Tummy Troubles

There’s a reason it’s called Montezuma’s Revenge. Many travelers end up with tummy troubles when they visit Mexico. You’re not supposed to drink the water, but you could still end up sick from washed fruit or even the food. If you’re not used to spicy food, that could also cause you some trouble. Having tummy troubles doesn’t have to ruin your trip; just make sure you are ready with Imodium or Pepto-Bismol in case anything pops up.

Ten Don’ts of Visiting Mexico

Love #3: Natural Beauty of Mexico

Snorkeling, beaches, mountains, and highlands are just some of the natural features found in Mexico. People think Mexico is all beaches, but it has so much more in addition to beautiful beaches. If you’re staying at an all-inclusive resort, sign up for some eco-tours and check out the nearby natural attractions.

Hate #4: Need to Learn Spanish

To get the most out of your trip, you really need to speak a little bit of Spanish. If you’re coming to an all-inclusive resort in Cancun or Cabo, most people working in the travel industry will speak English. But if you are traveling anywhere else in Mexico, you should learn some Spanish as English is not widely spoken outside of the tourist areas. Speaking a bit of Spanish will really open up doors for you as a tourist, and will help you get to know the locals better. And then they can really share even more about their culture and homeland.

can you take your kids to mexico, yes
The little one already wants to retire and move to Mexico

Love #4: Mexico is Affordable

Of course, prices will vary in different areas, but a Mexican vacation is very affordable. If you want to travel to a new country with your family, without spending a fortune, Mexico is a great option. Eating, lodging, and transportation are all very affordable in Mexico. Even the tourist sights are relatively affordable; it’s under $20 to see Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World!

Hate #5: Driving, Parking, Traffic, and Police

In some areas of Mexico, if you want to really experience the countryside, you may need to rent a car. However, renting a car in Mexico can be a pain. You have to get insurance, extra insurance, permits and more. Once you are driving around, the roads aren’t great in all areas, so you’ll have bumpy roads. It’s highly recommended not to drive at night in Mexico. Less because of dangerous people, but the roads are bad and you don’t want to end up stranded after dark in the middle of nowhere. Parking and traffic in Mexico are generally pretty crazy. There are still some police officers looking for bribes, but it’s gotten much better over the years.

Love #5: Mexican Food

The food in Mexico is amazing. The fruits, vegetables, chiles, sauces, seafood are all so good. One of my favorite food memories of Mexico is when a friend’s grandmother made me a quesadilla and it was the tastiest quesadilla I’ve ever had. Make sure you get out of your hotel and go to local restaurants for authentic Mexican food. And if you are expecting to have your Taco Bell style Tex-Mex Mexican food you will be surprised at how different the food is in Mexico, and I bet you love it way more in Mexico. My tip, ask for Chilaquiles, that is my favorite.

There are so many more things I love about Mexico, including the weather, but you get the point. I love Mexico! The “hates” are really just things to have a heads up on rather than a reason not to plan a Mexico vacation. Want more Mexico travel tips? Check out these other blog posts:

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate When You Visit Xi’an China

Posted on by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit Xi’an, China, home of the Terracotta Warriors! As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate when you visit Xi’an.

Hate #1: Terracotta Warrior Crowds

The most popular of all Xi’an attractions are the Terracotta Warriors. This exhibit receives over one million visitors per year. If you visit during the summer holiday period, it can feel like there are one million people alongside you. It gets crazy crowded, and you can expect to be shoved and bumped and it will be nearly impossible to get a good photo without crowds of people in it. BUT, it is still so worth going to. My favorite sight in China.

12 Things to Know Before You Visit China

Love #1: Terracotta Warriors

The Terracotta Warriors are the reason most people visit Xi’an. 2,300 years ago, the First Emperor of China had this entire terracotta army created to protect him in the afterlife. There are nearly 10,000 figures in all. What’s even more remarkable is that this entire collection was only discovered in 1974, and you can even meet the farmer who unearthed them. You think you know what you’re coming to see, and you may have even seen a traveling exhibit at your local museum, but it is really an awe-inspiring experience.

the terracotta warriors in china
They are just so cool to see in person

Hate #2: Aggressive Sellers at the Terracotta Warriors

When you enter and leave the Terracotta Warriors exhibit, there are a lot of people selling things at the gate, and they can be aggressive. They will put things in your hand in an attempt to get you to buy things, but just keep moving. If you can learn how to say “no” or “I don’t want” that can also help. Just remember Buyao (I don’t want).

Buying Souvenirs: What NOT to Buy When Traveling

Love #2: Xi’an Cuisine

The food in Xi’an is fantastic. The one thing you have to eat in Xi’an is the lamb soup. They sell it all over, so it’s pretty easy to find, but it is amazing. It’s a broth with lamb meat and noodles and it’s served with buns. You tear up the buns and add it to the soup and it is fantastic. This is easily in the top five foods I’ve ever had, anywhere in the world! There are other really great lamb dishes in Xi’an, thanks to a heavy Muslim influence in this area.

Hate #3: Taxis in Xi’an

This is pretty much everywhere in China, but taking a taxi in Xi’an can be a nervewracking experience. Drivers in China are pretty much insane, so it feels like you are taking your life into your hands when you are riding in a car in China.

xi'an lit up at night
The kids loved wandering and eating in the Muslim Quarter

Love #3: Xi’an Muslim Quarter

One of our favorite things to do in Xi’an is to visit the Muslim Quarter. It’s the one area that does not feel like the modern world is taking over the historic parts. It’s a really fun area, full of shops and restaurants. There’s a ton of good street food to try, and it really feels like a true “Chinese” experience. We pretty much hung out here every day during our time in Xi’an.

Hate #4: Urban Sprawl & Air Pollution

Xi’an is a huge city of 8 million people and it grew really quickly, relatively recently. The fast growth has led to a lot of urban sprawl and construction. The sights of Xi’an are now really spread out and you have to contend with a lot of traffic to travel between Xi’an attractions. It also can feel like the modern city is taking over the historic parts. Xi’an is not immune to the pollution and smog problems that plague other major cities in China.

Love #4: Walking the City Walls

The city walls of Xi’an are enormous, and you can go up on top of them. It’s fun to rent bikes to ride on the city walls, or pack a picnic lunch to take along. You can even hire a rickshaw to drive you around on top of the walls. It’s kind of a nice escape from the chaos of being in a huge city, as it’s a bit more peaceful on the city walls.

inside the terracotta warrior sight
This took a lot of work to get a shot of just us

Hate #5: Getting to the Terracotta Warriors

Xi’an’s biggest attraction is not that easy to access as it’s about 45 minutes outside of town. You will most likely need to hire a driver, as well as an English-speaking tour guide. Your hotel can arrange all of this for you, but you’ll pay a premium. You can hire a driver separately and get a guide once you arrive at the Terracotta Warriors, but the quality of the guides can be hit or miss at that point.

Love #5: People in Xi’an

Every place we’ve visited in China, the people have been very friendly, but even more so in Xi’an. They were the most friendly people we met in China. We noticed more English-speakers here than in Beijing or Shanghai. Everyone has been so helpful and kind, and they seem to go out of their way to make us feel at home.

I really enjoyed Xi’an, even more than Beijing or some of the other cities in China that we’ve visited. The “hates” are really just things to have a heads up on rather than a reason not to plan a trip to Xi’an. Want more China travel tips? Check out these other blog posts:

Five Things You Will Love & Hate on Your Montreal Vacation

Posted on by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit Montreal, Quebec, an awesome multicultural city with so many cool and eclectic things to check out! As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate on your Montreal vacation.

Hate #1: Montreal at Night

Downtown Montreal can get a bit seedy at night. Once the sun goes down, you’ll notice that the tourists tend to thin out and the atmosphere changes a bit. It’s not so much the strip clubs, which there are some, but more about the people in the streets. While it’s a great family destination, we keep our Montreal sightseeing limited to the daytime hours when we have our kids with us.

Love #1: Multicultural Montreal

I feel like this is one of the most multicultural cities in North America. Since Montreal is in the Quebec province, French is the official language, and of course, English is also spoken in Montreal. There are also tons of other cultures mixed into Montreal as well, such as Brazilian, Italian, Chinese, and more. There are distinct neighborhoods, like Little Italy and Chinatown, where you can go and experience a totally unique culture that is not typically Canadian. While you need to know a bit of French in Quebec City, it’s not necessary for Montreal, because it’s truly an international city.

montreal tourism
Montreal is more than just the Canadiens

Hate #2: Unsavory Sorts

Part of what contributes to the seedy atmosphere we mentioned already is that Montreal is seen as a bit of a party destination, so you get a lot of drunks in the streets at night. There’s also a growing homeless population in Montreal, and you tend to see quite a few homeless people in all parts of town, including the tourist areas. They generally won’t bother you and they aren’t particularly aggressive, but if that makes you feel uncomfortable we wanted to let you know.

Love #2: Cosmopolitan City

Montreal is very modern and cosmopolitan. There are beautiful skyscrapers and excellent museums. The 1976 Summer Olympic Games were held in Montreal, so Montreal attractions include Olympic Stadium, plus the Biodome, the Insectarium, and a great Botanical Garden. Most travelers to Montreal expect an “old world” style city like Quebec City, but Montreal is very cosmopolitan.

Hate #3: Pot Smoke

This is totally a personal preference, but when visiting Montreal with kids, we’ve noticed a LOT of pot being smoked around the city. It’s not legal to smoke marijuana for recreation in Montreal, but medicinal marijuana is legal and it seems that many people take advantage of that. Even our seven-year-old noticed a funny smell in the air.

kids in montreal
Liam loved it in Montreal, though he did note a slight smell of wacky tabaccy

Love #3: Montreal History

While Montreal is cosmopolitan, there is an Old Town section, and the history of it is fascinating. One of the coolest places to visit in Montreal is the Basilica of Notre Dame, which is quite beautiful with stained glass and ornate decorations. Old Montreal is full of interesting 18th-century and early 19th-century architecture. The narrow, cobblestone streets really make you feel like you are in a European city.

Hate #4: Prices in Montreal

Montreal is expensive! Most of Canada seems to be slightly more expensive than the average prices in the United States, and Montreal is no exception. Vancouver, Montreal, and Toronto are probably the three most expensive destinations in Canada because they are the three largest cities. Montreal hotels and restaurants tend toward the pricier side, so plan ahead and be sure to factor in higher prices when you budget for your Montreal vacation.

14 Tips for Saving Money While Traveling

mark in montreal
yeah… maybe i shouldn’t take screen caps as my pictures 🙂

Love #4: Food in Montreal

It’s not just the French language that came to Montreal, but French cuisine as well. Being a multicultural city, you can get a lot of different cuisines in Montreal; not just French-Canadian food. Yes, it’s expensive to dine out in Montreal, but the quality of the food is really good. Montreal is definitely becoming a foodie city lately, and we can see why. Make sure you get out and enjoy some of the amazing food in Montreal during your stay!

How to Eat Cheap & Well While Traveling

Hate #5: Business Hours

Although Montreal has great nightlife, the streets do tend to roll up early in Montreal. Most stores and shopping malls close fairly early, so if you plan to do some shopping after dinner, you may find that nothing is open!

Love #5: Montreal Nightlife & Festivals

Montreal has the best nightlife in Canada. It’s not just the fantastic nightclubs and pubs, they also have fantastic evening entertainment. Whether you prefer opera, ballet, theater or live music, you’ll find it in Montreal. They have great festivals, too, including comedy and jazz festivals. There’s even a fireworks festival in the summer. People visit Montreal from all over the world to experience the nightlife.

There are so many fun things to do in Montreal, I didn’t even touch on the outdoor activities or the day trips from Montreal! It’s one of our favorite cities in Canada. The “hates” are really just things to have a heads up on rather than a reason not to plan a trip to Montreal. Want more tips for planning a Canada vacation? Check out these other blog posts: