18 Things Tourists Should Never Do in London

Posted on by admin

Don’ts of London: Tips for Your First Visit

Greetings from London, England! Every travel blog tells you what to do when you travel, but we like to tell you what not to do, so you can be prepared for your trip. These are the “don’ts” of visiting London.

Don’t Forget to Look Right When Crossing the Street

The biggest danger to tourists in London is stepping out into traffic. Because they drive on the left in England, pedestrians have to pay attention to this to avoid getting hit. Make sure to look to the right, not the left, when crossing the street.

Don’t Forget to Tap Out the Oyster Card

Public transportation in London is expensive. An Oyster Card is a great way to save money on public transportation in London. However, the Oyster Card must be tapped in and tapped out when leaving the train, otherwise they charge a hefty fee.

Don’t Think That London is the Only Place in England

London is a great international city, with people and cuisines from all over the world. People come and expect to see Downtown Abbey, classic England, but that’s not London at all. London is very cosmopolitan. To be fair, there are class English traditions still going on in London, such as afternoon tea and changing of the guard, but you might also want to check out the countryside to see classic England.

Don’t Just Eat at the Pubs

As long as you’re in London, it’s a great place to experiment with some of the international cuisine that’s available. Of course, classic pub fare is part of any English experience, but London has an amazing array of international dining opportunities. From curries to dumplings to kabobs and more, you’ll be amazed at the different foods you can try in London.

Watch: Traditional English Food: What to Eat in England

Don’t Expect a Cheap Trip to London

London is an expensive city. Hotels, restaurants, even public transportation in London can be expensive. Even some of the museums are expensive: Madame Tussaud’s can cost as much as $50 to get in! Spending in London adds up quickly, especially if you want to enjoy a pint or two between tourist sites.

Don’t Forget About the Free Stuff

There are a lot of free things to do in London. The British Museum is free, and it’s one of the coolest museums in London. Seeing some of London’s most famous sights, like Big Bend, Parliament, and the Eye are all free to look at. With some research in advance, you can pick and choose the things you want to pay for and fill in the rest with free attractions.

Don’t Count on Sunday Morning Public Transportation

Low-cost carriers offer great deals early on Sunday mornings, but it can be difficult to rely on public transportation on Sunday mornings. It seems to be when they do most of the maintenance and construction. Just to be safe, choose a later flight on Sunday so that you’ll have plenty of time to get to the airport.

Don’t Mess Up the Queue

English people are very polite and mind their manners, and this is especially true when it comes to queuing up. The Brits love their lines, and will not tolerate anyone cutting the line. So, beware of this anytime you are queued up for something.

Don’t Try to Do Everything!

It’s tempting to cram all the things into your London trip.  But it’s impossible to see all the London attractions without a very long stay. So many London visitors get burned out trying to see everything. Not only are there many things to see in London, but it’s a huge, sprawling city. Try to plan your days geographically so that you’re not crisscrossing all over.

Don’t Think Changing of the Guard is Daily

One of London’s most popular attractions is the “Changing of the Guard” at Buckingham Palace. If this is something you want to see, make sure you check the schedule ahead of time and plan accordingly.

Don’t Pick the Wrong Airport

London has five airports, and they are anywhere from 15 minutes to over an hour from the city center. Some of those super low-cost carriers may arrive at inconvenient locations with not a lot of transportation options. When you’re buying flights to London, consider all of the costs, not just the airfare. It’s no good to save $50 on your flight if you have to take a $75 taxi to your hotel.

Don’t Be Afraid to Use Public Transportation

London has a fantastic public transportation system. Between the Tube, the bus system, and your own two feet, getting around London is easy! Sometimes, it’s actually faster to walk than it is to take a bus or train. So just make sure you consider all options before committing to a route. London traffic is notorious, so taking taxis gets expensive as you watch the fare increase while you sit in a traffic jam.

Don’t Make These Mistakes on the Tube

London’s Tube system is fantastic, but there’s a whole set of mistakes to avoid when using the subway. It’s easy to use, so don’t let these common mistakes scare you from taking the train in London.

  • Be ready to pay when you approach the turnstile. Don’t wait until you’re there to look around for your ticket or your phone.
  • Don’t think you need a ticket or oyster card. You can pay with a credit card or your phone payment app when using the Tube. This just works for one person; you need a separate credit card for each passenger.
  • Don’t stand on the left on the escalators. The left is the “passing lane” for people who are in a hurry.
  • Don’t cluster in one area on the platform or on the train. You can spread out. Make sure there is room for people entering and exiting the train station and train. And let everyone off the train before rushing in!
  • Don’t bring a lot of luggage on the train. It’s for commuters, so you won’t find overhead bins or anywhere to keep your luggage. It will just take up space, and you shouldn’t expect to have an extra seat for your bags.
  • Don’t ride during peak times as the tickets are more expensive during rush hour periods.
  • Don’t forget to check which zones you are traveling. Your ticket price is based on how many zones you travel through. You might save money on a hotel by staying in Zone 6, but you’ll spend a lot more on train tickets throughout your stay.
  • Once you are on the train, don’t forget your manners. Leave the stinky food and drinks at home, and don’t take up more space than you need.
  • Don’t wear your backpack on the train. It takes up too much space, but it’s also a good way to get pickpocketed if you’re on a crowded train.
  • Don’t forget to check for line closures. Sometimes, a line will be closed and replaced with bus service. This is usually announced and posted quite clearly.
  • Don’t forget to download Citymapper on your phone. It will reflect any delays and detours. You won’t likely have cell service underground, but you can check before you descend.
  • Because you won’t have cell service, it’s handy to have an actual map of the tube (or a downloaded map on your phone) . It’s an easy way to see the endpoints of each line.
  • Don’t talk to strangers. Actually, don’t strike up conversations with anyone, including your speaker phone.
  • Don’t breathe too deeply in the summertime! It gets a bit stinky!
  • Don’t freak out if you miss your stop. Just go to the next stop and hop on the train going the other way.

Don’t Go Inside the Red Phone Booth

Tourists love the red phone booths in London. Of course, they’re not usually functional with phones anymore; they mostly serve at photo opps. However, they are sometimes used as shelter or even a urinal, so I don’t recommend going inside them or letting your kids crawl around in them.

Don’t Wait for a Host to Seat You in a Pub

Pub seating is first-come, first-served, so don’t wait around at the entrance for someone to seat you. You also need to go up to the bar to place your order. The servers don’t come to your table to take your order. Usually, you’ll see a number in or on your table. Place your order at the bar and give them that number.

Don’t Forget to Pack for All Weather

London has a reputation as a rainy city, and it does rain quite a bit. However, you can get all types of weather in London, including days where you need a lot of sunscreen. Dressing in layers is always a good idea, and make sure you have a rain jacket that packs up easily in your day pack.

Don’t Choose Uber over Black Cabs

Uber and other rideshare apps are pretty convenient, but you’ll miss out on the knowledge and expertise of the Black Cab drivers. They know the city inside and out, so they can divert to avoid traffic, and can answer a ton of your questions.

Don’t Skip the Thames as a Destination

The River Thames cuts the city of London in half, and the riverfront is a great place to spend some time during your trip to London. Whether it’s a stroll along the river, a river cruise or even taking a water taxi, seeing the city from the water is a great perspective.

Don’t Be Scared to Ask for Help

The police in London are fantastic; they will gladly point you in the right direction of where you need to go. Locals and shopkeepers are also super helpful. As long as you are polite and remember to use your manners, you will find people in London to be super friendly. 

Don’t Fall For Tourist Traps

London has some popular tourist traps, and not all of them should be avoided. If you’re visiting London with kids, you might just have to visit a few tourist traps to keep them entertained. In general, we recommend visiting the historical and educational attractions over the tourist traps, but sometimes they can’t be avoided.

  • The usual spots like Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum, Ripley’s Believe it or Not, the London Dungeon, and The Clink Prison Museum are not unique to London. These types of tourist traps can be found all over the world.
  • The London Eye is an overpriced Ferris Wheel
  • Similarly, the London Shard is also quite expensive for a view that you can get for free elsewhere.
  • The Crown Jewels are kind of a tourist trap, because you have to pay to go to the London Tower, which is not cheap.
  • Piccadilly Circus is really just a busy intersection with a bunch of billboards.
  • Leicester Square is known for shows and theaters, but you can see a movie much cheaper pretty much anywhere else in London.
  • Getting a photo at Abbey Road can also be considered a tourist trap, as countless tourists try to recreate the Beatles album cover each year.
  • Kings Cross Platform 9 ¾ is a popular spot for Harry Potter fans. There’s usually a long line, and it’s not even where the actual scene took place in the movie.
  • Any popular movie scene or “Instagram” spot has become a bit of a tourist trap.
  • The Heathrow Express from the airport to the city is really only worth it if you have a ton of luggage. Otherwise, it’s much cheaper to just take the Tube into the city.
  • Window shopping at Harrods or on Oxford Street can be fun, but actually shopping there is a tourist trap. You can find most of those things online for much cheaper.
  • Rickshaws and pedi-cabs can be a tourist trap, unless you negotiate the fare ahead of time.

Don’t Fall for These Tourist Scams

Like any large city with a lot of tourists, there are some scams out there targeting travelers.

  • Pickpockets are prevalent in many big cities, including London. They are mainly concentrated in very busy areas like Covent Garden, Piccadilly Circus, Leicester Square, and the Changing of the Guard.
  • How many of us set our phones on the table while we’re eating? If you’re in a crowded London cafe or pub, don’t do that. There are people that will come by and swipe your phone off the table. Likewise, don’t put your bag on the back of your chair where you can’t see it.
  • You might also be approached by beggars and/or donation requests. Many beggars in London are part of organized groups and they will make up a sob story to get your sympathy and your cash. This is also for those people asking you to sign a petition or donate to their charity. Just keep walking.
  • People selling designer bags on the street. They are fake knock-offs and usually not very good quality.
  • With the increase in tap-to-pay, there is an increase in scams on credit cards. An RFID wallet protects your credit cards, and we also turn off the payment app on our phones until we need to use it.
  • While I’ve just said that people in London are friendly and helpful, if someone is too friendly or too helpful, it’s likely a scam. Someone may offer to take your photo, or to sell you a ticket for the bus, and that can be a scam.
  • If you plan to see any shows in London, make sure you get your tickets from an official seller. Don’t buy them from a random person on the street, as they may not be valid. The risk isn’t worth saving a few bucks.
  • ATM skimmers are also something to look out for. We always try to use an ATM machine inside a bank as they are less likely to be tampered with. If something seems off about an ATM you’re trying to use, then go to a different one.
  • Do not use the ATM conversion to your currency. When you withdraw cash, you’ll be asked if you want to convert the withdrawal to your currency. Let your own bank handle that; you’ll always get a better deal with your own bank. This applies to credit card transactions as well.
  • The mustard spill / pigeon poop scam is everywhere, including London. If someone spills on you or offers to wipe something off you, they may be distracting you while your bag gets stolen.
  • Likewise, if someone on the street “found” something that might be yours, or tries to give you something for free, beware! Nothing is free; they will then ask you for money. This includes random street games they try to rope you into.
  • Don’t fall for fake WiFi that can end up stealing your data. Make sure you ask what the correct WiFi is where you are.

These are my “don’ts” of London. Feel free to add more in the comments below! For more travel tips, check out these blog posts and videos:

13 Things Tourists Should Not Do in Croatia

Posted on by admin

Croatia Tips: 13 Don’ts of Visiting Croatia

Greetings from Hvar, Croatia, one of the beautiful islands along the Dalmatian Coast. There are many things you must do in Croatia, like visiting Split and Dubrovnik and Pula, but today we are sharing the “don’ts” of visiting Croatia.

Croatia Tip #1 Don’t Think Croatians are Fighting When Conversing

Croatian is a brusque, loud language. It has the brusqueness of German, with the emphasis and energy of Italian. To unknowing tourists, two Croatian friends catching up can almost sound like they are arguing.

Watch: Top Ten Words in Croatian for Tourists

Croatia Tip #2 Don’t Bring up the War with Serbia

The early 90’s war for Independence, or the Last War, is still really fresh in the mind of Croatians. It’s a painful subject best left untouched.

Croatia Tip #3 Don’t Call Croatia Yugoslavia

Yugoslavia has been gone for a long time now, so it’s time to use the correct terms for these countries. Younger travelers don’t have this issue, because it’s been Croatia for a long time, but those who remember Yugoslavia have a tendency to mix them up.

Croatia Tip #4 Don’t Disparage Croatia

Croatians are a very proud nation, so visitors should take care not to disparage anything about Croatia, even jokingly. There is much to be proud of in Croatia: from football teams to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, to islands and cuisine and a cappella singing. However, there are small things that may be annoying, like rocky beaches, but don’t bring this up with the locals.

Croatia Tip #5 Don’t Expect Sandy Beaches

The beaches in Croatia are beautiful, with crystal clear water, but many of the beaches are stone beaches, not sandy beaches. Water shoes are a great idea when packing for your Croatia trip.

Watch: Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Croatia

Croatia Tip #6 Don’t Forget Sunblock and Bug Spray

If the beach is on your agenda, don’t forget the sunblock. The sun is very strong here, and it can get to be over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. It’s important to stay hydrated, and protect your skin. They also have mosquitos and other biting bugs in the summer, so bug spray is a good idea.

Croatia Tip #7 Don’t Expect Fast Public Transportation.

Croatia has an interesting shape, with a long coastline area and a large continental area. The main transport mode for getting around Croatia are the buses, or ferries if you’re visiting the islands. Some distances may seem close, but mountainous terrain and islands can be deceiving, and may take much longer. In the winter months, ferry schedules are drastically cut back.

Croatia Tip #8 Don’t Skip the Local Museums

Croatia has amazing history, and seven UNESCO World Heritage sites, and so much natural beauty. In addition to all the “big” sites, our family loves the small, local museums in Croatia. Visiting these smaller museums is a great way to meet the locals who work there and hear first-hand why they are so proud of their country.

Croatia Tip #9 Don’t Skip the Local Cuisine

You’ll see a lot of pizza and pasta around Croatia, as there is a heavy Italian influence. But Croatia also has a lot of really great food. Being on the ocean, the seafood in Croatia is fantastic. Our favorite is getting a fish plate, which comes with all different kinds of seafood piled up. There’s also great meat and salad options in Croatia.

Croatia Tip #10 Don’t Expect to Pay in Euros

Croatia uses the Croatian Kuna, not the Euro, even though Croatia is in the European Union. This is a common misconception, so you’ll even see signs at businesses reminding travelers that they do not take Euros.

Croatia Tip #11 Don’t Forget to Tip

Tipping in Croatia is 10% of your restaurant bill.

Watch: Tipping in Croatia

Croatia Tip #12 Don’t Worry if You Don’t Speak Croatian

Tourists have been visiting Croatia for hundreds of years. They know how to treat tourists. The tourist infrastructure is really good, and there’s no trouble finding someone who can speak English as it’s very common.

Croatia Tip #13 Don’t Turn Down a Local Invitation to Enjoy Traditional Treats

if someone offers you dried figs, or Rakia, the local homemad liquor, don’t pass up the opportunity. It’s a welcoming gesture, and a good way to chat with the locals.

These are our travel “dont’s” for Croatia. These Croatia tips will help you enjoy your visit to this amazing country. For more of our travel tips, check out these blog posts and videos:

10 Things Tourists Should Never Do in Prague

Posted on by admin

Prague Tips: Ten Don’ts of Visiting Prague

Greetings from Prague! There are so many great things to do in Prague, but there are also some “don’ts” when you visit Prague. These Prague tips are the things tourists should not do when visiting Prague.

Prague Tip #1 Don’t Overlook Prague

When planning a European vacation, many travelers tend to focus on the major destinations like London, Paris, Spain and Italy. Prague is one of our favorite cities in Europe to visit. There are so many sites, from the town square to the Charles Bridge, amazing castle views and historic architecture.

Watch: Top Ten Sites in Prague, Czech Republic

Prague Tip #2 Don’t Be Deterred by All the Tourists

Prague is seeing more tourists every year, but don’t let that scare you off. They are coming for a reason, and that’s because Prague is such a great destination. The tourists tend to stick to a few main areas and streets, so it’s still really easy to escape the crowds and find the more authentic side of Prague.

Prague Tip #3 Don’t Expect a Dirt Cheap Destination

Sure, Prague is more affordable than many other European cities, but it’s not a dirt cheap destination. It’s possible to get good deals in Prague, but it’s not the cheapest city in Europe.

Read: Ten Best Cheap Cities to Visit in Europe

Prague Tip #4 Don’t Miss the Culture

Prague has an amazing cultural scene, with operas, concerts, theaters and puppet shows. Make sure to take advantage of all that Prague has to offer. If you’ve never been to the opera, Prague is a good place to do so as it’s fairly affordable. Yes, Prague has good beer and cool sites, but make sure you check out the cultural side of Prague as well.

Prague Tip #5 Don’t Be the Drunk Tourist

Prague is a popular weekend destination in Europe, so you’ll see a lot of drunk tourists in town to blow off some steam. Even if you aren’t drinking, be aware of the big groups roaming the streets as they can get rowdy.

Prague Tip #6 Don’t Expect Super Good Service

The service in Prague is improving, but it’s not the overly friendly service you’d see in the US, or the super efficient service you’d expect in Germany. That said, Prague has some really nice restaurants, and as tipping becomes more widespread, the service is improving. Service is very hit or miss in Prague.

Prague Tip #7 Don’t Forget to Tip

In general, tourists are expected to tip around 10%. More for great service, less for mediocre service. If paying by credit card, you have to tell them to add the tip before they run the card. If paying in cash, give the tip directly to the server, don’t leave it on the table.

Prague Tip #8 Don’t Forget Basic Travel Safety

Along with increased tourism, Prague has its fair share of tourist scams and pickpockets. Be extra aware when you’re in a large crowd, at popular places like the astronomical clock, as pickpockets like to target crowds where distracted tourists gather. Keep an eye on your wallet, phone and any other valuables.

Prague Tip #9 Don’t Eat Anything but Czech Food

The food in Prague is fantastic. From meat and potatoes, to beer and desserts. Try the duck and the dumplings, the sauerkraut and beef and pork dishes. Skip the Italian restaurants and all other cuisines and fill up on Czech food while you can.

Watch: How to Eat Cheap & Well While Traveling

Prague Tip #10 Don’t Call Prague Eastern Europe

This is Central Europe, not Eastern Europe. They will let you know if you call it Eastern Europe, because it is not.

Prague is one of our favorite places, with good reason. With these tips, you will love your Prague visit. For more travel tips, check out these blog posts and videos:

11 Things Tourists Should Never Do in Venice, Italy

Posted on by admin

Venice Tips: 11 Don’ts for Visitors to Venice

Greetings from Venice, Italy! Venice receives about 20 million tourists each year, and there are many “must do’s” for anyone visiting Venice. However, there are also many “don’ts” for visitors to Venice, so that’s what we’re sharing here.

Venice Tip #1: Don’t Bring Heavy Luggage

In Venice, there aren’t taxis and buses to get from place to place; there are boats. Lugging heaving luggage in and out of these boats is really inconvenient, and they can sometimes charge extra for heavy bags.

Watch: How to Pack a Carryon Suitcase for Women

Venice Tip #2: Don’t Expect a Cheap Gondola Ride

Gondolas are the icon of Venice, and therefore very popular with tourists. A 30-minute gondola ride can cost 80 Euros, and if you want singing while you float, that will cost extra.

Venice Tip #3: Don’t Feed the Pigeons

It’s actually illegal to feed the pigeons in Venice, especially in places like the Piazza San Marco, and it’s possible to receive a fine for doing so.

Venice Tip #4: Don’t Be Surprised To See Risers in the Streets

At certain times of the year, the water levels are high enough to flood the streets. In that case, they will put risers in for pedestrians to stay above the water. This is less of an issue in the summer, but if you visit in other seasons, you might see it.

Venice Tip #5: Don’t Forget a Map, and Don’t Freak Out if You Get Lost

Getting lost in Venice is practically a rite of passage for tourists. A map is helpful, but either way, most tourists get lost at least once. The people in Venice are generally very helpful, so getting lost isn’t a big deal, as a locals are often willing to point you back in the right direction.

Watch: Ten Italian Phrases You Need to Know

Venice Tip #6: Don’t Get in the Water

This may seem obvious, but this happens often enough that it’s worth mentioning. The areas around the water can be super slippery, so even if you don’t plan to go in the water, you need to exercise caution around the water.

Venice Tip #7: Don’t Wear Skimpy Clothes to visit Churches

For anyone planning to visit any of Venice’s churches and cathedrals, skimpy clothes are a “don’t.” The churches won’t allow anyone in who isn’t modestly dressed.

Read: Five Rules for What Shoes to Wear in Europe

Venice Tip #8: Don’t Use Public Toilets

It costs 2 Euros to use public toilets in Venice. Rather than spend that money, it’s better to buy a spritz or coffee to use the bar or cafe toilets.

Venice Tip #9: Don’t Be Upset By Separate Lines for Tourists & Locals

This is especially common during busy season, and you may even see different prices for locals vs tourists. Venice is a fairly small town of 50,000 people that receives 20 million tourists. The locals have to be able to commute to work and continue their daily lives without dodging tourists all day long.

Venice Tip #10: Don’t Forget to Ask How Much the Drinks Cost

At some of the restaurants near tourist attractions, they’ll have a special “tourist menu.” The price of the meal may be a great value, but ordering drinks can add another 4 Euros to the bill. The little add-ons to this special price may end up not being such a bargain after all, so be sure to ask about drink costs.

Watch: Do You Tip in Italy?

Venice Tip #11: Don’t Forget to Explore Other Parts & Islands of Venice

Venice itself has many islands to explore, and then you can also visit Burano, Murano, Pellestrina and many more, whether you want more culture, or to visit some beaches. While there are many things to do in Venice, it’s always great to take a day trip out of the city to explore surrounding areas.

These are just a few travel tips for first time travelers to Venice. For more Italy travel tips, check out these blog posts and videos:

The 5 Biggest Mistakes People Make at Airports

Posted on by admin

Airport Tips: Five Mistakes That People Make At the Airport

Greetings from Reykjavik, Iceland! This is a really cool place to visit, and getting to be very popular with stopover visits between the U.S. and Europe, but well worth visiting. On our way here, we  noticed quite a few mistakes made by travelers at the airports, so today we’re sharing the top five mistakes that people make at the airport.

Airport Tip #1: Allow Plenty of Time

It’s pretty widely communicated that travelers need to arrive at the airport two to three hours ahead of a flight, yet still people don’t give themselves enough time. The plane will not wait because a passenger got stuck in traffic, or if the TSA lines are too long. The gate will close about five minutes before the departure time, whether every passenger has arrived or not. Allowing plenty of extra time makes the travel day much less stressful.

Airport Tip #2: Be TSA Ready and Know the Rules

TSA rules haven’t changed much in the last 15 years, yet travelers still stroll up to the security line unprepared for what they need to do. Key things to pay attention to: having coats/outer layer removed, shoes removed, pockets emptied, wearing shoes easy to remove and put back on, and having laptops and other electronics ready to go in a separate bin. When it comes to liquids, it has to be 3 ounces or less, and separated into one one-quart clear bag. (Think 3-1-1) People who have this all sorted out ahead of time can breeze through security, while others get glares from the passengers they are holding up behind them. Keep the TSA rules in mind when you pack your bag, so the things that need to be separated are easily pulled out and thrown into their own bin.

Airport Tip #3: Don’t Screw Around at Security Checkpoints

Waiting in line for TSA or customs is not the time to be joking around. They have a serious job of keeping us all safe, so it’s best if travelers take it seriously as well. This also applies to checking in at the gate, or shopping in duty free. Some duty-free purchases have to be delivered to the flight, so it’s not always possible to just buy something five minutes before boarding.

Airport Tip #4: Pay Attention to Gate Information

Another frequent travel mistake is not paying attention to gate information and departure screens. Gates can and do change frequently, so just because the ticket says one thing, it’s not always correct. Changes aren’t always announced over the PA system so it’s up to the passengers to pay attention to the screens to make sure they’re in the right place. Sometimes, downloading the airline app is also a good way to stay on top of gate changes, although the departure screens are always the most accurate.

Airport Tip #5: Don’t Yell at Airport Personnel

Yelling at gate agents, check-in desk attendants or security agents doesn’t solve any travel problems. If a traveler is late to the airport, or a flight is delayed or canceled due to weather, it’s not their fault. Generally, they will do whatever they can to alleviate a situation, but yelling at them never works out in the travelers favor. They’re more likely to offer solutions to travelers who can remain calm and personable.

These are just some of the most common travel mistakes we see at the airport, and avoiding them is guaranteed to make your travel day go smoother! If you want more travel tips, check out these blog posts and videos:

10 Things That SHOCK Tourists When They Visit Italy

Posted on by admin

Eleven Shocks of Italian Culture

Ciao from Rome! Today we’re sharing ten things that are going to shock you about visiting Italy. With these Italy travel tips, hopefully you’ll be prepared for these cultural differences and less shocked!

Italian Culture Shock #1: There are No Spaghetti & Meatballs

This comes as shock to many Americans, but spaghetti and meatballs aren’t served together in Italy. Of course, you can order spaghetti, and they do serve meatballs, but they aren’t eaten together. To that point, Italian food is more than great pasta. There are amazing cheese and delicious meats in Italy as well. Every region has their own specialty, so be sure to sample them all!

Italian Culture Shock #2: The Italians are Loud!

Many people are shocked when visiting Italy at how loud the Italians are. It’s also shocking how much they can communicate even when you don’t speak Italian. It almost seems like the farther south you travel, the louder they speak. Don’t be alarmed, loud talking doesn’t mean they are angry, just passionate.

Italian Culture Shock #3: Italian Concept of Time

Italians have a different concept of time. If you are going to meet someone at 9:30, they’ll probably arrive around 10:00. Italians are not late, they just show up when they show up. (Trains and buses are an exception, though. These leave on time so don’t be late!) So, think of it as a more relaxed approach to punctuality.

Italian Culture Shock #4: Shop Hours

Many stores in Italy close for a couple of hours in the middle of the day. Similar to the Spanish siesta, but it doesn’t always apply to big cities and chain stores. However, if you’re planning to pop back into that boutique you like, you may have to do it in the morning or late afternoon/early evening. Banks often close early as well, so get your money out in the morning.

Italian Culture Shock #5: Tourist Crowds from Around the World

Italian cities and regions are very popular with tourists from around the world. Tourist hordes reach a new level in Italy, especially when it comes to the lines to get into major attractions like the Coliseum or the Vatican Museum. The best thing you can do is book everything in advance so you can skip the ticket lines.

Italian Culture Shock #6: Different Dishes Served at Different Times

Eating out in Italy can be time consuming. In the US, most entrees will be served to a group at the same time. In Italy, they have many courses, and they are all served consecutively. The first plate (Primi) is pasta, and the second plate (secondo) is the meat course. If you order pasta and your dining partner orders meat, they will come out at different times. The more tourist-oriented restaurants will know to send it all at the same time, but you can always just ask your server to do this. When you are done eating, you also need to specifically ask for your bill. They won’t just bring it to the table, even when you are obviously finished eating, as Italians like to linger after a meal.

Italian Culture Shock #7: The Nonas

The Nonas, or Grandmas, in Italy are super attentive and caring, which can be shocking to a tourist. Nonas will drag your kids into a store to show them something, or tell a wife her husband is too skinny and that she needs to feed him more. They will look out for you and are good to have around, it just takes some getting used to.

Italian Culture Shock #8: Friendly Italians          

You might be shocked at how friendly the Italians are. Especially if you speak a little bit of Italian. Whether you speak the same language or not, they are very welcoming and helpful. After a few visits, it’s not hard to get to know your local restaurant owners or servers. They will soon be treating you like family. Italians aren’t just loud and crazy. They are loud, crazy and super wonderful.

Italian Culture Shock #9: Difference Between North and South

Northern Italy and Southern Italy are very different. Northern Italy is more industrial, with more museums and snow. The South has more farmland, fewer museums, and is generally a poorer region, but the people are more friendly. There can be heated debates between regions about politics or sports, too. Remember, Italy is only about 150 years old, and it an assembly of several old kingdoms, so there are many diverse cultures and cuisines to be found within Italy.

Italian Culture Shock #10: Calcio (Football) Fans

Calcio (Football, or soccer as the U.S. calls it) is practically a religion in Italy. The three religions of Italy are fashion, soccer and Catholicism and they’re all in the news practically every day. If you want to attend a match while in Italy, I don’t recommend going to the derby games as they can get pretty boisterous or even dangerous. Fights break out, people are throwing things (even cups of urine!) and you can expect some serious police pat-downs.

Italian Culture Shock #11: Driving & Crossing Roads

Driving in Italy, and crossing the roads, can be a shocking experience. Its amazing how pedestrians weave in and out of traffic. The best advice is to follow the Italians, make eye contact with the drivers so they know you are going to cross, and only cross in the crosswalks. If you get hit by a car and you are not in the crosswalk, you will have to pay for the damages on their car.

For more Italy travel tips, check out some of our other videos and blog posts:

The Best & Worst of European Winter Travel

Posted on by admin

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Visiting Europe in Winter

Greetings from Copenhagen, Denmark! Today we’re sharing the things you’re going to love, and hate, about visiting Europe in winter.

Europe in Winter Travel Hate #1: Weather

Winter weather in Europe can be gloomy, dark and wet. Some cities, like Copenhagen, are made to be explored outdoors, but that’s not as much fun in the cold snow or rain. The weather doesn’t get bone-chilling cold, like in Minnesota, but even 30-degree weather can be pretty cold if you are out exploring all day. Colder weather means bringing more clothes, so traveling light becomes more challenging.

Europe in Winter Travel Hate #2: Seasonal Closures

Some places will just close during the winter, while others will have shorter winter hours. In Copenhagen, the Tivoli Gardens are one of the best things to do, but aside from the Christmas holiday, they are closed in winter. Santorini, Greece practically becomes a ghost town in the winter. Make sure you check before you book, that enough places will be open to make it worth the trip.

Europe in Winter Travel Hate #3: Packing Extra “Stuff”

As I mentioned above, winter weather requires winter clothing. We like to travel light, and buy clothes while we travel. Packing winter coats, gloves, hats and warm layers doesn’t leave much room for shopping upon arrival. You may have to bring a larger suitcase, or more suitcases for the family, which makes it harder to get around as you travel from city to city.

Europe in Winter Travel Hate #4: Rain and Drizzle

The beauty of exploring European cities is doing so much walking and being outdoors as you go from place to place. While it may not be freezing or snowing in all of Europe, it’s very wet. You will get wet, and so will your things. Cobblestones can be very slippery, too, so you have to be extra careful. Good (waterproof) walking shoes are a must when visiting Europe in winter.

Europe in Winter Travel Hate #5: Limited Daylight

It gets dark very early in winter, so your sightseeing hours are reduced. In some cities, you may not want to be out after dark, walking around. You’ll need to get up early and take advantage of every minute of daylight that you have.

Europe in Winter Travel Love #1: Off Season Pricing

One of the best reasons to visit Europe in winter are the prices. You won’t find great discounts during Christmas and New Year’s, but January and February and November have really great deals on flights and hotels. This is the time to use your frequent flier miles for a low-tier ticket to Europe. One of the reasons we are able to travel so much is that we travel to Europe in the off-season and save a ton of money that way.

Europe in Winter Travel Love #2: Fewer Tourists

Fewer people travel to Europe in winter, so there are fewer crowds to contend with. Fewer tourists means shorter queues to get into popular attractions. The Louvre in December vs the Louvre in July can be as much as hour difference, just to get in! With less time spent waiting in line, you’ll have time to visit more attractions each day.

Europe in Winter Travel Love #3: Better Service

With fewer tourists and crowds, we will often get better service in the winter. In the busy season, they are focused on getting you in and out as quickly as possible. In the off season, the servers are more attentive, and have more time to slow down and chat with you. It’s much easier to get to know the locals when there are fewer tourists, too.

Europe in Winter Travel Love #4: Christmas Markets

The best part of winter in Europe are the Christmas markets. Germany, the Czech Republic, Copenhagen and many more countries throw fabulous Christmas markets. The shopping, the Christmas market foods and mulled wine, plus the decorations, make Europe in winter a very special experience.

Europe in Winter Travel Love #5: Cultural Experience

With fewer tourists, more attentive service and a slower pace, you get a much better chance to experience the local culture than you would in the summertime. People have much more time to get to know you, and explain their local traditions. It’s a great time to visit and see how the locals live day to day.

For more travel tips about visiting Europe in the winter, or Europe travel, check out these blog posts and videos:

17 Things Flight Attendants Want Every Traveler to Know

Posted on by admin

17 Things Flight Attendants Want You to Know: Air Travel Tips from the Pros

We’ve been researching and chatting with many flight attendants recently, and we’ve compiled this list of 17 things flight attendants wish passengers knew before boarding a plane. Knowing these things will make your flight better, and make their jobs easier.

Air Travel Tip #1: Flight Attendants are Not Your Mother

The number one job of a flight attendant is your safety, not helping you do things like put your bags in the overhead bin. If your bag is too heavy for you to lift up, then it’s not fair to ask them to lift it for you. This could cause them an on-the-job injury if they throw their back out. Repercussions are worse if they are hurt doing something they are not supposed to do; they could face denied insurance claims or time off requests.

Air Travel Tip #2: Don’t Blame Flight Attendants For Delays

Most things that happen with air travel are way beyond the control of the flight attendant, so don’t take it out on them when weather delays your flight. Yelling at a flight attendant for something out of their control will not help you at all. In fact, their number one job is your safety, so it’s best to stay on their good side at all times.

Air Travel Tip #3: Plane Travel is Public Transportation

Air travel these days is glorified public transportation. Regardless of how much you paid, or how many miles you have with this airline, everyone in your cabin is equal. Don’t make the mistake of thinking you are more important than the person sitting next to you. You all basically have the same rights.

Air Travel Tip #4: Have Your Stuff Ready When You Board the Plane

Blocking the aisles while you sort out your belongings can actually cause flight delays. If it takes too long to board the plane, the pilot can miss their departure window and have to wait for the next one. The best thing travelers can do is to be prepared when they board. Have whatever you want during the flight in the outside pocket of your carry-on so you can easily remove it before putting your luggage away.

Air Travel Tip #5: Have Your Meal Order Ready in Advance

We all know, it’s chicken or pasta, it shouldn’t take forever to decide and give your order to the flight attendant. They have to walk down the aisles saying “chicken or pasta?” 400 times. Save them the hassle of having to ask one more time by having your order ready. There is almost always a menu card in the seat back pocket, or an announcement before they come around, so there’s no reason to be indecisive while they wait.

Air Travel Tip #6: Be Specific With Drink Orders

Flight attendants are serving global customers on a daily basis. “Regular coffee” might mean one thing to you, but something totally different to someone else. Be very specific with your drink order so they don’t have to clarify what you mean. Coffee, black will suffice.

Air Travel Tip #7: Have Your Kids’ Orders Ready

If you are flying with children, have all of their orders ready to go, too. If you have the whole families order ready to go, it can really speed up the process and the flight attendant will love you for it.

Air Travel Tip #8: Diet Soda is Not a Thing

Again, be specific. Diet soda isn’t actually a thing; you have to order a Diet Coke, Diet Pepsi, or whatever it is that you specifically want. (Again, the menu card in the seat back pocket will tell you what beverages are served on board.)

Air Travel Tip #9: Tell the Flight Attendant About Any Allergies When You Board

If you have any serious allergies, be sure to let them know as you are boarding the plane. They can’t help you avoid any issues if they don’t know ahead of time.

Air Travel Tip #10: Do Not Count on Flight Attendants for Help With Medicine

If you are diabetic or have any condition that requires medicine, water, or food, do not count on the flight attendants to provide it. Do not count on the plane to have anything for you. Small, short flights may not even have a beverage cart. If you have a delay and are sitting on the tarmac, the flight attendants can’t get up and serve you water, so it’s best to be self-sufficient and bring anything you might need. This also applies to flying with kids; have snacks on hand for them.

Air Travel Tip #11: Pay Attention to the Safety Briefing

The main job of the flight attendant is to keep you safe. If you have no idea how to react in the event of an incident, they will have a harder job to keep you safe. Even if you fly all the time, things change. New planes, new configurations and new safety rules pop up all the time, so take a few minutes to pay attention to the safety briefing.

Air Travel Tip #12: Save The Flight Attendant Extra Trips

If your neighbor rings the call button to order something, use that opportunity to order something as well. Don’t wait and call them back again a few minutes later.

Air Travel Tip #13: Give The Flight Attendant Your Trash Before Landing

As the flight descends, the flight attendants will come through for a final sweep of the cabin. There isn’t always a cleaning crew scheduled between flights, so it’s very helpful to give them your trash when they are coming through. This will help them turn the plane over for the next flight more quickly, and ensure they can get to their next flight on time.

Air Travel Tip #14: Stay in Your Seat Until the Seatbelt Sign is Off

When the plane lands, do not get up until the seatbelt sign is turned off. You may think you’re at the jet bridge, but if the seatbelt sign is still on, it’s on for a reason. If the plane moves forward and you’re up and about, you can get hurt or end up hurting other passengers. The real safety reason for this is in case of a fire. If there’s a fire and there’s luggage already blocking the aisles, this could be very bad.

Air Travel Tip #15: Flight Attendants are not Babysitters

Most flight attendants love kids, but they are not there to babysit. Parents need to take care of their children at all times. We’ve seen kids playing around the galley, which can be really dangerous for them. Having unsupervised, out of control kids annoys other passengers and presents many safety issues. The best thing parents can do is take advantage of play areas at the airport to burn off some excess energy before a flight.

Air Travel Tip #16: Bring Snacks & Entertainment for Your Kids

Make sure to have snacks your kids like, and sufficient entertainment to get them through a flight. Don’t hope your kids will like the snacks that are served on board. If the entertainment is electronic, make sure everything is charged up! Nobody wants a tantrum at 25,000 feet because the iPod died.

Air Travel Tip #17: Getting Drunk on a Plane Doesn’t Excuse You From Watching Your Kids

This is surprisingly common on flights to holiday destinations. Parents get drunk on the plane while their kids run wild up and down the aisles, disturbing everyone around them. Kids are still the responsibility of the parents, not the flight attendants, so keep that in mind.

These are things that flight attendants have been telling us for years, so we thought it was important to share it with our readers. Many thanks to all of the flight attendants who shared their stories with us. Remember, be nice to the flight attendants! It’s their job to ensure you have a safe flight and a positive travel experience. Check out some of our other travel posts and videos:

12 Things Tourists Should NEVER Do in Cancun, Mexico

Posted on by admin

The Don’ts of Cancun Travel

Greetings from Cancun, Mexico! Cancun is a really great place to visit, and there are so many fun things to do, but there are also some things I recommend you don’t do when you visit Cancun.

Cancun Travel Tip #1: Don’t Drink the Water

This is true all over Mexico, and Cancun is no exception. They sell bottled water everywhere; it’s cheap and easy to get, so don’t risk getting sick by drinking the water.

Cancun Travel Tip #2: Don’t Worry About Ice

While you should not drink the water in Cancun, the ice at hotels and restaurants here is usually filtered and purified so you can have ice in your margarita without getting sick.

Cancun Travel Tip #3: Don’t Be Pressured into Buying Things at the Airport

When you fly into Cancun and exit through customs, you will be flooded with people trying to sell you things. Whether it’s car rentals or timeshare offers, taxis and other services, don’t get flustered by all of the people getting in your face at the airport. Smile, say “no gracias” and move on. (Also, don’t take a taxi from the airport, ask your resort ahead of time what shuttle services they offer.)

Cancun Travel Tip #4 Don’t Take the First Price as the Final Price

Bargaining is a huge part of the Mexican culture. Whether it’s the price of a tour, or some trinkets you want to buy at the market, the price they initially give you is not the price you will end up paying. Be prepared to haggle a bit when you are shopping in Cancun. This does not apply in grocery stores or restaurants, but most other places.

Cancun Travel Tip #5 Don’t Trust Everything

If you want to join some tours or day trips from Cancun, there are many opportunities to purchase the tour. Whether it’s at the airport, your hotel, or on the street. However, there are also scams out there, so make sure to get everything in writing, with contact information, including phone numbers. It’s probably safest to book through your hotel, but those are often a bit more expensive.

Cancun Travel Tip #6 Don’t Forget Sunblock

Even if you don’t plan to spend your time sunbathing on the beach, you will need sunscreen. The sun in Cancun is very hot and very strong; so you will need it no matter what you plan to do. A bottle of sunscreen that might be $5 at your local drugstore could cost as much as $20 or $30 at your all-inclusive resort. So don’t forget the sunscreen!

Cancun Travel Tip #7: Don’t Worry About Pesos

Since there are so many American tourists in Cancun, U.S. dollars are accepted almost everywhere. It can even be hard to find an ATM that has pesos, most of them will dispense U.S. dollars. The ATM fees and poor exchange rate can add up quickly, though, so it’s easiest to just bring cash from home. You can also often negotiate a better price on things if paying in cash.

Cancun Travel Tip #8 Don’t Go to the Timeshare Presentations

From the minute you land in Cancun, you’ll be offered special deals and prices in exchange for attending a timeshare presentation. They’ll tell you that you only have to go for one hour and no purchase is required. However, they use high pressure sales tactics and often go on for more than an hour.

Cancun Travel Tip #9: Don’t Just Stay at the Resort

With so many all-inclusive resorts, it can be tempting to just stay at the resort and never venture out. There’s so much more to Cancun than the hotel zone and the beach. Take a day trip to Isla Mujeres, go swim in cenotes, or visit Tulum or Chichen Itza. There are also water parks and nature parks you can visit.

Cancun Travel Tip #10 Don’t Lose Your Resort Wristband

If you’re staying at an all-inclusive resort in Cancun, you will receive a wristband to wear during your stay. If the wristband is lost, it can be very expensive to replace it at the resort.

Cancun Travel Tip #11 Don’t Pee in Public

Cancun has a party atmosphere, and there is often a lot of drinking. There’s a large police presence in Cancun, and they will ticket anyone caught peeing in public. It’s not worth the trouble or the hassle.

Cancun Travel Tip #12  Don’t Forget to Tip

Plan to tip 10-20% for waiters and bartenders, plus 50-100 pesos, per day, for housekeeping at your hotel. People working in the service industry in Cancun rely heavily on tips for their income. Even at an all-inclusive where drinks are included, it doesn’t hurt to tip the bartenders every once in a while.

Cancun is a great vacation destination; don’t be scared to visit Cancun! For more Mexico travel tips, check out these other blog posts and videos:

The Best & Worst of Visiting Nashville

Posted on by admin

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Nashville

Greetings from Nashville, Tennessee, the home of Country Music! Music City USA is a great place to visit, and it’s easy to have a good time in Nashville. Today, we’re sharing the five things you are going to love, and five things you are going to hate, about visiting Nashville.

Nashville Travel Hate #1: Drunks on Broadway

If you are heading out for a night on Broadway, where most of Nashville’s bars are, you will see a lot of drunk people. It can get annoying when you’re out trying to have a good time with your friends. Nashville is a popular destination for bachelor and bachelorette parties, which can easily get out of control.

Nashville Travel Hate #2: Driving Around Nashville

For a fairly large city, it’s surprising to drive in and find only a 4-lane highway. Most bigger cities in the U.S. have 6-8 lanes for traffic flow, but not in Nashville. Traffic isn’t as bad as Atlanta or other big cities, but you can hit a lot of stop-and-go driving into Nashville. Fortunately, traffic in downtown Nashville is very manageable.

Nashville Travel Hate #3: Lack of Public Transportation

Nashville doesn’t really have public transportation to speak of. For this reason, many hotels offer a shuttle service to the Broadway area so that you don’t have to deal with driving and parking. If you want to see sites outside of downtown, like the Grand Ol’ Opry, you’ll have to drive or take a taxi.

Nashville Travel Hate #4: Feeling Unsafe Downtown

During the day, it’s very safe to wander around downtown Nashville. There isn’t a huge homeless presence in the downtown area, so that’s not generally an issue to worry about. However, as in any tourist destination, petty crimes do happen, and Nashville is no exception. Make sure you lock your car, and take the normal travel precautions of paying attention to your surroundings.

Nashville Travel Hate #5: It’s Not All Country Music

Nashville isn’t just the country music capital of the nation, it’s the Music capital. You can find country music, Southern hospitality and down-home comfort food, but it’s not all about country music. However, Nashville is a hot hangout for hipsters, who are fast overtaking the country music singers in town. This does tend to take away from that “Southern” feel that you’d get in Charleston or Savannah.

Nashville Travel Love #1: Live Music on Broadway

Listening to live music on Broadway is a quintessential Nashville experience. There is live music at all hours of the day, at nearly every bar on the strip.

Nashville Travel Love #2: Live Shows

As the capital of country music, Nashville is home to some amazing concerts and live shows. The Ryman Auditorium is home to the famous Grand Ole Opry, and they get some really big acts that play here.

Nashville Travel Love #3: Museums

Nashville also happens to be the state capital of Tennessee, so there are some great museums to check out. The State Capitol, the State Museum of Tennessee and the War Memorial are some of the great things to do in Nashville, besides listen to music. The Country Music Hall of Fame is also a fun spot, even if you’re not a huge country music fan.

Nashville Travel Love #4: Nearby Nature

Although Nashville is a big city, it’s fairly compact, and surrounded by rolling, wooded hills. if you love the outdoors, there is plenty of outdoor adventure in Nashville. There are hiking and biking trails, horseback riding, and so much more. In some large cities, access to nature can be difficult, but in Nashville, it’s right at your doorstep.

Nashville Travel Love #5: The Food

Being in the South, one of the best things about Nashville is the food. Nashville has a lot of influences on the culinary scene because it’s such a melting pot of people from all over the U.S. So, while the Southern fare is excellent, there are plenty of options to please any palate. (But don’t skip out on the Southern comfort food and hot chicken, the local specialty!)

These are the five things I love and hate about Nashville! For more Southern U.S. travel tips, check out some of our other videos and blog posts:

Ten Things That Will Shock You About Visiting Southern USA