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The Smarter Way to Travel™

Author Archives: Vincent I. Porter

  1. Does Sunscreen actually work?

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    It all seems very simple when it comes to sunscreen, doesn’t it? You buy a bottle with a high SPF; you rub it all over your skin; you let it sink in. Sorted, right? Well, it might not actually be that easy. Sunscreen is one of the most important items that should be in your luggage if you are going somewhere sunny on vacation. Even if you are at home, on a sunny day, you should be lathering up with sunscreen. It prevents skin cancer and premature signs of aging and most of them will moisturise your skin while they’re at it.

    But, not all sunscreens do what they say on the label. While the majority of sunscreens will protect your skin from UVB rays, not many of them will keep you safe from UVA rays. These rays are not absorbed by the ozone layer and can seriously damage your skin. These rays also make up around 90% of all UV radiation so it is important to be protected from them.

    If that wasn’t bad enough, a number of commercial sunscreens that are widely available actually contain chemicals with questionable safety records, as discovered by EWG (Environmental Working Group) a non-profit. The FDA (Food and Drug Association) has been rather silent on sunscreens so it has been down to the consumers and EWG to find out the truth about what we are rubbing into our skin.

    So, how do you know whether or not your sunscreen is actually doing anything useful once you smear it all over your skin? First, check the SPF number. This relates to how well the sunscreen will protect you from UVB rays, which are highly damaging. This is relatively simple. You might, however, want to understand exactly what an SPF is. The SPF is how long it would take the sun’s harmful rays to redden your skin compared with how long it would take were you to not wear any at all. An example of this is SPF 15, which means it would take 15 times longer for the sun to redden your skin than if you weren’t wearing any sunscreen.

    However, be warned – commercial sunscreens do not quite work the way they should on paper. Wearing SPF 50 on a really sunny day could give you a false sense of security by making you think you are fully protected from the sun. The truth is that in ideal lab conditions, SPF will let through about 2% of UV rays. That may not seem much, but when you factor in the fact that we don’t use sunscreen in lab conditions, it can still be a harmful amount.

    To verify whether your sunscreen will protect you from UVA rays, you will need to look for the words “broad spectrum” on the label. This indicates that the product contains ingredients within it that will protect you from these other kinds of rays.

    There is no definitive answer to the question “does sunscreen actually work”. Some work well and some do very little to protect you from the sun. The best way to avoid permanent skin damage is simply to avoid the sun. Limit you hours of exposure and try to avoid being in the sun between 11am and 3pm.

  2. 5 Best Cities to Visit in August

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    In the Northern Hemisphere, August means the sun comes out and the temperature goes through the roof. Landscapes are drenched in golden sunshine while coastlines sparkle under its rays. Ice cream becomes the most coveted commodity and the sun doesn’t set until late at night. August is a month of warmth and happiness, and it is the perfect time to go on vacation.

    However, not all destinations are equally appealing in August. Some are great to visit, while others are truly spectacular. Make sure you choose carefully when planning your vacation to get the best out of your time away.

    Edinburgh, Scotland

    Everything heats up in Edinburgh during the month of August. This capital city is by no means quiet during the rest of the year, but August takes it to a whole new level thanks to the fringe festival. For the whole month, the city is taken over by performers from all over the world. Bars, cafés and even the streets become venues for comedians, dancers, actors, circus acts and more. Around every corner you will find something to watch. In August, Edinburgh is a hub of creativity and entertainment and the festival should be on every traveller’s to do list.

    Ljubljana, Slovenia

    This quaint city might be the capital of Slovenia, but it is a far cry from the likes of Paris and London. Its narrow streets are flanked by traditional architecture and quirky cafés. While it has quite the pumping nightlife scene, by day it is a picture of serenity. The city itself is a delight to explore, but the real beauty of Ljubljana lies just outside the city centre, at Lake Bled. Here, a glorious church sits atop a little island in the middle of the glistening lake, accessible only by boat or by swimming.

    Seattle, USA

    A melting pot of culture and Washington State’s largest city, Seattle is the perfect getaway in August. Although the city has a proclivity for rain, in August the drizzle abates enough to allow you to get out and see the city without the need for an emergency umbrella. The city has developed a thriving food scene so be sure to leave your hotel with an empty stomach. The Pike Place Market is a good place to start. Attractions in Seattle include the Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass.

    Medellin, Colombia

    Nicknamed the city of eternal spring, the weather is always good in Medellin. But, in August the sun shines a little brighter and the temperature goes from average to pleasant. Spend your days in Medellin strolling through Plaza Botero and the nearby Botero Museum, or sipping on a cocktail in El Poblado. If you want to escape the bustle of the city, hop in the cable car and head up to Parque Arví, a national park, which simply begs you to hike through it.

    Nice, France

    The French Riviera is possibly the most beautiful place on earth in the month of August. The sea glows an impossible turquoise colour and the sand looks like gold in the sunshine. Everywhere you turn, people are eating and drinking al fresco, enjoying the warmth and the scenery simultaneously. Nice is all about luxury and pampering but if you need a bit of adventure, there are some coastal walking routes that are in equal parts challenging and stunning. Otherwise, just kick back on the beach and get your tan on.

  3. 5 Reasons to Travel by Train across Europe

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    No continent is so easy to cross as Europe. Fully connected by a network of trains, you can explore virtually every corner of it by rail. Of course, this might take a bit longer than flying but there are so many benefits of travelling by train that you’ll soon forget all about planes and air travel.

    Europe is a beautiful continent with a lot to see and do. Many people who travel through Europe cover several different countries in one go. This is possible because of the small size of many European nations and the ease with which one can travel between them. Need more convincing of the benefits of travelling through Europe by train? Here are five reasons why it will make your vacation infinitely better.

    1. You can enjoy the landscape

    Europe is gorgeous and travelling by train allows you to enjoy it in all its glory. From the window of your carriage you will see meadows, lakes, and forests whizz past as well as countless other natural features. You might even spot the odd castle or ruin as well if you’re lucky. Seeing the beauty of Europe race by you is a whole adventure in itself and could end up being the highlight of your trip.

    2. It is a lot easier than travelling by plane

    When you travel by plane there is a lot you need to think about. Have you got liquids in your bag? Is your bag weight within the luggage allowance? Have you given yourself enough time to get through security? All of these issues evaporate when you travel by train. Just get there a few minutes before departure, hop on your train and away you go. It couldn’t be easier.

    3. Train are far more comfortable than planes

    I think I can speak for everyone when I say planes are the least comfortable way to travel – that is if you’re sitting in economy. Train seats are bigger and more comfortable than their airborne counterparts and there tends to be a lot more legroom on offer. Your journey on a train might take a little longer than by plane but the level of comfort will more than make up for it. You also don’t need to abide by any seatbelt rules as you do with a plane so you are free to get up and walk around at your leisure.

    4. Trains are cheaper than flying

    If you want to be spontaneous with your travel then trains are the only way to go. Have you ever tried buying a last minute flight? It can be seriously expensive. Trains can be booked, for the most part, the day before or on the day for a very reasonable price. This means you don’t need to arrange you vacation months in advance and stick to a rigid itinerary. You can be a lot more flexible with when you go, which makes your holiday far more relaxed.

    5. Riding a train through Europe is an exciting experience

    From the architecture of the station to the hustle and bustle that awaits you inside, every part of travelling by train is exciting. You’re guaranteed to meet some curious types once you’re on the train and you’ll no doubt disembark with some interesting stories. Planes might be quick and slick but trains are full of character. If you want an authentic taste of life on the continent, you’ll find it on board one of its trains.

  4. Top 4 Travel Essentials

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    Packing for a vacation is in equal parts exciting and stressful. On the one hand, it means you are getting closer to departure day and that is really exciting. On the other hand, what on earth are you supposed to take with you? You’ve done the basics – clothes, toiletries and some swimwear. But, what else might you need while you’re away?

    Naturally, your packing list will vary depending on where you plan on going and what you plan on doing. But, there are some things every traveller should have with them. Here are four essentials you should have in your suitcase.

    Baby Wipes

    But, you’re not a baby so why do you need baby wipes? I cannot tell you how many times a pack of baby wipes has saved my life – or at the very least my dignity. After long plane and train journeys, baby wipes are perfect for freshening up. Similarly on a hot day or after you’ve been hiking, they can cleanse your face of any dirt its accumulated. Or you can use them to wipe your face and hands after a messy meal. The possibilities are endless. Most supermarkets sell convenient, travel sized packets of baby wipes, if you don’t fancy carrying around a huge pack of them.

    Kindle

    Your vacation is the perfect time to catch up on that reading list you made ages ago and still haven’t got through. You’ll have oodles of free time as well as some long journeys to fill up no doubt. Lugging a load of books around with you is both cumbersome and unnecessary. Every good traveller should have a kindle or e-reader to hand while they travel. Load it up with good books before you leave and spend your vacation making your way through them. I particularly recommend downloading some books about the destination you are heading to. There’s something rather delightful in reading a book set in your vacation destination.

    Filtered Water Bottle

    Not everywhere in the world is fortunate enough to have drinkable tap water. If you are going somewhere that has questionable tap water – and even if you’re not – this water bottle is a good idea. Filtered bottles have a built in filter that will rid your water of any impurities as you fill up the bottle. It is not as effective as purification tablets or boiling your water beforehand, but it will make a difference if you have nothing else. Ideally, I would use this in tandem with purification tablets, but if you can’t get your hands on any, this will do. It is also a handy way to make sure you stay hydrated during your trip.

    Day Backpack

    Don’t just bring a handbag or briefcase and your suitcase with you on vacation. Take a small backpack that you can wear during the day and future you will thank you. If you are heading out for the day, be sure to fill your backpack up with water, a few first aid bits and bobs, sunscreen and anything else you might need for the day. Try and find a backpack with separate compartments and an external water bottle pocket so that if you have a leak your belongings will stay safe and dry. Make sure the backpack is light weight and comfortable and you won’t even notice it on your back while you travel.

  5. Top 4 Tips for Vacation Budgeting

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    Nothing beats a vacation. It gives us the chance to get away from it all for a week or two and enjoy a change of scenery. And, most importantly, it offers us an important chance to relax and unwind – two much needed activities after spending months cooped up in an office.

    But, going on vacation costs money and if you don’t have any money then your vacation dreams will stay as dreams and never transition into reality. Or will they?

    With budget airlines and youth hostels making vacationing cheaper than ever, it is possible to escape the daily grind with a bank balance that would barely cover a night out in the city. You just need to know how to budget like a pro. Follow these simple tips and you’ll find your budget stretching to an extent you never before believed possible.

    Do Your Research

    We all know the power of the Internet, so why not use it to your advantage and make your vacation as cheap as possible. Do some research before you travel and find out where the cheap places to eat and stay are. Usually, restaurants filled with local people will be a lot cheaper than those designed for tourists. Find out which activities are free and which will break the bank and make sure you write up a list of budget-friendly things to occupy you while you’re away.

    Book Things in Advance

    Quite often, hotels, flights and tours work out cheaper when you book them in advance. But, make sure you don’t just book the first good deal you see. Spend some time shopping around and see what kind of bargains you can find online. Search the web using buzzwords such as “discount” or “deal” and you might find something that will save you some serious dollar.

    Booking in advance might seem annoying if you want to be spontaneous, but if you can’t afford to be caught out then I highly recommend it. Booking.com and AirBnB are great for pre-booking accommodation.

    Don’t Scrap Your Home Behaviour

    When you’re at home you don’t eat out for every meal and take taxis everywhere, do you? If you do then you don’t need to be reading this article. If you need to stick to a budget while you are on vacation, cook yourself at least one meal a day – potentially two, depending on how good your accommodation’s cooking facilities are. You should also become familiar with your destination’s public transport network. Buses and trams will be your new best friends if you are vacationing on a budget.

    Learn and Perfect the Art of Haggling

    There are a lot of places around the world that are open to a bit of negotiation. Markets and tour companies and particularly good venues for testing out your haggling skills. If you are planning on purchasing a load of souvenirs, see if the seller will drop the price in exchange for you buying lots of things from him.

    Similarly, if you are planning on doing lots of tours, or you are a large group, try and negotiate a cheaper price in exchange for that one company getting all of your business. Companies are always looking for ways to make a profit so if dropping their price slightly means raking in more business overall, they might just do it.

  6. Getting Ready for Your Summer Vacation: What Do I Need to Know?

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    Summer is in the air and your feet are itching to travel. You’ve got your flights booked, your accommodation sorted and a taxi company phone number scribbled out in a notebook. Everything is ready. All you need to do now is make sure the smaller details are taken care of.

    There is a lot more to planning a summer vacation than simply booking things online. From the contents of your suitcase to your state of mind, there is a whole range of things you should consider before you set off for the airport. Here are some essential things you need to know as you prepare for your summer vacation.

    You won’t wear that many outfits

    Lay out everything you want to take with you on vacation before you put it in your suitcase. Now, walk away from it and come back a few hours later. When you look over what you are planning to take with fresh eyes you will undoubtedly spot a few items that can be left behind. In our zeal to get our suitcases packed and sorted, we often overload with things we do not need. Future you will thank you for packing light so you don’t have to schlep your heavy luggage around.

    What will you be able to buy once you’re there?

    If you are going to travel to a city break then the amount of things you need to take with will be limited. Cities are full of shops, where you will be able to purchase anything you have left behind. City-breakers – don’t worry. Those straying off the beaten track or heading somewhere rural do not have the same luxury. If you’re spending your vacation touring Peru’s Sacred Valley, commodities will be scarcer. If you are heading somewhere remote, make sure you have everything you need before you leave because you never know if you will have the chance to buy things on-site.

    Make an itinerary but keep it flexible

    If you arrive at your vacation destination this summer without any semblance of a plan you risk losing a lot of time to aimless wandering. It is helpful to make a list of things you want to see and do while you are there. However, do not set your itinerary in stone as this takes away your flexibility and spontaneity. You might meet someone on your travels who has a suggestion you want to check out or who tells you that the temple you want to see is a tourist trap you should avoid.

    Read up on local customs before you go

    It is a good idea to know a bit about your destination before you travel there. Things to take note on are tipping culture; social etiquette; conversation topics to avoid; driving rules; religious customs etc. The worst thing in the world is to be branded an ignorant tourist because you have accidentally disrespected someone or something whilst on vacation.

    Get yourself a kindle and fill it up

    One of the best things about going on a summer vacation is having all that time to relax. This down time is the perfect opportunity to catch up on some reading. Whether its classic literature or airport novels, fill up your kindle or e-reader with plenty of reading material that you can devour while you’re on the plane; at the beach; or even in bed at night.

  7. Top 4 Products for Travel

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    Having the right products with you when you travel can really make or break a vacation. Whether it is something that will keep your devices on full battery as you trek through Andes, or just a comfy addition to your plane gear, products can revolutionise the way you travel. If you are planning a vacation in the near future and want to make sure you are travelling like a pro, take heed. Here are some of the best travel products that you should take with you on your journey. Future you will thank past you when these products come in handy, which they inevitably will.

    Portable Charger

    It is amazing how much we depend on technology. Our communication, entertainment, information and a lot more is often all contained within a singular handheld device. While this makes life a whole lot easier on the go, it does mean that if that device suddenly dies on us, we will be royally screwed. So, this is why I recommend investing in a good quality portable charger. With one of these in your bag, you never need to worry about your battery going flat again. The better quality chargers on the market usually hold about 3-5 full charges, which should keep you going for a couple of days at least. Just make sure you charge up your charger before you leave the hotel.

    Travel Pillow

    I honestly cannot stress the importance of a travel pillow. Even if you just use it on the flight to and from your destination, it will make a huge difference to the quality of your journey. If you are planning on taking any long bus or train journeys then it really is a must-have. A travel pillow can be a little irksome to carry around with you – unless you get one that is inflatable. Inflatable travel pillows are ideal if you plan on moving around a lot and don’t want loads to carry around. Simply deflate it when you are finished using it and tuck into a pocket in your suitcase. Easy!

    Toiletries Minis

    How many times have you had to throw away your beloved perfumes and face creams at security because you forgot that they were over 100ml? It happens to the best of us, but it can be devastating to watch that precious Clinique tub get tossed into the bin. Toiletries minis are simply empty containers that you can fill with your own toiletries. Pour moisturiser into one and shampoo into another and you’ll find your security checks go far more smoothly.

    Plug Adaptor

    As I mentioned previously, we are incredibly dependent on electronics. This means that we like to fall asleep at night making sure everything we need for the next day is charging up. You cannot do this with your regular plug in a range of different countries. There are several different plugs around the world and if you don’t know which one you will encounter on your vacation you are better off being prepared for all eventualities. Get yourself a converter that accommodates any plug – you can even get one with USB sockets too!

  8. Getting Ready for Your Summer Vacation: What Do I Need to Know?

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    Summer is in the air and your feet are itching to travel. You’ve got your flights booked, your accommodation sorted and a taxi company phone number scribbled out in a notebook. Everything is ready. All you need to do now is make sure the smaller details are taken care of.

    There is a lot more to planning a summer vacation than simply booking things online. From the contents of your suitcase to your state of mind, there is a whole range of things you should consider before you set off for the airport. Here are some essential things you need to know as you prepare for your summer vacation.

    You won’t wear that many outfits

    Lay out everything you want to take with you on vacation before you put it in your suitcase. Now, walk away from it and come back a few hours later. When you look over what you are planning to take with fresh eyes you will undoubtedly spot a few items that can be left behind. In our zeal to get our suitcases packed and sorted, we often overload with things we do not need. Future you will thank you for packing light so you don’t have to schlep your heavy luggage around.

    What will you be able to buy once you’re there?

    If you are going to travel to a city break then the amount of things you need to take with will be limited. Cities are full of shops, where you will be able to purchase anything you have left behind. City-breakers – don’t worry. Those straying off the beaten track or heading somewhere rural do not have the same luxury. If you’re spending your vacation touring Peru’s Sacred Valley, commodities will be scarcer. If you are heading somewhere remote, make sure you have everything you need before you leave because you never know if you will have the chance to buy things on-site.

    Make an itinerary but keep it flexible

    If you arrive at your vacation destination this summer without any semblance of a plan you risk losing a lot of time to aimless wandering. It is helpful to make a list of things you want to see and do while you are there. However, do not set your itinerary in stone as this takes away your flexibility and spontaneity. You might meet someone on your travels who has a suggestion you want to check out or who tells you that the temple you want to see is a tourist trap you should avoid.

    Read up on local customs before you go

    It is a good idea to know a bit about your destination before you travel there. Things to take note on are tipping culture; social etiquette; conversation topics to avoid; driving rules; religious customs etc. The worst thing in the world is to be branded an ignorant tourist because you have accidentally disrespected someone or something whilst on vacation.

    Get yourself a kindle and fill it up

    One of the best things about going on a summer vacation is having all that time to relax. This down time is the perfect opportunity to catch up on some reading. Whether its classic literature or airport novels, fill up your kindle or e-reader with plenty of reading material that you can devour while you’re on the plane; at the beach; or even in bed at night.

  9. Top 4 Activity Holiday Destinations for Thrill-Seekers

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    Some people like to take their annual leave and spend it lying perfectly still on an exotic beach in the sunshine, moving only when they need food or to cool off in the water. For others, this sounds like fresh hell. If you are the kind of person who wants to spend their time out of the office running around in the great outdoors then the last thing you want is a resort-based getaway where you spend most of your time stationary. Instead, you want adventure, excitement and plenty of nature.

    Fortunately, the world is full of beautiful places brimming with adventure. In fact, virtually every country on earth has something to offer when it comes to activity holidays. Having trouble deciding where to get your kicks this summer? Read on and discover our top picks for the thrill-seekers among us.

    Patagonia

    Spanning the southernmost parts of Argentina and Chile, Patagonia is a stark, barren landscape that captivates the heart and soul. Not for the faint-hearted, Patagonia is a region of extremes – when the sun shines the whole area is bathed in gold, but when the weather turns, hail, rain and gale force winds become common place. Yet, despite the unpredictable and fierce weather, Patagonia remains one of the world’s top spots for activities. From trekking across glaciers to hiking formidable peaks, there is adventure round every corner in this untouched part of the world.

    Norway

    When it comes to natural beauty, few places can compete with Norway. Known predominantly for its gorgeous Fjords, the country is ideal for reconnecting with nature and filling your lungs with fresh air. Popular activities in Norway include boat rides and hiking tours through the Fjords as well as kayaking, and mountain biking. If you decide to travel during the winter you will also have the option of dog-sledding, which involves being pulled across sparkling snow by a team of energetic and adorable huskies – a dog lover’s dream!

    South Africa

    South Africa is the perfect destination for thrill-seekers of all varieties. Whether you feel more comfortable in the water, on land or up in the air, there is something for everyone in this remarkable country. The first thing you might think of when picturing South Africa is probably safari tours. Well, there are certainly safari opportunities in abundance but that is far from everything South Africa has to offer. For those who really want to get the adrenaline pumping, why not try cage-diving with Great White sharks or sky diving? Alternatively, a more relaxing option is a drive along the country’s stunning Garden Route.

    Japan

    Forget about Tokyo, the real adventure is found in Japan’s countryside. Head to the archipelago of Okinawa if you want to plunge into the water, snorkel in tow, and admire Japan’s diverse marine life. Those who would rather keep their feet on terra firma might be interested in the gruelling but awe-inspiring Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage trek through the mountains. Other activity options include hiking Mount Fuji or skiing in Hokkaido, located in the north of the country.

  10. Top 5 Romantic Vacation Destinations

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    Sharing a vacation with the person you love is one of the best things on earth. You get to spend days doing nothing but enjoying each other’s company and loving their existence. In our frantic daily lives, we don’t often get the chance to spend quality time with the people we adore the most and that can take a toll on even the strongest relationship.

    When you both have some time off work and want to go away together, it is important that you pick the right destination. If you are looking for a romantic getaway then you might not want somewhere packed full of tourists. On the flip side, you might not want anything too obscure as they might not have enough of an infrastructure to cater to your needs. Here are a few recommendations of romantic vacation destinations that will tick all your boxes.

    Belize

    Far from being the most popular vacation destination in Central America, this tiny little country has a lot to offer those seeking a romantic break somewhere exotic. Across from the mainland are two beautiful islands, Caye Caulker and Caye Ambergris. Surrounded by turquoise water, these lazy little islands are bathed in sunshine and are both idyllic, relaxing hideouts. On the islands, couples can spend their days snorkelling with the fish and their evenings gorging on fresh lobster.

    Lombok, Indonesia

    Bali tends to be the first place people think about when they picture Indonesia. But, Lombok is just around the corner and it doesn’t have nearly as many rowdy Australians. The island of Lombok is blessed with glittering gold beaches and outstanding nature to explore. It is quiet, beautiful, and has an abundance of restaurants serving top notch Indonesian food. In terms of paradise islands, it doesn’t get much better than this.

    Tanzania

    Tanzania is a romantic vacation destination for couples that want a bit of everything. One exciting activity for those with a lot of energy is scaling the formidable Mount Kilimanjaro. While it is certainly no easy task, it does not require any specialist mountaineering gear or expertise. For something a bit more leisurely, couples can go on safari to seek out the Big 5 or head over to Zanzibar to loll on the pristine beaches.

    Kerala, India

    Away from the noise and chaos of Delhi, Kerala is a little patch of heaven in the South of India. Surrounded by lush vegetation, Kerala comprises numerous backwater rivers, along which traditional boats float. The weather down here is warm and humid, while the jungle canopy provides blissful respite from the sun. This is nature like you’ve never seen before, sparkling with emerald beauty. Shack up in an eco-lodge with the one you love and fall asleep together to the sounds of nature.

    France

    Everyone knows that Paris is the city of love, so why wouldn’t it make the perfect romantic destination. However, not everyone likes a busy city – that’s why France is the ideal vacation spot. You could spend your days strolling through the leafy boulevards of Paris, or you can hop on the TGV and explore the country’s provincial regions. Tiny villages filled with stone houses, connected by a maze of cobbled streets are waiting for you to come and discover their treasures. Wander through farmer’s markets, sample local goods, and end each day with a fine wine in the warm evening. What could be better?