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The Smarter Way to Travel™

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  1. How to Be the Best Kind of Tourist

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    There is nothing worse than a large group of loud, annoying tourists. You might have seen some in your hometown if you live somewhere noteworthy, or you might have encountered them on the road. Either way, you probably know who I am talking about. They are the kind of people you want to avoid at all costs and the kind of people you definitely don’t want to be mistaken for.

    We all know how to be good tourists, but in case you know someone who needs a reminder, here are some helpful tips. Take careful note and you will navigate your way through foreign lands without a single tut or dirty look and, most importantly, without offending anyone.

    Don’t Photograph Everything

    Honestly, you do not need 50 photos of everything you see. It can be infuriating when you spend hours getting to a famous site only to find you can’t actually see anything because there are so many phones, cameras and iPads in the way. If something is spectacular then by all means take a photo of it. But, once you’re done, put your device away and appreciate it with your own two eyes.

    Try and Learn a Few Local Phrases

    It is so embarrassing watching some red-faced westerner shout English phrases slowly at a confused local. If they don’t speak English then slowing down your sentence and raising your voice is not going to help. No-one expects you to be able to speak fluent Vietnamese before you go on vacation there, but learning a few phrases before you set off will stand you in good stead. Not only will you get your point across better, but you will put a smile on some people’s faces.

    Be Sensitive to Other People’s Cultures

    If you are going to a country in which people dress conservatively then don’t walk down the street wearing hotpants and a crop top. You might not care about dressing modestly but it might be offensive to the local people. If you are in their country you should respect their rules. The same goes for entering religious sites, always cover your shoulders and legs, and even your hair if necessary.

    Try to Blend In

    If you are going to a country that has widespread poverty then don’t wear flashy clothes and jewellery. Not only will it make you stand out and a target for robbery, but it is also just a bit gross. No-one wants to see you flaunt your wealth when people right next to you have so little. You should also try eating where the locals eat and doing what the locals do. This will give you a much more authentic taste of your vacation destination.

    Don’t Turn Your Nose Up at Anything

    People around the world do things differently. In some cultures spitting or farting in public are perfectly acceptable behaviours. Just because some people do things differently to you doesn’t mean that that is wrong. Embrace the little differences you discover between yourself and the people who live in your vacation destination. The more you know about different cultures the more interesting and tolerant you become.

  2. Summer Weekend Breaks in London

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    City breaks to London are becoming more and more popular by the day with the Eurostar and budget airlines like Ryanair bringing people in from the continent for next to nothing. London is a city unlike any other in the world but to the untrained eye, all the hustle and bustle can seem overwhelming. While most tend to focus on Central London to do their exploring, once there it is hard to know what to do. With just a couple of days at your disposal, it’s key not to waste time googling and planning, so we have done the hard work for you. Take a look at some of our top suggestions for how to spend your weekend in this gorgeous capital.

    See a Show

    If you are in Central London there is really no excuse for not experiencing one of the best things the West End has to offer. Shaftesbury Avenue and its surrounding area has a wealth of fabulous shows worth checking out. Laugh until you ache at the Book of Mormon or sing your heart out at the timeless classic that is the Lion King. Whatever you choose, you are guaranteed a good night.

    Get Cultured

    London has had an exceptionally fascinating and turbulent past and there is no better way to make the most of London than by wandering through the hallowed halls of its numerous museums. The National Gallery in Trafalgar Square has a sublime showcase of art from throughout the ages while the British Museum will blow you away with its wealth of artefacts from bygone eras.

    Eat in the Orient

    Once you’ve learnt everything there is to know about British history, it is time to head over to Chinatown and indulge in some Eastern treats. This is a great place to stop to eat. Diners have a plethora of Chinese restaurants to choose from, including fancy sit down restaurants and all you can eat buffets. There are also eateries serving up food from Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, South Korea and more. Rosa’s Thai and Viet are both excellent choices if none of the Chinese fare takes your fancy.

    Soak up the Sun

    If the sun is out and you are tired of traipsing through the busy streets of the West End then it is time to retire briefly to one of London’s many Green Spaces. Hyde Park is an obvious first choice for many people who want to kick back in the grass and relax but Lincoln Inn’s Fields is another beautiful space, which, although a bit smaller, is perfect for picnics or chilling out in general.

    Go Shopping

    No trip to London would be complete without emptying your bank account in some of the world’s finest retailers. Central London is home to the world-famous Oxford Street but there are plenty of other places to splash the cash than this over-crowded thoroughfare. Why not head to the glitzy Burlington Arcade or meander through the picturesque boutiques that line the walls of Covent Garden.

    Stop for Tea

    The most quintessentially British experience of all, visitors to London simply must stop for a cream tea during their time here. Soho’s Secret Tea Room is absolutely perfect for satisfying this desire with their extensive range of different teas and their delicious selection of homemade cakes and baked goods. Naturally, the only way to do this properly is by ordering English breakfast tea, accompanied by scones with fresh cream and jam. If you’ve never had this before, prepare to have your world changed.

    Sleep Well

    There are plenty of fancy hotels throughout London, many of which belong to big international chains and can seem a little soulless. Set in an old 17th Century Victorian mansion, the Nadler Boutique Hotel on Carlisle Street is an affordable and attractive hotel that has done away with the fancy gyms and restaurants, in order to create a more intimate hotel that has maintained its style and comfort without tacking on a devastating price tag.

  3. The Best Way to Book Trains in Europe

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    So, you’ve decided to travel around Europe by train. You know you’ll get some spectacular views of the continent as you whizz through its countryside. It’s likely that at least one of these journeys will end up being the highlight of your trip. Now all you need to work out is how to turn your vision into a reality.

    Booking train tickets is easy. Making sure you get the best deal when you book your tickets can be a little trickier. But, getting cheap train tickets that suit you is far from impossible. You just need to know how to go about doing it. Here is our quick and easy guide on the different ways to book train tickets and the pros and cons of each method.

    Booking Through an Agent

    Booking through an agent comes with the benefit of knowing that everything is going to be sorted for you. Simply tell your agent where you want to go and just like magic your tickets will appear in front of you. This means you can save your energy and stress level for other things on your trip. You also don’t need to worry about translating obscure websites or booking the wrong thing.

    The disadvantage of booking through an agent is usually the price. Agents will charge a commission for their service and there is no guarantee they will book the cheapest tickets in the first place. This means that your bill could end up larger than you anticipated. Another downside of using an agent is that you relinquish some control over your bookings. Sure, you give your order to the agent, but you won’t have the opportunity to browse options yourself.

    Booking Online

    For those who want to plan things in advance and retain complete control over their vacation, booking online yourself is the best option. You will be able to pick a time and price that suits you. You might even be tempted to change destination once you see how cheap other places are to get to. The freedom to browse should not be underestimated.

    If you plan on booking online then be aware of this pitfall. Not all websites will offer you the same price. Local train companies of the country you intend to visit will have their own websites and these websites will offer you the best deals. If you go elsewhere you could end up paying 3-4x more than the ticket is actually worth. Plus you might have to pay delivery costs to have your ticket sent to you. Be smart when you book and you’ll save yourself a bundle of cash.

    Booking at the Station

    There is something to be said for leaving it to chance and booking your ticket on the day you want to travel or the day before at your departure station. This offers you a lot more freedom than booking online in advance as it allows you to be spontaneous. You can wake up in the morning and ask yourself: “where do I want to go today?” There is something deeply liberating about this.

    But, leaving it until the day you want to travel to book your ticket comes with two potential problems. The first is that there might not be any free seats left on the train you want to board. This means you’ll have to wait however many days it takes for a seat to become available. The second is that often tickets bought on the day of travel are more expensive. This could cause problems for individuals travelling on a tight budget.

    Train travel is a beautiful thing and can be an exhilarating experience if done properly. Work out which option suits you best and get ready for the vacation of a lifetime.

  4. Top 5 Spots for a Weekend Break in Europe

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    Whether the sun is shining or the icy winter winds are whipping at your face, there is never a bad time for a weekend break. Europe is blessed geographically as it contains dozens of countries within close proximity of one another. This means you can travel between nations quickly and easily so a weekend is all you need to experience the place. Ok, maybe a long weekend.

    Here are some of the top places on the continent for a weekend getaway. Leave Friday morning and come back Sunday and make sure your weekend is packed with as much adventure as possible. But, be warned: your Monday blues may be even worse than usual.

    Amsterdam

    There is nothing quite like strolling around the narrow canals that carve through the city of Amsterdam. The water, flanked by beautiful old houses, glistens in the sunlight and leads wanderers through some of Amsterdam’s most delightful areas. Walking through the city is an activity in itself but if you need more stimulation there are numerous museums, galleries and parks to explore.

    Paris

    Paris is one of the world’s most popular destinations – and with good reason. The city is peppered with iconic landmarks, not least the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and Arc de Triomphe. Once you’ve taken in your fill of famous monuments, direct your attention to some of the city’s bustling parks and cultural areas, including the Jardin de Tuileries and the Marais, where you might just find the best falafel you’ve ever eaten.

    Venice

    Nowhere can beat Venice when it comes to aesthetics. Often considered the most beautiful city in the world, Venice will blow you away. Everywhere you look is yet more outstanding architecture to ogle at or a shot that would be oh-so perfect for your Instagram. From your vantage point of a gondola along one of the canals, the city is your muse. Once you’re back on dry land, explore the narrow streets and take in a gallery or two to see exactly why Italy is the cradle of modern civilisation.

    Barcelona

    Barcelona is where people go when they want the buzz of a modern, thriving city, but also a beach to lounge on in the afternoons. It is a metropolis with an easy escape route to nature. Of course, that is not the only appeal of Barcelona, but it is a big swaying factor. Other points of interest in the city include the breath-taking Sagrada Familia Cathedral and the Casa Milà, both of which were designed by the legendary artist Gaudí. On top of all of this, you’ll find plenty of quirky bars serving jugs of sangria and bowls of tapas. What’s not to love?

    Budapest

    And now for something a little different. Sitting in Central Europe, Budapest is notably different to the West Europe cities mentioned so far. The most striking thing about Budapest is how cheap it is. Your money will go a long way in this wonderful city. Take a boat ride along the Danube that cuts through the city, dividing the regions of Buda and Pest. From here you will be able to take in the magnificent Houses of Parliament as well as Buda Castle. When you’re ready for a bit of rest and relaxation, the Szechenyi Thermal Baths should be your first port of call.

  5. 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.

  6. 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.

  7. 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.

  8. 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.

  9. 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.

  10. 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.