Globe Aware volunteers concerned about traveling solo, here are some golden rules to follow! A volunteer vacation offers many of the recommendations listed!

The golden rules of solo travel

We ask our editors and favourite solo travellers for their savviest tips and tricks

BY OLIVIA MORELLI
19 May 2024
CONDÉ NAST TRAVELLER

The joys of travelling solo are endless. There is something truly freeing about exploring new places alone – you can go where you please, eat when you want, and have uninterrupted quality time with yourself. The interest in solo travel has been slowly rising for a while, but new data from UK-based travel organisation ABTA shows that 16 per cent of travellers went on holiday by themselves in 2023, a five per cent increase from the previous 12-month period. Plus, there is a huge increase in solo travel from “those aged 35-44, where solo traveller numbers more than doubled to 13 per cent in 2023 from just 6 per cent in 2022.”

The Federal Aviation Administration expects June 30 to be the busiest day of the summer. Here’s what Globe Aware volunteers should know when planning out their volunteer vacation.

Summer travel season could be busiest in years, FAA forecast

The Federal Aviation Administration expects June 30 to be the busiest day of the summer with 53,785 flights.

By Larry Collins
May 20, 2024
NBCDFW

The unofficial start to summer is Memorial Day weekend, but for some airlines like Fort Worth-based American Airlines, the summer surge has already started.

American Airlines estimates its summer travel season will run from May 17 through Sept. 3 and expects to have 72 million travelers over the summer.

Globe Aware volunteers opting for domestic travel this Memorial Day weekend, here are some fantastic destinations to explore in the United States.

Best Places to Visit in the US Over Memorial Day Weekend

May 11, 2024
TTW

Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer in the United States. It’s a time to honor those who have served in the military, enjoy the company of family and friends, and explore new places. If you’re planning a getaway, here are some of the best places to visit during Memorial Day weekend that promise memorable experiences.

Globe Aware volunteers will be surprised to learn that Bhutan’s Department of Tourism announced on April 23, 2024, that travel insurance is no longer mandatory for tourists. This simplifies the visa application process and streamlines travel logistics, making Bhutan an even more attractive destination.

Bhutan Makes Travel More Accessible By Dropping Mandatory Insurance; Details Here

Plan your dream trip to Bhutan as the Himalayan Kingdom streamlines visa requirements and ditches mandatory travel insurance for tourists.

BY YASHITA VASHISHTH
APR 26, 2024
Travel + Leisure

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Bhutan implemented a mandatory travel insurance requirement for tourists to address potential health emergencies, particularly those related to the virus. However, with travel restrictions easing and conditions significantly improving, the Department of Tourism announced on April 23, 2024, that travel insurance is no longer mandatory for tourists. This simplifies the visa application process and streamlines travel logistics, making Bhutan an even more attractive destination.

As temperatures soar with the upcoming heatwave season, planning travel requires more than just itinerary adjustments. This guide offers crucial insights and strategies for Globe Aware volunteers braving the heat, ensuring their volunteer vacation in India remains memorable for all the right reasons.

Guide to Traveling Safely in India During Heatwave Season

May 4, 2024
TTW 

As temperatures soar across Indian states during the relentless heatwave seasons, planning travel requires more than just itinerary adjustments. With the mercury hitting record highs, ensuring safety and comfort becomes paramount. This guide offers crucial insights and strategies for travelers braving the heat, ensuring their adventure through India remains memorable for all the right reasons.

Understanding the Heatwave Phenomenon:

What is a Heatwave?

A heatwave occurs when the temperature rises significantly above the average for a particular region during the summer months, often accompanied by high humidity. In India, this phenomenon is especially pronounced and can have severe impacts on both the environment and public health.

In the heart of Eastern Europe lies Romania, a country often overshadowed by its more famous neighbours. Yet, those who venture into this enchanting land are rewarded with an array of unique attractions and experiences that make it an ideal destination for family travel. Known for its rich history, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality, Romania also stands out as one of the most affordable and safest countries in Europe for tourists.

A Blend of History and Mythology: Castles and Fortresses

April 12, 2024
TTW

Romania’s historical tapestry is studded with castles and fortresses that seem to emerge straight from the pages of a fairy tale. Perhaps the most famous is Bran Castle, often associated with the legend of Dracula. While it offers a glimpse into the life of Vlad the Impaler, the real-life figure who inspired Bram Stoker’s famous vampire, the castle is also a family-friendly attraction with its beautifully preserved rooms and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Globe Aware volunteers know that Cinco de Mayo holds significant recognition as one of the most celebrated Mexican holidays in the United States. Discover why Cinco de Mayo goes beyond tacos and tequila!

Why don’t more Mexicans celebrate Cinco de Mayo? Here’s everything to know about the holiday

By Tiffany Acosta
Arizona Republic
April 26, 2024

Cinco de Mayo is one of the most recognized Mexican holidays in the United States. It’s when people go in search of half-price margaritas and feast on Mexican food.

But Cinco de Mayo isn’t actually about burritos and beer, and while it’s celebrated in Mexico, it is not as deeply ingrained in the national culture as it is in the United States.

These are the best months to visit Costa Rica for our Globe Aware volunteers interested in continuing their stay after their volunteer vacation!

The Best Time to Visit Costa Rica for Wildlife, Surfing, and Fewer Crowds

These are the best months to visit Costa Rica—whether you’re looking to spot sea turtles, chase swells, or learn to surf.

BY AMBER PORT
Condé Nast Traveler 
March 12, 2024

Costa Rica is easy to love with its awe-inspiring landscape and infectious atmosphere. With so much to offer, the best time to visit Costa Rica depends on what you’re looking to do during your holiday. Whether you’re off wildlife spotting or chasing swells, spending time in this picturesque Central American nation quickly teaches visitors what the “pura vida” lifestyle is all about. Below, see the best months to plan a Costa Rican getaway for surfing, budget travel, whale spotting, and more.

In continuing celebration of Earth Day, here are the top ten eco-friendly destinations to visit, many being Globe Aware volunteer vacation destinations!

THE TOP 10 ECO-FRIENDLY DESTINATIONS TO VISIT

By Stephen
Mar 25, 2024
My Baggage

Exploring the world and experiencing its stunning natural beauty, as well as discovering a wealth of cultures and traditions, has become less of a luxury and more of a necessity for many people.

However, we’re more aware than ever before of the impact our actions can have on the planet. That’s why so many of us are committed to keeping our carbon footprint in check while travelling. Many travel providers have adopted this approach by introducing various initiatives to support eco-friendly tourism.

To mark World Book Day, Globe Aware suggests these travel books that will immerse you in a global culinary adventure, possibly sparking your interest in experiencing the cuisines firsthand during a volunteer vacation!

Eat your way around the world with these 6 food travel books

These travel books take you on a culinary journey around the world, from coastal Italy to the culinary belly of Seoul.

BySarah Barrell
March 07, 2024
National Geographic

Travel books with a real sense of place are often those you can almost taste. And there’s a tantalising crop of globetrotting food books hitting the shelves this spring. We’ve really enjoyed Cold Kitchen, Caroline Eden’s travel memoir hewn through recipes from as far and wide as Central Asia, Ukraine, the Baltics and Turkey. And Jenny Jefferies’ Islands in a Common Sea, which delves into farming and fishing in countries such as Bhutan, Australia, Nigeria and Argentina, with human stories, recipes and beautiful photography celebrating biodiversity. Along with these tasty titles, here’s our selection of books that will work up your appetite for travel this season.