Volunteer Vacations Blog

Visa Travel Rules Changing for Travelers to Turkey

25 February 2020
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To encourage more visitors from the European Union and Western Europe, Turkey is relaxing its Visa rules by abolishing associated fees.

By Simon Calder
Travel Correspondent
The Independent

February 20 2020

One of the most popular countries for British holidaymakers will abolish its current visa rules for UK tourists from next month.

At present, British travellers must apply online for a permit to travel, which costs US$35 (£27).

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Ankara announced: "As of 2 March 2020, Turkey has decided to exempt visa requirements for the members of the European Union Schengen area, Austria, Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain, Poland as well as the United Kingdom citizens for touristic travels to Turkey for every 90 days within 180 day period.

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Travelling to a Disaster Zone

20 February 2020
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Considering a vacation to a country or region recently damaged by a natural disaster? Here are some of the ethical questions.

Australia' s recent bushfires are the latest in a spate of terrifying natural disasters across the planet. Can tourists help more by visiting or by donating?

By Tim McDonald
BBC – TRAVEL
19 February 2020

Lorena Granados and Gaspar Roman have set up a temporary leather goods stall by the edge of the road in Mogo, a bushfire-ravaged town in New South Wales, Australia. It sits in front of their old store, which was reduced to warped corrugated iron and ashes when the fires tore through this tiny tourist town of about 300 on New Year' s Eve.

"We can continue to have a purpose in life and get up in the morning and have something to do," Granados told me. The next few months will be a grind, they said. They' ll be seeking government assistance and dealing with insurers and depending on help from family and friends.

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Global tourism and the coronavirus

17 February 2020
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What impact will the coronavirus have on tourism in 2020? Some predict the effects will be felt globally, into 2021.

The Coronavirus' s Effect on Tourism Will Carry Into 2021, Experts Say And it won' t just affect China, either.

By Nikki Ekstein
February 13, 2020
Blookberg

Coronavirus May Affect Tourism Into 2021

Earlier this week, even as infections of the novel coronavirus seemed to be slowing, the effects of the epidemic on the global tourism industry were accelerating rapidly.

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Spain’s Popularity as a Tourist Destination Soars

4 February 2020
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 Spain is a popular tourist destination, second only to France.

This country’s tourist arrivals hit a new record high in 2019 – can you guess where?

TOURISM is a key element to every country’s infrastructure, providing an opportunity to increase revenue and awareness to what the country has to offer – and one particular location reached a tourism record high.

By LEAH SINCLAIR
Express
February 4, 2020

The number of international visitors to Spain hit a record high of 83.7 million in 2019, Industry and Tourism Minister Reyes Maroto said last month.

According to Reuters, tourist arrivals rose one percent last year. Spain is officially the world’s second-most visited country after France.

"We address 2020 with optimism, because we have a strong and consolidated sector, capable of tackling the challenges ahead of us," said Maroto.

The minister added that one of Spain’s main priorities will be to lure visitors from new countries along with working to have visitors all year long and not only in the summer season.

The Secretary of State for Tourism, Isabel Oliver said: "This magnificent data allows us to face 2020 with solid foundations and with the confidence that we have a strong sector capable of maintaining Spain as a world leader in tourism competitiveness.”

Britons still represent the highest proportion of tourists visiting Spain, with 18 million Britons choosing Spain to visit in 2019. However, this was a half a million less than in 2018.

Additionally, Spain has seen more visitors from Asia and the United States which offset the decline of travellers from Britain and Germany.

spain fields

A recent study from CompareTheMarket.com found that Spain remains as one of the key holiday destinations for Britons of all generations.

Spain is most visited by those aged 65 and over and in 2018 it was least visited by 24 to 34 year-olds, accounting for only 13.6 percent of their holidays " but it was still one of their top choices.

Other countries which were popular among all demographics were France, which like Spain, is popular across all age groups, and again fares best among the 65 and over group. 12.5 percent of their holidays were to France in 2018. And like Spain, 25 to 34 year olds visited France least, with only 10 percent of their holidays taking place across the Channel.

For those looking for ways to save money on holiday, the experts from Travelzoo say that you could be saving money before the holiday has even begun.

During the booking process, it can be hard to know whether you are overspending on flights and hotels, especially with so many to choose from.

According to Mr Clarke, though, timing is everything when it comes to making savings.

"Look at shoulder season " this is the time outside of peak, either side of the main holiday periods," Mr Clarke told Express.co.uk.

"There are some serious bargains available if you can be flexible with your time."

Shoulder time is an industry term which tends to mean the period outside of school holidays.

During school holidays, popularity for flights and hotels skyrockets, dragging the cost with them.

However, the time between these periods is the perfect opportunity to get your hands on a budget-friendly trip.

"Traditionally this means outside of school holidays and peaks," explains Mr Clarke.

However, some destinations prices are affected on a seasonal basis too.

"Places like the med are wonderful in May and October," Mr Clarke continued.

"Always wanted to go to New York? Prices plummet in Jan and Feb due to the cold.

"But if you prepared to wrap up warm there are some seriously good packages.

"And a winter day in New York is usually bright blue skies so it can be a lovely experience.

"Or try Iceland in October before the peak season hits " you can still see the Northern lights but also there the benefit of whale season too before it all freezes over!"

Self

Travel and Tourism Challenges of Coronavirus

1 February 2020
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Coronavirus is posing a challenge to the global tourism industry. The health sector and tourism and industry groups are working together to protect the global travel industry as concerns and questions mount. 

The Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre is rapidly emerging as a new and important to go organization for the global travel and tourism industry in times of challenges.

Leadership and coordination are needed to protect this global industry, and the Center is ready to work with everyone, but urges it’s time to act now.

UNWTO issued a very general statement today, WTTC CEO Gloria Guevara addressed coronavirus when talking to eTurboNews saying don’t cancel flights yet, don’t close your airports, ETOA CEO Tom Jenkins said: Coronavirus fear is a powerful deterrent to tourism. The African Tourism Board answered the question if you should you still travel to Africa? PATA CEO Mario Hardy is convinced there is a lot of misinformation and said: Destination and tourism marketers will need to play a critical role in correcting the vast amount of misinformation surrounding the ongoing Novel Coronavirus outbreak that is hurting travel and tourism businesses across Asia.

Today the Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre center calls on the action by the private sector, academia, public sector, and multilateral agencies to act now, as the situation of protecting Anthropocene Earth is impatient of Time.

The man behind the Center, Minister Bartlett just 3 days ago said the recent threats of global pandemics and the frequent occurrences of natural disasters heightened the need for a Global Tourism Resilience Fund.

The global travel and tourism industry is struggling to deal with the emerging coronavirus crisis.

The ongoing coronavirus crisis may very well be the biggest challenge this normally booming industry could face. Stopping more than a billion people from traveling would be the ultimate and devastating consequence putting the livelihood of millions working in the travel industry in jeopardy.

Chinese travelers have been seen as the most potential development in travel for the last 20 years. Today countries are closing their borders to Chinese visitors, airlines, trains, and ships stopped serving Chinese destinations. The Chinese government quarantines millions of their citizens stopped domestic travel routes during the busiest travel season, the Lunar New Years.

One global organization, the Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre under the leadership of Edmund Bartlett and Dr, Taleb Rifai is taking an urgently needed hands-on approach.

Edmund Bartlett is the Minister of Tourism for the Island Nation of Jamaica, a region dependent on the mighty tourism Dollar.

Bartlett is seen by many as a global player. Together with former UNWTO Secretary-General, Dr. Taleb Rifai, he established the Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre headquartered in Jamaica. Over just one year the center opened satellite stations around the world.

The center calls on the action by the private sector, academia, public sector, and multilateral agencies to act now, as the situation of protecting Anthropocene Earth is impatient of Time.

Our planet and the human race face multiple challenges. These challenges are global and serious ' climate change, food production, overpopulation, epidemics. the decimation of other species, epidemic disease, acidification of the oceans.

Human beings have existed for just 200,000 years, yet our impact on the planet is so great that scientists around the world are calling for our period in the Earth' s history to be named the " Anthropocene" " the age of humans. The changes we are now making have exacted a heavy toll on the natural world around us. It' s vital that people underst and the impact we have. Help us persuade other organizations to tell them the truth.

It took humanity 200,000 years to reach one billion and only 200 years to reach seven billion. We are still adding an extra 80 million each year and are headed towards 10 billion by mid-century.

The coronavirus threat has been elevated to crisis level following yesterday' s declaration by the World Health Organization (WHO) that the virus is now a " public health emergency of international concern.

The WHO emergency declaration came as a result of the rising death toll and infections associated with the virus.

The Jamaica minister said: "While the Latin American and Caribbean region has not yet reported any cases of the coronavirus, it is only logical to assume that the virus is likely to hit the region' s shores at any moment now, considering its current geographical spread and trajectory."

Bartlett added: "For all intents and purposes, the coronavirus threat now constitutes a global emergency " one that requires a coordinated, foolproof global response to contain this looming pandemic.

The travel and tourism industry, in particular, is in a very precarious position and faces the highest probability of significant economic fallout from the emergent global health crisis.

This is for two main reasons.

One, the coronavirus threat has created a heightened fear of traveling globally. Two, China is the world' s largest and highest-spending outbound tourism market. Against this background, the global travel and tourism industry is being called upon to play a pivotal role in shaping global response efforts.

At this point, the main focus of the global response to the coronavirus threat is to prevent further exposure beyond the currently affected areas as well as to isolate infected persons from uninfected populations.

Accomplishing these two targets will require the mobilization of significant human, technological and financial resources to establish reliable systems to monitor evaluate and isolate risks especially at the various points of entry.

Large investments are urgently needed to procure modern health technology to screen risks, to conduct vaccine research, to develop public education campaigns and to ensure real-time information- sharing and coordination across borders.

We applaud the swift action of the Chinese health authorities who have constructed a 1000-bed coronavirus hospital in four days and who have demonstrated cooperation with other countries to stem its global spread. We are now calling on all public and private sector funding entities globally to support the various emergency initiatives that are being developed and deployed to deal with the looming coronavirus pandemic that is threatening global human and economic security.

The International Bill of Human Rights Article 13 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights reads: (1) Everyone has the right to freedom of movement and residence within the borders of each State. (2) Everyone has the right to leave any country, including his own, and to return to his country. This right is now under threat.

Working in a Global Tourism Market

Dr. Peter Tarlow of Safer Tourism has been working with the Hon. Minister Bartlett on tourism safety and security ever since the center was established.

Dr. Tarlow said in the webinar today: If there ever was a time to change sheets in your hotel room every day, it is now. If there was a time for Boeing and Airbus to allow fresh air to their aircraft instead of circulating the same air, it was now. Forget the masks, but avoid using pillows and blankets on aircraft, avoid crowds of people, wash your hands and avoid handshakes, take Vitamin C, get enough sleep, drink plenty of water.

eTurboNews

Canadians Seek Meaningful Travel Pursuits

22 January 2020
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Travel is a way of life for many young people, including many Canadians. However, finding the ideal, unique and life-changing destination and adventure is difficult. Instead of lounging on a beach, drinking to excess and being herded about with hundreds of other tourists, the goal, for many, is to take the road less traveled and experience other countries and societies while immersed in local communities.

CANADIANS SWAP “FLY AND FRY” VACATIONS FOR MEANINGFUL TRAVEL PURSUITS

By Michele Sponagle

January 22, 2020

Source: YouAreUNLTD Magazine

Many Canadians in their teens and 20s travel as a rite of passage between finishing school and getting serious about career, family or both. Later in life, the motivation changes. Having been there and done that, mature globetrotters are moved to explore by a bigger purpose, whether it’s to learn, to volunteer or to pursue newfound passions.

For Anita Draycott, 68, from Stouffville, ON, travel means hitting the links: "I took up golf late in life and have been addicted to the game now for about 25 years." She' s turned her passion into a pursuit and is now a professional golf writer who has played more than 500 courses on six continents.

Because the season is short in Canada, she and her husband, William, bought a timeshare in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, 12 years ago. "Our one week in the sun has morphed into three months every year," says Draycott.

She still travels internationally to feed her wanderlust. "I love to experience new places, customs, cuisine, etc.," she says. "You could say I am addicted to travel and get itchy feet if I don' t have an upcoming trip in my calendar. I really believe that one learns a great deal by travelling " about other people, places and yourself."

A passion for golf turned into a new career for one woman.

The travel boom

Draycott is part of a demographic now dominating travel. According to data from the Canadian Tourism Research Institute, travellers aged 55 and older are filling planes and hotels more than any other age group. They take an estimated 2.3 million trips within a five-year period and spend more than $35 billion annually.

And to boot, travel is good for you. According to a joint study from the Global Commission on Aging and Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies, in partnership with the U.S. Travel Association, travelling keeps you healthier. Women who vacation at least twice a year have a significantly lower risk of coronary disease and heart attack compared to those who take a vacation only once every six years or more. Men who skip an annual holiday have a 20 percent higher risk of death and 30 percent more heart disease.

Heading to a new destination also lessens stress, increases creativity, lowers the risk of depression, and boosts happiness and life satisfaction, according to recent research. The Global Coalition on Aging also did a deep dive on the subject in a white paper meta-analysis titled Destination Healthy Aging: The Physical, Cognitive and Social Benefits of Travel. It found that travel is closely tied to successful aging. Its benefits are linked to being physically active, reducing stress, meeting new people and engaging in meaningful social interactions.

As Dr. Paul Nussbaum, president and founder of the Brain Health Center, Inc. in Pittsburgh, PA, notes: "Because it challenges the brain with new and different experiences and environments, travel is an important behaviour that promotes brain health and builds brain resilience across the lifespan."

Post-retirement, Jennifer Budd was able to combine her love of felting and travel with a visit to the Shetland Islands.

That' s true for Paris, ON resident Jennifer Budd, who retired in 2016 after 35 years working in healthcare. For the 58-year-old, being able to travel more is all about nurturing her creativity. The long-time artist and painter shifted gears in 2008 to make colourful works of art using felt. Her passion for the technique opened the door to unique opportunities when she started selling her work through her company, Woolscapes.

Recently, she was invited to teach felting to women raising sheep in Fetlar, one of the Shetland Islands, off the coast of Scotland. "It was an incredible experience," says Budd. "As an artist, it was inspiring to see landscapes just waiting to be created in felt."

Now, Budd seeks out other felters wherever she goes. "It' s a wonderful starting point for meeting locals who share my interest in fabric art." Next year, she plans to go to Australia and New Zealand, destinations well known for their wealth of sheep and wool.

Hand in hand, travel and creativity are the perfect combination, promoting wellness for the mind and body.

For more, check out this cool infographic on 10 way travels can improve your health and happiness, courtesy of Bookmundi.

Route to Healthy Aging

Along with creating great memories, travel can do wonders for your overall well-being and quality of life.

  • The Framingham Study, which has continued to be updated since it began in 1948, showed that women who went on holiday every six years or less had significantly more risk of developing a heart attack or coronary death, compared to those that vacationed at least twice a year.
  • One study found that women who do not take vacations are twice as likely to develop depression as those who choose to pack their bags and head out of town.
  • The Mayo Clinic cited a reduction in stress as a good reason to travel since it helps reduce the chances of developing a wide range of maladies, from headaches to irritable bowel syndrome.
  • There' s no need to go on a long vacation. With breaks of just a day or two, 89 percent of respondents to one survey said they were able to leave stress behind.
  • Being more active while exploring is key to health. According to a 2012 study published by The Lancet, for people over 40, eliminating physical inactivity can result in an increase in life expectancy roughly equal to that achieved by eliminating obesity, nearly on par with the impact of eliminating smoking.
  • Neurogenesis " the creation of new neurons in the brain " is driven, in part, by new experiences, including travel.

Travel Tips

  1. Buy travel insurance if you are going anywhere outside of Canada. Keep in mind that one 24-hour stay in a US hospital costs $20,000 on average. Answer health questions honestly or risk invalidating your insurance.
  2. Be smart with meds. Keep them in the original prescription bottles, and have pharmacy receipts handy should you be questioned by customs agents.
  3. Consider compression wear: Long periods of sitting can cause blood to pool in the veins in the feet and lower legs, leading to localized swelling, tiredness and aches, or in a worst-case scenario, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a clot that forms in the vein. Compression socks boost circulation, curb swelling and soothe weary limbs.

Self

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Awesome Solo Travel Ideas for 2020

10 January 2020
Globe Aware
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New year, new travel opportunities. Volunteer travel and volunteer vacations are but one unique solo-travel opportunities you can take to experience new countries, cultures and communities. Here are some other destinations to help you map out travel in the new year.

50 Awesome Solo Travel Destinations To Visit In 2020

From Slovenia to Ecuador, these spots offer a variety of activities for solo travelers.

10/01/2020

By Caroline Bologna

HuffPost US

Thailand 19Many people take the month of January to look at the year ahead and set travel goals. One of the most powerful ways to explore a new place is to take a solo trip. From the freedom and flexibility to the stress relief and boost in self-reliance, there are endless benefits to solo travel. And there are many exciting places to make it happen.

Of course, it' s always important to research current conditions in your desired destination to stay safe when traveling, especially for solo trips. But fortunately, there are precautions you can take, and tons of backup options if needed.

We asked travel bloggers and other experts to share the solo travel destinations they recommend for 2020. Keep scrolling to read about 50 places that will surely inspire your wanderlust.

Vancouver, Canada

"If you enjoy spending time in nature, Vancouver is a great place to add to your solo destination list for 2020. Canada as a whole is a very safe country to visit, and Vancouver has so much to offer. The city itself offers beautiful views of mountains and has a lot of fun places to visit, such as Granville Market and Stanley Park. You can also do a day or weekend trip from Vancouver to escape into the mountains any time of year!" ― Amber Primdahl, travel blogger at She' s Catching Flights

Santiago, Chile

"I recommend Santiago, Chile. South America is a friendly destination for travelers, even if you don' t speak Spanish. Santiago is not a difficult city to get around alone, as you can take the subway or Uber. The local food scene is fantastic and casual, so it' s a great place to enjoy a meal and cocktail by yourself. For example, at De Patio restaurant, you can sit at the counter and chat with the chef while he prepares dishes with ingredients straight out of his garden." ― La Carmina, travel blogger and TV host

Malaysia

"Within Southeast Asia, I think Malaysia is a great destination for solo travel for any age. You' ve got some incredible rainforests and stunning canopy walks, buzzing cities with a great culinary scene, and since most Malaysians speak perfect English, it' s a lot easier to connect with locals than in many other countries. Malaysia doesn' t have the travel party scene you find so much Thailand, so it' s a perfect choice in Asia for more culture-focused or mature travelers." ― Marek Bron, travel blogger at Indie Traveller

Slovenia

"Delve into one of the greenest and most beautiful countries in Europe by buying a ticket to Slovenia! Not only does it have fairytale castles built into mountain walls (check out Predjama Castle!) but underground cave trains resembling Indiana Jones' own adventures. The capital city is by far the prettiest I' ve ever seen, too. Transport links are convenient. The country is small enough to explore confidently. And the safety, as well as a high level of English among the younger generation, make this the perfect European destination for a solo traveler this year." ― Alice Teacake, travel blogger at Teacake Travels

St. John’s, Canada

"It’s not a place many people have heard of, but St. John' s, Newfoundland, is pretty magnificent and a great option for solo travel. The scenery is breathtakingly beautiful with massive cliffs overlooking the ocean. You can stroll to the top of Signal Hill to overlook the harbor and out to the sea. You can also drive out to Cape Spear to stand at North America' s most eastern point. But the truly special part of St. John' s is the people. They are some of the warmest and friendliest you will meet. You can grab a pint in one of the many Irish pubs and strike up a conversation easily. And for such a small town, the downtown area is packed with restaurants, pubs and shops. Plus, they have puffins and icebergs (even in May). You really can' t go wrong here. Don' t forget to get " screeched in' while you are in town, too." ― Mark Ostermann, senior editor of Miles to Memories

South Korea

"Seoul is on the top of my list for great places to travel solo this year. It' s safe for solo travelers, fairly easy to get around, and the people are always kind and willing to help tourists. The city is full of modern conveniences that take everyday luxury to another level. There' s WiFi everywhere, you can Uber around the city, and the customer service is impeccable. It' s great for solo travelers on a budget since there are a ton of low-cost options for hotel stays and food. The street food in Seoul is a must!" ― Jee Choe, digital designer and blogger at Oh, How Civilized

Rotterdam, the Netherlands

"Skip the crowds of Amsterdam and head to Rotterdam. This city is easy to navigate by public transportation, walkable, and of course, very bike-friendly. Take a water taxi and enjoy the views of the modern architecture of the city. Head to the food halls such as Markthal and Fenix Food Factory to check out what' s new with Dutch cuisine." ― Jessica van Dop, travel media specialist and blogger at The Dining Traveler

Accra, Ghana

"Ghana is one of the best countries to travel solo in Africa. Ghanaians are known to be very kind and are typically willing to help travelers with directions or the like. Accra has a beach close by, along with many cute boutiques, cafes and restaurants. Solo travelers might appreciate that Uber is available and affordable in Accra, which makes navigating the city quite easy." ― Briona Lamback, travel blogger and founder of Buoyant travel agency

Malta

"This incredibly charming and gorgeous European island is just off the coast of Italy and makes for an enchanting solo travel adventure! You can rent a car and explore both islands in just a couple of days, and see things like quaint cobblestone streets and the stunning Blue Lagoon." ― Alyssa Ramos, blogger at My Life' s A Travel Movie

Oman

"Many people can' t even point to Oman on a map, but it is one of the best destinations for solo travelers in 2020! Locals are friendly but rarely pushy, and you can walk down the street without getting stared at. Renting a car is easy and the roads are in pristine condition. The highlight of traveling Oman is the fabulous nature and scenery, from sparkling blue wadis and sand dunes for hundreds of miles to sea cliffs and the " Grand Canyon Of The Middle East.' If you want a break from traveling solo, consider hiring a local Omani guide to show you around for a day or two!" ― Victoria Yore, travel blogger at Follow Me Away

London, England

"London is a great place to visit on a solo trip, especially if you' re new to it and a bit nervous. They have a vast public transportation network to help you get where you need to go, and since the main language is English, you won' t have to deal with a language barrier, which can help anxious or beginner solo travelers. There are also many free and affordable things to see and do in London, like visiting their museums." ― Primdahl

Taipei, Taiwan

"Taipei is still under the radar compared to many large Asian cities such as Bangkok and Tokyo, but it' s a great destination for solo travelers. The lively night markets, the modern architecture and the art scene give a solo traveler plenty to see and do. From ultra-luxury shopping at Taipei 101 to donning plastic gloves to eat chili crab at the Raohe Night Market, there' s a wide spectrum of experiences to be had. The city is modern and safe, and locals are friendly and helpful, which makes it perfect for a solo traveler." ― van Dop

Medellín, Colombia

"When I first told people I was planning a solo trip to Medellín in Colombia, so many peopled warned me not to go. Luckily for me, I didn' t listen to them, as I would have seriously missed out! What makes Medellín such a great destination to travel solo too is salsa! Up until visiting Colombia, I' d never ventured out much in the evenings alone as I was either concerned for my safety or I just didn' t feel comfortable sitting alone in a bar drinking. The salsa dancing culture in Medellín meant that as a solo female traveler, I could go out to a dance class then head to the salsa clubs alone and have a fun-filled night of dancing and meeting new people without ever feeling awkward or lonely." ― Claire Summers, travel blogger at Claire' s Itchy Feet

Napa, California

"A great destination for solo travel in 2020 is Napa, California, even if you aren' t much of a wine drinker like myself. Stay at the Meritage Resort & Spa. Sit on the balcony to relax and look at the view of the vineyard or even take a walk through it. On a hot day, a nice dip in the pool is refreshing, or head to their spa to unwind. Napa is also a place for foodies. There are many Michelin Star restaurants. Also, a food tour is a great place to try many different delectable cuisines." ― Holly McGuinn, travel blogger at HollyDayz

Georgia

"The country of Georgia is arguably the most underrated travel destination in the world. It packs a lot into a small area. Tbilisi has cobbled streets, centuries-old churches and wine cellars, and breathtaking views around every corner. It has a distinctive blend of post-Soviet dilapidation and emerging modernization, and is only a short drive away from snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes and fun-packed beaches. Solo travelers can experience a lot without having to undertake long transportation hauls on their own." ― Konrad Waliszewski, travel blogger and co-founder of the app TripScout

Mexico City, Mexico

"I had fun spending a few days alone in Mexico City. There are plenty of museums, architectural and historic sites to explore, and it' s nice to be able to go at your own pace and take your time. The anthropology museum, for example, is gigantic, and I liked how I could focus on the exhibits that interested me the most. I found locals to be welcoming and friendly, especially at specialty bars such as the gothic El Scary Witches. It' s easy to strike up a conversation with the people around you." ― La Carmina

Tajikistan

"Tajikistan is a tiny Central Asian country on few traveler' s maps, which is all the more reason to visit! Though small, its mountains are massive; more than 90% of the country is covered by towering mountain ranges. If epic mountain vistas (and virtually empty trekking trails) aren' t enough, Tajik people are also worth the trip ― they' re some of the sweetest and most hospitable in Central Asia. It' s difficult to go a day without an invitation for tea or a friendly chat, which is a blessing, as any solo traveler knows. In this age of mass tourism and frustrated locals, Tajikistan is a treat you don' t want to miss." ― Alex Reynolds, travel blogger at Lost With Purpose

Australia

"Known for its laid-back culture, and some of the world' s friendliest, most welcoming locals, Australia is a great place to travel solo. While you' ll definitely have to brush up on Aussie slang, there' s no language barrier for English speakers, the Aussie dollar right now is very low, and there' s a huge amount of incredible country to explore, whether you' re interested in climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge for a city escape or camping under the stars in the outback. Walk into a pub alone and you' ll end up sharing a beer with the locals; walk up to the beach by yourself, and you' ll likely get invited over to join a summer barbie. Plus, if you' re wanting to support Australia after the devastating bushfire season this year, a great way to do so is by visiting!" ― Meg Jerrard, travel blogger at Mapping Megan

Ecuador

"I recommend Ecuador for your next solo destination, thanks to its breadth of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. While Quilotoa Lake is at the top of my list, there' s plenty to do and see for every travel style. Whether you want to channel your inner mountaineer, surf the coast, traverse the jungle, or channel your love for wildlife ― Ecuador has it. There are so many amazing things to do in Ecuador." ― Olivia Christine, travel blogger at O. Christine

Iceland

"As someone who has traveled solo to over 15 countries, I believe one of the best places to travel solo to is Iceland. Statistically, it is one of the safest places in the world, but it also has so many great things to do by yourself. From soaking in the Blue Lagoon to driving the Golden Circle, you will not run out of things to see and do in this beautiful country. And it doesn' t matter what time of year! You will love it winter or summer." ― Danielle Nelson, travel blogger and creator of Pack This Journal

Ethiopia

"Ethiopia remains one of my favorite solo travel experiences. The capital, Addis Ababa, serves as the gateway to Ethiopia' s mythical and ancient world and continues to earn its reputation for friendly people, delicious food and the world' s best coffee. Spend a few days basking in the city' s restaurant and market culture, then take off to explore the ancient stone churches of Lalibela, which I believe are even more impressive wonder than Petra (so visit before every other traveler catches on!). Nature-lovers can then find a number of ways to get off the grid throughout the country, such as the Simien Mountains." ― Waliszewski

Edinburgh, Scotland

"For ghosts and grand tales, magical Harry Potter moments, stunning Scottish architecture and a multitude of exhilarating festivals to enjoy throughout the year, there' s no better city than Edinburgh. As a solo traveler, you' ll be warmly welcomed by friendly locals. Walking through the streets at night need not be a worry. You' re in good hands here!" ― Teacake

Grand Canyon, Arizona

"Solo hiking and backpacking trips are an amazing way to escape into nature and experience true inner peace. The Grand Canyon is my favorite destination for solo hiking and getting into the solitude of nature. The stunning perspective shift that traveling down into the canyon provides is unparalleled in all my other hiking experiences. Plus, the popular trails are usually busy enough that you' ll run into plenty of other hikers if you want to chat and make friends." ― Carrie Hoffman, digital nomad and co-founder of the Bigger Life Adventures yoga and adventure retreat

El Nido, the Philippines

"The Philippines is a great place to travel solo in 2020. El Nido is full of beautiful beaches with endless water sports, boutique hotels, and design-led hostels ' perfect for meeting other solo travelers. The island' s famous boat tours are a great place for solo travelers to experience the culture with the comfort of a group." ― Lamback

Montenegro

"Montenegro delivers the benefits of Croatia, but without the overtourism. This tiny country has one of Europe' s best beaches, countless charming old towns adorning the Bay of Kotor, and incredible natural parks and wineries throughout the country. It' s easy to rent a car and explore the entire country on your own in a relatively short amount of time." ― Waliszewski

Alberta, Canada

"If you' re in North America, I recommend traveling to Alberta, Canada. Between Calgary' s bites and the national parks, you can indulge in " me time.’" ― Stephanie Be, travel blogger at TravelBreak and founder of lifestyle app BUENA

Istanbul, Turkey

"In recent years, Turkey has taken a hit in the tourism sector. While things are starting to recover, it' s still an excellent place to visit in terms of affordability. Istanbul has long been a culturally vibrant city. Offering some of the region' s most unique experiences. It' s a perfect destination for solo travelers interested in digging into one of the world' s oldest civilizations." ― Erick Prince-Heaggans, travel blogger at Minority Nomad

South Island, New Zealand

"Although I might be biased because I am a Kiwi myself, I still have the South Island of New Zealand up at the top of my list as a great solo travel location for 2020. OK, it is on the edge of the world, which means a long flight, jet lag and an expensive plane ticket. But road-tripping around the beautiful South Island, where you can easily find a spot to watch the sunset and have a glass of wine in the wilderness alone, is sure to provide you with whatever it was you set off to achieve by solo traveling in the first place. You can surf on the East Coast, then drive an hour and a half and be in the Southern Alps that run right through the middle of the South Island to go snowboarding or hiking. If that hasn' t sold it for you, then maybe the fact there are no snakes or deadly animals will make the thought of a hike into the wilderness a pleasant one." ― Eamon Wood, travel blogger at Wayward Wheeler

Savannah, Georgia

"A great destination is Savannah, Georgia. The delicious food alone would bring me back! The Pirate' s House’s award-winning pecan fried chicken is mouthwatering, and visit the nostalgic Leopold' s for ice cream. Savannah also has a lot of history, parks and tours to keep you busy. Not too far away is Tybee Island, where you can relax on the beach and listen to the sound of the ocean." ― McGuinn

Argentina

"If you want a destination to both indulge you and inspire you at the same time, Argentina is your place. There are few better cities in the world to wander as a solo traveler than Buenos Aires. You will experience the best of Latin American and European culture all in one place. Delicious food and wine, sexy tango dancing, vibrant music, beautiful architecture, world-class art, highly caffeinated yerba mate, and vivacious people ' do you need any more reasons? A short flight from there can also get you to breathtaking Patagonia and the world-class wine region of Mendoza." ― Waliszewski

South Tyrol, Italy

"For a European solo trip, I recommend rock climbing in the Dolomites of South Tyrol. Start the day with mountains, and finish it with a smile. ― Be

Thailand

"For younger or inexperienced solo travelers, I always like to recommend Thailand. I think of it as just the perfect training ground for solo travel. Thailand has a way of feeling quite adventurous, especially if you haven' t traveled much in Asia yet. At the same time, since it' s such an established tourist destination, you also never have to worry about travel logistics too much. There are social backpacker hostels and cozy hotels virtually everywhere in Thailand, so you can always find the atmosphere you' re looking for." ― Bron

South Of France

“The South of France makes the perfect road trip for a solo traveler. Drive through lavender and sunflower fields in full bloom, kayak through turquoise blue waters in the Gorge du Verdon and chase Van Gogh in Arles, finding the real-life places he painted and lived. Go in the summer, end of June/early July, to see Provence at its best.” ' Jen Ruiz, travel blogger at Jen on a Jet Plane

Lisbon, Portugual

"Lisbon is one of my favorite cities, and with good reason. The people are friendly, the architecture is gorgeous, the food is phenomenal and it' s one of the most affordable destinations to visit in Europe." ― Tausha Cowan, travel blogger at The Globe Getter

La Paz, Mexico

“If you' re looking to relax and get off-the-grid, look no further than to the beautiful, uninhabited beaches of La Paz. Located in the Mexican state of Baja California Sur, this city is the perfect place to jet off to pristine remote beaches and surrounding pueblos. If adventure is what you crave, be sure to visit during whale shark season when you can snorkel with these gentle giants.” ' Asia Dawn Simonelli, relationship coach and travel blogger

Budapest, Hungary

"Budapest has long been on intrepid travelers' bucket lists. Its stunning architecture, delicious food scene, and refreshing thermal baths make for an exceptional experience. What many don' t know is that Budapest is home to one of Europe’s best music scenes, with world-class musicians performing everything from classical to rock. It gives solo travelers more than enough to fill up their itinerary." ― Prince

San Juan, Puerto Rico

"If you like beaches, good food, and a good party, San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a great idea for a solo traveler. San Juan is vibrant with a strong local culture. There are events pretty much every day for locals and tourists alike. Whether it' s mingling with locals at the Bomba, [traditional Puerto Rican music] performances at El Patio de Bonanza on a Monday night, or wandering the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, there' s plenty that will keep you entertained." ― van Dop

Rwanda

“The capitol city of Kigali is one of the cleanest cities in the world. The people are hospitable, and their tourism infrastructure is reliable. The major draw to visit Rwanda is to see the endangered mountain gorillas. The permit costs around $2000, but it’s worth it to see these beautiful animals in their natural habitat.” ' Nathan Fluellen, host and travel blogger at World Wide Nate

Barcelona, Spain

"Barcelona, Spain, is an amazing destination when traveling solo. There are plenty of activities you can do alone, such as touring historic churches and parks designed by the famous Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí, or visiting the Picasso Museum. Get lost in the gorgeous maze of streets in the Gothic Quarter and stop for a glass of sangria and some people-watching. At night, head to see flamenco dancing before ending the day in a tiny restaurant to have some authentic paella. The city is safe, transportation is abundant, and the locals are always welcoming." ― Christine Johnson, travel blogger at My Traveling Kids

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

"With the Expo 2020 Dubai revving up for its October start time, Dubai is the place to visit in 2020. Dubai has always been one of those places where it' s easy to make fast friends and you could meet " anyone,' and going in 2020 only triples its magical effects. I' d go as early as possible to avoid the inevitable Expo 2020 price inflation, but if you can make it before May, you' re guaranteed tours, accommodations, sights and overall trip quality unique to this year." ― Gabby Beckford, travel blogger at Packs Light

Albuquerque, New Mexico

“If you’re looking to knock a bucket list item off your solo travel list this year, save up your money for a sunrise hot air balloon ride during mass ascension at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. It won’t matter if friends don’t make the splurge ' flying in the air with hundreds of other balloons at the same time is a singular experience. Bonus? The balloons come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, from Yoda to pink elephants!” ' Ruiz

San Pedro, Belize

“San Pedro, Belize, is the ideal destination for beach bums. They have fresh lobsters the size of your arm for less than $20, the second-largest coral reef in the world and the impressive Great Blue Hole, best appreciated by air. You can book a tourist flight in a small propeller plane that lasts an hour. The official language is English and the chosen mode of transportation is golf cart.” ' Ruiz

Cinque Terre, Italy

“While this beautiful cluster of Italian villages is often considered a romantic escape for couples or a destination to add to your bucket list for a someday visit, I think the time to go is now. Thanks to accommodation platforms like Airbnb, you can rent a fairly affordable apartment or homestay for a week and take the time to really explore. I went on a solo trip in 2019 and had an incredible time. Cinque Terre consists of five villages connected by footpath and by train. The train is really easy to navigate and there are English-speaking tourism ambassadors at each station ready to help you if you get lost. The towns are small and easy to maneuver, and you can’t go wrong with ordering pizza or pasta at restaurants that don’t have translated menus. Summer tends to be the busiest season, but also the best time to go solo because you’ll never stand out in the crowd. Keep your clothing low-key, travel light and pack smart, and you’ll be good to go! Just don’t forget to bring enough memory cards to hold all the incredible pictures you’ll take!” ' Francesca Murray, travel blogger at One Girl : One World

New York City, New York

"If you want to be surrounded by people on your solo travels, then what better place than the Big Apple? You can blend in with the masses and pretend you are living that Manhattan life! Take a stroll through Central Park or along the High Line. Shop at Chelsea Market or on 5th Avenue. Hit up a museum and a gallery or two. But if you really want to try something different and totally unique, take the tramway to Roosevelt Island. You will get some amazing views of the city on your ride over and back. Also, be sure to stand at the tip of the island at Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms State Park and soak in all Manhattan has to offer from the middle of the East River. It is like taking a step back in time when you are on the island and it is totally unique to anywhere else in the five boroughs." ― Ostermann

Guatemala

"Guatemala was the first country that I ever traveled to solo, and it is, in my opinion, one of the best places to have a magical solo trip in 2020. It' s hard to really describe what makes Guatemala so special, perhaps it' s the magical Lake Atitlán or the rumbling volcanos that overlook Antigua. Whatever it is, Guatemala has a way of capturing your heart, and the only hard thing about traveling there is leaving! Transportation is improving there and it is now much safer and easier to travel from town to town. You will find many other solo travelers in Guatemala, so you will never be alone for long." ― Summers

Easter Island

“This small but fascinating island is full of wonders, from ancient Moai statues that you can easily road-trip around the island to see to the jovial locals who are more than happy to tell you the tales of their past and present cultures. Stay at an Airbnb and get to know your local host or head down to the main Moai statues at sunset, where you' re sure to meet locals and other solo travelers!” ' Ramos

Dublin, Ireland

"Dublin, Ireland, is a fantastic city to explore as a solo traveler. Matter of fact, it was the first city I traveled to as a solo female traveler. Dublin has an interesting and captivating history while being as cosmopolitan as any European capital city! I stayed at an Airbnb inside the city walls and was able to walk to everything easily. For those not in love with a lot of walking, or should the weather be inclement, Dublin' s transportation is first-rate, from buses to trams to trains. The city is safe and I never felt uncomfortable exploring or dining alone. Dublin' s historical attractions, such as Dublin Castle or The Book of Kells, give one a peek into Dublin' s ancient roots. The Temple District is a lively and trendy reminder that Dublin produces great beer and has great pubs to enjoy it in, serving traditional Irish cuisine. It’s a great way to meet new people and make new friends, as the Irish are some of the friendliest people on earth! Dublin is a great city for solo travel: safe, clean, walkable, great transportation and friendly, helpful people." ― Linda Malys Yore, travel blogger at Linda On The Run

Bhutan

"I highly recommend Bhutan. Since Bhutan mandates a fixed tourism fee per person, it doesn' t matter how many people you go with, and I' d say it' s the best place for some quiet reflection. Rich in natural beauty, plants and animals, many come here to be enlightened and achieve happiness. Most Bhutan visitors are drawn to either its culture, way of life, happiness index or religion. Seeing people lead their lives with simple contentment is enough to make you reevaluate yourself and your life. With so many lessons to learn, you' ll definitely emerge a lighter, more wholesome person from your visit to Bhutan." ― Isabel Leong, travel blogger at Bel Around The World

Aspen, Colorado

“To my surprise, Aspen has been one of my favorite solo travel destinations to date. I think solo travel can really lead to self-development and growth, so I decided to try a new outdoor activity during this trip. I took one-on-one snowboarding lessons and I had an absolute blast. It was the perfect way to get out of my comfort zone and stay active while traveling alone.” ' Ciara Johnson, travel blogger at Hey Ciara

Berlin, Germany

"Because of Berlin' s incredible techno and nightlife scene, it' s a great destination for solo travelers ' especially those interested in electronic music, DJs and nightlife. The scene in Berlin is very welcoming, and with clubs like Berghain, Sisyphos and Tresor still operating after decades of transforming the techno music scene, it' s a worthwhile destination. The nightlife scene in Berlin might not be for everyone, but for those interested in music, the clubs are great places to make new friends and easily meet new people with shared interests. Tourism in Berlin is booming, and it' s best to visit while these clubs still run regularly, as other big Berlin nightclubs are continuing to shut down due to government pressure and social changes in the city." ― Adam Groffman, travel blogger at Travels of Adam

Quotes have been lightly edited and condensed for clarity.

The Huffington Post

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Safe travel advice when visiting the Middle East

9 January 2020
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Recent events in the Middle East have put travelers on edge. Here are some tips on staying safe if you plan on travelling to the region in the near future.

 

" Maintain a high level of vigilance' ' travel security experts advise caution when traveling to the Middle East

Jan 8, 2020 

By MEERA JAGANNATHAN and ANDREW KESHNER

The State Department says Americans should maintain " situational awareness' in the region following the Baghdad airstrike

syria 1034467 1920Tourists at the Khazneh, or Treasury, in Petra, Jordan. The popular destination is in a region of the world where tensions can be expected to rise after an U.S. airstrike in Baghdad, Iraq, killed a top Iranian military official.

Iran and Iraq are obviously not destinations for most U.S. tourists, but experts say U.S. citizens should exercise caution when traveling to other countries in the Middle East following the U.S. airstrike that killed Iranian military leader Qassem Soleimani at Baghdad' s international airport last Friday.

Iran, which has several armed allies in the region, retaliated Wednesday by firing a volley of ballistic missiles at two American military bases in Iraq. The Federal Aviation Administration banned U.S. airlines from flying over Iran, Iraq and waters of the Gulf of Oman and Persian Gulf, and Reuters reported that a number of non-U.S. airlines, including Emirates and Lufthansa, had canceled flights around Iraq and Iran.

Meanwhile, a Ukraine-bound Boeing 737 BA, -0.77% operated by Ukraine International Airlines crashed Wednesday after taking off from Tehran, killing all 176 people on board. Ukraine' s embassy in Tehran said the crash was under investigation by a commission, and that any statements about its causes before the commission' s decision were "not official," the Washington Post reported.

Iran and Iraq are listed as Level 4, meaning do not travel to them, by the State Department, while Israel and Jordan are deemed Level 2, calling for increased caution.

Travel experts advise caution when visiting the Middle East. "Any of those places in the Middle East, I would have a heightened level of concern," Tim Bradley, managing partner of IMG GlobalSecur, a Tavares, Fla., a firm advising companies, nongovernmental organizations and mission groups on safe travel across the globe, said last week after Soleimani' s killing.

The State Department did not respond immediately to a request for comment Wednesday, but it urged all U.S. citizens last week to leave Iraq "due to heightened tensions" in the country and surrounding region.

The department sent out a string of notices on Twitter TWTR, +1.25% cautioning American citizens in countries including Morocco, Lebanon, Kuwait to maintain "a high level of vigilance" and "good situational awareness" in light of the tensions in the region. American citizens in Bahrain should also be on the lookout for demonstrations or unrest, the State Department said.

"While we have no information indicating a threat to American citizens, we encourage you to continually exercise the appropriate level of security awareness," a department tweet stated.

The State Department regularly issues travel advisories on a 1-to-4 scale; countries rated at Level 1 are places where travelers should "exercise normal precautions," while Level 4 is a warning not to travel to a country so designated.

For context, Iran and Iraq are listed as Level 4 countries, while places like Israel and Jordan are deemed Level 2. These are countries where the State Department says travelers should use "increased caution."

Travelers should be especially aware in public squares, and should also recognize that U.S. embassies and Western-branded hotels can face increased risks of attack, Bradley added.

The State Department' s " Smart Traveler Enrollment Program' is a free service under which travelers send their itineraries to the department.

What about Americans planning travel to lower-risk Middle Eastern destinations like Jordan, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar?

"Don' t cancel your plans," said Matthew Bradley, the regional security director for International SOS, a medical and travel security services firm (and no relation to Tim Bradley of IMG GlobalSecur).

That said, travelers to those traditionally lower-risk regions might still minimize their movements to reduce the risk of being a victim of circumstance, he said, and maintain a heightened sense of awareness.

Trust your gut, said GlobalSecur' s Bradley, a former FBI special agent. "If you don' t feel comfortable somewhere, it' s time to leave."

Tim Bradley said there are other ways to plan ahead:

  • Enroll in the State Department' s "Smart Traveler Enrollment Program," a free service under which travelers send their itineraries to the department. The program gives updates on a country' s safety conditions and enables government officials to get in touch in case of emergencies.
  • Brush up on current events before traveling, even if it' s just to know when holidays are approaching, he said.
  • Travelers should be in touch with family and friends back home as their trip proceeds. It' s also smart to leave a hard copy of the trip itinerary at home with someone.
  • Arrange transportation from the airport to the hotel ahead of time. Hotels typically can provide a car service, he said.

Market Watch

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Tips on traveling abroad for the first time

26 December 2019
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Traveling to a foreign country for the first time can be both exhilarating and anxiety inducing: have you considered all the required information, devices, social protocols and social etiquette? How about finances, security and insurance? Much to consider. Here are some tips on how best to navigate.

10 Things You Need to Know About Traveling Abroad for the First Time

DECEMBER 26, 2019

By Megan Grant
Parade

Remember that one time I went to Paris and brought my blowdryer so that I could look #fabulous while strolling down the Champs-Élysées, but forgot that the outlets are different and I couldn' t use it so my hair was a giant ball of frizz for eight days?

Fun times.

There are so many details we forget when traveling abroad' some minor (see: the great hair frizz of 2018) and some much more crucial. If you' re planning on boarding a plane and adventuring to a faraway place, here are 10 things you need to keep in mind about traveling abroad.

10 Things to Know About Traveling Abroad

1. Figure Out How You Can Pay for Things Beforehand
"l just swipe my card, yeah?" Maybe. But maybe not. Michael Turtle of Time Travel Turtle tells Parade.com, "When you' re in a different country, you may not be able to pay for things in the way that you' re used to. I normally always just tap my credit card at home, but there are quite a few countries where you still need to use your PIN, so make sure you remember it if you' re planning to use your card. There are some countries (particularly in Scandinavia) that are moving to a cashless economy, so they may have no option but to use a card."

If you plan to use a card, one more word of caution: Fees. Watch out for them. "Your bank may charge quite high fees so look into this in advance and investigate your options," Turtle advises. "You can normally find a credit card offer that will have zero international transaction fees and I would recommend signing up for one of them if you' re going to be doing a lot of travel. On the other hand, there are still a lot of countries that mainly use cash' even Japan, despite its very modern reputation' so it' s also wise to have a card that will let you make cash withdrawals without a huge fee."

Cash always works too, but again, there' s one caveat you have to be careful of, according to Turtle: "Bringing your own country' s cash and exchanging it is also a good option, although I rarely do that because you' ll always lose a bit of money on the conversion and I prefer not to travel with a lot of money on me."

2. Dress Accordingly
You may be a stranger in a completely foreign place, but try not to look like it, okay?

"One of my suggestions would be to try to blend in with the locals. You don' t want to stand out too much by looking like a tourist because not only can this be embarrassing but it can set you up as a target for pickpocketing or theft," says travel writer Reannon Muth. So, what should we do to avoid this?

"To blend in, I' d suggest wearing muted colors or dark colors and avoid wearing sneakers (especially white ones!)," she explains. "In the US, people wear sneakers all the time, but in Europe and most of the other countries I' ve visited (I' ve been to over 40), people only wear athletic shoes when they' re working out. Sneakers are usually a dead giveaway that you' re a tourist. I' d also recommend wearing clothing that' s somewhat stylish (or at the very least fits well and isn' t overly baggy or wrinkled). In the US, a sports hoodie, yoga pants, and flip flops (athletic leisurewear) is perfectly acceptable attire for wandering around town, but I' ve found that in many other countries, people aren' t as casual with their attire."

3. Invest in a Pair of Good Noise-Canceling Headphones
Flights are long. Planes are loud. You won' t be able to sleep, read, watch movies, or do anything else with the sound of jet engines numbing your ears. "Good noise-canceling headphones for the flight are a must," says international speaker Adnan Kukic. He recommends the Sony WH1000MX3.

4. Don' t Assume People Speak English
This one is tough, I know. What the heck else are you supposed to speak? Before you go to another country, though, you should brush up on the basics, at the very least. Muth explains why:

"It can be rude to just walk up to a sales clerk and start speaking English. Even if you' re in a touristy area and are 99.9% positive the person speaks English, it' s still polite to greet them in their own language and then ask them if they speak English. At a minimum, you should take the time to learn how to say " hello,' " excuse me,' " please,' and " thank you.’"

5. Check Your Phone Plan
During my frizz-filled trip to Paris, I made another startling discovery: Apparently, the phone towers in Las Vegas don' t reach to France. Who knew?

You might be able to use your phone overseas. You might also be charged an arm and a leg for it. "Most plans will charge exorbitant fees to use your phone overseas," explains Turtle, "although some do have good deals about international roaming, so it' s worth investigating whether your provider does. For most people, though, you' re not going to want to have long conversations or text message conversations on your phone while you' re away."

Thankfully, there are plenty of alternatives for staying in touch with people' when you have WiFi, that is. "I find it' s quite easy to avoid doing that if you just make calls with something like Skype or WhatsApp when you have WiFi at your hotel," Turtle says. "The problem is data. We have become so accustomed to using our phone to look at maps, search for public transport timetables, check opening hours, and find reviews of restaurants, that you may be lost (literally) without data on your phone. So, in this case, I recommend buying a local SIM card that has enough data for your stay."

It' s always good to err on the side of safety, though. "… you shouldn' t assume that you' ll always be able to get an internet connection while you' re traveling," continues Turtle. "Perhaps the hotel WiFi is dodgy or you can' t get a data signal on your phone. I always make sure to download maps for offline viewing on my phone and I screenshot any directions or public transport timetables that I need. I also take photos of signs at train stations or ferry ports that I might need later on. We are so used to knowing that any information we need is right at our fingertips at home, but that' s not always the case when we' re traveling so it' s better to be prepared."

6. Take a Nap ASAP
Jet lag is brutal. Your body has its own internal clock, and when it' s disrupted, weird things can happen. According to the Mayo Clinic, it can go beyond sleepiness and even affect your mood and concentration and give you, ahem, stomach issues. No thanks.

Thankfully, there' s a little trick. "As soon as you land in your abroad destination, take a nap, even if for just a few hours," advises Kukic. "It helps greatly to adjust to the different time zone."

7. Respect Mother Nature and All Her Creatures
While on an exciting trip, we understandably want to do things we' d never do at home. But there' s a reason to pause and think before you take part in typical touristy activities: It might be to the detriment of a living creature.

"Never ride an elephant (or support animal tourism)!" says Dani West, elephant advocate for Free the Oregon Zoo Elephants. "Interested in getting up close and personal with our majestic wildlife? Support and visit sanctuaries around the world … but do your research! Never ride, bathe, or pay to see them in zoos or circuses."

Have all the fun you want on your trip, but still be mindful of how your activities impact others.

8. Remember That You Might Not Be in a Service-Based Country
"… the US is unique in that we' re a " service industry country,’" Muth tells Parade.com. "In nearly every other country I' ve visited, this isn' t true. Americans' version of " good customer service' doesn' t exist. Shopkeepers may not greet you when you walk into a store and waiters might not come and refill your water glass. They aren' t being rude; that' s just the norm in their countries. You' ll often find that you' ll have to hunt down a salesperson or waiter in order to purchase something or put in an order."

Muth explains that this extends to ordering food at a restaurant. You might not get as much special attention as you would in the US: "Similarly, when you order in a restaurant, it' s customary in most countries that you don' t ask for substitutes with your meal. You order what' s on the menu and that' s it (no " dressing on the side' requests or " Can you add almond milk instead of regular milk?' ). This really isn' t done unless you have an allergy and it' s actually considered rude. It' s a quick way to earn a reputation for being a " demanding crazy American.' Obviously, you can ask for substitutes if you really need to. But I' d just try to keep it to a minimum. If you have to change the entire order to fit your tastebuds, you might be better off ordering something else."

And while we' re on the topic of food…

9. Be Prepared to Change Your Eating Habits and Meal Schedule
"Eating and drinking can be very different in another country and it' s important to be prepared for things to not be the way you would normally expect," says Turtle. "In Spain, for instance, dinner is always eaten very late so you may often not find restaurants open at 6 p.m. or 7 p.m. But I' ve also been caught out in smaller towns in Europe where they' ll stop serving dinner at 9 p.m. In countries like Morocco or Malaysia, you' ll rarely find alcohol served with meals for religious reasons, so don' t expect you can have a glass of wine with dinner. And in Japan, you may come across the restaurants where you have to order all your courses from a vending machine at the entrance before you sit down."

Tipping also varies from country to country and culture to culture. "In North America, it' s expected to leave a considerable tip for every meal, while most places in Europe just expect a small token of a couple of euros, while many Asian countries find a tip to be rude and you shouldn' t leave anything," adds Turtle.

10. Stay Aware of How Much Space You' re Taking Up
"Unless you grew up in a crowded city like New York, you may not be accustomed to maneuvering through cramped subway cars or crowded marketplaces, but in many other countries, space is more limited than it is in North America and locals are experts at taking up as little space as possible," says Muth.

"This also applies to your voice' talk quietly in public. Although it' ll differ depending on where in the world you' re traveling to, I find that in most of Europe and many places in Asia, people speak quietly and remain more reserved when talking to strangers," continues Muth. "This is partly cultural but also because people in, say, Tokyo, are used to moving among thousands of people every day and are conscientious about not disturbing people around them by speaking too loudly."

Traveling abroad is exhilarating and eye-opening. Just do your due diligence before you go and always be mindful of your behavior.

Parade

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Looking for travel inspiration?

17 December 2019
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New year, new travel adventures. Looking for a unique destination and fresh adventure can be a challenge. You can always take a volunteer vacation which will immerse you in a community and culture completely new to you. Or you could travel to a destination you had preconceptions about only to be amazed by discovering an untapped world of wonder. Here are a few suggestions from travel writers that may pique your interest. 

See Ya There! Here Are 10 Places That Travel Influencers Recommend Visiting in 2020

DECEMBER 17, 2019
By Jessica Sager
Parade

If you made a New Year' s resolution to travel more in 2020, get packing! From stateside locales to foreign lands that haven' t gotten much tourism yet, we' ve asked the experts where the best places to travel in 2020 are' and some of these options will surprise you. Whether or not you have a passport or wanderlust beyond our own borders, we' ve got a place for you.

Here Are 10 Places That Travel Influencers Recommend Visiting in 2020:

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

The Traveling Newlyweds can' t get enough of Hilton Head Island, S.C., whether for a vacation or a staycation. It' s just a 45-minute drive from Savannah, Ga., and about two hours from Charleston, but has all the trappings of a tropical getaway' white sand beaches, warm temperatures, 12 miles of breathtaking coastline, 50 miles of scenic trails, 250 restaurants and numerous award-winning resorts. There are a ton of family-owned eateries and businesses and a lot of live music and dining by the water. It' s also largely dog-friendly!

Pakistan

Michael Gerber and Lora Pope of Explore With Lora both recommended Pakistan for upcoming adventures thanks to its amazing nature and mountains' and its lack of crowds from other tourists, unlike nearby India and Nepal. You' ll need a visa to go, but Pope says it' s worth it. "Most people think that Pakistan is an extremely dangerous country that you cannot visit, but this couldn' t be further from the truth," she said. "I spent a month there in August and it completely changed my views on the country. The hospitality in Pakistan is world-class. The locals are genuinely so happy to have you there and will go out of their way to make sure you have an amazing time."

Faroe Islands

The Faroe Islands in the North Atlantic is an underrated gem. Dangerous Business travel blogger Amanda Williams notes that while the Faroe Islands aren' t nearly as famous as its neighbors Iceland and Norway, its landscapes rivals both of them' without the crowds. "Getting to the Faroes is easier than many people realize (you can catch direct flights from several European cities)," Williams says, "and the infrastructure is on-par with any other destination in Scandinavia. The islands are easy to get around with a rental car, there' s tons of great hiking and the nature is pretty mind-blowing."

Newfoundland

Want to go Ireland without actually going across the pond? Try Newfoundland, Kate McCulley of Adventurous Kate recommends, noting that the Canadian province boasts similar craggy cliffs, picturesque seaside villages and friendly locals with lilting accents who tell stories and welcome you as one of your own. "But the best part is that Newfoundland feels a thousand times less tourist-ed than Ireland," she says. "When traveling in Newfoundland, you' ll be welcomed warmly by everyone you meet."

In terms of specific activities and excursions, McCulley recommends seafood cooked on the beach in Twillingate, a treasure hunt for art installations during the Bonavista Biennale, and, for the adventurous, she says, "You can become an honorary Newfoundlander by getting "screeched in" in a bizarre province-wide ceremony involving alcohol and kissing a codfish."

Bonus? McCulley adds, "Newfoundland is an Instagram fan' s paradise, from the brightly painted homes of Jelly Bean Row in St. John' s to the unusual geologic makeup of Gros Morne National Park to the fishing village of Trinity that looks plucked from a storybook."

Thailand

While all of Thailand is lovely, Veronika Primm of Travel Geekery loves one particular island the most: Koh Phangan. "It' s a tiny paradise island near Koh Samui, which got famous thanks to its regular Full Moon parties," Primm told us. "The island is so much more than that, though. It' s a unique spiritual base for many, with yoga and mindfulness courses and retreats in abundance. It' s a place where Thai people still outnumber tourists. It' s lush, it' s green and has miles of gorgeous beaches." One thing to note, Primm says, is that Koh Phangan isn' t accessible by car or plane, so you' ll need a ferry to get there' but it' s well worth the trip!

Myanmar

Becca Siegel and Dan C. Gold of Half Half Travel told us that Myanmar is the hottest destination for 2020' possibly literally also' for its affordability, safety and natural beauty. "Before going there, travelers should know that some parts of Myanmar get very hot, especially the tourism hot spot of Bagan," the pair told us. "It can feel 100 degrees Fahrenheit most days between 9 and 3 p.m., so all of your sightseeing should be done at sunrise and at sunset. The middle of the day is for chilling out by a pool at your hotel!"

Boise, Idaho

You weren' t expecting that one, were you? Travel vlogger Jessica Hirsch of Cheatdayeats recommends Boise, Idaho, for 2020' especially if you' re a foodie and love carbs.

"With a focus on potatoes, they have a restaurant dedicated to friends and a large focus on sustainability and farm-to-table. There' a major emphasis on where your food comes from and they' re majority passionate about food waste," Hirsch says. "This concept also applies to their beverage scene with mile markers to inform visitors on how far the brewery is located from where you' re enjoying a drink. There are many beautiful parks and outdoor activities to work off thee food to make it a very active trip as well. Also, for a fresh air and for views of the beautiful state, we recommend the Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic for a full hot-air balloon ride."

Emily Mandagie of The Mandagies agrees, adding, "Downtown Boise also has incredible locally sourced restaurants, breweries, and even its own wine country (Snake River Valley AVA). One of our favorite restaurants is Diablo & Sons Saloon, which is a tastefully wild-west themed bar with clever drinks and delicious tacos."

Japan

Because the Olympics are coming to Tokyo in 2020, so will travelers. Cat Lin of For Two Plz tells us, "The Japan Tourism Board, along with smaller regional- and city-level tourism boards, are incentivizing travelers to visit before and after the Olympic periods with cheap travel deals. Those who' ve had Japan on their bucket list, 2020 is a good year to make that dream trip happen. From a cost-saving perspective, don' t restrict yourself to just the Tokyo area. There is more to see, do, and explore when you expand your radar to nearby cities like Hakone and Nikki."

Amanda O' Brien of The Boutique Adventurer recommends Kanazawa in particular, which is about a 2.5 hour bullet train ride from Tokyo. "Kanazawa has all you want from areas like Kyoto without all the tourists, from samurai houses to geisha villages to dressing up in a kimono to stunning modern museum dedicated to DT Suzuki, who brought Zen Buddhism to the world," she says. "It is also home to Japan' s third most beautiful garden, Kenrokuen, and the production of gold leaf." Kanazawa is also just a 30 minute train ride from the Kaga thermal spa region and its Nadatera Temple and incredible art.

The Kii Peninsula is also a great spot, Retha Charette of The Roaming Nanny says. "It' s off the beaten path and holds all the ancient beauty one can think of about Japan' home to the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage the Kii Mountains stretch out towards the horizon ending at the ocean," she told us. "Temples dot the mountainsides with plenty of ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) to stay in!"

Slovenia

Slovenia has a little something for everyone' and you can brag to all your BFFs that you found it first. Foodies should hurry to explore the many culinary gems found across the 24 distinct gastronomic regions, and there is a lot to do in Slovenia all year long.

Jonathan Look, Jr., of Life Part 2 tells us, "Bordered by Italy, Austria, Hungary and Croatia, Slovenia stands on its own, but is influenced by all of these rich cultures. Alpine landscapes, charming cities and hospitable people are in abundance. The food and wine, which is largely unknown outside the region, is truly world-class. There is even a small coastline with beaches and scrumptious seafood."

Travelers will love the Festival of Kurentovanje, one of the oldest celebrations of Carnival in Europe. Featuring parades of costumed monsters and characters, Kurentovanje is recognized on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list. In the summer, visitors can enjoy 14 wine regions, including the world' s oldest active grapevine (over 450 years old!) in Maribor.

Lake Bled is great for scenic paddle-boating in fall. In winter, Slovenia is decked out for the Christmas season. Postojna Cave transforms into a winter wonderland, adorned with festive decorations and more than 2,100 colorful lights for its annual Christmas experience, a live performance featuring 16 biblical nativity scenes reenacted by more than 150 performers along the cave' s one-of-a-kind railway system. Additionally, avid skiers will delight at the fabulous slopes of the Julian Alps, particularly the eighteen different slopes at Kranjska Gora, a frequent host of international slalom competitions.

Alaska

Grab a coat and hit up Alaska! So many influencers sang the praises of the state: Louise Sattler loves Girdwood for its charming shops and cafes' and spectacular views of the Northern Lights.

Visitors can also enjoy Glacier Bay National Park to see the 200-year-old sheets of ice breaking away from the faces of glaciers before they melt away. Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve can only be reached by plane or boat, with many air connections from Juneau, Skagway or Haines via commuter air taxi service. Visitors can take the Glacier Bay Day Boat Tour for views of snow-capped mountains, tidewater glaciers, whales, sea lions, rare birds, coastal bears, eagles and more' plus close-up views of the Margerie and Grand Pacific Glaciers that cruise ships can' t match. Visitors can also enjoy kayaking, whale watching and authentic Alaskan experiences at the local Tribal House with hand-carved Totem Poles' each one telling a "story." Glacier Bay Lodge is the only commercial overnight accommodation in the park, Glacier Bay Lodge offers 48 rustic rooms nestled among Sitka spruce trees on the shores of Bartlett Cove, with the National Park Visitors Center on the second floor lobby, or Bartlett Cove Campground, which features bear-resistant food caches, firewood and a warming hut.

Julie Leventhal recommends the Tordrillo Mountain Lodge, Alaska' s first via ferrata climbing route with endless activities from helicopter-accessed fat tire mountain biking to world-class salmon fishing.

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