Travel Tips Archives - Page 2 of 5 - Girls Guide to The World

March 23, 2018 by admin

How to Travel Light

The reason most people don’t really get to enjoy their vacation is because they carry way too many stuff that they don’t need and end up expecting too much from the trip. Your luggage says so much about your trip. You only carry your swimsuit when you know you are going to swim. You carry your hiking gear when you know you are going to climb a mountain during your trip. By packing the essentials, you’re able to move freer and have space for anything you wish to bring back; however, if you over pack, then you risk complicating your trip. Rather than suffer from aches and pains, think about minimalistic traveling.

Traveling light is the best way to ensure that you get the most out of your trip without any restrictions. Here is how:

Frugal Lifestyle

Your lifestyle is most likely the root of the problem. You have fallen victim to consumerism, and now feel as if you are a certified hoarder. Start by getting lessons on frugal living from preparednessmama.com and also learn about the art of preparedness. A frugal lifestyle will make you less attached to material stuff making it easier for you to carry only what you need during your getaway.

Small Bag

According to one reputable forum for travel bloggers, one of the best ways to trick yourself into carrying less stuff is by buying a bag that is about 15% smaller than what you need. You will always pack according to the size of the bag you have. Stuff this little bag with everything you need until you feel you are satisfied. Once you are done, you can now transfer the same exact items to the originally intended bag and end up with a light luggage. However, if switching back to the bigger bag leads you into temptation, just stick to the smaller one.

No Luggage

Some travelers opt to hitchhike across the globe without any luggage. Going on a thrilling vacation without any bag might as well be the epitome of traveling light. You literally have nothing dragging you down. You can partake in any activity or go to any part of the world without a cloud of doubt in your mind. Regardless, you will still need tons of loose cash at your disposal to buy certain supplies and accessories when necessary.

Avoid Last Minute Rush

The best trips are planned in advance. Learning the proper principles of traveling light will enable you to be well-prepared and avoid making rash decisions with only one day to go. One month prior to your trip, get out a pen and paper and list all the things that you will need. Coming up with a complete itinerary will help you know what you need based on what you are going to do on the trip. Once your list is complete, start packing immediately. At this time, you are not under any pressure, and you can fold your clothes perfectly then place them in a nice small suitcase that will not cause you headache. At this early stage, you are still thinking logically.

December 8, 2017 by admin

Four Great Outdoor Activities to Enjoy This Winter in SoCal

Anybody who is planning on being in Palm Springs or the surrounding parts of SoCal this winter season has plenty of opportunities for fun. While the city is well-known for its beautiful strips and great amenities, many people arrive during the winter to take advantage of the unique climate that gives visitors an opportunity to enjoy it all.

Whether you enjoy some fun in the sun or want to get up close and personal with the cold, you’ll never be too far away from a variety of outdoor activities that are right up your alley. Today, we’ll look at four great outdoor activities within close proximity that can truly keep you both active and entertained while in the area.

Skiing and Snowboarding

While it may be warm in the valley this winter, you won’t have to drive far to find a winter wonderland. Less than two hours from Palm Springs, Big Bear Mountain Resorts offers plenty of winter fun tucked away in the San Bernardino National Forest.

Here, you’ll find plenty of skiing opportunities, snowboarding venues, ice skating rinks and other quintessential ski resort amenities that’ll take your mind off the snow-less winters of SoCal. With more runs and lifts than anywhere else in Southern California, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more authentic and inclusive winter experience.

Hunting

With plenty of outdoor activities available that don’t involve getting out of one’s comfort zone, some may wish to really immerse themselves in nature via a day of hunting.

One of the best hunting ranches near Palm Springs, Big Horn Canyon Ranch, provides would-be hunters with plenty of acres to explore and lots of wildlife to pursue. For as little as $100 per hunter, you can suit up and hunt everything from feral hogs to Angora Goats and Merino Sheep.

Be sure to stop by Woodbury Outfitters beforehand and stock up on all of your hunting needs.

Biking

Want to get a great exercise and explore the surrounding countryside at the same time? Then you might be ready for a day of biking this winter throughout SoCal.

Whether on-site at Joshua Tree National Park or in the heart of Palm Springs, you’ll be able to rent bicycles for as little as $10 per day during the winter months. You can use this time to explore the city up-close or take a quick drive out into the countryside and put your bike to work exploring the trails and paths that dot the landscape.

Rock Climbing

If you’re feeling particularly adventurous this winter, then consider spending at least one day rock climbing in and around the Palm Springs area. While traditionally an outdoor activity, you also have the option of taking the fun indoors at a venue like Desert Rocks Indoor Climbing Gym.

If you’d prefer to enjoy rock climbing au natural, then head up to Joshua Tree and enroll in the Rock Climbing School for beginners. You’ll be ready to scale cliffs in no time at all!

Ready to get adventurous this winter in SoCal? If you’re ready to take that energy into the great outdoors, these four options will all make for exciting and fun adventures with friends or while solo.

October 23, 2017 by admin

Spooky Experiences: Spine-Tingling Fun for a Vacation Treat

When you’re planning your next city vacation for the family, it’s always a fun idea to check out the spooky hotspots in your destination—especially if you’re traveling around Halloween.

Kids love anything to do with ghosts and haunted houses, and you’ll usually be able to find a few attractions to keep them happy.

Massachusetts is an excellent example of a spooky destination. Home to Salem, scene of the famous witch trials, it’s also got all sorts of spooky attractions you can check out during your time there. Here are some of the best.

Salem

We’ll start with the most well-known. Salem is famous the world over for the witch trials. Plays, books, and movies have been made about it, and it’s well worth visiting the famous New England town purely for historical reasons.

But the spooky nature of the town is what will keep the kids entertained, and it is known for its stories of hauntings, ghost sightings, and strange goings-on. It’s only about an hour from Boston, so check it out for yourself and keep your eyes open should you see something scary.

Also, take a look at the Salem Haunted Happenings website for more things to do when you arrive.

The Pilot House

The Pilot House was an inn that was open back in the 1800s, although it closed its doors a long time ago. Nowadays, it is known for its strange sightings that occur here fairly regularly.

For example, the “Lady in White” haunts the first floor, and you should also listen out for the sound of merrymaking, which locals are said to have heard during the night.

It’s easy to reach in Boston, so you can plan a trip from your hotel. This will be easy if you stay somewhere like the Marriott Peabody in the north of the city.

Copp’s Hill Burying Ground

A burying ground is always a good spot to look for ghosts, and this one in Boston certainly has plenty of stories that will chill the bone.

It’s been here since the mid-17th century, which is plenty of time for sightings of the dead to occur, and there are many stories of hauntings include sightings of slaves. It’s a peaceful place to visit, but would you dare to visit after dark?

Cutler Majestic Theater

This theater puts on some great shows and it is well worth visiting for that reason alone. However, you’re sure to hear something during your visit about its resident ghosts.

These include the spirits of a girl and a mayor, both of whom have been spotted on various occasions. Find out more about the sightings here.

Find the theater on Tremont Street (full details on its website), and book a visit. Even if you don’t spot any unusual activity, you can enjoy a fun evening’s entertainment watching a show.

Scare Yourself in Massachusetts

There are plenty of reasons to visit Massachusetts, including spending time in Boston, one of America’s great cities. But if you like the thought of visiting some haunted places during your stay, you will be spoilt for choice, so make sure you check out some of these places—and keep an eye out for anything strange.

February 7, 2017 by admin

10 Ways to Be Comfortable on Your Flight

Source

Whether jetting off on a once in a lifetime luxury experience, or heading off with just a backpack, ensuring you are comfortable on your flight is imperative. It doesn’t matter whether you are flying short or long haul, economy class can be unpleasant, but below are ten tips to make even the most reluctant flyer enjoy their flight…even just a little bit.

Shoes Off, Socks On

The minute the seatbelt light pings off take your shoes off, give your toes a wiggle, and pop on some comfy home socks or flight socks. Flight socks can help reduce risk of DVT and will be of great benefit to those who suffer from swollen legs during flights. Home socks, on the other hand, are purely to keep your toes warm when the air condition gets a little too much!

Blackout Sleeping Mask

Just like blackout curtains at home, blackout sleeping masks keep out any chinks of light. If you are trying to catch a snooze on your flight, you won’t be interrupted by the glare of television screens or reading lights.

Stay Hydrated

Once everybody is aboard the air in your cabin will dehydrate your skin very fast. This means headaches, dry eyes, and generally feeling pretty dreadful. So keep drinking, even if you’re not thirsty, and slather on moisturiser and lip balm.

Makeup Off

It is best to take your makeup off when you are into your flight. Dehydrated skin and a layer of makeup can equal nasty breakouts so it is best to remove it. You can always bring a small selection of your favourite products in your hand luggage to reapply a little before landing. If not, use it as an excuse to let your skin breathe.

Comfortable Clothing

High heels, knitted jumpers, and skinny jeans are all big no-no’s for flights. If you are travelling to a hot destination, by all means don a loose-fitting dress or shorts and t-shirt, but make sure to take a sweater with you on to your flight. Planes can become very chilly, and there is nothing worse than being cold for hours!

BYOF

Plane meals have come on leaps and bounds but, why not save yourself a little money and bring your own food? This means you avoid a potentially dreadful meal and can eat when you are hungry. On long haul flights, a back of popcorn in front of a movie is a great treat.

Pick Your Own Seat

If you are tall or like to sit in a certain section of the aircraft, you can usually pay a little extra to pick your own seat. There tend to me some more spacious seats towards the front of the plane, or anywhere with an emergency exit. Also, opting for a window seat means you have somewhere to rest your head for a siesta.

Go for a Stroll

After a couple of hours, we all start to get aches and pains from sitting for so long. There is no shame in taking a walk around the plane, or stretching your legs whilst going to the bathroom. Have a good stretch, it will help you feel refreshed.

Earphones and Earplugs

Earphones are a must, especially if you want to listen to music of watch something on the in-flight television. They can also be used to cancel out any noise, allowing you to sleep. Earplugs can also be used to help with a snooze or to cancel out the general noise around you that can become annoying.

Entertainment or Work

Sometimes you have to be come engrossed in something on your flight, or you can end up clock watching. This can be lethal on long haul flights. Take your laptop or tablet with you in your hand luggage, charge up your iPod, and binge watch a television show, play some games, or get some work done.

September 16, 2016 by admin

Do Treats Work? How Often?

When it comes to treats and being able to treat the dog that you’re training, you want to know more about how often and when you should give your dog the treats during the dog training programs. This is something so many people wonder when it comes to being able to train their dog and have it be as effective as possible. You do not want to reward your dog too little or too much. There are some initial rules and information that you should follow when it comes to dog training and providing your pup with treats throughout the sessions.

Giving Treats During Dog Training Sessions

When it comes to giving your dog treats, you want to do so in order to provide them with something that shows that they did the command how they should. The treats should only be given after you’ve said a command once, they complied with the command and then you reward them. This can be done as often as you’d like. However, never give the dog a treat if they do not do the command. Say the command again and then reward if they do the command. Also, try using a treat that is not commonly given to your pet during the dog training sessions. This way, it feels more like a reward to them each time they do the command that is asked of them.

When it comes to insightful dog training tips, or private dog training sessions in Los Angeles, make sure to check out The Loved Dog for more information. They can provide many different things that can help put you on the right track to helping your dog learn everything that they need to know and so much more. Speak with the professionals there today to find out if your training is going the way it should be.

May 10, 2016 by admin

Five essentials for your summer suitcase

The beach called. It is asking when you are going to arrive. If you are heading off for some summer sunshine this year then 2016 styles make it easier than ever to look great for less. Rock a capsule wardrobe and all keep all eyes on you as the temperature rises.

The eyes have it

Nothing hides the excesses of a big night than a great pair of shades. As well as keeping your eyes safe from harsh UV rays, a stylish pair of Ray Ban sunglasses will spare your blushes when you snap that holiday selfie. No-one wants to look back on their big trip with a touch of “morning after the night before” around the eyes. Totally worth it.

Go long

A maxi skirt is a go-to basic for any chic lady’s summer wardrobe. Whether you’re dressing it up with a statement necklace, mixing and matching with a solid or printed top, or switching in your favourite pair of wedges the maxi skirt can do it all. And if you’re feeling more slouchy than sleek then throw on a sleeveless t-shirt for a slender but sassy look.

Neutral t-shirts

You simply have to make space for two or three of these in your case – they will literally make or break your outfit options. They are great for travel days, rides out on sightseeing tours and you can quickly mix it up to go from day to night, pair them with denim cut-offs, your maxi or a fitted pair of cotton trousers. Effortless!

Hooray for denim

Always versatile and never out of fashion, a good pair of jeans are worth their weight in gold. Temperature drops at night? No problem. Starting to rain? Jeans have it covered. With an amazing range of cuts, colours and washes available in store this summer there’s bound to be a pair that rocks your holiday wardrobe world.

Always bring your flats!

Sadly, you might – at some point – have to come off the beach. I know, I know – it’ll be hard but you may have to eat, or drink, or dance or something. Kick off your flip-flops and get into a comfy pair of flats while you explore the local nightlife. Your feet will thank you for it at the end of the night!

Choose a smart bag

This one can be tricky to navigate. You’ll probably be carrying a guidebook, some cash, water and maybe your passport so you’ll need something that looks cool but isn’t easily parted with. Choose something that sits across your body and not only can you keep an eye on your valuables but it will keep out of your way when walking. A neutral colour like tan or black should chime with all of your holiday fashion choices.

So, that’s the wardrobe sorted. Time now to get that bikini bought and your airport taxi booked. Quick pro tip to finish: don’t choose the prettiest suitcase, pick the lightest. A smart choice now could be the weight you need to get that pair of shoes in under your airline weight limit. You’re welcome!

September 28, 2015 by Cate

5 Ideas for a Complete Family Holiday in Europe

A holiday in Europe is any family’s dream. Every country is worth visiting and each one has its uniqueness to offer that delights the different senses. Vacationing in Europe with the entire family can be a truly one-of-a-kind experience where you all build and share memories together. In order to have a complete family holiday in the old continent, then it is worth planning ahead of time. Doing so will make your itinerary more organized and you are bound to make the most of your time and resources. Here are some ideas how to achieve a perfect family holiday in Europe.

Plan your itinerary well. Europe is big and there is so much to see and experience. You won’t be able to see everything in just a few days or weeks. As such, plan your agenda so you will cover all the sites you really want to visit. Since you will be traveling with your family, you might want to consider driving around. Many car rental agencies can provide you what you need. If you are up to it, you could check out online for a luxury car hire in Europe that will give you space,safety as well as comfort and performance with all the features that families need .
Book air tickets in advance. There are literally millions of people visiting the continent and you might find it hard to book for the specific dates you were planning for your vacation. Make sure to make airline reservations ahead of time in order to get the seats and the dates you want. You might even find discounted tickets from some airlines.
Choose accommodations wisely and book in advance. While hotels and other accommodations are numerous, never forget that there are likewise other vacationers looking for the perfect place to stay during their vacation. Choose the ones that provide the kind of services your family needs, preferably near public transportation areas as well as in a safe neighborhood. Book in advance to avoid losing a good choice.
Consider the interests of your kids. Depending on the age of your children, it would be a great idea to put their needs as top priorities. For very young children, theme parks would be good places to visit in between trips to historical areas and buildings. There are also nature activities that will keep the kids excited and interested.
Don’t skip on your travel insurance. Your family is the most important thing that matters. When traveling abroad, especially with your children, travel insurance will cover for medical expenses and other unforeseen incidents such as lost luggage, flight accidents and other losses incurred during the travel either in your country or internationally.

April 20, 2015 by admin

Add-ons For Your Holiday

Airport lounges can be a stressless add-on, on your travels!

Your holiday booking process doesn’t end when you’ve got your flight, accommodation, and transfer sorted. There are plenty of extras you can add onto your travel plans, all designed to make your break go without a hitch, and help make the travel part as enjoyable as the rest, or as much as it can be anyway.

Let’s look at a few of the extras you should give some consideration to.

Insurance

Now, this is one that isn’t just about considering, it’s about doing! Never attempt to travel without adequate travel insurance, it’s simply not worth the risk, especially in the event of a problem. Remember to declare your pre-existing medical conditions, take the paperwork with you, and you’re good to go.

Airport parking

This is a godsend if you live a distance away from the nearest airport, because flying on public transport can sometimes mean excessively long coach journeys, or a stressful train journey! If there are several of you travelling, the cost will almost always be cheaper than multiple fares on the train or coach too.

Airport hotels

Another fantastic extra, especially useful if you have an early flight. We all know that we have to be at the airport a certain number of hours before our flight, depending on the destination, and if you’re flying early in the morning, this means an even earlier wake up time. A night in an airport hotel solves this problem, and also gives you an earlier start to your break! Of course, this could also work the opposite way around, and if you land very late in the evening, you could have a night’s sleep in the hotel before you embark on your journey home.

Airport lounges

This is a good idea if you’re not a fan of the airport experience, simply because of how crowded and busy it can get. Airport lounges give you a spot of peace and quiet, away from the madness of the general airport space. Most often, there will be refreshments and snacks included in the price of your admission, and it’s basically a relaxation space before you depart.

These are just a few of the additional extras that you can, and in some cases, should add onto your holiday booking. It’s not all about the flight, accommodation, and transfer, you sometimes need to look a bit deeper to make the most of your eagerly awaited holiday.

April 10, 2015 by admin

Money in your pocket

Image courtesy of Joann Jezequel

Cutting holiday costs is the aim of the game if you’re wanting to see more of the world, and whilst you might think this is all down to finding a cheap deal, you’ll be surprised to learn that there are plenty of small ways to save money, which add up to big savings.

Take how you get to the airport for example. Do you book expensive public transport? Do you book trains, coaches and taxis? This could be where your money is leaking away. I wised up to the fact that driving yourself to the airport could be the way to save cash, especially if you’re travelling as a family. I now book my airport parking as soon as I book my flight, and I know that my travel day will be laid-back as a result. Wherever you’re flying from you’ll find this is a service you can book, even regionally. I’ve booked Heathrow parking terminal 5 on several occasions and enjoyed the same level of service as I have when booking parking from a large airport in London.

This is just one way to cut costs, and there are countless others. Think about luggage for instance, do you need to book a suitcase, or could you make do with hand luggage if you used an airline that had a more generous hand luggage allowance? This is a possibility if you’re not going away for too long, and if you’re ruthless with what you take. The saving could be anything up to £40 on a return flight.

When you’re actually looking for your flight in the first instance, make sure you don’t jump for the first flight you see, and instead watch them for a while. Skyscanner is a great site to do just that, but try not to check them too much, as your interest will cause the costs to go up gradually. Every few days should be enough.

You could split book your flight, i.e. book two one ways flights, instead of booking a return, and see if that comes up cheaper, or you could try booking from different airports to see if you can find a cheaper flight by doing that. It’s about patience and trying different things, thinking outside the box, and sometimes this yields money saving results.

Woman with money (Creative Commons)

All inclusive hotels are a good way to save money for families, because the cost of food and drink is included; nobody has to worry about finding the money to eat out and you don’t have to put a limit on the number of soft drinks the kids can have. Alternatively, self-catering gives you the freedom to eat in or out, depending on how your money is or isn’t flowing.

It all comes down to perseverance and thinking a little cleverly when it comes to saving hard-earned money.

March 10, 2015 by admin

Don’t Call Them Yanks: Proper Etiquette for Brits Visiting the States

US Flag Backlit by Jnn13 (Wikipedia Commons)

Everyone’s got their own culture. In the UK, you have tea time. In the U.S. there’s Sunday night football. It might be a bastardised version of real football, but when in Rome, you do as the Romans do. If subtlety isn’t your strong suit, it’s really easy to offend Americans. So, here’s some etiquette to keep in mind when you run into your brothers and sisters across the ocean.

Cussing

Swearing is something that many New Yorker’s do, but not all Americans do – especially if you’re visiting rural areas. In fact, in many places in America, you’ll be seen as rude if you swear. It’s not need as a sign of affection or a sign of good humour.

Sex Talk

There was a puritan movement that came to America that never took hold in Europe. Because of that, Americans unconsciously developed a very different attitude toward sex than you probably have. Just like swearing, discussing what goes on behind closed doors is taboo. No loo talk either – it’s bad manners unless you notice your guests or friends doing it too.

But, in the general population, err on the side of being more conservative with what comes out of your mouth.

Criticising America

Whatever you do, do not criticise the country. Americans have an amazingly patriotic sense of life. It’s a sense of life that says “we will not be pushed around.” Likewise, this sense of life extends to how they feel about their country and anyone criticising it. Even though many Americans hate their politicians, they love their country.

Calling Them “Yanks”

Calling your typical American a “Yankee” isn’t so much offensive as it is confusing. In America, only northerners are called “Yankees” and, even then, it’s a derogatory term that dates back to the civil war in the country. You’ll likely get dirty looks from proud southerners who have given up on such a divisive language and looks of confusion from northerners who aren’t used to being called that.

Bad Tipping

In America, 15 per cent is the standard tip. Never be stingy with your server unless you received obviously poor service. Even then, it’s customary to give at least 10 per cent. If you receive exceptional service, leave 20 per cent as a tip.

Friendly-Offensive Behaviour

You’re used to exchanging friendly insults. It’s just how it is in the UK. But, in America, thems fightin’ words. Seriously, insult people and you’re likely to lose friends and be seen as rude. Lighten up, and express your true feelings.

Hot Dog Stand by Jeff Marks (Creative Commons)

Criticising The Food

You chose My America Holiday because you wanted an authentic American experience. Well, the food is part and parcel of the culture here. Don’t insult it. You might think that American’s tastes are primitive, and many of them are. But, Americans pride themselves on simple food. Hamburgers, pizza, and lots of boxed meals – that’s how they live.

Of course, America is a melting pot of culture, so it’s not too difficult to find sushi, authentic hispanic food, and even food from home if you’re in a big city.

Don’t Be Reserved

When someone says “hi, how are you today?” they’re not being pushy. They’re being friendly. If you look startled and refuse to respond, it’ll be taken as a rude gesture. This is especially true if you happen to be out in the country. The more rural, the more friendly people tend to be.

—-

Karen Jordan is a British expat living in the US for work. When not exploring her new home and sharing her love of tea, she enjoys blogging about cultural differences and travel experiences for her fellow Brits.