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International Travel

Atlanta Nightlife: Top 10 Best Hotspots For Locals And Tourists

Atlanta nightlife

Between classy lounges and locally known dive bars,live music, and karaoke joints, there is plenty to do in the city of Atlanta. Before we look at some of the hottest joints in the city of Atlanta, let’s take a look at the history of the city.

Comparison Table

Atlanta Nightlife

Details

Ratings

Sister Louisa’s Church

A bar and an art piece all in one

MJQ Concourse

Modern American restaurant and dance club

Ten ATL

Local restaurant and bar that has frequent special events

Koo Koo Room

Underground bars that are quickly becoming one of Atlanta’s latest and greatest hotspots

Skylounge

One-of-a-kind venue that offers not only breathtaking views but a vibe uniquely its own

Havana Club Atlanta

Mainstay on the Buckhead nightlife scene

The Clermont Lounge

One of the city’s oldest strip clubs

Tongue & Groove

Most popular Atlanta nightlife hotspots since 1994 when it originally opened its doors

Cosmolava

Located in Midtown and has an impressive three levels which feature a total of six bars and even exclusive VIP accommodations

Opera Nightclub

Ranked as one of the top nightclubs in the country

Quick Navigation
The City Of Atlanta
How We Choose Our Ratings
Top 10 Atlanta Nightlife Hotspots
 Sister Louisa’sChurch of The Living Room & Ping Pong Emporium
 MJQConcourse
Ten ATL
Koo Koo Room
 SkyLounge
Havana Club Atlanta
The Clermont Lounge
 Tongue & Groove
CosmoLava
Opera Nightclub

The City Of Atlanta

Atlanta nightlife

The city of Atlanta, Georgia was originally founded in 1837 as the end of the Western and Atlantic railroad line was put down. The city was first named Marthasville to honor the then-governor’s daughter but was soon changed to Atlanta.


In 1868, the city of Atlanta began its rise out of the ashes left behind by the Civil War, and it was the newly rewritten state constitution of 1868 that designated Atlanta as the new state capital.


Atlanta is known for many things and many people, but one notable figure is social activist Martin Luther King Jr. This public figure was born in Atlanta, Georgia in 1929. He was also known as a Baptist minister, but he had an enormous impact on race relations in the United States and was eventually shot and killed for his efforts during the Civil Rights Movement. He was assassinated in April 1968 and was later buried back in his hometown of Atlanta,Georgia.


Another big milestone for the city was in 1996 when the Olympics came to town after real estate lawyer Billy Payne, a former University of Georgia football player, proposed that Atlanta host the Summer Olympics. This event brought many highs and lows to the city, though one notable event sent fear racing through the city.


The Olympic Park Bombing in Atlanta, Georgia during the 1996 Summer Olympics resulted in two deaths and more than 100 injuries. The bombing took place in Centennial Olympic Park and was the result of Eric Robert Rudolph’s homemade pipe bomb. The pipe bomb was filled with both nails and screws and was detonated between 1:20 and 1:25 a.m. The actual time of detonation varies by source, though most reports stated that it was 1:25 a.m.


The city of Atlanta has seen many ups and downs throughout the years, but that hasn’t slowed them down. In fact, the city has continued to see a spike in their population. In 2010, the population of Atlanta, Georgia was about 422,919. In 2016, the population jumped to 472,522.


As the city continues to grow, so does the number of Atlanta nightlife hot spots. Between the permanent population and the large number of tourists that visit the city every year, there has to be some great entertainment and places to visit,so we’ve taken a look at some of the hottest places to visit and come up with atop 10 list of hot spots to visit during your evening adventures in Atlanta,Georgia.

How We Choose Our Ratings

In a city as big and popular as Atlanta, Georgia, how does one possibly narrow down the top ten Atlanta nightlife hotspots?


This is how we did it.


We not only researched the city’s nightlife,but we looked at hundreds of visitor’s ratings, comments, and criticisms and based on these and our own research, we compiled a list of ten of the hottest spots most tourists and locals alike must check out.

Top 10 Atlanta Nightlife Hotspots

Atlanta, Georgia is known for not only the irrich history but their hot nightlife. The Atlanta nightlife offers both locals and tourists plenty of options, but there simply are too many hotspots to list, so we decided to focus on ten locations that both locals and tourists seemed to favor.


We ranked the top ten hotspots based on a mix of our own thoughts and reviews, along with those of those that have visited each location. We then averaged these numbers to come up with our final ranking.


That being said, let’s see what the Atlanta nightlife has to offer.

1

 Sister Louisa’s
Church of The Living Room & Ping Pong Emporium

Sister Louisa's Church

Sister Louisa’s Church is anything but a church… In fact, it is a top hotspot in Atlanta for those looking for something a little different from the traditional bar scene. It’s so different that it is even a popular stomping ground for some hotshot celebrities including Lady Gaga, Owen Wilson, and even the cast of The Vampire Diaries and DropDead Diva.


Known locally as “Church,” Sister Louisa’s Church is a bar and an art piece all in one. Sister Louisa is actually former divinity student and local artist Grant Henry. Church was originall yan art gallery by the name of “Sister Louisa's Church of the Living Room; Come on in, Precious,” but it closed within the first six months.


Church is now a bar that spoofs church culture. It features hundreds of different pieces, including, “shrines, statues of Jesus, Saints, the Virgin Mary, choir boys and girls, vintage taxidermy, tacky-ass Christmas yard blow mold nativity scenes, vintage bowling trophies, ping pong paraphernalia,teenage girl plastic horse figures, church chandeliers, plastic ducks, and other related items of similar ignorance.”


Overall rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

2

 MJQ
Concourse

MJQ Concourse

This modern American restaurant and dance club that brings the word underground to a whole new level. Not only is the club entirely underground and has no website, though it’s live music counterpart, The Drunken Unicorn does. So how is it one of the hottest places amongst the ever-growing Atlanta nightlife?


Word of mouth.


Most find this nightclub thanks to friends that have already been to the bar. Located in an old parking garage, this bar and dance club mix is a two-room space with the main basement room that focuses on the bar and dance floor, while the second room is dedicated for lounging. Music ranges between most varieties, and while this is a popular hotspot on the weekends, it is also known for those who like to party during the week.


Overall rating:
4.5 out of 5 stars

3

Ten ATL

Ten ATL

TEN Atlanta is a local restaurant and bar that has frequent special events. It is a small venue, one that has more of a local vibe to it, but they welcome both locals and tourists alike. While it is less of a restaurant, it still caters to those who want to relax with a drink or two and even offers hookah for those that enjoy it.


Many individuals remark on the friendly staff and overall “chill” vibe of the venue. The staff is warm and welcoming and the different event nights give locals fun things to do throughout the week instead of just being a weekend pub.


Overall rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars

4

Koo Koo Room

Koo Koo Room

The Koo Koo Room is another one of those underground bars that are quickly becoming one of Atlanta’s latest and greatest hotspots. Unlike the dance clubs of the city, the Koo Koo Room is known more for their “house party” vibe. The music is generally provided thanks to a DJ, but it isn’t the typical dance party venue. Think more about lounging and enjoying a more laid-back house party. For those who like a more “chill,”location to hang out, the Koo Koo Room may be just the spot for you.


Overall rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars

5

 SkyLounge

Skylounge

The Sky Lounge is located at the top of the Glenn Hotel and is considered a one-of-a-kind venue that offers not only breathtaking views but a vibe uniquely its own. In fact, this venue was recently listed in Forbes Travel Guide as one of “Five Rooftop Bars to Visit in Atlanta.”


This covered outdoor lounge is said to fuse “downtown chic with lots of glam and a dose of allure.” It is considered a more upscale location for those who want a  more elegant or glamorous feel to it.


Overall rating: 4.1 out of 5 stars

6

Havana Club Atlanta

Havana Club Atlanta

Originally founded in March of 1996, the Havana Club has been a mainstay on the Buckhead nightlife scene. This club is15,000 square feet of “ambiance and Cuban essence” and includes three different rooms and nine bars.


This club is known for not only its exclusive events and legendary DJs, but also for its celebrity clientele. Both Lenny Kravitz and LeBron James have made appearances to the club, amongst many others.


The three rooms feature different vibes and different music settings. The main room features Top 40 songs; the second is more EDM music and the third features some of the hottest Salsa hits.


Overall rating: 4 out of 5 stars

7

The Clermont Lounge

The Cermont Lounge

The Clermont Lounge may be one of the city’s oldest strip clubs, but it really isn’t known as a gentlemen’s lounge any longer. In fact, it is known and frequently ranked as a time dive bar in Atlanta. That being said, it is still a strip club, but it isn’t known for its younger strippers.


This lounge is actually known for its aging line-up of strippers, including Blondie, who is not only known for crushing beer cans between her bosoms but also is known as a poet, artist, and dancer. The staff is very welcoming and friendly, but remember, it is an all-nude strip club.


Overall rating: 4 out of 5 stars

8

 Tongue & Groove

Tongue and groove

Tongue & Groove has been one of the most popular Atlanta nightlife hotspots since 1994 when it originally opened its doors. This sophisticated nightspot is 8.600-square-feet of sophisticated fun and features multiple mars within the venue, so getting a drink before you go dancing isn’t as difficult as it is in many other hotspots.


According to the venue’s website, Tongue &Groove caters to an “upscale crowd that enjoys fashion, music, art, and nightlife.”


Overall rating: 3.9 out of 5 stars

9

CosmoLava

Cosmolava

This venue is located in Midtown and has an impressive three levels which feature a total of six bars and even exclusive VIP accommodations. This three-level club offers different décor and feels for a variety of vibes, but one of the hottest is the Cue Club which is located on the lower level.


It is known for featuring many of the best DJ’s around and is home to the venue’s best sound systems.


Overall rating: 3.9 out of 5 stars

10

Opera Nightclub

Opera Nightclub

Before you ask, no Opera is not an opera setting. In fact, it is the exact opposite. Not only is it one of Atlanta’s top party places, but it is also ranked as one of the top nightc​​lubs in the country.


This venue is home to a variety of different environments, each one giving their own vibe to those who visit. They include a three-story main room, a lavish outdoor cabana area,an elevated garden, and fountain suit and a lounge in the back-room area.


Rating: 3.8 out of 5 stars

Atlanta Nightlife Offers Something For Every​one

The Atlanta nightlife truly does offer plenty of options for both locals and tourists.Between strictly adult entertainment to a more low-key vibe for those wanting just to chill out and enjoy a drink, Atlanta, Georgia offers a variety of different hotspots for everyone.


So don’t be afraid to head out on the town with your friends and see which of these, or which of the many other hotspots the city has to offer, suits your mood!

​

Miami Nightlife: Top 10 Best Hotspots For Locals And Visitors

Miami nightlife

Miami is known not only for its breathtaking beaches but its vibrant nightlife. Yet, there are many spots that both locals and visitors like to frequent. This can make choosing a destination quite difficult. Towards the end of the article, a traveler’s guide is provided that will help you in your decision-making process.

Comparison Table

Miami Nightlife

Details

Ratings

Basement Miami

Ideal spot if you’re passionate about dancing and electronic music

E11EVEN Miami

Described as an ultra club due to its many amenities

Blackbird Ordinary

Has many comfortable booths as well as pool tables and board games

LIV Nightclub

One of the most legendary nightclubs in the world, as it frequently hosts some of the top musical acts

Mango’s Tropical Café

Has been operating for 27 years and is known for its unparalleled food options and amazing entertainment

Purdy Lounge

Ideal for anyone who likes to spend the nighttime hours dancing, partying, and socializing

Do Not Sit On The Furniture

Highly lauded as an oasis for house music

Story

Known for its large dance floor, which gives patrons ample opportunity to boast their moves

Nikki Beach

A quintessential South Beach landmark that is notable for its varied food options, cabana bar and more

Club Space

Known for its resident DJ’s which are some of the hottest in the industry

QUICK NAVIGATION
How the Ratings Were Chosen
Top 10 Locations for Miami Nightlife
1. Basement Miami – A Hotspot For Nightlife
2. E11EVEN Miami – A Hotspot For Nightlife
3. Blackbird Ordinary – A Hotspot For Nightlife
4. LIV Nightclub – A Hotspot For Nightlife
5. Mango’s Tropical Café – A Hotspot For Nightlife
6. Purdy Lounge – A Hotspot For Nightlife
7. Do Not Sit On The Furniture – A Hotspot For Nightlife
8. Story – A Hotspot For Nightlife
9. Nikki Beach – A Hotspot For Nightlife
10. Club Space – A Hotspot For Nightlife
Traveler's Guide for Enjoying Nightlife in Miami 
Final Thoughts on Miami Nightlife

How the Ratings Were Chosen

When selecting the hot spots that you see below, a combination of affordability, entertainment options, atmosphere, and food options were considered. Reviews from past visitors were strongly valued, as any location that received consistently poor reviews was disregarded from this list.

While all of the spots on this list represent the cream of the crop, there are some relative differences worth noting that have been highlighted using a 5-star rating system.

Top 10 Locations for Miami Nightlife

In this section, the 10 best locations for Miami nightlife are discussed.

1. Basement Miami – A Hotspot For Nightlife

Basement Miami is one of the hottest places to spend your night in Miami. This is because it frequently features famous DJ’s, which make this spot ideal if you’re passionate about dancing and electronic music. This place is nestled in the basement of Edition Hotel, a posh building located in Mid-Beach.

Basement Miami

Image via New Years Eve

Overall rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Basement Miami also has a bowling alley and an ice skate rink, which means you’ll never run out of things to do. Of course, there is also a bar at this spot, which will appeal to anyone who likes to drink alcohol.

This place frequently features live dancers which offer plenty to gaze at while you enjoy the stimulating beats. The lighting and sound system is also unforgettable. This micro-club gets 5 stars out of 5, as there is a plethora of things to do. If you are a night owl, then Basement Miami will surely keep you occupied for hours.


2. E11EVEN Miami – A Hotspot For Nightlife

E11EVEN Miami is often described as an ultra club due to its many amenities. It’s also opened 24/7, which means that the fun never stops. If you’re into partying, then this is one of the best spots to frequent in Miami. This place is located in the heart of downtown Miami, giving it a very central location.

E11EVEN Miami

Image via 11miami

Overall rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

This club has recently been lauded as on the top 10 best night clubs in America and one of the top 50 clubs worldwide. If you are looking for somewhere to celebrate a holiday such as New Year’s Eve,then E11EVEN would be the ideal spot. This 20,000-square foot place is surrounded by premium lighting and sound.

Stars such as Drake, Big Sean, Nicki Minaj, Skrillex, and Steve Aoki have all performed here. If you can afford the bottle service, delicious food options, and 5-star hospitality, then this is certainly the place to be any day or night of the week. This place gets 4.5 stars out of 5 due to the A-list entertainment it offers.  


3. Blackbird Ordinary – A Hotspot For Nightlife

Blackbird Ordinary is a more casual spot for enjoying Miami nightlife. It has many comfortable booths as well as pool tables and board games. The food options here are both affordable and delicious, making this place ideal for budget-minded customers. Blackbird Ordinary also features DJ’s, local funk and reggae bands, and more nationally recognized acts.

Blackbird Ordinary

Image via Miami New Times

Overall rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

The accompanying dance floor is ideal for anyone who loves to dance to live music. Many visitors claim that Blackbird Ordinary offers the best atmosphere of any place in Miami. It also helps that this place is open until 5am every day, as this offers tons of time to soak in its vibes. This place gets 4.5 stars out of 5.


4. LIV Nightclub – A Hotspot For Nightlife

LIV Nightclub might be one of the most legendary nightclubs in the world, as it frequently hosts some of the top musical acts. LIV’s amazing architecture will have your head spinning. It recently underwent a $10 million renovation, which only enhanced this place even more.

LIV Nightclub

Image via Resident Advisor

Overall rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Some visitors hate how hard it can be to get through LIV’s doors. Other visitors love this difficulty, as it means the experience inside is all the more rewarding. This place gets 4 stars out of 5, as you can easily drop a paycheck during a night of partying at this club. Still, this investment could provide you with a lifetime of experiences, which is what earns this place a spot on this list.


5. Mango’s Tropical Café – A Hotspot For Nightlife

Mango’s Tropical Café has been operating for 27 years and is known for its unparalleled food options and amazing entertainment. Caribbean and Latin cuisine are emphasized and there
is also an extensive drink menu that will surely spice up your night.

Mango’s Tropical Café

Image via Yelp

Overall rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Many visitors have also noted the beautiful art on display at this establishment. Thus, art buffs will also enjoy this location, as there are many inspiring works to look at and analyze. Mango’s Tropical Café also offers salsa lessons, which is a great way to mingle if you are single.

This hot spot gets 4.5 stars out of 5, as this is one of the best places in Miami to celebrate a special occasion like a birthday or marriage. Many people also love Mango’s Tropical Café because people of all ages are welcome before 10pm. Many hotspots for Miami Nightlife have strict age limitations regardless of the time, which can be alienating for some visitors with kids.


6. Purdy Lounge – A Hotspot For Nightlife

Purdy Lounge is open until 5am every day, making it ideal for anyone who likes to spend the nighttime hours dancing, partying, and socializing. This establishment features a diversity of music throughout the week, which will surely appeal to music aficionados. Purdy’s also has an extensive cocktail and bottle menu, making this a great place to celebrate a special event.

Purdy Lounge

Image via Purdy Lounge

Overall rating: 4 out of 5 stars

The crowd that goes to Purdy’s tends to be young, making this a beloved spot for college-aged people. Visitors like to come to Purdy’s after many hours of celebration, as it’s the perfect spot for winding down a night. This place gets 4 stars out of 5, as the unique lighting, red walls, and lava lamps provide an unforgettable backdrop for dancing and socializing.


7. Do Not Sit On The Furniture – A Hotspot For Nightlife

Besides having one of the best names of any place on this list, Do Not Sit on the Furniture is highly lauded as an oasis for house music. At this intimate, underground setting, music is put first, which creates a very liberating atmosphere. If you are interested in dancing and stretching your body, then this place would be ideal.

Do Not Sit on the Furniture

Image via Resident Advisor

Overall rating: 5 out of 5 stars

There are also booths and an outside patio at this spot, which means you can always take a break from the dance floor if necessary. Luckily, you actually can sit on these pieces of furniture. This place gets 5 stars out of 5, as the emphasis on music is a refreshing change of pace when compared with some night clubs in Miami which only emphasize bar service.


8. Story – A Hotspot For Nightlife

Story is known for its large dance floor, which gives patrons ample opportunity to boast their moves. If you are single and looking for romantic connection, then this would be great place to go. Story is also known for emphasizing both underground artists and more established artists, which keeps the music fresh.

Story

Image via Discotech

Overall rating: 5 out of 5 stars

This 27,000-square foot space opened in 2012 in the heart of Miami beach, which makes it very modern. There are 60 exclusive VIP tables here as well as 5 full-service bars. If you have the money, then Story is definitely the place to be. Story also offers exclusive valet service, which is ideal if you can’t find a place to park.

Many travelers have noted that the most memorable nights of their life have taken place at Story. This place gets 4.5 stars out of 5, as this is truly one of the most premiere nightclubs in the world despite the high cost of entry.


9. Nikki Beach – A Hotspot For Nightlife

Nikki Beach is a quintessential South Beach landmark that is notable for its varied food options, cabana bar, café, beach club, and second floor nightclub. Many celebrities like to frequent this establishment, as it offers a very luxurious setting.

Nikki Beach

Image via Djoybeat

Overall rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

This oceanfront complex offers many unique salads which will surely appeal to anyone focused on health. For example, the Yoga Bowl features lentils, bulgur wheat, kale, fennel, peppers, peas, carrots, pomegranates, and green beans with a lemon vinaigrette.

Patrons often get to experience live music while at Nikki Beach. Yet, if you need a break from the tunes, you can always step outside and take in the sounds of the beach. This place gets 4.5 stars out of 5, as this is one of the best places to host a private function. There are 42,000 square feet of beachfront property, which allows Nikki Beach to hold as many as 2000 people.


10. Club Space – A Hotspot For Nightlife

Club Space is known for its resident DJ’s which are some of the hottest in the industry. This is certainly the spot to be at on the weekends, especially if you dig electronic dance music. The sound system at Club Space is top-notch, which is likely why it’s so popular at night. Many people stay until sunrise before heading home.

Club Space

Image via Miami New Times

Overall rating: 4 out of 5 stars

This place gets 4 stars out of 5, as a star was subtracted to the difficulty in getting in. If you haven’t made a reservation, then gaining access can be difficult or costly. Still, the incomparable atmosphere of Club Space makes it the common site of many joyous celebrations. As many other nightclubs are winding down, Club Space is still raging on, making it one of the best places to go for an after party. 

Traveler's Guide for Enjoying Nightlife in Miami 

As you can tell, there are many places you can go to experience nightlife in Miami. These places will appeal to both locals and visitors, as they offer something for just about everyone. If you are interested in going somewhere with your family, then Mango’s Tropical Café will be your best bet. This place is open to all ages until 10pm, which means you can bring your kids with you.

The salsa lessons are also very popular here, providing a more lighthearted dance setting when compared with the wilder nightclubs on this list. If you are purely interested in listening to electronic music, then DoNot Sit on the Furniture would be a great place to check out. The intimate setting makes for an unforgettable experience that will have your head spinning well into the morning.

If you are interested in a more prestigious nightclub experience, then LIV Nightclub, Story, and Club Space are ideal options. The main draw back of these places is how difficult it is to get in. Even if you have money, you might be barred entrance from these places. However, if you can gain access, then the experience is all the more rewarding.

Final Thoughts on Miami Nightlife

Miami is one of the best locations in the world to experience world-class music deep into the night. In addition, many of Miami’s nightclubs offer circus-like entertainment that you will surely never forget.

Frequenting the locations on this list can be a great way to let loose and express yourself in a unique way. If you are feeling down in any way, then just head over to one of the hot spots on this list. You will definitely find many joyous individuals who are interested in spreading love.

10 Fun Things To Do In Toronto

When you are discussing travel plans, and a location you might visit that is worth using up those precious vacation days on, you might want to take a look at our nearest neighbor.

Canada is a beautiful and varied country comprised of charming, small towns, thriving, modern cities, hustling and bustling towns and vast expanses of mountains, meadows, and forests. The country is a melting pot of cultures and peoples, and you'll never run out of things to do in Toronto.

One of Canada’s prize locations is Toronto, the capital city of Ontario. Toronto, also known as “The Queen City,” has a population of nearly 3 million residents and covers over 243 square miles of land. It is located on the east side of a neck of land between Lake Huron and Lake Ontario. Toronto is a waterfront city but is filled with hills and canyons as well, making it as beautiful as it is diverse. It is a stone’s throw from the famous Niagara Falls.

The hub of business and finance, as well as culture and the arts, this city is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. Like it’s mother country, Toronto is a conglomeration of over 200 ethnicities, with over 160 languages being spoken. No wonder so many people plan vacations to this amazing place filled with adventures for every taste.

Take a look at these ten fun things to do in Toronto. We have listed locations and where available, pricing for these attractions.

10 Fun Things To Do In Toronto

Edgewalk at the Canadian National Tower

301 Front Street West

$28.80 for adults, $20.40 for kids over 12

Free - 3 years and younger

This attraction takes one to two hours

This marvel of engineering is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, and no wonder. The Canadian National Tower tops out at a breathtaking 1,815 feet tall. Visitors take an elevator ride to the top and can choose from vantage points at three different levels.

The Glass Floor room is not for sissies because you can see everything far, far below you. Higher yet is the LookOut Level containing a 360-degree rotating restaurant, where if you buy a meal, your admission fee to the level is waived. 

The SkyPod offers one of the highest public observation towers in the world, but that is not all because the truly brave can participate in the EdgeWalk. This hands-free experience finds you tethered to the outside of the upper observation deck and allows you to walk around the outside of the building on a five-foot ledge. The walk will cost you an additional $174 but includes a video, photos and the scare of a lifetime.

St. Lawrence Market

93 Front Street East

No admission charges but you must bring some spending cash

Allow one to two hours

One of the things to do in Toronto is for you to set some time aside on a Saturday for this delightful market, as that is the day it is converted into a flea market, and vendors from all over come to sell fabulous antiques, handmade jewelry, and amazing local foods. Located in the historic Old Town district, this marketplace has been enjoyed by tens of thousands since its founding in the 17th century.

Ontario Science Center

770 Don Mills Road

$17.20 for adults; $12.50 for kids 13-17

Kids 3-12 are $10.20; Free to 2 and under

Allow half a day to make a dent, all day to feel satisfied

Engage all of your senses in this popular museum that is more of an exciting learning experience than a gallery. See what you will look like as you age, enjoy some time among the stars at the planetarium show, and touch a tornado at the Living Earth experience.

When you arrive, ask about special exhibits or programs going on. You may have an unexpected IMAX presentation or a demonstration on electricity to look forward to.

Tour Casa Loma Castle

1 Austin Terrace

$21.20 for adults; $17.20 for kids 14-17;

Kids 4-13 are $13.30; Free under three years

With a shortage of castles in the United States, so many people include Casa Loma Castle in their things to do in Toronto. Imagine what it would be like to have a horse stable, a wine cellar, and a huge garden complete with fountains and sculptures. There is even a secret 800-foot-long passageway from the house to the stables that you are allowed to traverse. Check out the gift shop and grab a snack or lunch at one of the cafes before you head to your next destination.

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

288 Bremner Boulevard

Express Anytime Tickets are $35 for adults;

$24.25 youth 6-13, $12 ages 3-5 and $24.25 for seniors

These tickets are good for one year

Many other promotional price packages to choose from

Check for times and availability

Allow 2 to 3 hours

Visiting the water scenery is also one of the things to do in Toronto. The s features several gallery halls showcasing shoreline creatures, dangerous lagoons, Canadian waters, rainbow reefs and six others specialty areas.

Also, if this is your thing and you want to immerse yourself, you could sign up for one of fourteen different programs such as stingray experiences, sleep with the sharks, photography classes, discovery dives and aquatic adventurers.

If your little one is having a birthday during your stay in Toronto, you can even schedule a birthday party at the aquarium.

Hockey Hall of Fame and Museum

30 Yonge Street

$14.90 for adults; $10.20 for kids 4-13; Free under three years

Allow a couple of hours for this one

Ok, let’s give the guys a break and let them enjoy the interesting and educational Hockey Hall of Fame. With eleven professional and semi-professional ice hockey teams in Toronto alone, there is much to see.

Even if you're not a hockey fan, you should not miss this in your things to do in Toronto. View Terry Sawchuk’s goalie gear or Max Bentley’s stick. From tournaments from around the world, you will see a collection of over 1,000 pucks. Also, you can see how much of the 65,000 square feet of hockey trivia you know.

Royal Ontario Museum

100 Queens Park

$15.70 for adults; $12.10 for kids over 12; Free 3 years and younger

Plan on two hours here

History buffs will thrive on the exhibits at the Royal Ontario Museum. With over six million artifacts, you can see wondrous things including selections from dinosaur bones to Chinese temple art and the indigenous people of Canada gallery. Ancient Roman sculptures also line the walls.

Not just for Brainiac types, this museum has much to offer children as well with a hands-on gallery. This tactile experience comes alive as children can feel the fur of a fox, the jaws of a shark or find out for themselves that snakes are not slimy.

While you are checking out the jaw of a tyrannosaurus rex, your little ones can dig for dinosaur bones in the CIBC Discovery Gallery. If you have kids or a kid at heart, this is one of the things to do in Toronto.

Toronto Bicycle Tours

275 Dundas Street West

Prices vary

Plan on at least half a day, but don’t be surprised if you don’t want it to end that soon

Since the city of Toronto is such mixed bag of culture, beauty and tourism, Toronto bicycle tours offer a variety of outings including the Heart of Downtown, Island Tours, Petals and Pedals Bike Tours, Around the City Tours and more. The tours are for any riding level and even include helmets, water, and snacks.

These tours are led by locals who know, and more importantly, love the city of Toronto. They know it top to bottom and are eager to point out history and interesting facts all along the way.

You can also just rent a bicycle for yourself and explore the wonders of Toronto without a guide.

The Culinary Adventure Company

Call 877-317-4870

Starting prices given in the description

Times vary from 2.5 to 12 hours

What die-hard foodie would enjoy a vacation without tasting their way through the city? At the Culinary Adventure Company, you can enjoy a tour led by restaurant owners, professional chefs, and even food executives as they guide you to the food gems of Toronto. You can choose from a canoe paddle trip with a 5-course gourmet picnic ($125), enjoy wine tasting at local vineyards ($159), shuck fresh oysters, make your cheese or go in search of wild mushrooms.

Explore eleven different ethnic neighborhoods and meet bakers, growers, and chefs, as you taste their wares ($81). There is a Sunday Brunch tour ($94), and several more to whet your appetite. You should never miss the food experience in your things to do in Toronto.

Centerville Theme Park

Centre Island

For adults, all-day passes are $35.35 each

A family pass (must include one adult) is $114 for the first four passes and $28.50 for each additional

Plan on a full day

This day starts with stunning scenery as you ferry over to Centre Island and Centerville Theme park. It offers a family-friendly experience with more than 600 acres of parkland, 30 rides to choose from, souvenirs and of course, lots of great food.

Food, scenery, exploration, education, and enjoyment of all kinds abound in Toronto. It may be a metropolitan paradise, but with this list of exciting things to do in Toronto, it’s a place where everyday people can have fun every day.

10 Tips for Traveling to Thailand: What You Need, Etiquette, and More

Thailand has become a tourism powerhouse in recent years. Statistics show that around 32 million international tourists visit this South East Asian nation annually. That translates to $71 billion (you read that right, billion) in revenue just from tourism. If you’re planning on booking a flight bound for Bangkok, there are a few things you should know beforehand. Below, we’ll go over the top ten tips for traveling to Thailand so you can make a smooth transition into this exotic country.

1. Dress Conservatively In Public Spaces

tourists walking on the Khao San Road, Bangkok

First on our list of tips for traveling to Thailand is to dress modestly. Although Thailand has quite a reputation, most average Thais are extremely conservative. This is especially true if you’re traveling to the countryside. Women travelers should never wear spaghetti straps, tight-fitting clothing, or clothes that reveal a great deal of skin. Male tourists can wear shorts, but their entire wardrobe should be tasteful, neat, and free of any tears.

If you’re visiting a Buddhist temple (aka wat), please wear formal attire. Thais consider it extremely disrespectful for foreigners to enter temples in clothing items like shorts, skirts, or tank-tops. Also, many Thais wear footwear like flip-flops or sandals so it’s easy to take off shoes when you walk inside a wat or a home. Like many other Asian nations, it’s important that you take off your shoes whenever you enter someone else’s house. The only real exceptions to this rule are the cities of Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya, but even there you’ll gain more respect if you’re well dressed.

2. Don’t Make Out In Public

Going along with the conservative dressing theme, it’s considered extremely inappropriate to make displays of public affection in Thailand. While it’s becoming somewhat more common in big cities, it’s still quite distasteful for many Thais. Making out in public is a definite no-no, and it will annoy conservative Thais. So, you know, just get a room.

3. The “Wai:” Traditional Thai Bowing

how to bow in Thailand

Next on our list of tips for traveling to Thailand is the “wai.” Just like in Japan, Thais have a traditional way of greeting superiors that involves bowing. Basically, you have to place your palms together like you’re praying and bow slightly forward. This practice is known as the “wai” and it’s believed to be an Indian custom brought over to Thailand.

The higher a person puts his/her hands, the more respect they are showing. You might see people performing the “wai” as they pass by wats. As a foreigner, Thais don’t expect you to perform the “wai,” but it’s good for you to know. If anyone performs the “wai” to you, you can simply bow to accept their respect.

4. Language Barrier

Any tips for traveling to Thailand list has to discuss the language barrier sooner or later. Thai is a notoriously difficult language for Westerners to master. It will take a great amount of effort to learn the basics of this language’s unique script and tones. However, even if you master just a few key phrases, you’ll earn a great deal of respect from local Thais.

Here are a few key phrases to memorize before you land in Thailand:

“Hello” (formal, for males): sa-wat-dii, khráp (สวัสดีครับ)

“Hello” (formal, for females): sa-wat-dii, khâ (สวัสดีค่ะ)

“Please:” karunaa (กรุณา)

“Do you speak English?:” phuut phaasaa ang-krit dai mai? (พูดภาษาอังกฤษได้ไหม)

“Where is the toilet?:” hông nám yùu thîi năi (ห้องน้ำ อยู่ ที่ ไหน)

“Thank you very much:” khop khun mâak (ขอบคุณมาก)

For more useful Thai phrases, check out a Thai phrasebook.

5. Don’t Diss The King

This is one of the most important tips for traveling to Thailand. Seriously. Thais don’t take kindly to you disrespecting their royal family. In fact, it’s illegal to slander the King and Queen. If you are caught saying nasty things about the Royal Family, you could face serious time in jail…like 15 to 20 years! This has happened before.

A Swiss tourist named Oliver Jufer was sentenced to ten years in prison because he vandalized an official portrait of the former King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Luckily for Jufer, the King pardoned him. The moral of the story: don’t do anything to disrespect towards the Royal Family.

6. Don’t Pat Kids On The Head And Keep Your Feet Clean

what Thais think of the head, feet, kissing in public, and more

This might be one of the oddest tips for traveling to Thailand, but its important for Westerners to remember. In Thai culture, the head is the most sacred portion of the body. For this reason, Thais consider it a sign of disrespect if you pat them on the head. Even if you innocently pat a kid on the head, it will be interpreted in a negative way. If you accidentally touch someone’s head, ask for their forgiveness right away.

On the other hand (or foot, rather), Thais have the exact opposite association for the feet. For this reason, never touch others with your feet and never point your feet towards Buddha statues. It’s also considered inappropriate to step over someone who has outstretched feet. Either politely ask them to move their feet or move around them.

7. Offering Food to Monks

Theravada Buddhism is the heart of Thai culture. About 95 percent of the Thai population practices this old form of Buddhism and every man is expected to practice meditation in a monastery for a few months. No matter where you are in Thailand, you’ll have the opportunity to offer food to the monks in the morning as they go on alms round.

Women who want to offer monks food must put a cloth on their offering or give it to a lay attendant. According to the monastic code (aka Vinaya), monks are encouraged to stay as far away from women as possible to avoid sexual temptation.

If you want to offer money to monks, don’t hand it to them while they’re on alms round. As a part of the Vinaya, monks are not allowed to handle money. You can, however, put money in an appropriate donation box while visiting a wat.

8. Stand For National Anthem

People standing up for the Thai national anthem

The Thai government plays the national anthem every day at both 8AM and 6PM. You’ll even see this anthem played on TV and hear it on the radio. If you’re in a public area when this happens, you should stand still for the entirety of the broadcast. Thais don’t like it when Westerners disrespect their national anthem. You’ll also have to stand up for the royal anthem when it plays before movies. If you want to impress Thai locals, memorize the national anthem’s lyrics by listening to this video over and over again.

9. Eating Customs in Thailand

Thai cuisine is known around the world for its exotic aromatics and spicy flavor. Many Westerners are surprised that Thais don’t use chopsticks like in other Asian nations. Thais prefer to use forks and spoons at mealtime unless they’re eating East Asian cuisine.

If you’re eating out with others, expect to get a plate of rice and a bowl of soup of your own. Usually the main dishes are placed in the center of the table and you’ll have to share with those around you. Unlike in Western nations, it’s not impolite for you to start eating even when others don’t have their plates.

A few Thai specialties include the shrimp soup dish called Tom yum kung, the chicken soup with coconut stock known as Tom kha kai, and basil chicken called Ka-phrao kai. If you’re a vegetarian, you shouldn’t have any issue finding plenty of great eats in this nation. Just get used to using the phrase “phom kin je (for males) / di-chan kin je (for females),” which means: “I eat only vegetarian food.”

10. Thailand Festivals

We’ll end our list with a fun suggestion: visit during a major festival. One of the most beautiful festivals of the year is the Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai every November. As the name suggests, people taking part in this festival light paper lanterns and send them into the river at night. You’ll also get to see a few parades and fireworks displays during this gorgeous annual event.

For those who don’t mind getting a bit wet, you could visit Thailand in April to take part in the Water Festival. This nationwide festival is a huge water fight lasting between April 13th and 15th every year.

A few other festivals to keep on your radar include the Buffalo Racing Festival in October, the Chinese New Year in January, and the Candle Festival in July.

Have An Awesome Trip To Thailand

If you follow these ten tips for traveling to Thailand, you should have no issues with locals on your vacation. Thai are extremely forgiving, so don’t worry if you make a few minor social faux pas. Now it’s your turn to book a flight to Suvarnabhumi Airport and see why so many people love vacationing in the “Land of Smiles.”

Oh, before we wrap this list up, here’s one last tip: bring plenty of mosquito repellant and sunscreen. You’ll thank us once you get to Thailand.

Image Source: 1, 2, 3, 4

World Traveler Guide – How to Become More than a Tourist?

If someone would ask you to describe yourself in two words, would those words be world traveler? Or do you consider yourself more of a tourist? More importantly, do you know the difference between the two? Join us in this expedition to finding out what differentiates a traveler from a tourist, how to become a traveler, and what are some of the best places to travel in the world if you think you fit in the first category. We hope you enjoy the ride!

example of world traveler

Are You a World Traveler or a Tourist?

Maybe you’ve never thought about this question, or maybe you’ve always thought in the back of your mind that the two are virtually the same thing. But there are actually quite a few major differences between seeing the world through the eyes of a tourist and looking at it through the eyes of a world traveler.

Before getting into the specifics of what differentiates the two, let’s take a quick look at what author Jonathan Culler wrote in an essay entitled “The Semiotics of Tourism”. Culler believes that unlike travelers, tourists only look for their own superficial expectations when traveling to a new place. They don’t want to see something that surprises them, they only seek entertainment and pleasure, but at the same time they are passively waiting for something to happen to them, instead of looking for adventures as travelers would.

This is how sightseeing becomes a commodified version of traveling. In other words, you go on guided tours with dozens of other people, you look at what you expect to see there, you buy a souvenir, and then you go back home.

In their quest, tourists engage in a practice which attracts volumes of scorn: they purchase mementos of various sorts. – Jonathan Culler

While tourists do that, Culler says, a true world traveler would be actively seeking new and interesting experiences, craving to meet people, turning traveling into a true undertaking. He/she would, as Frost would say, take the road less traveled by, venture off the guided path and into the excitement of the unknown.

world traveler save money

How to Practically Differentiate a Tourist from a World Traveler

Now let’s get more specific and take a look at the actual differences between being a tourist and being a world traveler:

  • A world traveler prefers to explore sights that are not as popular and crowded (and take his time soaking it all in), while a tourist wants to check as many famous attractions as possible.
  • On the same note, a traveler doesn’t like to follow other people on a straight path, as the tourist would, but to explore new (and sometimes even slightly dangerous) territory.
  • Travelers also don’t need maps and they are not afraid of getting lost – that would only mean tackling a new adventure.
  • A tourist tends to pack a lot of things, from outfits to electronics, while the traveler packs as lightly as possible and only thinks about the necessities.
  • Because they travel with so many things, tourists usually stay in hotels where they have everything to feel comfortable. A world traveler would prefer sleeping in a tent and listening to the sounds of nature all night long.
  • Usually, when a tourist first arrives to the destination, the main thing on his mind is to reach the hotel room and take a shower, maybe even sleep for a little while. Well, this is not the case with a traveler, who is ready to go places as soon as he reaches the destination.
  • Even the mode of transportation to the desired place differs. Tourists usually travel by plane or in the comfort of their own car, while you will see world travelers in old timey buses or hitchhiking.
  • Souvenirs: tourists will more likely buy mugs, t-shirts, or keychains to replicate the attraction they just visited, while travelers will either buy nothing or buy more traditional, possibly handmade items.
  • Taking pictures – can you guess what the situation here is? I think we’ve all seen tourists using selfie sticks and taking pictures of themselves in front of popular attractions. World travelers are more interested in the sight rather than having concrete proof that they were actually in that place.
  • Where is home? For a tourist, home will always be the place where they actually live, while for travelers, every foreign place they visit can feel like home.

How to Become More than a Tourist

First of all, if you want to be a tourist, be a tourist. There’s nothing wrong with that. But if reading the above list made you crave some of the activities characteristic of world travelers, or if you already do some of them, here is how you can proudly answer “world traveler” when somebody asks you “What are you?”.

Secondly, take your time exploring new places, don’t try to cram an entire trip to a foreign land in a week. Don’t hurry to check as many sights from the list, this will take out of the experience of actually being there. Of course, no one says you can’t go traveling with some specific places in mind, but don’t stubbornly stick to the list, but allow unexpected surprises to take you off your path.

It may sound like a cliché to say that the road is more important than the destination, but in the case of a world traveler this works like a charm. There are so many interesting people that you can meet on the road, so many adventures that can change your perspective, it would be a pity to miss them only to stick to the original plan.

Only a couple of blocks from the main tourist hotels lies a street of small shops where one can see real native craftsmen at work and whose wares sell for a fraction of the prices charged at tourist traps on the main street. – Jonathan Culler

Be spontaneous and talk to locals, immerse yourself in their culture, don’t just look at it from a distance. Experiencing something different from what you’re accustomed to is what makes life fun.

All these being said, don’t feel like you shouldn’t visit popular attraction at all. Maybe going to the Colosseum seems like something everybody does, but that doesn’t mean that it isn’t worth seeing or that you should avoid it.

world traveler marieta islands
The Hidden Beach of Marieta Island – an unspoiled paradise

Seeing the World as a Traveler

Finding the best places to visit when you are a world traveler can sound a bit ironic (after all, you’re trying to go to places that are not so well-known), and making a list of such places is definitely challenging. But just to give you something to start from if you are at the beginning of your path as traveler, or something to inspire your next travel, take a look at these amazing traveling spots from all over the world:

  • Marieta Islands’ “Hidden Beach” in Mexico will charm you with its secluded location and crystal-clear water.
  • Alaska’s Arctic National Park is the perfect place for adventurers – it is extremely wild and challenging to cross.
  • Huacachina, the small village of Peru, is an oasis in the middle of the desert, and completely worth visiting.
  • Popeye village in Malta was first created as a film set, but now it is a small theme park that you can explore.
  • The Door to Hell, Turkmenistan, is a huge hole of fire created by geologists who tapped into a cavern containing natural gas. It is still burning today and it sounds like a unique place to visit.
world traveler huacachina peru
The small oasis of Huacachina in Peru

Ending the Expedition

After reading our guide to being a world traveler, do you identify yourself with this, or do you still remain a tourist at heart? No matter the answer, we hope our article helped you understand the differences between the two and at least gave you some ideas to try on your next travel around the world. But before we go, we will leave you with this riddle:

What travels around the world but stays in one spot?

If you want to read Jonathan Culler’s full essay, you can find it here.

Image Source: 1,2,3,4

How to travel with a cat (domestic and abroad)

We love them because they purr, they are soft and furry, they can guess when we’re upset and generally make our lives happier. We can’t stay mad at them for more than thirty seconds and we even praise them when they break, chew or scratch something precious. Yes, I am talking about our dear feline friends. I’m going to tackle a particular subject that most cat owners dread and should be avoided, if possible: how to travel with a cat. Cats are very sensitive to the smallest changes, and, as a consequence, they are not keen on traveling. They dread any change of environment and can become highly stressed if they are constantly being moved from one place to another. If you’re planning a short holiday, you shouldn’t even consider bringing your cat along. Instead, ask for a friend, family member or neighbor to cat sit for you. A week of living almost by itself in the house, with the occasional visitors, is much more preferable for your cat than a nerve racking two-hour flight or journey by train. But if you can’t avoid taking your cat with you when you travel, you’ll have to pay a lot of attention to preparations and allow your cat enough time to adjust to every change. We’ll walk you through every step, so you can be prepared when you have to pack up and relocate.

 How to travel with a cat

To-do list before departing

Whether you choose to travel with your cat by car, by train or by plane, there are certain things you have to take care of before leaving.

  • Food – you’ll want to feed your cat three or four hours before embarking on your journey. This way, your cat has enough time to digest the food and feel better during the journey if it experiences motion sickness.
  • Blanket – creatures of habit, cats dwell best in familiar circumstances. To make their journey slightly more enjoyable, make sure you put a familiar blanket or toy to remind them of home in their carrier. If your cat usually kneads or purrs on your clothes, you can even use a t-shirt that smells like you. The familiar scent will soothe your pet and help it be less stressed in the car or on the plane.
  • Stable carrier – your cat doesn’t necessarily need to have motion sickness to dislike the wobbling effect an unstable carrier gives in a moving car. Make sure you position its carrier in a safe place where it can’t topple down if you suddenly hit the brakes. If it’s possible, place the carrier so that your cat can see you. Fastening the cage with the seat belt is the best solution to keep it from moving and making your cat more comfortable.
  • Routine – cats thrive on a fixed schedule, so it’s important to stick to the routine no matter the circumstances. If the journey allows it, provide food and water for you cat following the schedule when you would normally feed it. If you’re travelling by car, allow your pet to have a playtime break whenever you stop to stretch your legs.
  • Open windows – your cat will be grateful if you crack open a window and let the fresh air in. However, you should be very careful if you leave your cat roam the vehicle with open windows. It won’t miss the opportunity to jump out of the moving car. Allowing your cat to play around in the car is not recommended, since it could distract you from driving and possibly cause accidents.

How to travel with a cat

How to travel with a cat by plane

Travelling by plane is scary for some people, so we can only imagine how it feels like for a cat. If you’re preparing for air travel, and you need information about how to travel with cats by plane, take note of the following to-dos.

  • Each airline will have its own animal policy. Make the appropriate inquiries about your pet before booking the ticket. Find out all the needed information: is the cat allowed to travel with you, or does it need to go in the cargo area? If you can choose between the two, keep your cat near you. Ask whether you need a special carrier, and find out if there are any medical requirements or any extra charges.
  • Prepare an identification tag for your cat. This should include your full name and your telephone number, as well as the microchip number of the cat and your destination.
  • Before buying your tickets, carefully consider the weather. A hot Sun in the summer or freezing temperatures in the winter might force you to leave your cat behind. You should also think about stops and layovers. In order to avoid your cat being moved from one plane to another, book a direct flight.
  • Let the flight crew know you’re not traveling alone if your pet is in the cargo. This way, you’ll have someone to check on the cat in case of delays.

How to travel with a cat

How to travel with a cat by car

If you can choose between travelling by plane or car, you might want to go with the latter. It’s not going to be a piece of cake for you, but it’s going to be easier for your cat. Here’s what you should keep in mind.

  • Get your cat used to the car before the big trip. You can start taking it for short 30 minute rides several weeks before the journey. Offering cats treats in the car will help as well.
  • If your cat has motion sickness, get a prescription from the veterinarian. If the cat is a particularly nervous traveler, talk to its doctor about a tranquilizer or a sedative. Do a trial run with these at home to make sure you’re not taken by surprise by side effects on departure day.
  • Make the cage look more welcoming and less hostile by adding a familiar toy or a towel that smells like your cat.
  • Pack a harness and a leash for breaks. It’s unpleasant for the cat to stay boxed in for five hours, so consider making stops along the way and allowing the cat to stretch its legs outside. To make sure it doesn’t make a run for its life, use a leash and a harness.

Relocating a cat is not an easy task. However, taking into account the above-mentioned pointers on how to travel with a cat should give you all the needed info on how to prepare and what to expect

Image sources: 1, 2, 3

Fundamental Things to Do Before You Travel Abroad

travel abroad checklist

Flights and accommodation bookings are indeed the most important aspects of travel planning. But if you want to fully enjoy your trip, you should take a look at our essential list of tasks to consider before you travel abroad.

Getting Ready to Travel Abroad: Essential Things to Do Before You Leave Your Home

Manage Your Finances

As you cannot travel abroad for free (unless you are the lucky recipient of academic travel abroad programs such as travel abroad scholarships), you should first take care of your finances.

Apart from making sure you have cash on you, you should also pay your bills or other important orders in advance, and check if your account details are updated. We are sure that the last thing you wish to happen while traveling overseas is get your accounts locked.

When traveling abroad, there are multiple options for you to withdraw or change money in the local currency. Here is what you should consider before leaving your home:

  • Check the international exchange rate in your country and purchase some foreign currency ahead of time.
  • Research the international exchange rate in the country you’ll be visiting as it may be more convenient to have your money exchanged there.
  • Do not exchange money in airports. The exchange rate is significantly higher than in a local bank or at the ATMs.
  • Keep your bank on the loop on your traveling abroad plans to avoid them suspecting frauds and freeze your card.

You may want to check the following Bank of America traveling abroad tips concerning international transaction fees, exchange rates, best credit card for traveling abroad, and protecting your money before you leave.

Estimating expenses is equally important. Even if your accommodation and flights are booked, once you’ll get to your destination there will be plenty of temptations thrown in your way from good restaurants to souvenirs shops.

Transportation costs should be researched too before you travel abroad. There are convenient options to review like day passes or weekly passes that allow access to all public transportation means from trains to subs. Depending on the country you visit, it may be inefficient or too expensive to order cabs. Start by mapping out at least your first drive or even plan the entire itinerary. There are always unexpected things that can happen so it’s better to control as many aspects of your traveling abroad as you can.

Additionally, if you have anything being delivered to you while you are away, you can place stop orders online. Note that this affair require a two days’ advance notice. So, hopefully, you will be reading this post at least a couple of days before your travel.

essential for a business or holiday travel abroad
Dollars, Euros, Passports, and a Suitcase: Get Ready for a Business or Holiday Travel Abroad.

Check If You Need a Consent Letter for Children Travelling Abroad

Let’s start by explaining what a consent letter is and why is it recommended to check if you need one before traveling abroad with your kids.

Note: consent letters for children travelling abroad, also known as travel permission letters or travel consents for a minor, are not legal requirements that apply to all countries. The United States, for instance, does not require such documentation. However, there may be countries which will ask to see it. Failure to provide this authorized document can result in you being detained or your trip delay.

What Is A Consent Letter For Children Traveling Abroad And Why Would You Need One?

Such consent letters are required for children travelling abroad alone, with one parent or accompanied by people who are not their legal guardians. So, if you want to take you kid with you when traveling overseas and your partner cannot join you, there are countries that ask for his or her written consent.

This is also necessary if you travel with someone else’s kid (nephew, student, sister or brother who do not have the age of majority, etc.).

What Should You Include in Your Child Travel Consent Doc?

In brief, such a letter should include the following:

  • Your kid’s full name, birth place, and passport info;
  • Important information such as allergies or special needs or diets;
  • Contact details of the non-traveling parent or legal guardian;
  • Written and signed consent of the non-traveling parent or legal guardian;
  • Start and end dates for the journey.

Make Copies of All Your Important Docs

It is best to keep a photocopy of your passport and other important stuff you have in your wallet (cards, tickets) in a secure place. In case you lose your wallet, you will congratulate yourself for writing down emergency phone numbers too. Contacting the right people without any unnecessary panic will get your trip back on track easier.

Set-Up an Out-of-Office Reply Message

For those who have a business or have an office-based job, it is important to take care of your partners and collaborators. Set automatic replies to any email you get while you are traveling abroad so to ensure the people you work with know you are away.

Don’t forget to specify an end time as well for this reply option to deactivate when you get back home. If you need more indications, here is a useful guide on setting up out-of-office messages for Outlook users.

Choose the Type of Travel Insurance Policy that Is Best for You

Choosing the travel insurance plan that best suits your traveling abroad purposes can significantly reduce financial and health risks.

As we’ve already touched on the subject a few times, maybe you’d be interested in checking what types of coverage you can get, as well as your best international health insurance options. A good medical insurance for traveling abroad can save you from great trouble.

Search for Best Things to Do at Your Destination

There are so many “best-of” lists to look over before traveling abroad: best restaurants, best places to visit, best shops. Review them from home so you can buy tickets or make reservations in advance. It is easier and more convenient.

Check the Weather

Unless you will be traveling to places with most unpredictable weather conditions, a weather forecast can enhance your peace of mind. This is a task that can greatly influence your packing strategy checklist. What to pack when traveling abroad? Start by ensuring you take with you the things you need such as rain coats, hiking boots, etc. Sometimes, a smart travel abroad checklist can really make the difference.

Further Advice

There are, of course, many other important things to consider before you travel abroad, especially if traveling abroad alone. Besides the fun part of reading more about the local habits of the places you visit, you should also research on the less pleasant aspects you may face such as unsafe areas or the country’s current state of affairs.

For more tips for traveling abroad, such as easy packing ideas and light packing tricks, you should check out our travel packing tips and checklists section.

Hope our post proves useful to you. Feel free to reach out and leave your feedback in the comment section below. Happy planning!

Photo Credits: DepositPhotos.

When and Where to Hire a Tour Guide: International Travel Tips

inventive tour guide in London
An inventive Londonese tour guide who illustrates his talks with photos of the area.

Why would you need a tour guide when traveling abroad if there are so many travel guide books, audios and tour guide app options you can use for a self-guided tour? In this post, we will discuss the usefulness of hiring a tour guide during your international travels. We will provide answers to the following questions:

  • What does a tour guide do? Are tour guide jobs threaten to disappear?  
  • What is the difference between guided tours and self-guided tours?
  • What are the must-visit places where you should hire a tour guide?

Tour Guide: Job Description in Brief

Tour guide jobs, as well as travel consultant or travel agent jobs, are considered by some futile professions due to the enormous mass of information there’s available for free. But are these professions threaten to disappear? As the majority of us travel without hiring one, the answer appears to be “yes”. Before making any other presumptions, let’s take a look at what tour guides can do for us.

Travel tour guide jobs are exciting and rewarding at the same time. Tour guides provide assistance and information to tourists and help them get familiar with the cultural or natural heritage they visit in the language of their choice.

Also, becoming a tour guide is no easy business. Just imagine the complexity a guided tour organization implies. There are, of course, certified schools, tour guide training programs and continual education requirements such professional need to follow. After getting a license, they can either apply for a job with guided tour companies or work at particular tourist attractions.

If you are curious about how much the average tour guide salary is in the US today, it appears that the wages start at $25,000 per year and can get to $35,000 for the more experienced professionals. Of course, local tour guides are not that well-paid as the ones that are lucky to have international tour guide jobs.

Why Should You Hire a Tour Guide When You Travel Abroad?

Hiring a tour guide can be the best way to visit all there is to see and know all there is to know when traveling internationally. They:

  • Are licensed and charismatic professionals that know how to get everywhere around your destination to make sure you don’t waste time and miss anything important.
  • Know how to maximize your cultural experience (e.g. a museum tour guide).
  • Help you communicate with locals and discover many more interesting stories about the places you visit.
  • Provide you with unique insights into an otherwise unknown area.
  • Advice you on best places to dine, to shop, to photograph, etc.
self-guided tour in the USA
Self-Guided Tour in the USA by Motorcycles

Why Shouldn’t You Hire a Tour Guide When You Travel Abroad?

If you are familiar with the language and culture of the country you visit, as well as very well-informed, you could turn your vacation abroad in an incredible experience without the help of a guide.

As an alternative, there are also self-guided tours, such as the so-called “guided by voices tour” (audio tour), that do not imply the presence of an expert. These are self-governing tours conducted either on foot or by a vehicle (self-guided bike tour) with the help of maps, booklets or electronic devices.

What would you choose between a self-guided Hollywood tour and strolling the Hollywood Walk of Fame with a tour guide? Do you need an expert to inform you about everything you get to see there? The point is that there are travel destinations and locations that do not necessarily require hiring a tour guide. This should, however, depend on the specificity of the site one visits, as well as on how confident and well-prepared the tourist is.

There are guided travel tours available in many corners of the world where they make sense and can also make a difference.

When and Where to Hire a Tour Guide

Best Guided Tours of the USA

  • San Francisco Guided Tours: if you are a foreigner, you should definitely get a San Francisco tour guide and visit all those fabulous places of the City by the Bay.
  • New York Guided Tours: hire an NYC tour guide to get you to all these beautiful attractions in less time.
  • Chicago Guided Tour: will you be visiting the Windy City? Get a Chicago tour guide not to miss any of these 10 must-see places.
  • Washington DC Guided Tour Packages: not local? Then a Washington DC tour guide would be very helpful in spotting the city’s best attractions.
  • Grand Canyon Guided Tours: there are guided hiking tours worth booking. Being a Grand Canyon tour guide should be exciting looking at all those top-rated tourist attractions. As this destination is very popular and crowded an expert can help you save time and energy.
  • Yosemite Guided Tours: let a Yosemite tour guide introduce you to the park’s incredible scenery and secrets.
  • Yellowstone National Park Guided Tours: this is another destination where you would benefit from hiring a tour guide to satisfy your curiosity while feasting your eyes with all those natural wonders.
  • Jamaica Guided Tours: hire a Jamaican tour guide for a fun and memorable experience.
  • New Orleans Guided Tours: New Orleans tour guides who can share everything about the city’s history and culture can change your perspective about this jazzy destination.
  • Disneyland Guided Tours: have you ever heard about Tour Guide Mike? He is Mike Hewell, the Disney VIP tour guide who promises a stress-free Disney World vacation. He is, however, a very expensive tour planner. Customers can also purchase a customized itinerary to considerably cut wait times and enjoy an enhanced Disney World experience.

Even if you have visited the States for many times, a gifted Boston tour guide, Seattle tour guide, Los Angeles tour guide or Las Vegas tour guide with heaps of local knowledge will help you gain new insights into all these major cities.

Looking for more adventure? There are guided motorcycle tours of USA to experience.

Best Guided Tours of Europe

  • Guided Tours of Italy: private tour guides in Rome are said to provide the best-guided tours of Italy.
  • Guided Tours of Spain
  • Iceland Guided Tours
  • Guided Tours of Ireland and Scotland
  • Guided Tours of France: give a chance to private tour guides in Paris for a richer traveling experience in such a popular and well-known location.

Best Guided Tours of the Middle East

  • Guided Tours Israel: an Israel tour guide is an absolute must if you wish to learn more about the cultural and historical heritage of places like Jerusalem’s Old Town and Tel Aviv.

Best Guided Tours of Asia

  • India Guided Tours: if you are traveling to India, a talented tour guide can help you discover more about this fantastic country and its traditional culture.
  • Japan Guided Tour: a Tokyo tour guide is most useful as the city is one of the busiest in the world.
  • Guided Tours China: hire a Beijing tour guide and make sure you also book a guided tour for Tea Trek.

Best Guided Tours in Africa

Traveling to Africa? Hiring an adventure tour guide or Safari tour guide is a must! They can take you to Gorilla sanctuaries, to incredible waterfalls and  coastlines, as well as to mystical mountains.

We hope you enjoyed reading our post. Do let us know what you think on this matter. Is hiring a tour guide useful when traveling internationally? Have you had pleasant experiences with booking guided tours? 

Photo Credits: intelligenttravel.nationalgeographic.com, rideroute66.co.uk.

Poshtels: 10 Luxury Hostels in Europe

luxury-hostels-in-europe

Are you spontaneous, outgoing and adventurous? Then backpacking through Europe is what you should plan this summer! Besides seeing some of the most beautiful countries the world has to offer, a Euro trip will leave you with unforgettable memories of partying all night long, meeting locals and other travelers and discovering the incredible history of the continent. If you’re looking to hit more than one country, then accommodation can get quite expensive. If you’re not into couch surfing, we warmly recommend choosing a hostel while staying in a European country. You would be surprised to find out that staying at a hostel doesn’t mean that you have to reside in unpleasant conditions. In fact, the phenomenon of luxury hostels has become so popular, that the places have been dubbed as “poshtels”. Find it hard to believe that a hostel can reach luxury standards? Check out these mind-blowing 10 poshtels in Europe and make sure to visit them when you’re in the countries mentioned below!

cocomama-amsterdam

1. Cocomama (Amsterdam, Netherlands)

Tourists hit Amsterdam for quite a few obvious reasons, aside from the gorgeous city itself. One of the most amazing places you can stay in the city is the Cocomama hostel. Everything about this place is a delight to behold, from the themed rooms to the fully equipped kitchen and A+ staff. Visitors were particularly happy with the services and the staff, saying that activities take place every night and members of the staff even go out with you!

u-hostel-madrid

2. U Hostel (Madrid, Spain)

“U” is actually the first luxury hostel established in Madrid. Reviews show nothing but praise, and we can completely understand why, from seeing the photos. Clean, gorgeous rooms and staff, fantastic location, beautiful view and great prices are just a few of the advantages of staying at U Hostel when traveling to Madrid. There are literally no negative reviews about this hostel, so check it out if you’re in Spain!

little-olive-tree-bari-italy

3. Olive Tree (Bari, Italy)

Even though it isn’t the most well-known hostel on our list, Olive Tree (located in Bari, Italy) is definitely a poshtel you should check out if you plan to visit this country. It received clean, 5 star reviews on Trip Advisor from all users, for multiple reasons. Olive Tree stands out among other forms of accommodation in Bari by offering delicious and praised breakfast, a delightful staff and top-of-the-notch services.

gallery-hostel-portugal

4. Gallery Hostel (Porto, Portugal)

What happens when you take artwork, fun and luxury standards and mix them all in one of the most beautiful cities in Portugal? You get the lovely Gallery Hostel, located on Rua Miguel Bombarda, 222, in Porto. Many visitors compared the hostel to a multiple-starred hotel with excellent conditions and service. Reviewers widely agree that it is the best place to stay in Porto.

one80-hostel-berlin

5. ONE80° Hostel (Berlin, Germany)

Berlin is known as one of the most artsy and bohemian cities in all of Europe. It’s natural that this beautiful city would host equally beautiful hostels for its guests. One of our favorites is the ONE80° Hostel, located on Otto-Braun-Strasse no. 65. Super chic and reasonably priced for its services and appearance, the ONE80° Hostel benefits from a great location (in the city center) and also great reviews, thanks to their friendly staff.

kex-iceland

6. Kex (Reykjavik, Iceland)

If you happen to be traveling to Iceland and are looking for a place where you can actually feel like home, the Kex Hostel is the place for you. Located in the lovely city of Reykjavik, Kex has an exceptional bar with plenty of activities in store for the guests. The staff is super friendly and is committed to meeting your every requirement while you stay, also offering lockers to visitors. This place is super fun for party-goers, so make sure you check it out.

goli-bosi-croatia

7. Goli & Bosi Design Hostel (Split, Croatia)

If minimalism is your thing, you have to see the Goli & Bosi Design Hostel when traveling to Croatia. Located in Split, Goli & Bosi offers a unique accommodation experience for its guests, with an ultra design-ish environment that will bring out the modern art lover in you. The hostel itself was established in a 19th century warehouse, a walking distance to the Diocletian Palace and a few hundred meters away from the Bacvice Bay.

dream-hostel-finland

8. Dream Hostel (Tampere, Finland)

The Dream Hostel has been ranked #1 in Specialty Lodging in Tampere, and we can totally understand why. Many visitors claimed that they didn’t even feel like they were staying at a hostel, thanks to the fact that the Dream Hostel provides private rooms for intimacy. Their staff is very nice and up to date with everything going on in the city, so you can count on them for great recommendations during your stay.

clink-hostel-uk

9. Clink78 (London, United Kingdom)

“The pain of partying is nothing to the joy of meeting again.” This is how guests are welcomed when entering the lobby of Clink78, a hip and luxurious hostel located really close to multiple train stations in London. Guests enjoy free coffee at breakfast and the prices in general are quite on the affordable side. This hostel is particularly nice for young people or students, as they will be having a fun and cool time there.

plus-hostel-germany

10. Plus Hostel (Berlin, Germany)

If you look up the Plus Hostel from Berlin, Germany, the most frequent pictures you are bound to find are of its super awesome swimming pool. All visitors claim that it is the best (“plus”) hostel to stay in Berlin, and that you benefit from a world of good at a really cheap price. Guests are welcomed with a posh courtyard, art gallery, sauna (as well as the swimming pool) and large rooms that were very clean. It certainly all seems to be worth the money, with 4-star hotel conditions and very hospitable employees. Make your experience in Berlin totally worthwhile!

HONORARY MENTIONS:

  • Maverick Hostel (Budapest, Hungary)
  • Caveland (Santorini, Greece)
  • Hostel Celica (Ljubljana, Slovenia)

Photo credits: Ryans-air-adventures.com, Dwell.com, Tripadvisor.com, Condenast.co.uk, Booking.com, Budgettraveller.org, Tripadvisor.com, Gessato.com, Clinkhostels.com, Tripadvisor.com

7 Tips for Traveling in Europe on a Budget

travel-in-europe-on-a-budget

We all share the same common dream deep down in our hearts of traveling all across Europe one day. The continent is world-famous for its rich culture, hospitality, breath-taking landscapes and tendencies to party like there’s no tomorrow. Literature, cinematography and the internet in general have rightfully made us fall in love with all of the romantic countries in Europe and yearn for the trip of a lifetime. Unfortunately, not all of us can afford an all-inclusive vacation in Europe, throwing Euros left and right on the first thing that catches our eye. Reality proves that merely the ride to Europe can turn out to cost you thousands of dollars if you stop at just your first result on a Google search. So how can you plan the Euro trip of your dreams while spending smart? You will soon find out that it’s not as impossible as it seems; we have gathered the best 7 tips for traveling in Europe on a budget so you can enjoy an affordable and worthwhile vacation abroad. Check them out below, plan your trip wisely and bon voyage!

romanian-landscape

1. Discover Eastern Europe

When we first think of Europe, the main countries that come to mind are probably Italy, France, Germany or Spain. But why limit your travels to Western Europe? If you venture into the East a bit more, you will find some of the most precious territories on this continent, filled with history, nature and sheer beauty, all at much lower prices than its Western counterpart. Greece, Czech Republic, Croatia, Romania and Turkey are just a few of the exquisite countries Eastern Europe has to offer; they all provide way more inexpensive services than most Western European countries, and they have some of the most beautiful hidden treasures you will ever discover.

fly-out-of-season

2. Travel Out of Season

Want to avoid heart-stopping flight rates and hordes of camera-clicking tourists? It’s simple; steer away from traveling between July and the first half of September in Europe! Also, you might want to avoid holidays like Easter, Christmas or New Year’s, as Europeans tend to visit their neighboring countries for celebrating. Besides saving a lot of money on airplane tickets, you will also enjoy a unique experience with the locals and discover their lifestyle. Try planning for spring or autumn; you are bound to catch pleasant weather, cheap tickets and a lot more space for wandering around.

luxury-hostels-in-europe

3. Choose a Hostel

Hostels are some of the best forms of accommodation you could ever imagine in Europe. They’re incredibly cute, cozy and cheap, while offering a memorable experience with fellow travelers. Before you panic over the idea of sharing a room with strangers, keep in mind that all of them are probably on the same mission as you: visiting Europe low-cost. Countries throughout Europe host a wide range of hostels for every kind of budget, from super inexpensive dorm-like rooms, to luxury hostels with hotel standards. Booking a hotel anywhere in Europe can be really pricey for almost anyone, so we warmly recommend the hostel experience for any adventurous traveler.

try-couch-surfing

4. Couch surf!

This is definitely our #1 piece of advice if you want to have fun and create fantastic memories. Websites such as Couchsurfing.com offer irreplaceable experiences for traveling abroad, giving you a unique insight to the local lifestyle and offering the chance to make awesome friends, as well. For those of you who aren’t familiar with the term, couch surfing is an alternative for exchanging hospitality by accepting and/or hosting guests at your own home, free of charge. The phenomenon is based on mutuality, so travelers and hosts are encouraged to exchange roles. It’s a great way of meeting open-minded locals and showing love by hosting them in your own home country one day.

graffiti-and-street-art-on-european-subways

5. No Taxis! Public Transport & Walking

One of the greatest tourist traps is definitely the European taxi. Many taxi drivers unfortunately seem to have a liking for fooling foreigners and bumping up cab fares, so the best decision is to use means of public transportation or actually walk, if the distances aren’t too far apart. Most city capitals have a metro or subway system with affordable tickets that can help you cross the city, and also a wide variety of buses to get around. Moreover, many cities in Europe offer daily, weekly or multiple-ride passes, so you don’t have to buy a ticket every time you want to visit a certain place.

picnic-in-the-park

6. Dine & Shop Smart

Ok, we’re not saying that you shouldn’t treat yourself to a restaurant meal when traveling abroad, but let’s face it: they get super expensive. Try local grocery shopping and putting together your own meals, maybe even with a traditional recipe. Nothing beats a lovely picnic in the park for enjoying a traditional, local meal and soaking up the sun. If you’re on the run and looking for a quick lunch, try any local deli or pastry shop. They have the same products as most bistros and they’re half price or even less. Furthermore, if you’re searching for cool souvenirs to bring back to your loved ones, talk to the locals and find out where the best places for shopping are. You should definitely avoid the shops that directly surround famous tourist destinations; we guarantee that you can find that cute key chain for way less money in a not so well-known shop.

museum-in-nice-france

7. Visit Museums for Free

Certainly one of the most memorable parts of your Euro trip will involve discovering the local culture, history and traditions. An avid traveler while surely want to find out more about the city’s background, so museums are at the top of the destination list. However, many museums and monuments can be really expensive to visit, due to their international notoriety. Thankfully, there are tons of museums you can visit for free throughout Europe, which will give you a unique insight about the country’s story. The Berlin Wall Memorial, Musée des Beaux Arts (Nice, France), Museo Storico della Liberazione in Rome, Musée d’art Moderne de la Ville de Paris and the National Museum of Copenhagen are just a few gorgeous museums you can check out completely free of charge.

Go from a simple tourist to an authentic traveler with these tips and enjoy the Euro trip of your life. What country did you enjoy the most in Europe? Do you have any other tips & tricks for traveling in Europe on a budget? Drop us a line in the comment section and have a safe and fun holiday!

Photo credits: Studentflights.com.au, Romaniadacia.wordpress.com, Wonderfulengineering.com, Budgettraveller.org, Pictoucountyrootsforyouth.com, Plus.google.com, Looklocalmagazine.com, barryzwick.wordpress.com.

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