North America – Roaming free – tales of wanderlustbykelley

Shore Perfection: 7 Ways to Guarantee You’re Getting the Most Out of Hawaii

Some people like nothing more than vacationing in a colder destination, but most of us need sunshine and heat in our lives, and when it comes to endless sunshine, Hawaii is the most wondrous place that everybody should try once in their lives. Everybody knows how beautiful it is on the surface—wonderful beaches, opportunities to laze in the sunshine, and all of that wonderful culture, but what can we all do to get that little bit more out of Hawaii? Here are a few things to try.

Don’t Just Stay on One Island

When you land at Honolulu, it can be easy enough to stay right there, but it’s easy enough to visit other neighboring islands such as Kauai or Maui. Ensuring you spend enough time visiting the different islands can really boost your overall experience and appreciation, but when it comes to getting around, you might not want to rely just on Google Maps. In fact, the Shaka guide is a great app that you can use to gain a far deeper understanding of where it is best for you all to go. Ensuring that you stay for at least 10 days gives you more time to experience the different islands and make the most of all of the little things you can do.

Go When It’s Less Touristy

Hawaii is an amazingly laid-back location, but you’ve got to time it right. There could be so many crowds coming for their dose of sunshine that you may struggle for elbow space on the amazing beaches. Therefore, going during off-peak seasons doesn’t just mean fewer people on the islands, but you will also save some money on the flights and the accommodation in the process! The best times are between February and March, mid-April and mid-June, and September to mid-December, but all of these have their own vacations, including Spring Break in March, Easter in April, as well as Thanksgiving week in November.

Eat and Drink During Happy Hour

If you are trying to get around Hawaii for cheap, the best thing you can do is set your alarms for Happy Hour. Happy Hour is serious business in Hawaii, and you can find a lot of amazing drinks and appetizers, known as pūpū, locally for as low as $5. Some people think Happy Hour is when the worst food and drinks get carted out, but in fact, as long as you don’t mind eating your dinner a bit earlier or your lunch later, you will have some amazing meals at a cut price. Happy Hour will totally depend on the restaurant, but it usually falls somewhere between 2 and 6 in the afternoon.

Schedule the Activities ASAP!

When it comes to the list of things to do in Hawaii, there are plenty. You can go on boat trips and swim with the fish, or if you want to experience high mountains and volcanoes in a helicopter, you can also do this. But make sure that you schedule those important activities as early as possible because the weather can change depending on where you are. For example, if you wanted to head to the top of Maui’s inactive volcano, Haleakala, it could get very cold up there, so make sure you take warm clothing and gloves.

Explore on Wheels

One of the best ways to take in the views of Hawaii is by car. The roads are easy to navigate, and you can hire a car easily, but just make sure you reserve your vehicle when you are in the process of booking everything because then you will guarantee you can navigate those amazing scenic lookouts, landscapes, and stop at any beach you want.

Don’t Bother Packing Much!

The climate in Hawaii is pretty consistent, and why bother wasting your time cramming pointless things into your suitcase? You might want to pack a couple of layers if you plan on venturing up places like the Mauna Kea Observatory or Haleakala, and maybe a nice shirt for your evening meal, but the fact is you’re going to be walking around in your beachwear or Hawaiian shirt for most of it! It’s the opportunity of a lifetime to experience your own little piece of heaven, so why weigh yourself down?

Eat All the Food!

The food is, to put it simply, fantastic! Rather than going for the typical tourist hot spots, there are plenty of local neighborhoods that offer local flavor, and you should eat your way through Hawaii with some of these amazing dishes in your belly!

You may want to just relax on the beach but if you want to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, these are some of the things that can ensure you get the most out of it.

How Our Cities Can Become More Sustainable

If we want to leave a livable world for future generations, we must make some changes. And, as over half of the world’s population now lives in cities, it’s time for cities to lead the way in sustainable change. Here are some ways our cities can become more sustainable places to live.

Via Pixabay

Implement Renewable Energy Sources

One of the most important ways our cities can become more sustainable is by implementing renewable energy sources. Solar panels, wind, and hydropower are all renewable energy sources that can power our cities. Using renewable energy sources can reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, significantly contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. Not only would this help reduce pollution, but it would also create jobs in the renewable energy sector.

Increase Recycling and Composting Efforts

Another way our cities can become more sustainable is by increasing recycling and composting efforts. It’s estimated that about one-third of the waste produced in the US is recyclable, but only about one-tenth of it gets recycled. This means there’s a lot of room for improvement. Increasing recycling and composting efforts can reduce pollution and landfill waste and conserve resources like water and trees.

Promote Sustainable Transportation Options

Another important way to make our cities more sustainable is by promoting sustainable transportation options. This includes things like public transportation, walking, and biking. By nurturing these options, we can reduce reliance on cars and trucks, significant contributors to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Promoting sustainable transportation options can also help improve public health by reducing sedentary lifestyles and increasing physical activity levels.

Improve Building Efficiency

Another way to make our cities more sustainable is by improving building efficiency. This includes using energy-efficient lighting and appliances, insulating buildings, and using green building materials. By making these improvements, we can reduce energy consumption and water use, saving money and resources while also reducing pollution.

Support Local Agriculture

Our favorite places could become more sustainable by supporting local agriculture. When people buy locally grown food, they’re reducing the need for long-distance transportation, reducing pollution. Additionally, local agriculture often uses less water than large-scale industrial agriculture. Buying local produce also helps keep small farmers in business, strengthening the local economy. It could also help with the environment’s health by reducing the use of harmful chemicals and pesticides.

Reducing Energy Consumption with Solar Panels

By installing solar panels on rooftops, cities can reduce their energy consumption and reliance on fossil fuels. Solar panels capture solar energy from the sun, which is then converted into usable electricity. Not only does this help reduce pollution and lower energy bills, but solar panels can also provide a source of income for homeowners who choose to lease or sell the solar energy they generate.

These are just a few ways our cities can become more sustainable places to live. But, if we want to leave a livable world for future generations, it’s time for us to start making some changes—and there’s no time like the present to get started.

6 Must-Haves when Visiting a Cold Destination

When planning a winter vacation, many people automatically think of tropical destinations like Hawaii or the Caribbean. However, there are other great options to consider – cold destinations! These can be just as beautiful and enjoyable in the wintertime and offer a different kind of experience. If you’re looking for some ideas on where to go, read on for this list of six must-haves when visiting a cold destination.

via Pexels

1) Warm clothing

The first necessity when traveling to a cold destination is warm clothing. Layering is key— opt for lightweight layers like wool and fleece, as they provide the best insulation while still allowing you to move comfortably. Don’t forget hats, gloves, and womens thermal socks; these are essential in keeping your body heat regulated when temperatures drop. It’s also important to note that the temperature can change drastically during different times of day, so it’s wise to bring a range of options for long days out exploring.

In addition, waterproof and breathable fabrics are ideal for outdoor activities, as they will keep you both warm and dry. Look for items with waterproof shells and durable synthetic insulation that won’t lose its warmth when wet.

2) High-quality winter boots

High-quality winter boots are an absolute must when visiting a cold destination. It’s important to invest in a pair of waterproof, insulated boots that can handle snow and ice without causing your feet to get too cold. Look for features like removable liners, which provide extra warmth in extreme temperatures; Vibram soles for added traction on icy surfaces; and breathable fabric so your feet don’t overheat. Additionally, it’s helpful to have gaiters or boot covers so your ankles and lower legs stay dry and warm.

3) Sunglasses

Though it may seem counterintuitive, sunglasses are a must-have when visiting cold destinations— even in winter! This is because the sun’s rays reflect off snow and ice, making UV exposure higher than usual at these times of the year. So don’t forget to pack a pair of quality polarized lenses to keep your eyes healthy during long days outside.

4) Lip balm

The cold weather can be harsh on your skin, particularly the delicate area around your lips. To keep them hydrated and protected from the elements, make sure you have a quality lip balm with SPF on hand at all times.

5) A good camera

Cold destinations offer some amazing sights, and you don’t want to miss them! Make sure you have a quality digital SLR or point-and-shoot camera with extra batteries. Winter conditions can be harsh on electronics, so it’s best to bring backups of any important components, such as memory cards and lenses.

6) A sense of adventure

This may not be something you can pack in your suitcase, but it is essential when visiting a cold destination: a sense of adventure! Cold climates provide the perfect backdrop for all kinds of outdoor activities like skiing, snowshoeing and ice skating. So don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new — you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
Visiting a cold destination can be daunting, but with these must-haves in your travel arsenal, you’ll be well on your way to having the trip of a lifetime! So whether it’s admiring the beauty of a snow-covered landscape or taking part in a winter activity, make sure you take advantage of all that cold destinations have to offer.

Driving Abroad? Here are 6 Tips that will Help you to Feel More Confident

Getting behind the wheel of a car for the very first time, when you are in a completely new country can be a very stressful experience. That being said, it really doesn’t have to be. If you want to make sure that you are as safe as possible when driving abroad then this guide will help you to drive more confidently in no time at all.

Get Used to the Car

The first thing that you have to do is take a bit of time to get used to the car that you intend to drive. Before you set off on your journey, take a minute to get used to being sat at the wrong side and even changing gears. Now may be the time for you to spend some time driving around a nice quiet car park so you can familiarize yourself with the car and you can practice using some of the auxiliary controls on your car too. This could include the indicators, the wipers and even the headlights.

Source: Pexels (CC0 License)

Hire an Automatic Car

Automatic cars are ideal if you are a nervous driver. They are impossible to stall, and you don’t have to worry about the clutch or even changing gear. You can easily sit back and relax, knowing that all you have to do is focus on the road. Not only this, but you can give yourself the chance to rest your left leg. If you have not had the chance to drive an automatic car yet, then it is possible for you to hire one for a couple of days in your own home country. Believe it or not, taking a test drive is the best way for you to get used to the various transmissions you have, and you can also adjust much faster when you do arrive at your destination.

Know the Side of the Road

It is imperative that you know what side of the road you have to be at. If you can, take note of essential equipment or even documents that you may need to carry with you as well. If you need to take a car seat with you then make sure that you do everything you can to understand the laws for this, so you can make the best decisions possible when you are on the road.

Drive Slowly

It is very natural for you to feel somewhat anxious when you are driving on a foreign motorway or highway. That being said, everything will come to you in time. You just need to ensure that you drive at your own pace and that you feel nice and relaxed whenever you are behind the wheel. One extra thing you can do is take the time to drive in the slow lane until you feel 100% ready to drive in one of the faster lanes. If you are somewhat nervous about driving on the road, then make sure that you leave a big gap between all of the traffic on the road before you choose to change lanes. Remember to never drive when you are tired either. Fatigued driving is a major cause of most road accidents.

Don’t Be Put off

Depending on where it is you intend to visit, you may find that the driving style of the locals is much more aggressive than what you may be used to at home. If you can, try not to let other drivers bother you and also do not be tempted to respond to any gestures by them either. If you do feel somewhat flustered, then take a breath and move into the slow lane. You can also choose to pull over entirely if you know that it is safe for you to do so. Just make sure that you are focused as much as possible.

Don’t be Too AmbitiousIf you can, you have to make sure that you do not plan a drive that is too long when you are behind the wheel. Drive for short distances so you can build up to taking much longer road trips. You may also want to try and avoid driving when the roads are really busy or even city driving in general. When you drive in areas like this, you may find that you have to concentrate far more and if you are a novice driver, then this can be very overwhelming very quickly, so be mindful of this if you can. It’ll help you to be more comfortable all-round and you may find that you are able to enjoy your trip more as a result.

3 Tips To Enjoy Your Vacation

Image Credit: User32212 from Pixabay.

Everyone wants to enjoy their vacation. It’s why they go on one in the first place. Sometimes, things come up and prevent people from doing so. Last-minute cancellations, hotels that weren’t up-to-par, and similar factors can all get in the way of this.

Figuring out how to enjoy your vacation means knowing how to book it the right way. Going into a travel agent and letting them take care of things can be an option, but it takes a lot of control out of your hands.

You don’t need to do that. With three practical vacation tips, you can book your vacation yourself while making sure you’re able to enjoy it.

How To Enjoy Your Vacation: 3 Top Tips

1. Be Creative & Spontaneous

When you’re planning out your vacation, you could end up having every specific thing planned out. What you’ll do each day, when you’ll eat, where you’ll be, and similar areas could all be covered in this. As natural as this approach might be, you should also be creative and spontaneous on your vacation.

Being flexible with what you’ll do each day and taking things as they come can add to your vacation more than you’d think. You could come across things on the holiday you wouldn’t have thought of. With creativity and spontaneity, you can enjoy this.

2. Do Your Research

You’ll need to do some research before going on vacation. If you’re going to Lake George, for example, it’s worth looking into things to do in the Adirondacks. The same applies to anywhere else you’ll be going.

By doing this research, you’ll find plenty of things you can do once you’re there. You’ll also find better deals on flights, accommodation, and more. With a little time, you’ll have no problem figuring out ways to enjoy your vacation. Leave some time for spontaneity when you’re doing this.

There are plenty of resources online to get stuck into when it comes to doing your research. If you’re looking for vacations in the USA, take a look at each state individually. Some places are going to offer a more personable experience for you and your party, whereas other states may not be suited for your vacation requirements.

If you’ve never traveled to the USA before, then the more research you do, the better. The country is a big place, so you want to make your trip the best it can be.

3. Experience Something New

Vacations are supposed to take you out of your daily routine. If you’re on a trip, you shouldn’t be doing the same things you do in your daily life. There isn’t much of a point in it if you do. You should go out of your way to experience something new.

Doing this expands your horizons and helps you enjoy yourself more than you’d thought. Your research can help with this, as you can find more than a few things you wouldn’t have done before.

New foods, hiking, and even talking to the locals can all be recommended. You’d be surprised by how much more you’d enjoy your holiday.

How To Enjoy Your Vacation: Wrapping Up

You’ll need to know how to enjoy your vacation and book everything the right way to make sure it goes as smoothly as possible. Each of the above tips apply to everything from a last-minute weekend away to a weeks-long vacation.

By experiencing something new, spending time researching a particular destination, and getting creative, your trip will be as enjoyable as possible. There shouldn’t be anything stopping you from putting your feet up and relaxing when you’re away.

9 Tips For First-Time Youth Travelers

When planning a trip, it’s important to do your research and plan ahead as much as possible. This is especially true for first-time youth travelers who may not have experience with long-distance travel.

Photo by Leah Kelley

Here Are A Few Tips To Help Make Your Trip Go Smoothly:

Budget wisely

Traveling can be expensive, so it’s important to budget wisely. Decide how much money you’re willing to spend before you even start planning your trip. Once you know your budget, research costs for accommodation such as glamping in upstate New York, food, and transportation so you can plan accordingly. Keep in mind that you can often find ways to save money by doing things like Couchsurfing or taking local buses instead of flying.

Be flexible

The best-laid plans often go awry, so it’s important to be flexible when you’re traveling. Things will inevitably go wrong at some point during your trip, whether it’s a missed train or a closed museum. When these things happen, don’t get upset – just go with the flow and make the best of the situation.

Step out of your comfort zone

One of the best things about traveling is that it allows you to step out of your comfort zone and experience new things. So don’t be afraid to try something new, whether it’s a food you’ve never heard of or an activity that seems a little scary. You might just surprise yourself with how much you enjoy it.

Be respectful

When you’re traveling to a new place, it’s important to be respectful of the local culture and customs. This means dressing modestly, being aware of your body language, and not being too loud or disruptive. If you’re not sure what the etiquette is in a particular situation, just ask – locals will be more than happy to help you out.

Meet new people

One of the best parts of traveling is meeting new people. So don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with someone, whether it’s the person sitting next to you on the plane or the bartender at your hotel. You never know who you might meet – they could end up being a great friend or even a travel buddy.

Keep an open mind

When you’re traveling, it’s important to keep an open mind and be willing to try new things. After all, that’s what travel is all about – expanding your horizons and learning about different cultures. So don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and explore the world.

Be prepared for possible jet lag

If you’re traveling long distances, be prepared for jet lag. This can ruin your trip if you’re not careful. To avoid jet lag, make sure to get plenty of sleep before your flight and drink lots of water during your travels.

Stay in safe areas

When you’re exploring a new city, it’s important to stay in safe areas. Ask the locals for advice on where to go and where to avoid. If you’re unsure about an area, it’s best to steer clear.

HAVE FUN!

At the end of the day, remember that travel is supposed to be fun. So don’t stress about things like missed trains or bad weather – just go with the flow and enjoy your time exploring new places. After all, you’ll only get to do it once, so you might as well make the most of it.

How to Make the Most Out of Any Trip

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Many of us travel because we want to relax and really enjoy all the world has to offer. Often, we fall short of doing that because we don’t know how to really make the most out of the trips we take.

If that sounds familiar, here are a few ideas that may help you to squeeze every drop of enjoyment out of your future trips whether they be in North America, Europe, or elsewhere:

Learn to live in the moment

This might sound like a trite phrase trotted out by a certain kind of person, but actually, it is the best advice you will get for traveling and life in general. If you are too busy trying to get the perfect selfie or too preoccupied with all the work that is piling up at home, you will never truly enjoy that sunset in Tuscany or that stunning painting in the MoMA gallery.

How do you learn to live in the moment more? Meditation can really help with this, but basically, focus your attention on what you are doing at the time and only what you are doing.

Do the most meaningful things

Instead of hitting the tourist traps just because you think you should pick out the things to do in Greenwich, Connecticut that really speak to you or make a point of finding the one attraction that blows your mind and focus on those experiences. Yes, many of the tourist traps are tourist traps for a good reason – they are amazing – but if they don’t speak to you on a meaningful level. Skip them and do the things that do. There is no right way to travel.

Try new things

Whether it’s staying with a local host family instead of booking into a generic hotel or going rock climbing when you have previously shied away from anything that might seem risky, trying new things will mean you have lots of new experiences, and although you may not enjoy them all, you will learn lots of new things about who you are and what life and travel means for you. You’ll end up having bigger highs than you did when you were just playing it safe, staying in a resort and sipping cocktails day after day )although if that’s your bag, there’s nothing wrong with that.) Be brave, try new things and the world will really start to open up to you. Why not head to try some Duke’s Spirited Cocktails Healdsburg or arrange a trip to try something exciting like bungee jumping?

Be spontaneous

Yes, it can be a good idea to have a loose itinerary of what you want to do so that you can fit in as much of the good stuff as possible. However, it’s also a good idea to embrace spontaneity and be a bit flexible with your schedule, so you can spend more time at that amazing gallery you just discovered or have dinner with that interesting new person you just met and not feel so rushed.

Traveling should be fun, and with these ideas, you can truly embrace the fun part of traveling and make your trips even more amazing than they have been in the past.

6 Exciting Activities to Pursue While Traveling Through North America

There’s no shortage of things to do when traveling through North America. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors or take in some of the world’s most famous landmarks and attractions, you’re sure to find something that piques your interest. In this post, we’ll take a look at six exciting activities that you can enjoy while traveling through North America. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next adventure!

Photo by Samson Katt from Pexels

1) hiking and camping

There are few better ways to experience the beauty of North America than by spending time in its many parks and forests. Whether you’re hiking through the Rocky Mountains or camping under the stars in Yellowstone National Park, you’re sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Hiking is a great way to explore the outdoors and get some exercise, while camping allows you to immerse yourself in nature and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Both activities are perfect for travelers who want to disconnect from technology and connect with nature.

If you’re not an experienced camper, don’t worry! Plenty of resources are available to help you plan your trip, including online guides and rental companies that can provide everything you need for a successful camping trip.

2) Rent a motorcycle for the day

One of the best ways to see North America is renting a motorcycle and hitting the open road. This activity is perfect for travelers who want to explore at their own pace and make spontaneous stops along the way. There are many scenic routes to choose from, whether you’re looking to ride through the mountains or along the coast. And if you’re not sure where to start, you can start by finding the best motorcycle for rent. Before you hit the road, be sure to do your research and read reviews from other travelers. This will help you find the best rental companies and avoid any potential problems during your trip.

3) Visit a theme park

From Disneyland to Universal Studios, North America is home to some of the world’s most famous theme parks. These attractions are perfect for travelers who want to experience a little bit of everything, from thrilling roller coasters to family-friendly rides and shows. So if you’re visiting a new city, be sure to check out the local theme parks – you might be surprised by what you find!

Theme parks can be expensive, but there are ways to save money on your tickets. One option is to purchase tickets in advance online. This can often save you up to 50% off the price of admission at the gate. Another option is to visit during off-peak hours. Most theme parks offer cheaper tickets and shorter lines during the weekdays or the offseason.

4) Take a road trip

One of the best things about North America is its vast size. This continent has something for everyone, whether you’re looking to experience the bustling city life or escape to a remote corner of the world. And one of the best ways to see everything that North America has to offer is by taking a road trip. There are many different routes to choose from, so it’s essential to do your research before hitting the road. Once you’ve planned your way, be sure to pack plenty of food and water, as well as a map in case you get lost. And most importantly, don’t forget to have fun!

5) Take a cooking class

One of the best ways to experience a new culture is food. And what better way to learn about a culture than by taking a cooking class? This activity is perfect for travelers who want to learn about the local cuisine and meet new people. There are many different types of classes to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that interests you. And if you’re not sure where to start, there are plenty of online resources that can help you find the perfect class for your needs.

Cooking classes can be expensive, but they’re often worth the price. Not only will you learn about the local cuisine, but you’ll also get to sample some delicious dishes. And in some cases, the cost of the class includes a meal and a cookbook, so you can take what you’ve learned home with you.

6) Go on a safari

One of the best ways to see wildlife is by going on a safari. This activity is perfect for travelers who want to get up close and personal with some of the world’s most amazing animals. There are many different safaris to choose from, so it’s essential to do your research before booking a trip. Once you’ve found the perfect safari for you, be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and insect repellent, as well as a camera to capture all of your memories.

These are just a few of the many exciting activities you can pursue while traveling through North America. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!

10 Travel Tips For Every Traveler

If you’re looking for travel advice, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we’re going to share the best travel tips for everyone who is planning a trip. Whether you’re just starting out or have been planning your trip for years, we’ve got you covered.

Photo By Pablo Fernandez/Flickr

1. Choose the right travel destination

Before you head to the airport, it’s important to choose the right travel destination. You don’t want to end up in a country that’s too dangerous or too expensive. Here are some tips to help you make the best decision:

-Check the safety of the destination before you leave. Do your research and find out how safe the destination is before planning your trip.

-Check the weather conditions before you go. Visiting a destination during an intense thunderstorm could be dangerous.

-Explain your plans to your family and friends first. They may not be interested in traveling to a dangerous place, but they may be curious about what you’re going to do there.

-Make sure that you have enough money saved up for your trip. It’s always a good idea to have at least $2,000 saved up so that you can cover any unexpected costs.

2. Make extra copies of your passport and important documents

If you’re planning a trip and want to make sure you have everything you need, make extra copies of your passport and important documents. Not only will this help avoid any problems in case of an emergency, but it also gives you a copy to keep if something happens to your original document. You can email a copy to yourself too.

You can also photocopy your driver’s license, social security card, or other important documents. You never know when you might need to have some sort of documentation and you might not want to carry your original. Additionally if your passport gets stolen, having a copy will come in handy for your police report. This way, if something comes up and you don’t have your original document, you can still get by without any issues.

3. Get travel insurance

Without travel insurance, you could be in for a lot of trouble. Not only will you be at risk if something happens to you on your trip, but you could also get sued if something terrible happens on your trip and you’re not responsible. Examples of companies include World Nomads who have great customer service and in-depth coverage or Insure My Trip, the best for those over 70 years old. By getting travel insurance, you can have peace of mind that everything will be okay.

4. Always visit the local tourism office

The best way to get the most out of your trip is to always visit the local tourism office. This will give you information about the location, attractions, and events that are happening in that area, they can also point you to free activities and help you save money! They even offer discounts on attractions and transportation. It is their job to help you experience the destination better.

5. Pack Light

One of the best ways to reduce your travel costs is to pack light. Starpoint Resorts give invaluable advice on this subject advising you to pre-plan your outfits, not giving yourself a choice as to what to wear every day. When you’re packing for your trip, try and think about what you need and don’t need. Instead of having a lot of unnecessary items in your suitcase, pack only what’s necessary. This way, you won’t have to waste time trying to find something that you don’t need or that you won’t be able to use.

6. Visit under-the-radar places.

The world is full of amazing places to visit that are off the beaten path and under the radar. The best thing about these places is that they have a lot less tourists, meaning you’ll be able to get up close and personal with them in ways that you would never be able to do at more popular destinations.

Ecuador in particular is one of the most under-appreciated countries in South America, home to one of the most incredible places on Earth, the Galapagos Islands. Some of these destinations are off the beaten path, meaning you’ll have to take a plane or train to get there. But it’s worth the trip! These type of destinations are under-the-radar for good reasons. For example, one place might be relatively unknown because it’s not in a popular travel destination, but it has natural beauty that is worth exploring. Others might be under-the-radar due to accessibility or safety issues.

7. Take an extra bank card and credit card with you

When you’re planning your trip, make sure to bring along a few extra cards and credit cards. This way, you won’t have to worry about being overcharged or having to pay back your debt. You also want to be prepared for emergencies. If something happens and you can’t get your money back, you won’t have a problem.

8. Find the best hotels in your destination

One of the most important things you can do when planning a trip is to find the best hotels in your destination. This will allow you to have a more comfortable stay and save money on your stay. You can use different search engines to find the best hotels in your destination, such as Tripadvisor. By checking these websites, you’ll get a comprehensive list of hotels with room rates that are lower than what you would find at other hotels in the same city or town. Additionally, many online travel review sites offer reviews of hotels that are specifically tailored to travelers who are looking for deals or special deals.

9. Don’t fly direct to your destination

This is often a common practice for most people because it saves time and money. Sometimes it is cheaper to fly into an airport close to your final destination, and then take a train or bus to where you need to go. Google Flights and Momondo are the best flight search engines out there for finding airlines that offer the best deals and their calendar view lets you see which days are cheapest to fly.

10. Enjoy your trip!

No one knows what the future holds, but if you’re planning a trip, make sure you enjoy your time in each place you visit. If you don’t, you won’t have a good time and you could end up regretting it. Let your days unfold naturally, as this will make it less stressful, letting the day just take you is one of the best ways to travel.

Staying Safe on Your Thrill-Seeking Adventures

Seeking out thrilling activities when you’re travelling is a sure way to make your trip memorable. You can look for high-octane things to do that will make your travels exciting and give you something to talk about when you get home. But high-adrenaline activities are also often riskier compared to spending your days sitting on the beach or visiting museums. It’s essential to weigh up the risks and rewards and decide how you’re going to keep yourself safe if you decide to do any of these things.

You don’t have to avoid doing any potentially dangerous activities, but you should make sure that the chance of anything going wrong is as low as possible. You can keep yourself safe by taking the right steps to plan any activities appropriately.

Only Use Reputable Companies

Whether you’re planning activities in advance or looking for something to do at the last minute, it’s essential to make sure that you’re using reputable service providers. You can easily get caught out by unapproved, unsafe companies that aren’t providing a safe experience. It’s easier to fall for a dodgy provider in some companies than others, but most places have some system for ensuring a provider is safe. You might want to check out their licensing, insurance, customer reviews and see if they’re approved by the local tourist board.

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Get Instruction

If you’re trying out a new activity, it’s always smart to get some lessons or instruction before you begin. This is true whether you’re doing a short, one-off activity or if you’re planning on going on a multi-day adventure. Get riding lessons before going on a motorbike or moped trip if you want to avoid the need for motorcycle accident lawyers when your trip is over. Have instruction in scuba diving, surfing, or any other water-based activity that you want to try. Whatever you’re interested in doing, look for a way to get adequate instruction and support to help you get started.

Use the Right Gear

The right equipment is vital for many extreme sports, outdoor activities, and other things you might want to do with a high risk of injuries or accidents. If you’re using a reputable company, they should provide you with the gear that you need to wear or use. Some might ask you to bring some of your own things, but they will generally make sure that you have the essential safety gear. If you’re choosing to plan an independent trip or activity, it’s your job to make sure you know what gear you need and to check that it’s appropriate.

Take Out Travel Insurance

Travel insurance isn’t going to prevent anything from happening, but it will help to protect you during your travels. If anything does happen, it’s reassuring to know that you have insurance to cover your costs. Travel insurance can help to pay for medical bills and it might be able to cover other costs that are incurred due to any accidents or illnesses you have. For example, it might help you to pay for accommodation or the cost of getting back home. It’s better to have insurance than to avoid getting medical attention when you need it. Some activity providers may also require you to have insurance.

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Don’t Go It Alone

Making sure you’re not alone is a good way to keep yourself safe when you’re travelling. It can be even more important to do if you’re doing more dangerous activities. You should plan to travel with friends, a guide, or even a group of other travellers with a touring company. Sometimes there might be occasions when you take a trip on your own, especially if you’re experienced and comfortable with doing so. However, you should still stay in contact with other people, letting friends and family know where you’re going and what you’re doing.

Listen to Locals

Some of the best assistance and information that you can get will come from local people. They know the local area and how to stay safe so they can give you good advice. You will often find that many of the companies offering activities and tours are staffed by local guides and instructors. Not only can they be the best people to show you the ropes and guide you in the local area, but you’re also supporting the local economy by choosing companies that employ local people.

You might be looking for excitement, but staying safe when you’re travelling is important too. Take care of yourself when you travel and don’t take any unnecessary risks.