Globetrotting Tips for Savvy Traveler

Chicago is one of the foodie capitals of the U.S. The city is teeming with world-class restaurants, unique, regional flavors, and incredible street-side snacks. You haven't experienced the windy city until you've enjoyed its diverse and delicious cuisine. 

There are so many places to choose from but this article, by Roger Tan for Cumidanciki.com , is a good place to start. "A Weekend in Chicago" lists his top 6 favorite places to grab a bite. From Fernando's Mexican Tequilla Bar & Restaurant for shrimp tacos and margaritas, to Lou Malnati's Pizzeria for famous Chicago-style, deep dish pizza, this list is AWESOME. 

If you're ready to start your trip, contact the experts at Anglo Brampton Travel! We can take care of all your travel needs no matter where your destination. 

The beautiful city of Belfast is the capital of and largest city in Northern Ireland. Historically it's been a centre for the Irish linen industry (earning the nickname "Linenepolis"), and today it's a dynamic cultural centre in the UK full of art, music and some intense Gaelic football. Here's what to do on your next trip:

(Belfast Castle)

1. The Odyssey Arena

With a plethora of family-friendly options like the Belfast zoo and Streamvale Open Farm, the arena area is a must for all ages.

2. Take in a theatre production or concert.

The Odyssey arena, Belfast Waterfront Hall and Grand Opera House play host to world class performances throughout the year.

3. Take a Titanic tour.

From the visitor website: "The Titantic Experience extends over nine galleries, with multiple dimensions to the exhibition, drawing together special effects, dark rides, full-scale reconstructions and innovative interactive features to explore the Titantic story in a fresh and insighful way."

4. Ulster Folk & Transport Museum.

Part of the National Museums of North Ireland, you can transport yourself back into the early 1900’s and experience what life would have been like in Ulster in yester year.

5. Enjoy a pub walking tour.

No visit to Belfast would be complete without  a trip around its famous and historic pubs. Experience the legendary pub scene in Belfast and meet the locals over a couple Guinness at the neighbourhood pubs.

6. The Big wheel.

Erected in 2008 the big wheel provides scenic views from this 200 foot Ferris wheel.

7. Walking tours.

Take a guided walking tour of the old town, titanic trail and blackstaft way.

8. W5 - Ireland's award-winning science & discovery centre.

One of Belfast’s newest attractions this interactive science centre allows you to delve into the modern science as we know it.

9. City Hall.

One of the most impressive city halls in all of Europe, highlights will include the 173 foot high dome and spectacular town square.

10. Linen Hall Library.

Have a coffee and explore the beautiful ground of Belfast famed and oldest library.

Book your next trip with us today!

These smaller cities offer quite a bit to the traveller in their own right. Whether you're visiting for the crazy rugby scene or attending the Cheltenham Jazz Festival in May, you certainly won't run out of things to do.

Nor things to eat. There is a vibrant foodie scene in both of these cities that offers delicious, international cuisine at highly affordable prices.

In fact, Tony Naylor just wrote an article for the guardian.co.uk - Top 10 best budget restaurants in Cheltenham and Gloucester. 

Making the list are Vanilla of Cheltenham, a "smart basement restaurant," and Blue Thai Kitchen of Gloucester - "cheap, cheerful and, for the money, pretty good."

Check out his full list, and contact us to plan your trip!

With all of the cold weather, we can't help thinking of warm beaches and surf side cuisine. 

Oahu has both. Between the warm climate and diverse, Asian-inspired flavors, we're about to book our own trip to this amazing island. 

Speaking of food, Kathy YL Chan for the Fodor's Travel Blog just posted a list of 5 Best New Places to Eat on Oahu. From hip wine bars and tapas to local sandwich chains, the food alone is reason enough to go. Check out her list and get inspired!

Next, book your trip with Anglo Travel! We are a full-service travel agency that can help you with all of your travel needs. 

Just contact us for more information. 

We don't want to take away from the many, many things to do and see in Ireland - it has a rich culture and history, amazing people, and unbelievable green landscapes. 

However - we have to admit, there's nothing like having a pint in an Irish pub. You don't want to miss out on this experience!

Sarah Gordon of the DailyMail.co.uk agrees. She writes that "the best thing to do in Ireland ... [is] head straight to the pub. Check out her article here. 

What else can you do in Ireland? Contact us and find out!

Glasgow is the cooler, younger cousin to Edinburgh's more touristy scene. Not that Edinburgh doesn't have much to offer - it's an amazing destination in itself - but Glasgow is proving to be a hip, modern city in its own right. 

As Phil McDonald of the Venere Travel Blog puts it, 

"Forget Edinburgh, Glasgow is the best Scottish city. While the millions of Americans stock-up with whiskey, tartan and haggis, 46 miles west you’ll find throngs of trendy bars, clubs and hangouts and some of the coolest Scots around."

In his article he lists The Coolest Bars in Glasgow  - definitely check it out!

Contact us for more info on this amazing city!

This very funny article by Michelle Crouch of Reader's Digest is a list of 13 Things: What Your Flight Attendant Won't Tell You. 

Here's an excerpt:

9. If you’re traveling overseas, do yourself a favor and bring a pen.

You would not believe how many people travel without one, and you need one to fill out the immigration forms. I carry some, but I can’t carry 200.

Happy New Years from all of us at Anglo Scottish American Travel Agency!

I just wanted to share an article from a column that I read regularly - the NYTimes Practical Traveler series, which is always full of good tips and ideas. 

This week, Seth Kugel writes "In Richmond, a London Day Trip That Fits the Frugal Bill. London can be a very expensive city but there are a lot of ways to stretch your dollar and still have an amazing time. 

Check out the full article! And when you're ready to book that trip to London, contact us to make it happen!

Happy Holidays from all of us at Anglo Scottish American Travel Agency!

This city really does look like a lot of fun! The Goose Fair is one of Europe's oldest and largest festivals, an annual event featuring food, rides, and games. The Fair is part of Nottingham's rich history, and is the perfect travel destination for children of all ages. 

The Goose Fair began as a trade event, known for its high-quality cheese and the thousands of geese that passed through from Lincolnshire to be sold in Nottingham.

During its 700 year existence, the only breaks in continuation were during the Bubonic Plague in the 17th century and again during the two World Wars in the 20th century. Today it is one of Britain’s largest funfairs, known for its rides and games.

The Fair is now held on the Forest recreation ground (at the Forest tram stop). Entry is free.

In addition to the usual array of Roller Coasters, Water Rides, Giant Wheels, Bombers, Dodgems, Twists, Waltzers and Miamis, this year there will be a number of new attractions that have not visited Nottingham before.

Information about how to get there.

Photo Credit

In addition to its international reputation as being the home of Robin Hood, Nottingham is renowned for its distinctive lace industry, a traditional source of the city's prosperity. Today the Lace Market area of Nottingham is a hip quarter of the city's center.

This walkable city quarter features stunning architecture and a variety of sights and restaurants. The Lace Centre has since closed but there remain plenty of shops to purchase a memento of traditional Nottingham lace.

Buy

Debbie Bryan Studio & Shop

Address: 18 St Mary's Gate

Hours: Mon - Fri: 11am - 5pm; Sat 11am - 6pm; Sun 11am - 4pm

Eat

The Kean's Head

Address: 46 St. Mary's Gate (NG1 1QA)

Tel: +44 (0)115 947 405

Open daily from late morning until late eveing.

This small pub tucked away on a quiet street opposite St. Mary’s Church in the Lace Market area is the perfect casual dining and drinking spot. Food is simple but tasty, about £4 to £8 per dish. There is an excellent selection of local and foreign beer and wine to match your food.

Café Rouge

Address: 31 Bridlesmith Gate (NG1 2GR)

Tel: +44 (0)115 58 2230

Café Rouge is part of a popular UK chain, and offers relaxed and casual French-inspired dining. Friendly service combined with delicious food and a top-notch wine selection make this the perfect spot to plan your travel itinerary over breakfast, pop in for a quick lunch, or relax after a day of touring the city.

See

Lace Market Theatre

A small independent amateur theatre highly regarded for its diverse program of modern and traditional drama, comedy, and the occasional musical. Located on Halifax Place, near the Fletcher Gate.

Stay

Lace Market Hotel

A luxury city center hotel located in the heart of Nottingham’s trendy and vibrant Lace Market area. The hotel is definitely a splurge but the rooms are beautiful, the restaurant is award-winning, and the cocktail bar is one of the best in the city.

Photo Credit 

Have any more questions? Want to check out this amazing little city? Contact us for more info!

The Fremantle Prison is Western Australia's first and only World Heritage listed building - one of the area's most fascinating and significant cultural attractions. Check out any one of four fun and educational tours through the prison.

The history of the museum dates back to the beginnings of Western Australia; its role in the development of the State is unparalleled, and the facility only stopped being a maximum security prison in 1991.

Today he prison is an art gallery, museum and conference center. It is the largest convict built structure in Western Australia and the most intact convict establishment in the nation.

Without doubt, the highlight of a visit to the Prison is the entertaining tours conducted by experienced tour guides who bring the rich folklore and stories of the Prison to life. Tour guides are friendly and upbeat - helpful for mitigating the otherwise heavy material. Don’t miss the intriguing murals created by prisoners in their cells. Choose between a choice of intriguing day tours, spine-chilling torchlight tours and ‘extreme heritage’ tunnels tour adventures.

Museum Website

Prison Day Tours: 

Doing Time Tour - Departs every 30 min between 10am and 5pm

Great Escapes Tour - Departs every hour between 11:45am and 4:45pm

Tunnels Tour (bookings required)

A rugged adventure into sections of the labyrinth of tunnels beneath the Prison. Take a tour both on foot, and in replica convict punts to explore the submerged passageways accessible only by boat.

Torchlight Tour (bookings required)

Wednesday and Friday evenings. An eerie night tour guided by torchlight and full of spooky stories, dark histories, and a number of surprises. Not recommended for children under the age of 10.

Admission:

Complete list of pricing for the tours

Entry to the Gatehouse is free of charge and includes: the Convict Café, Gift Shop, Prison Gallery and an interactive Visitor Centre.

Address: 1 The Terrace, Fremantle WA 6160, Australia

Telephone: +61 8 9336 9200

"It's impossible to imagine a London without pubs."

Just wanted to share this article by Matt Brown, editor of Londonist. He picks out 10 of the best pubs in London, from the historic to the eccentric. 

Why not take a lovely vacation in London and experience some of these terrific pubs yourself? We can make that trip happen in a snap - we are experts in UK travel and can create the perfect trip for you and your family.

Just contact us for more info!

Rated as one of the best tourist attractions in Dublin, "Evening of Food, Folklore and Fairies" takes place at the city's oldest pub. Fun for friends, couples and family. 

Go to hear one of Ireland's most talented storytellers, Johnny Daly, spin takes of yore and mischievous fairies by candlelight in Dublin's oldest pub - The Brazen Head.

With delicious food, good company and even better entertainment, this is definitely something to check out when visiting the Irish capital city. 

The Brazen Head 20 Bridge Street, Lower Dublin 8 

            00 353 1 4922543      

http://irishfolktours.com/

http://www.brazenhead.com/

The Guinness Storehouse is reputedly Ireland's No. 1 Dublin tourist attraction. Come stand inside the world's largest pint glass, which rises up through the center of the seven story building (seriously!), and learn about the ingredients of Guinness and the craft of brewing this internationally enjoyed stout.

Located in the heart of the St. James' Gate Brewery, the Storehouse was constructed in 1904 in the style of The Chicago School, the first major, steel-framed, multi-storey building in the British Isles. The building was, up until 1988, used for fermenting beer. It is now an awesome spot to learn some history and throw back a pint. 

Here is a list of places and experiences to enjoy inside the Storehouse.

Unfortunately there are no public tours of the brewery itself for health and safety reasons. The Storehouse is a self-guided visit, and usually takes about an hour and a half to see everything. 

Definitely arrive early because by mid-day the Storehouse gets crowded.

You don't have to book in advance, but if you do book online there is a 10% discount on adult admission, and you skip the lin on arrival to pick up your ticket at the Information Desk. 

Website

Hours: Open Daily, 9:30am-5pm (Sept- June); 9:30am-7pm (late opening during July-August)

Directions

Address: St. James's Gate, Dublin 8

Tel: +353 1 408 4800\

And Remember!

Dublin is an AMAZING trip to take. And it can be even better without the stress of planning and booking your travel. We can take care of all your accommodations so the only thing you'll have to worry about is having a good time!

Thanks to an influx of Italian immigrants over the last century, Wales now boasts the best ice-cream in the UK. Check out some of these local favorites to satisfy your sweet tooth while exploring the country. 

UK National Award Winners

Frank’s Ice Cream in Carmarthenshire 
Since 1920, Frank’s has been scooping the best ice cream that Wales has to offer. Winner of the Carmarthenshire Family Scoop National Ice Cream Award, not only does this shop distribute its own premium ice cream brand across the country, but they also offer a delicious Diabetic Ice-Cream. 
Address: Capel Hendre Industrial Estate, Ammanford, Dyfed SA18 3SJ 
Tel: ‪            +44 1269 832400       ‬‎

Joe’s Ice Cream in Swansea 
Originally a coffee house for early miners and dock workers in the late 19th century, this family of Italian immigrants soon began to source the finest ingredients in Wales to make the unique tasting ice cream still served today. Here are the different retail locations. 

Fecci & Sons Ice Cream in Tenby 
Fecci & Sons is a local institution, known for their large portions and for serving up traditional Italian ice-cream with supreme flavors and smooth creamy textures. Open at 8am, come by for breakfast & coffee, or stop by later for a tasty afternoon treat. Full children’s menu available. 
Address: Upper Frog Street, Tenby SA70 7JD 

More Local Favorites

La Belle Rouge in Aberystwyth 
This shop produces an artisan ice-cream made from the milk of the water buffalo that graze the pastures of West Wales. Combined with simple organic ingredients and complemented with fruit coulees, this is truly a unique treat. 
Address: Llanon, Aberystwyth, SY23 5LZ 
Tel: 01974 202906 

Cadwaladers - 3 cafés in Cardiff 
Cadwaladers is a well-known and well-liked chain in Wales. Most of the food items are made in house or specially for the stores. The Café offers not only ice cream and coffee, but scones, pies, cup cakes, and sandwiches. Many of their flavors can be found in local grocery markets as well. Here are the different café locations.

Remember!

Here at Anglo Brampton Travel we specialize in travel to and near the UK - we can put together the perfect trip for your budget and interests. 

Stretching across the Welch countryside are magnificient expanses of green and mountainous scenery. Much of this land has been deemed environmentally important and therefore deserving of government protection. For the tourist, this means three spectacular National Parks, waiting to be explored. 

In addition to the areas that have been designated as National Parks, the Welch government has also identified smaller but still important parts of the region as ”Areas of Outstanding Beauty.” While these labels are primarily for environmental reasons rather than to promote tourism, you can be sure that you will experience unspoiled scenery at its finest.

National Park status offers the highest level of environmental and planning protection in Wales, to the extent that each National Park is also a Governmental Organization in its own right, called a “National Park Authority.”

Within the parks are (carefully planned) facilities including Public Toilets, Parking, Visitor Center, and even Gift Shops selling branded merchandise.

The 3 National Parks:
Brecon Beacons National Park in Mid Wales. 
Enjoy the stunning landscape, canal paths, castles, rolling countryside, waterfalls, and more. Plenty of family attractions, outdoor activities, and musical events, including the international Hay Festival. Here is info about where to stay locally in Brecon Beacons, or for a wider geographical area, visit Mid Wales Tourism. 

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park in South Wales. 
The first National Park in the UK, this park has everything from rugged hills to sandy beaches. Climb, bike, horseback ride, kayak and windsurf. Visit the internationally important rare habitats for the wildlife, or plan your trip around one of the Park’s many events. 

Snowdonia National Park in North Wales. 
The largest National Park in Wales, Snowdonia also has its highest mountain peaks and largest natural lakes. It’s great for hiking and mountaineering. The Park is also inhabited by about 26,000 people; visit their picturesque villages and learn about the rich culture and local history of the area. 

Check out the Wales’ national tourism website for additional comprehensive info & mapping.

Photo Credit and more pictures.

Bonus!

Thinking about visiting Wales? You're in luck! Our experienced travel consultants know exactly what it takes to put together the best trip for you. Contact us for more information!

The Buttery is one of Glasgow's finest treasures. You must eat here before you leave the city, even if you have to push around your budget a bit. Experience regional cuisine served up fresh and wonderful. You will not be disappointed!

The Buttery describes itself as “one of Glasgow’s oldest, most enduring and celebrated restaurants, well known for its relaxed atmosphere and unique interior of oak panelling, stained glass and wonderful mahogany and marble bar.”

The Buttery serves up British and Scottish seafood in a traditional and innovative way, and offers both a set menu and a la carte. The set menu comes with a glass of wine.

The Buttery is known for its unpretentious, friendly and attentive service, who are highly knowledgable about the dishes and how they are prepared.

The tone of the atmosphere is pitch-perfect: decor is elegant and the music sets the mood, making you feel like you’re somewhere special but without being uncomfortable or out of place.

The menu is diverse, high in quality, and also in value. he midweek 5pm deal of 2 courses and a glass of wine for £16 is just great. Start with the poached salmon pieces in tempura batter. Try the wood pigeon, the scallops, the Lemon Sole, or the Sea Bass. There is an excellent wine selection at reasonable prices. Plus vegetarian options!

The Lunch & Pre/Post Theatre menu, incredibly sumptuous looking, is priced fairly at 2 Courses £16.00, 3 Courses £18.50

The Buttery may be located outside the city’s center but do not let this deter you from making a trip to one of Glasgow’s finest.

Two Fat Ladies opened a second restaurant on 2004 in the heart of the City. The City Centre menu is primarily seafood. There is also a West End location and, located in the basement of Two Fat Ladies at the Buttery, is The Shandon Belles.

Hours: 12pm-3pm, 5:30pm-10:30pm 
Address: 652 Argyle Street, Glasgow G3 8UF 
Get There: Via the Anderson Rail Station

Abbey Theatre is Ireland's national theatre, an excellent venue for performances of Irish plays as well as classic and contemporary theatre from around the world.

The mission and artistic policy of the Abbey Theatre is to create “world-class theatre that actively engages with and reflects Irish society, placing the writer and theatre artist at the heart of the organisation.”

The Theatre maintains a cherished archive of Irish plays, re-imagined and presented to international audiences. It aims to promote and develop the long-term success of Irish Theatre and many of their productions go on to tour nationally and internationally. The Abbey Theatre is, specifically, a writer’s theatre, “the cradle of the Irish literary movement and has produced some of the most significant and crucial plays of the 20th century.”

Here are some stats regarding the Theatre’s output.

Here is how to book tickets. Prices range from €20 / €18 for Previews and Matinees, to €38 / €33 / €29 / €25 for Evening showings.

Check out ways to get involved, talks and workshops to attend, and more.

Get There 
Address: 26/27 Lower Abbey Street 
Tel:             +353 1 878 7222      

Photo Credit

(Image by Evan Henshaw-Plath)

A recent Frommer’s article raised this question, about whether small children should be banned from flying in Business or First class, if not from flying entirely.

The latter is impractical, for many reasons, but the former raises some interesting issues. If you’re paying for a business class seat, should you be subjected to the disturbance caused by someone else’s child?

And they do disturb. Pretty much anyone who’s flown has endured the crying or kicking or sneezing of a rambunctious kid. Even those who have children admit that their tolerance only extends as far their own; other people’s monsters are just unbearable.

Arguments for the ban used in the article go along the lines of:

“I pay a premium to sit in first or business class and I don’t want my to be disturbed by a crying, screaming or misbehaving child.”

“While I understand the parent pays as much as I do, I don’t disturb them by screaming or crying or misbehaving and I should not have to deal with their child if they are screaming or crying or carrying on.”

“Some children are absolute angels and some act like they are the spawn of Satan. While I understand a child’s or baby’s reaction to the change in environment is unpredictable, that doesn’t mean anyone should be subjected to it either. A person’s choice to have children and fly with said children does not take precedence over or trump my choice to not have children.”

All of these arguments are fair and valid, which is why Malaysia Airlines have banned young passengers on some of its larger jets, Ryanair announced it would begin offering child-free flights earlier this year, and other airlines are expected to follow suit.

It is important to note however, that often disturbances on planes are not caused by the youngest passengers, but by the most inconsiderate of adults.

I’ve had just as many flights with crying babies as I have had sitting next to loud, terrible music blasting from someone’s iPod, Chatty-Cathys forcing me into a conversation, fighting couples, loud teenagers, and plenty others. Should they be banned too?

What do you think?

London has notoriously fickle, at times inclement weather. King George infamously referred to the English summer as "three fine days and a thunderstorm." But don't let a little rain put a damper on your trip! Pack thoughtfully and dress smart and you'll be just fine.

Layers, layers, layers. 
London weather can shift dramatically a few times in a day. As such, you’re going to need a variety of clothing options to accommodate whatever climate you find yourself in. Pack neutral clothes that can be easily layered.

From December through March bring plenty of cozy, warm clothing. Winters are quite chilly. It’s not uncommon for it to snow in April either. Pack gloves and a hat that covers your ears. Wear high shoes or boots to keep your feet warm and dry. Leather or waterproof is best.

May through August you should be safe with summer clothes, but pack some sweaters and a jacket with a hood for drizzly weather. Skip the sandals - they’re miserable in the rain and you’re probably going to be doing a lot of walking. Wear comfortable sneakers (“trainers”) or otherwise.

Leave the umbrella at home. They’re less useful than hoodies and will take up too much space; besides you can very easily pick one up around town. Check out J. Smith at 53 New Oxford Street - they’ve been selling umbrellas for over 150 years. They’re also readily available (and cheap) at any London high street shop.

And don’t worry! If you forget to pack something remember that you’re in one of the fashion capitals of the world. There’s fantastic shopping everywhere, so you are sure to pick up some neat items for your trip (and to take home!).

Photo Credit

After the stress of checking in, going through security and piling onto the plane, it’s a sigh of relief to finally be onboard, phone off, with no one to disturb you and your dreams of paradise. But what do you do when your seat neighbor turns out to be a complete Chatty Cathy?

Don’t get me wrong here, I’m generally very good natured, love to talk, and have no qualms with interacting with strangers. It’s just that I consider the airplane ride “me-time” - for sleep, work, catching up on my reading, etc. I’m sure many travelers are with me on this one, right?

Over the years of frequent flying, I have developed a set well-tested of non-verbal cues to give these over-enthusiastic seat mates the hint when I’d rather not chat.

Be Mysterious
On normal circumstances you might welcome a few innocent exchanges. But if you’re not in the mood for a chit-chat, it’s better to respond with just a few words. Answers like “Uh huh,” “I don’t think so” or “I really don’t know” to a long and probing inquiry would discourage people from throwing you a bunch of more questions.

Wear headphones
If you’re wearing headphones and humming to the melody, you’re sending signals that you’re not interested in trading life stories.

However, if your neighbor still attempts to engage you, keep one ear bud on during the conversation. This gives off the impression that you’d rather listen to Lady Gaga on your iPod than talk about how your neighbor misses her cuddly pets at home.

For added effect: Shake your head to the beat to show that you’re absorbed in the music and now’s not the time to distract you.

Grab a book or Magazine
Read a book, magazine or anything that has words on it. Even if you’re not, pretend like you’re hooked.

Nicholas DeRenzo of Budget Travel, advises:

“Keep your reading materials open to the page you were reading before being interrupted. This says: I am only temporarily chatting with you, but I fully intend to get back to Harry Potter the second you stop talking.”

Keep busy
Open your laptop and start typing. If they ask what you’re writing, say that it’s something important for work.

Explore your iPhone. If you constantly look at your phone, play on your apps, check on the reminders - it will give your talkative seat mate an idea that you’re a busy person not to be disturbed.

Act Sleepy
The final act. Some passengers just can’t accept “no” for an answer. They continue to prod despite my best efforts to stave them off. So before they go off on a long speech, I pull off the sleeping-beauty trick. I rub my eyes and blink hard a couple of times, then covering my mouth, as if to suppress a yawn, I say a quick “I’m sorry”.

Sometimes I go to the extent of stretching my arms up to complete the whole act. I don’t even have to say it, they’d usually shoo me to freedom – err—sleep!

Or, you just actually fall asleep. When you wake up ideally they’ll have found something else to put their energies into, meaning you can quickly transition into your own activity.

Just Say It!
If your non-verbal cues just aren’t coming across, the time has come to just say it. Be polite, but firm: “I’m sorry, I don’t want to be rude but I really need to read something important.”

Keeping your voice calm and say it with a smile. The last thing you want is tension for the rest of the flight.

Good luck!

(photo credit: shyb/Flickr)

Here’s a great article on Tips for Buying Duty-Free Goods, by Lisa Cheng of Frommer’s Travel.

Anyone who’s ever been in an airport has been tempted by the stacks of chocolates, spirits, and designer goods, all available under the guise of discounted prices.

Well this article explores which items are actually bargains, and which just aren’t worth it.

Designer handbags don’t make the cut, and really anything with a designer label is so tightly controlled that there’s little variation in price, regardless of where it’s sold.

Do some research beforehand, and try to only use Duty-Free for those last minute gifts you forgot to buy.

(Photo by darkensiva, taken at Narita Airport)

This post might appeal more to the ladies but healthy skin is good for everyone, and can be tricky to manage when you’re traveling.

Luckily, Dr. Leslie Baumann from Fodor’s posted 10 Tips for Traveling with Sensitive Skin.

Dr. Baumann warns against trying new products for the first time and recommends instead sticking to tried-and-true lotions and washes while you travel. Stay away from fragrances in hot environments, and know the right and wrong way to use shampoo and conditioner.

One tip not mentioned that’s super important is to stay hydrated by drinking tons of water, especially during flights. It’ll help rejuvenate your skin and keep it from drying out.

The Practical Traveler column from the NYTimes Travel Section is one of my favorite go-to sources for travel info.

One article in particular, by Michelle Higgins: ”Pack a Picnic for Your Next Flight.” Traveling itself is stressful enough, and a growling stomach with no edible food in sight can make any flier go a little nuts.

The article has some excellent suggestions that will not only curb your hunger but have you dining gourmet-style at 30,000 feet above.

One tip is to freeze your food beforehand. Despite popular belief, you are allowed to bring food with you through security, along with anything liquid under 3oz.

Chef Josh Capon of Lure Fishbar manages to enjoy a snazzy shrimp cocktail, complete with dipping sauce, by freezing it all the night before. By the time he’s on the flight, the little guys have thawed out and are ready to eat.

Melissa d’Arabian, the host of the Food Network’s “Ten Dollar Dinners,” takes it to the next level.

“For a hot meal, Ms. d’Arabian recommends packing cooked whole grain pasta, which tends to hold its shape better than softer pastas under the duress of travel, Parmesan cheese in a separate plastic bag and some chopped cherry tomatoes or other vegetables. “And then here’s my trick,” she said, “I ask the flight attendant for half a cup of tea water. I pour it over my pasta, close it up and let it sit for a minute or two and drain it back into the cup. Now my pasta is warm.” Add the veggies and cheese and you’ve got a real meal in coach.”

I’m more of a granola girl myself, but this really takes the cake.

Word to the wise: if you’re going to host a cooking session on your seat tray, make sure you wipe it down first with a disinfecting wipe.

Another good suggestion would be to use a locking container with a silicon rim (like Lock & Lock) to prevent leakage.

Something else I’ve noticed: it’s really only the American airlines that have the lame food options. Any thoughts on this?

So you’ve managed to get together the cash to travel to your dream destination. The problem is, once you’re there, it’s a constant balancing game of getting the most out of your time there while sticking to your budget.

Luckily for you, not only are there plenty of free or heavily discounted options available, but these attractions often offer the most fun and authentic of experiences. Here’s where to get started.

Free Admission
If there’s a museum or exhibition of some kind that you want to check out, find out if they offer any free nights. Many museums offer free public entry for one night during the week. If you have a student or military ID, bring it along during your trip and see where it’s accepted for free or reduced admission.

Another free place to visit is a public library. This may sound boring but when you’re talking about somewhere like the Boston Public Library, where you can see a Gutenberg Bible, collections of rare art, and palace-style architecture, free admission sounds pretty good.

Metro Card
You’ll need to get around somehow, so take advantage of the all-inclusive metro card that many cities now offer. Pay a set amount for public transportation over a designated period of time, and then enjoy FREE admission to many attractions, landmarks and sights.

The Roma Pass is a card that offers you transport and two museums free of charge, as well as reductions for all other museums and major events. Other examples include the Go Chicago Card (free & unlimited admission to all attractions), the London Pass (free entry to over 55 top London attractions & tours), and the Lisboa Card (free or discounted entrance to more than 80 Lisbon museums, sights, & tours), just to name a few. Seriously - just google the city metro and see what the options are.

Parks & Plazas
Outdoor spaces like public parks and downtown plazas are almost always free and perfect for taking in the culture while getting in some down time.

Think about it: you can pick up some bread and cheap wine and picnic by the Eiffel Tower; or spend an hour or two snapping photos by Rome’s famous Trevi Fountain. Or maybe just enjoy some freshly squeezed juice in Cusco’s Plaza de Armas. Around London you can spot some of Banksy’s street art, and in downtown Buenos Aires you can catch a free tango performance. There are plenty of possibilities wherever you go.

See Where Your Legs Take You
Walk - just walk. Wander through different neighborhoods, and really look at the architecture, the roads, and the people. One of my favorite memories from my trip to Cartagena, Colombia was strolling through the Old City and admiring the beautiful rainbow of Spanish-style townhouses. These side trips are where you’ll get your favorite pictures.

And for some destinations, wandering is an absolute must. It’s said that you haven’t really seen Venice until you’ve gotten lost within the chaotic city grid. Stay safe, but don’t be afraid to step outside the tourist zone and discover something new.

Local Events
Festivals, parades, and farmers’ markets are ripe with activity and local culture and you can wander around and soak it all in without having to pay for a thing. Markets are weekly, if not daily in some places, and with some planning you can easily match your trip up with a big festival or event going on while you’re there.

You can also ask around or check local entertainment guides for other events like live music or movie screenings in parks, poetry readings, art walks, and more.

Bonus!
Ask us! Our travel team has tons of experience and expertise with all ranges of travel budgets. We’ll send you on your way to your perfect trip.