what is the best way to travel and why

The Best Way to Travel Is...

By CNT Editors

Planes, trains, automobiles, jet skis. These days, there are plenty of ways to get from Point A to Point B. Some are a little more hectic that others, but we at Traveler each have our favorite way to travel around the world, domestically and abroad. Unsurprisingly, they all avoid TSA lines .

The good, old-fashioned road trip is the way to go.

If I could road trip everywhere I wanted to travel, I would. I’m a sort of travel control freak, so not being in charge of the flight, or the subway, or the ship, just means I’m stuck twiddling my thumbs trying to figure out how not to worry. Plus, who doesn’t love hours of car-dancing, stopping at rural rest stops and gas stations across America for caffeine refills, and driving with the sunroof down? It may be my Texas roots showing, but if travel is all about the journey, then driving is the only way to go. Plus, renting a car abroad means you have the ability to be completely spontaneous. Want to drive across Sweden for a bite of lobster ? Jump in the car. Think a pintxos -inspired drive through Basque country would put your trip over the top? All you have to do is buckle up. —Meredith Carey

But boats are the epitome of slow travel.

Swimming, snorkeling , skimming, sailing—there are few things in or on water that I don’t love. (I attribute this to growing up on an island, being plunked in the water, and expected to “figure it out.”) It’s hardly a surprise, then, that traveling by boat is my preferred method of transportation, whether that be kayaking from one Okinawan island to another or sleeping in a ten-foot-wide cabin on an overnight ferry from Brindisi to Patras with four family members. Like most modes of transportation, traveling by boat can be cramped and crowded, uncomfortable and, at times, nausea-inducing. It typically takes much longer than driving, flying, or riding the rails . But there's also something primeval about crossing from land to land like explorers before us, and, I think, there's no other mode of transportation that connects you so closely to the elements. For me, that's a good thing. —Katherine LaGrave

In the end, trains win out.

Having recently endured an unbearably cramped long-haul flight across the Atlantic, the joys of sitting on a train have never seemed more appealing. Perhaps, in part, it’s because I grew up in London , where a trip to Paris meant taking the Tube to King’s Cross Station (or, back in the day, Waterloo) and hopping on the Eurostar —from there, Europe feels like your oyster, with trains taking you to places like Berlin , Milan , or Geneva . And not only is rail travel, when it works, easy and efficient, but it’s a wonderful alternative for both fearful fliers and people like me who still haven’t quite gotten around to learning to drive. Some of my most memorable trips have involved train travel: a night train from Istanbul to Ankara in the depths of winter; speeding through the Scottish Highlands on the way to Skye; and an overnight trip from St. Petersburg to Moscow that felt straight out of a novel. It might take longer, and occasionally breaks down from time to time, but the train feels like a tranquil respite from a travel world filled with security lines and air rage. And if you’re lucky, there will be some great scenery to boot. —Lale Arikoglu

It was somewhere between Vienna and Prague , on an uneventful (and comfortably cushioned) four-hour Eurail trip, that I heard another American one row back say exactly what I was thinking: “I wish every continent was connected by railroads.” Wouldn’t that be nice? If, somehow, we crisscrossed oceans with reliable, speedy, luxurious train systems—the kind that already exist in Europe and Japan, that take all the responsibility of travel out of your hands, so you can actually relax on a trip? I wouldn’t have to think about missing a turn, or bumper-to-bumper traffic; about seasickness or turbulence. Forget TSA lines and awkward pat-downs. I could just lean back—with plenty of legroom , free Wi-Fi, and a snack cart rumbling up and down the aisles—and watch the frost-covered fields of Austria pass by, their monotony soothing me to sleep. —Laura Dannen Redman

As a child living in Delhi, my father would often take me to the city's National Rail Museum. There was nothing special about it—in fact, it was pretty ragged at the time. But as my dad would explain the difference between engines and wheel arrangements, tracing for me the rich history of the subcontinent's rail system, trains gradually took on an air of mystery to me. Then, when I became old enough to go on school trips around India , that was cemented by hours spent in crowded train cars: the changing landscape and bustling villages we passed through, the chai-wallah reaching through the bars in the window at station stops and tapping me awake, asking loudly if I wanted some tea. All of it manifests itself in how I jump at the opportunity for a train trip when it’s an option—yes, even Amtrak . It’s the constant motion, the meditative sound of wheels chugging on tracks, and the fact that I now and forever know what a “broad-gauge railway” is. —Sebastian Modak

• Antarctic Circle
• Antarctica Facts
• Antarctica from Australia and New Zealand
• South Georgia
• Falkland Islands
• Canadian Arctic
• Russian Arctic and North Pole
• Spitsbergen
• Belize & Guatemala
• Honduras & Nicaragua
• Panama & Costa Rica
• Machu Picchu
• Pantanal & Wetlands
• Photography
• Travel Tips
• Wine and Dine
• Sustainable Travel

Why Travelling With a Purpose is the Best Way to Travel

South America Inspirations

Tourists the world over are finally catching on to what long-term travellers have been waxing lyrical about for years: travelling with a purpose, as opposed to wandering aimlessly, really is the best way to travel. Adding meaningfulness can make any journey infinitely more rewarding and fulfilling and has the ability to turn a mere ‘holiday’ into a truly life-changing experience. Contrary to what many inspirational messages will have you believe, however, the limits of travelling with a purpose are nearly endless. 

There are more options for meaningful travel, out there, than humans on our planet and that’s because purpose, by its very definition, is an immensely personal perspective. Whether you travel to volunteer or learn a new language or to satisfy a particular personal challenge (hike a mountain in every country, watch a soccer match in every city or hike through every national park you come across) adding a spicy hint of purpose, along your travels, can have immensely rewarding effects, some of which you probably have never considered.

Altruistic or self-improving – any travel purpose is a good travel purpose

Volunteering abroad is often held as the purpose-standard by which all others are measured yet socially responsible and meaningful travel isn’t only about sacrificing your holiday time for solely altruistic purposes. As a traveller, you can also embark on a journey of self-discovery and self-improvement: you can travel for both philanthropic and inner purposes; you can travel to meditate and de-stress, to educate yourself on new cultures, histories and cuisines. You can learn a new language, gain a new practical skill and then, because travel is just so awesome, you can travel to sharpen your cultural awareness, to become more tolerant and inclusive, to broaden your mind and to become more optimistic.

You can travel to change the world and, without doubt, to change yourself.

In travel, as in life, having purpose matters

Having a project – be it one major goal or several smaller ones – adds fulfilment to any journey because, at the end of the day, purpose is what makes for a more fulfilling life , in general. You get out of bed for a reason, every morning, you work towards your goals and save towards your dreams . You put in the hard yakka because you see the big picture, whatever that may be. Take away purpose, from life, and everything you do becomes a lot less interesting and enticing.

Travel works much the same way, becoming immensely more satisfying when done for a reason or, as we love to say, with purpose. That purpose can simply be to be more socially and environmentally conscious , to be more interested in the local culture , perhaps taking an authentic cooking class in every country one passes through or to endeavour to learn a little of the local language. Learning about the local religious and spiritual beliefs when visiting churches, temples and mosques, or a particularly important historical event when admiring monuments and visiting museums. Above all, spreading the word to friends and family so they too may become more aware, vicariously, through your travels.

Mind you, there’s absolutely nothing to detract from a few days or R&R on some glorious beach or stunning jungle lodge. Recharging one’s batteries and spending quality time with loved ones, in a stupendous location, is as important a purpose as any other.

Here are some of the reasons why travelling with a purpose is the best way to travel:

Improving yourself, improves the world – Imagine what our world would be like if every single one of us became more understanding and more altruistic, more culturally inclusive and ethnically tolerant, more educated on world politics based on evidence rather than mainstream media scaremongering? Travelling has the ability to do all of this, and so much more. Travelling with a purpose has the potential to change us, all of us, into better and more open human beings and considering the fact that travel makes us happier & healthier anyway, whether we choose to do so with purpose or not, it’s evident that the global picture becomes a whole lot brighter indeed.

You’ll become a more responsible traveller, overall – Add a purpose to your journey and you’ll instinctively become more aware of where you spread your hard-earned funds and what choices you make. This is especially true if your own ‘purpose’ has an element of social responsibility to it.  Purposeful travel is closely linked to responsible travel because conscious travelling makes us acutely aware of every single action and choice we make, even before we’ve booked our flights abroad. From respecting human rights to being more environmentally conscious in places, like Antarctica , that are under threat, to buying souvenirs from respectable sources and choosing the right kind of cultural experiences to enjoy: start researching your next journey’s purpose and you’ll undoubtedly come across some type of responsible-travel conundrum. When faced with a purpose, the right choice becomes all the more apparent.

Giving your journey a purpose will make it more fulfilling – We’ve all been there, at some stage; we’ve all booked an all-inclusive resort somewhere close to home for our yearly vacation simply because choosing a meaningful trip just seemed to be too hard. So off we went: we splashed, we sunbathed and we somewhat enjoyed yet, at the end of the day, we probably didn’t have the kind of soul-stirring experience we’d been craving. Purpose-less travel is not the kind you rave about, not the kind of journey you dream of recounting to your grandkids even if it offers immediate relaxing effects. Adding a meaning to your journey means taking a more structured trip with a focus, a goal, even if you only spend some of your time dedicated to that. It makes the trip much more memorable and still offers all those marvellous in-between travel moments that are spontaneous and unexpected. Travel without a single purpose and you’ll probably find time simply slipping away, days blending and weeks flying by in a blur of sameness.

Add some kind of shape to the horizon, however, and that sunset becomes all the more enthralling.

It makes you consider your destination, very carefully – Rather than simply picking the ‘cheapest place’ to fly to from your closest international airport (see vacation description above) dedicated travel forces you to hone in on your most dreamed-about places and that will ultimately make your journey all the more rewarding. The difference between a cheap holiday and an unforgettable experience comes down to a hell of a lot more than just a few extra bucks. The latter is the kind of trip you’ll want to tell the grandkids about, the former is the one you’ll forget in just a few weeks.

Travel with a purpose allows you to fit more in – It is often said that we travel when we’re young to have fun, when we’re middle-aged to unwind and escape the pressures of everyday life and, when we’re even older, to learn new things about foreign cultures and places. Yet with purposeful travel, you can actually achieve all three, no matter your age, because once you are aware of your ‘purpose’ you can plan around it to also include fun, relaxing and educational pursuits. Travel with no plan at all and you may just end up chasing your tail around, wondering what on earth to do every day, and not actually maximising your time abroad. Travel with a wicked plan and purpose, however, and you’ll be surprised to discover just how many more meaningful experiences you can squeeze in, even in just a few weeks of travel.

Check out the top ways to Add Purpose to Your Travels in South America and visit our Chimu Adventures page for a nearly endless supply of travel inspiration.

Why travel could change you forever

Sep 6, 2019 • 5 min read

Holidaying is very different to ‘travelling’. The aim of a holiday is probably to reconnect with friends and loved ones, have some fun and return home fully refreshed and ready to face the daily grind again. Holidays might place in villas and resorts, and we often return to our favourite holiday destinations time and again. We all need a holiday sometimes!

Travel on the other hand, is about taking yourself away from what you know and the spaces you feel safe in, and throwing yourself, sometimes gently, into a whole new place. Travelling isn’t necessarily where you go, it’s more about how you go, and the experiences you gain along the way. Find out why travel could change you, and how to make the most of your experiences.

What is a 'traveller'?

The idea of a 'traveller' is no longer confined to stereotypes of young hippies with flowing hair, or middle-aged single men with backpacks and hiking boots. To travel today, you don’t need to embark on an overland journey across half the world, as Lonely Planet’s founders once admirably did. You don’t even need to leave your own country to discover how much there is to gain from travel.

In a recent survey of over 7500 Lonely Planet fans, 92% said that they see travel as an opportunity for positive change. Whether that’s change within yourself, or change you can help influence, there’s no denying that travel and the experiences it delivers can change you forever. 

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Why should we travel?

In a world that sometimes feels divided and divisive, travel can remind us that we’re all living on the same planet, albeit in many different ways. In the words of our readers, 'Travelling is an opportunity to shift your perspectives and learn from other cultures.' It 'connects us with different cultures and exposes us to international concerns and issues', and it allows us 'to let go of generalisations and stereotypes put forth by media and experience first-hand a new culture and experience'.

60% of the survey participants across all age groups said they view travel as an opportunity for personal growth more than they used to – which suggests people nowadays care more than they used to about self-improvement through travel. One of the main ways our readers saw self-improvement from their travel experiences was in their confidence. Every time you push yourself outside of your comfort zone, even just a little, you’re increasing your self-reliance. As one reader said, 'I have grown as a person simply by learning to deal with uncomfortable situations.' Being lost in Peru  and your only bank card having been sucked into the ATM seems horrendous at the time, but how you fix the situation and the confidence you gain from this will last you a lifetime.

How to make the most of your travels

Whatever your budget, destination or aspiration, there are hundreds of ways to have a transformative experience while travelling.

1. Travel in your own country

66% of the Lonely Planet fans we surveyed feel that the experience is more important than the destination. You don’t need to travel far to expand your horizons, and as 68% of respondents said they care more about sustainable travel than they used to, taking fewer flights is important where possible. Domestic travel means viewing where you live with fresh eyes, and realising that, even in your own country, people often live differently to you. Are you a city dweller? Get yourself to the countryside for some fresh air and peace. Do you tend to shy away from urban spaces? Throw yourself into the culture and noise of a city.

2. Learn about the darker side of history

Often, there is a more sinister past associated with the places we visit, and while travelling is also about moments of joy, visiting sites that have witnessed atrocities shouldn’t be avoided. As one reader said, 'Seeing the concentration camps in Poland and Germany gave me a better understanding of anti-Semitism.' It is a strange kind of ‘tourism’, but when done with respect (no Chernobyl selfies please) it forces us to face up to facts – lest we forget. Ensure you visit sites that are there to educate and memorialise, and where victims of the incidents will benefit from your visit, rather than sites of voyeurism. Some important sites include Choeung Ek Killing Field , outside of Phnom Penh in Cambodia, the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, USA, and the Ninth Fort near Kaunas, Lithuania.

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3. Meet new people

Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or in a group, you’re bound to meet people on the road. Getting to know new people, whether locals or other travellers, is one of the best ways to remember we’re all in this together, and keeping in touch with them once you’re home means you have a connection to that place forever (not to mention another source of photos). For anyone with an ounce of shyness or social anxiety, talking to new people sounds pretty terrifying, let alone joining them on the next leg of their trip. Luckily, there’s plenty of non-awkward ways to meet people on the road , and you’ll soon realise that whether you meet in a bar after a few too many beers, or at the free library in your hostel, connecting with people about the experiences you’ve had is the best way to commemorate them.

4. Experience culture shock

Get properly lost in the heat, scents and noise of Marrakesh’s souqs . Barter in sign language on the dusty streets of Madagascar’s capital Antanarivo . Stay in a Gur Buudal (homestay) with a local Mongolian family in Khövsgöl Nuur National Park . Experience the otherworldliness of real culture shock. Perhaps you’ll learn that 'we have far more in common with each other than things that divide us'. Perhaps you’ll decide how lucky you are, and gain appreciation of the things you have back home. Maybe, you’ll simply wonder at this amazing planet we live on, and take this feeling of awe with you into the rest of your life.

Published alongside the survey findings in this article is a new title called Travel Goals , which is packed full of ideas to inspire responsible, healthy, transformative travel experiences. From sleeping under the stars and witnessing natural phenomena to more ambitious challenges, such as helping communities and safeguarding the environment, Travel Goals is the essential companion to a life well-travelled and well-lived.

Make the most of your travel with  sightseeing tours and activities  from our trusted partners.

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Key travel tips you need to know — whether you’re a first-time or frequent traveler

The holiday travel season is fully upon us. The Transportation Security Administration expects to screen a record number of passengers this Christmas, and the TSA already broke a daily record. They screened a whopping 2.9 million travelers on Nov. 26, 2023, alone ... the most passengers ever screened in a single day.

As millions of travelers take trips by plane , cruise ship or road , we've gathered some essential travel tips on how best to book and enjoy your journeys.

Whether you're an occasional road-tripper or a frequent globe-trotter, these TPG-backed top travel tips can help you avoid unnecessary headaches when you spend time away from home.

How to find travel deals

Flexibility is key when it comes to finding cheap airfare any time of year.

Changing your arrival or departure date by a single day can save you hundreds of dollars on airfare. If you don't mind altering your family's plans slightly, consider booking travel directly on major holidays like the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving and Christmas for cheaper prices and thinner airport crowds.

One of our favorite tools at TPG for finding deals is Google Flights . You can use the search field to find the cheapest (or best) flights. Google will also give you a historical view of how prices have ranged and will even send you email alerts if fares jump or drop on specific routes you've selected.

It also has some fun tools you can use to find a cheap destination. By clicking the "Explore" button on the sidebar and putting your departure airport, Google will give you a map or list view of the most wallet-friendly destinations.

However, Google isn't the only place to find deals: TPG publishes regular deal alerts. You can sign up for Twitter alerts and subscribe to our daily newsletter for the latest deals news.

Don't sleep on mileage awards, either. If you've been hoarding miles during the pandemic, it's time to spend them. Cash prices are high, so it can be a good time to burn those miles.

No matter how much you think you know about redeeming miles for flights , there are always new tips and tricks for turning those earnings into dream trips. Turn to TPG for guidance on sweet spots for redemptions. Sites like ExpertFlyer (part of Red Ventures, like TPG) supply additional redemption ideas or even business class upgrade inventory.

You may even want to consult a travel agent to get access to special deals that aren't available anywhere else. Travel agents can sometimes get you extra perks at hotels or even cheaper business-class airfare to your dream destination.

Be your own best advocate

Since there are still air traffic controller shortages and little room for error in the system these days, travelers have to be their own best advocates.

There are ways to get ahead of any possible travel nightmares.

First, be smart when booking. Try to find a nonstop flight rather than one with connections, even if it costs a little more. You'll eliminate the risk of missing connections and lessen the chance of having your luggage go in a different direction than you during a transfer.

You could also take one of the first flights of the day, as those are least likely to face afternoon thunderstorms and most likely to depart on time. Read our article 5 reasons to book the first flight of the day for all the data.

Related: Your flight is canceled or delayed – here's what you should do next

Download your airline's mobile app to keep track of potential flight delays in real time. The airline app is a secret weapon in case things go wrong. Not only will you know when boarding starts, but you'll also learn of any delays first. Some airlines allow you to even rebook yourself in the app.

If your flight is canceled, you'll want to beat everyone else on your flight who is also looking to get rebooked.

We recommend heading for the customer service desk (or lounge desk if you have access). You could also get on the phone with the airline or contact them via social media if there's a delay . Sometimes, an airline's Twitter representative will help you faster than a phone or in-person agent can. You have to use every tool at your disposal when things go south.

Many airlines also now have live chat capabilities to help navigate delays and cancellations.

I always have an alternate plan (or two) in the back of my mind in case a flight gets canceled or delayed. I also look to see what other airlines are flying the route I'm booked in case something goes awry. This way, I'll know what to ask for if I need to be rebooked.

Also, save all the receipts for the expenses you incur during delays or cancellations. You'll want excellent documentation in the case of meltdowns like the one Southwest passengers experienced during the holidays .

If you're stuck at an airport for an extended period, seek out your airport's secret quiet spaces for a brief escape from the travel chaos.

Get Global Entry and/or TSA PreCheck

One of our favorite ways to speed through the airport and avoid those summertime mega lines is via Trusted Traveler programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry .

Essentially, the government pre-screens you for security and thus you save a bit of time during your travels. You'll need to apply ahead of time and pay a fee. The great news, however, is that many credit cards will give you a statement credit for these fees. TSA PreCheck is a $78 application fee for five years, and Global Entry is $100.

Related: 7 ways to get Global Entry, TSA PreCheck and/or Clear for free

TSA PreCheck allows you to speed through airport security without removing your shoes, laptops or liquids. With Global Entry , you can breeze through customs when you return from an international trip.

If you have the time, going for Global Entry rather than simply TSA PreCheck makes sense. Global Entry requires an interview with Customs and Border Patrol ahead of time, but once you're approved, TSA PreCheck will be included.

Get Clear for the ultimate security trifecta

The other security tool we recommend you have in your travel toolbelt is Clear .

Related: Why you should get TSA PreCheck and Clear

The expedited security program allows you to bypass long security lines by using a separate lane at many airports. You'll approach a kiosk where your identity is confirmed via an iris scan or fingerprint. A Clear employee will then escort you to the front of the security screening line.

A Clear membership combined with TSA PreCheck will enable you to go to even shorter lines at some airports with designated Clear/PreCheck lines. Clear isn't perfect at all airports where it's so popular, and there are now long lines (cough, Atlanta). However, it will still generally lead to shorter lines overall.

Related: Guide to using the Amex Platinum Clear benefit

Make copies of your important documents

Make digital and hard copies of all your important travel-related documents. Start by photographing your driver's license, your state ID and/or your passport.

You should have copies of your IDs in your phone's library in case you get separated from the actual document. Sometimes, it also helps in a pinch if you are asked for ID, and you didn't bring the hard copy. For example, I was recently asked for my ID to enter One Vanderbilt to have dinner at the new American Express Centurion Lounge in New York. The receptionist would have accepted a photograph of the ID if I didn't have the physical document.

TPG also recommends having an actual photocopy in a separate place. Editor Kristy Tolley says she stores a hard copy in a separate place from where she keeps her passport in case she loses a bag. "I also leave a copy of it at home if I'm traveling alone," she said.

Check expiration dates

If you aren't 100% certain of the expiration date of your passport and other travel documents, go check them now. Renewing passports takes time, and some countries require six months of future passport validity to allow entry. Remember that child passports expire every five years, which can sneak up on you.

Related: How and when to renew your passport

Double-checking the expiration dates for your driver's licenses and state IDs is also a good idea. Remember that TSA checks the expiration dates on your documents when they screen you for security. Don't forget to check the expiration dates for your Trusted Traveler programs like Global Entry, Clear and TSA PreCheck, too. It can take a while to get a Global Entry interview appointment if you need one to renew.

Few things are worse than getting to the front of the security line and realizing the PreCheck mark is gone from your boarding pass.

Finally, check the entry requirements if you are traveling internationally. Some countries require visas that you must acquire before arrival.

Consider travel protection

When booking your travel, try to use a credit card that offers some built-in travel protection . Many credit cards, including TPG favorites like the Chase Sapphire Reserve or The Platinum Card® from American Express , offer this when you use those cards to purchase your airfare and similar.

Related: Best credit cards for trip delays and cancellations

If the coverage offered by your credit card isn't enough, you might also want to purchase travel insurance . These policies can sometimes go beyond trip cancellations to cover things like medical evacuations. Warning: Read the fine print on any extra policies very carefully to ensure it covers the situations that matter the most to you.

Those who frequently travel abroad may want to consider purchasing an annual travel insurance policy instead of buying one on a trip-by-trip basis. Some TPG staffers purchase annual policies because of the cost savings for multiple trips. Some will find having an annual policy is easier than juggling separate policies or various credit card coverage terms and conditions.

Tips for your luggage

TPG has a ton of tips when it comes to luggage.

First and foremost, try to be on "team carry-on" whenever possible. If you don't check baggage, you are much less likely to become separated from it. Many of us at TPG refuse to check luggage except under extreme circumstances.

Of course, other folks with families or those embarking on long journeys may still want to check bags. If that's the case for you, you can still do many things to lessen the chance you get separated from your stuff. For example, make sure your luggage is in good working order, your contact info is attached, the bag is within the weight limits, you get to the airport early (but not too early) to check it and confirm your luggage is tagged to the right destination or connection.

Related: 7 tips to keep the airline from losing your luggage

After last year's baggage delays and luggage disasters , we strongly suggest you put Apple AirTags (or the Android equivalent ) into your luggage so you can track your items if they go missing .

If you check a bag, keep extra medicine or medical supplies in your carry-on bag in case your luggage goes missing or gets delayed. "As a diabetic, I keep a tiny emergency kit in my backpack with enough supplies to keep me going in an emergency," TPG writer Tanner Saunders said.

Former TPG credit card writer Ryan Smith also offered words of advice regarding luggage. "The last items you pack in your carry-on will be most accessible, so use this for your passport, ID, ticket, headphones or whatever else you need during the trip," he said. By making sure those items you'll use most are easiest to reach, you'll save yourself the hassle of having to dig around (or partially unpack) your bag to grab what you need.

Finally, be sure and get compensated if your bags are late or lost. Many airlines will give you points or even cash for delayed bags, and the government has rules on compensation if your bags are lost.

Staying safe on your journeys

From potentially getting robbed while on the road to experiencing bad weather or natural disasters while traveling, there are many scenarios that could arise when you're away from home.

To mitigate those risks, pay attention to U.S. Department of State warnings about a destination you plan to visit and check local sources for the latest news from that country or region for additional context. Although the State Department tends to err on the side of caution with its warnings, it's still best to be aware of what you may face during your trip.

Also, know the local number in case of emergencies. In many places, including Mexico and much of Europe, if you dial 9-1-1 on your cellphone, you will be connected to emergency services just like in the U.S. However, you should know the local emergency numbers of whichever country you visit.

Let people at home know your itinerary and stay in touch with them throughout your trip. If something goes amiss, at least someone will know where you're supposed to be or the last place you visited.

If you're arriving at night, contact your hotel or home-share host to ask about the best way to get there at the time you're arriving and the safest ways to travel at night in that area.

Also, be strategic about how you check into a hotel. Some solo travelers request two keycards to imply someone else is on the trip. Giving thought to the hotel room's security swing bar can also make sense, with some taking steps like placing a hand towel over it to make it harder to dislodge from the outside.

Some final tips

• For cruisers, TPG principal cruise writer Gene Sloan suggests arriving in port at least a day in advance (if not several days ahead of time). This will eliminate the risk of missing your ship's departure time and help you get acclimated to the local time zone.
• When taking road trips to out-of-the-way destinations, go old school and bring paper maps with you or download offline maps from Google. Using a paper map or an offline version means you always have a way to navigate around your chosen destination, even if you lose cellular service.
• One other note, you should reserve airport parking ahead of time during peak travel times. Some airport parking areas fill up fast around holidays, so reserving your spot ahead of time will save you from wasting time looking for a space when you need to catch a flight. You can also sometimes save by booking online in advance, too.

Bottom line

Whether you're fresh to the world of traveling or a seasoned expert, you can always learn new tips to maximize your time away from home. The more research and preparation you do before your trip, the better your experience will be — especially if things go wrong, as they sometimes do.

Some of our favorite tools are deal alerts, Google Flights , sign-up bonuses and credit card rewards . Learn those tools and use them for better travel every time.

Remember that these days when things go wrong, you have to be your own best advocate. For more travel tips and tricks, read the stories below.

Related reading:

• Your flight is delayed or canceled: Here's what to do next
• The best travel credit cards
• The 18 best places to travel in 2023
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• Here's how to get through airport security faster

The Safest Ways to Travel: Comparing Modes of Transportation

Zackary Hooper

When planning your next trip, have you ever wondered about the safest way to travel ? I know I have, and that’s why I dug into some impressive data about transportation safety. This article is going to guide you through the different modes of transportation – from bus travel to commercial flights and everything in between.

Table of Contents

Ready for an informative journey ? Let’s dive straight in!

Key Takeaways

• Commercial flights are the safest mode of transportation, with extremely rare fatalities and impressive safety features.
• Bus travel is four times safer than passenger rail and offers a reliable alternative to driving your own vehicle.
• Passenger rail travel is considered one of the safest ways to travel , with lower death rates compared to personal vehicles.

Safest Modes of Transportation

The safest modes of transportation include commercial flights, bus travel, and passenger rail.

Commercial flights

Commercial flights top the chart as the safest mode of transportation . Data from the Bureau of Transportation highlights that fatalities are extremely rare in air travel, given its low accident rate .

Even with thousands of planes crisscrossing our skies every single day, airplane incidents make headlines mainly due to their rarity. Safety features and rigorous checks in aviation have ensured fewer chances of anything going wrong mid-air or after take-off.

Notably, when we consider passenger miles traveled, airplanes have impressive fatality rates that outshine other modes like buses or trains. So even if you’re uneasy about flying, know that commercial planes offer a high degree of safety !

Bus travel is often seen as a safe mode of transportation. When compared to passenger rail travel, buses are four times safer. This means that the risk of accidents and fatalities is significantly lower when traveling by bus.

Data from the Bureau of Transportation shows that bus travel has a much lower death rate compared to personal vehicles . Additionally, flying is considered the safest mode of transportation overall, but buses still offer a reliable and secure way to get from one place to another without having to worry about the risks associated with driving your own car.

Passenger rail

Passenger rail travel is often considered one of the safest ways to travel . Compared to personal vehicles, both rail and bus travel have much lower death rates. While bus travel is four times safer than passenger rail , trains still offer a reliable and secure mode of transportation .

Data from the Bureau of Transportation shows that flying is the safest mode overall, but if you prefer ground transportation, passenger rail can be a great option for safe and comfortable travels .

Factors Influencing Safety

Factors that can influence the safety of different modes of transportation include fatality rates, concentration of vehicles, and statistics from 10 years of data.

Fatality rates

When it comes to evaluating the safety of different modes of transportation, one important factor to consider is fatality rates . Fortunately, over the past few decades, fatality rates across all modes of transport have significantly decreased.

However, certain modes of travel still present a higher risk than others. For example, data from the Bureau of Transportation shows that flying is the safest mode of transportation when it comes to fatalities.

Personal light-duty vehicles, on the other hand, pose the greatest risk of death. Rail and bus travel have much lower death rates compared to personal vehicles. So if you’re looking for a safe way to get around, it’s worth considering these fatality rates as part of your decision-making process.

Concentration of vehicles

In considering the safety of different modes of transportation, it’s important to take into account the concentration of vehicles . This refers to how many vehicles are on the road, track, or in the air at any given time.

When there is a high concentration of vehicles , such as during rush hour traffic or peak travel seasons, there is an increased risk of accidents and collisions . On the other hand, when there are fewer vehicles on the road or track , the chances of accidents decrease significantly.

It’s essential to consider this factor when evaluating the safety of various modes of transportation and making informed decisions about which option to choose for your travels.

Statistics from 10 years of data

As a travel enthusiast, I can’t help but look at the compelling data which gives an insightful understanding of the safest modes of transportation. Let’s take a peek at the statistics from the last 10 years.

This table makes it clear that air travel is indeed the safest mode of transportation, with the fewest fatalities in a decade . It’s interesting to see that personal vehicles consistently clock the highest death rates , while the numbers for train and bus travel remain comparatively low.

Comparing Safety Across Modes of Transportation

Let’s compare the safety of different modes of transportation and find out which one is the safest.

Fatalities by passenger miles

When it comes to measuring the safety of different modes of transportation, one important factor to consider is fatalities by passenger miles . This statistic provides an insight into how many deaths occur per unit of distance traveled.

By analyzing this data, we can determine which modes of travel are the safest in terms of fatalities. For example, according to recent statistics from the Bureau of Transportation, airplanes have the lowest fatality rates when considering the number of passengers transported over a given distance.

This means that flying is considered one of the safest ways to travel in terms of deaths per mile traveled.

Fatalities by passenger hours

When comparing the safety of different modes of transportation, it’s important to consider fatalities based on passenger hours. This metric takes into account both the number of deaths and the amount of time passengers spend traveling .

By doing so, we can get a better understanding of which modes of transport are safer for passengers overall.

Looking at the data, air travel consistently emerges as the safest option when considering fatalities by passenger hours . Commercial flights have very low fatality rates compared to other forms of transportation.

This means that even though accidents may be rare in other modes such as bus or rail travel, they still don’t match up to the safety record of airplanes.

Why Air Travel is the Safest Mode of Transportation

Air travel has the lowest chance of incidents compared to other modes of transportation, making it a reliable and secure choice for travelers. Interested in learning more about why air travel is considered the safest option? Keep reading!

Low chance of air and space transport incidents

Air travel is widely regarded as the safest mode of transportation due to its low chance of incidents in the air and space. Data from the Bureau of Transportation shows that flying has the lowest fatality rates when compared to other modes of transport .

In fact, airplanes have been proven to be the safest means of transportation. Compared to car safety, flying presents minimal chances of resulting in death . When considering travel options, it’s clear that air travel offers a significantly lower risk compared to other modes of transport.

Comparison to car safety

In terms of safety, flying is the clear winner when compared to car travel. Statistics from the Bureau of Transportation show that flying has minimal chances of resulting in death , whereas traveling by personal light-duty vehicles presents the greatest risk.

Additionally, data reveals that rail and bus travel have much lower death rates compared to driving a car . With these facts in mind, it’s clear that choosing air travel over driving can significantly reduce your risk of being involved in a fatal accident .

Conclusion on Safest Ways to Travel

When it comes to choosing a safe mode of transportation, commercial planes are the clear winner , with lower fatality rates compared to other modes. Data shows that flying is the safest way to travel , particularly when considering the number of passengers transported .

Bus travel also emerges as a safer option compared to passenger rail travel . So next time you’re planning a trip, consider hopping on a plane or bus for a safer journey .

FAQs on Safest Ways to Travel

1. which mode of transportation is considered the safest.

Air travel is generally considered the safest mode of transportation due to strict safety regulations and advanced technology.

2. Is driving a car safer than flying in an airplane?

No, statistically speaking, flying in an airplane is typically safer than driving a car.

3. What safety measures are in place for train travel?

Train travel often adheres to strict safety standards, including regular maintenance checks, trained operators, and safety features such as emergency brakes and evacuation plans.

4. Are there any differences in safety between public transportation and private vehicles?

Public transportation tends to have more safety protocols in place, such as regular inspections and driver training programs, compared to private vehicles where adherence to safety measures can vary depending on individual drivers.

About the author

I’ve been fortunate to visit over fifty countries, each journey leaving a unique footprint on my life’s map. From bustling cities to serene nature trails, I’ve immersed myself in different cultures and experiences, constantly broadening my understanding of the world. On this site, I share my travel stories, tips, and insights, hoping to inspire others to embark on their own journeys. Join me as we uncover the beauty of our planet, one adventure at a time. Please reach out here if you need to get in touch.

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Traveling abroad can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. We can’t stress the importance of travel enough—it can open your eyes to new cultures, perspectives, and ways of living, and can help you grow and develop in ways you never thought possible.

Where will your travels take you?

There are so many reasons why traveling is important, but above all, it is a valuable experience that can help you grow and develop as a person. Whether you're looking to learn a new language , make valuable connections, or simply have an adventure , traveling abroad is an experience you will never forget .

12 reasons why traveling abroad is important

1. personal growth and development.

Traveling to a foreign country can be a challenging and transformative experience . This is a big reason why travel is important.

Being thrust into a way of life completely different from what you know back home can push you out of your comfort zone, help you develop new skills, and give you a sense of independence and self-reliance. It can also help you gain a better understanding of yourself and your place in the world.

2. Cultural understanding

Traveling abroad allows you to experience different cultures firsthand. It can help you gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the world and the people in it. It can also help you become more open-minded, tolerant, and accepting of different ways of life, and you will return home practically a new person!

3. Career opportunities

Traveling abroad can also have many benefits for your career . It can help you develop new skills, make valuable connections, and gain a better understanding of international business and politics. Additionally, the experiences you gain abroad will make you stand out from other candidates and can be an asset in your future job search.

As the world becomes smaller and more globalized, top companies are always prioritizing candidates with valuable international experience . A meaningful trip abroad can be vital in making you stand out from the crowd when you start applying for your dream job.

4. Language learning

Another key benefit highlighting the importance of traveling abroad? The great opportunity to learn a new language .

Traveling abroad means making connections and meeting friends you’ll keep for life.

Immersing yourself in a foreign culture and speaking the local language can help you pick up new vocabulary and grammar, and also help you develop your listening and speaking skills. Being able to converse in more than one language will give you a leg up in many future opportunities, and you can also expand your social circle by making lifelong friends from diverse places.

5. Improved mental health

Traveling abroad can also have a positive impact on your mental health . It can help you reduce stress and anxiety and also can offer a sense of adventure and excitement. Additionally, being in a new place can help you disconnect from your everyday life and give you a chance to relax and recharge.

Many companies now include paid gap years and increased paid time off for employees as they have recognized why it's important to travel and how important traveling is for people to stay at the top of their game at work. Traveling is also a great way to prevent burnout—it cleanses your brain and allows you to come back a stronger and more focused person.

6. Lasting memories and experiences

This is one of the top reasons why traveling is important! Traveling abroad gives you the opportunity to create memories that will last a lifetime. From the new foods you will eat to the people you will meet and the places you will visit, every experience will be unique and special. Imagine the stories you’ll be able to share when you get back!

7. Enhanced creativity

If you’re an artistic person like a painter or musician, traveling abroad can help to enhance your creativity . But even if you’re not, just being in a new place and experiencing different cultures can inspire new ideas and ways of thinking, which can be beneficial in both your personal and professional life.

This highlights the real importance of travel for everyone: You will learn to see the beauty in places you never thought to look before, and develop ways to appreciate the little things in life!

8. Appreciation of diversity

You can read as many travel articles as you want or watch documentaries and videos from the comfort of your own home, but traveling to different parts of the world can give you the chance to appreciate the diversity of the human experience. So—why is it important to travel? You will be exposed to different customs, traditions, and ways of life, which can broaden your perspective and help you appreciate the world in a more holistic way.

9. Enhanced problem-solving skills

Figuring out how to get from point A to point B is just one skill you’ll learn while traveling abroad.

Improving your problem-solving skills is a big reason why it's important to travel. When you are in a new place, you will have to deal with unexpected situations , and this can help you develop the ability to think on your feet and make quick decisions. You’ll need to be resourceful and make the best out of situations no matter what, and there’s no better way to challenge yourself than by venturing abroad into the unknown!

10. Increased knowledge

Traveling abroad can also increase your general knowledge about the world, which is always a good thing! How many times have you felt secondhand embarrassment from those videos where people can’t seem to point out famous countries on a map? That will never be you when you travel . You will be exposed to different cultures and customs, which will give you a deeper understanding of the world's history, politics, and geography.

11. Networking

You’ll widen the potential to create connections with some of the most interesting people in the world when you travel! You will meet people from all walks of life, and this can be a great way to build professional and personal relationships.

You might meet someone today who will be instrumental in helping you out five or 10 years down the line. With social media, there’s no limit from distance when it comes to friendships and connections, so traveling is a great way to fill up your digital Rolodex with the coolest people ever.

12. Inspiration for future goals

Finding a source of inspiration for your future goals is a major reason why traveling is important. Seeing different places and cultures can help you discover new passions, and this can help you choose new endeavors and set aspirations for your future.

5 important types of travel to try out

1. study abroad.

• Why it’s important: Studying abroad will take your academic experience to the next level. Simply put, studying abroad is a period of time (perhaps a semester or year) during which you pursue your academic interests abroad. This can be done through a program at your own institution or through a separate study abroad organization that works in conjunction with your school or degree program. You may also have the opportunity to study abroad in high school even though most people do it in college!
• Recommended program: TEAN - Australia - Bond University, Gold Coast
• Explore all study abroad programs

2. Volunteer Abroad

Make a difference for people and the planet by volunteering while you travel.

Why it’s important: There's no doubting that as a society, we've moved into a time where the desire to do good for humanity and the planet is more relevant than ever. Volunteering abroad mostly benefits the host community rather than you—remember the point is to make a difference in the country you go to. The work you conduct while on placement will have an influence on your host country for a long time if it is done correctly, ethically, and sustainably, and can be a key reason why travel is important in the grand scheme of things!

• Recommended program: Women’s Empowerment Volunteering in Cambodia
• Explore all volunteer abroad programs

3. Gap Year

• Why it’s important: Searching for the ideal harmony between travel and enlightenment? Then a gap year might be just the thing you need . It will be time well spent, whether it's a year off between high school and college or after graduation, or even a break while you’re employed. Programs for gap years are full of chances for growth on a personal level, acquiring new skills, reevaluating personal and professional objectives, and experiencing once-in-a-lifetime adventures.
• Recommended program: Seamester Study Abroad and Gap Year Voyages
• Explore all gap year programs

4. Intern Abroad

• Why it’s important: As an international intern, you’ll gain real-world experience at a foreign firm or organization while participating in study abroad activities and earning college credit. Interning abroad has several advantages , chief among them the extraordinary personal and professional development that comes with the experience. Internships abroad also provide flexibility. There are hundreds of placements available in dozens of disciplines for international internships, whether you want to change careers, you’re still in college, or you’ve just graduated (or are about to graduate). So, why is it important to travel and intern abroad ? You'll experience life-altering adventures and meet a ton of new people!
• Recommended program: Internships and Volunteer Programs in Africa
• Explore all internship abroad programs

5. Work Abroad

• Why it’s important: Programs that allow you to work overseas are a terrific opportunity to earn more than money. The benefits are nearly endless : a challenging new environment, increased freedom, new friendships (and business connections), the addition of a new language to your toolkit , and the chance to advance your professional aspirations. Your employment overseas won't even seem like work; rather, it'll feel more like one wild—and paid!—adventure because you'll be having so much fun overcoming new obstacles and enjoying new experiences.
• Recommended program: Jobs and internships in Spain
• Explore all work abroad programs

Our Online Advisor can match you with 5 programs abroad—it’s free!

Why travel because you’ll be living your best life, that’s why.

Get out there and learn the importance of travel for yourself!

So in conclusion— why is travel important ? Traveling abroad is not only an exciting and enriching experience, but it also has many benefits for personal growth and development. From enhancing creativity and problem-solving skills to increasing knowledge and networking opportunities to giving you inspiration for future goals, the reasons why traveling is important are numerous.

Travel is an experience that all who have the opportunity to do so should embrace. Now that you know the importance of traveling, you’re ready for an experience you will never forget.

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17 Reasons Why Around the World Travel is Good For You

Why travel around the world.

We’ve compiled a list of the best reasons why everyone should enrich their life with around the world travel. And while we’re at it…all these reasons can also be taken as our motivation for doing what we do at AirTreks.

1. Traveling is easier than you think.

We believe that traveling around the world shouldn’t be hard: it’s actually something everyone should be able to do at least once in their lives. Whether you choose to spend a few years or just a couple months traveling this beautiful planet, it’s important to see what’s out there. It’s up to you to make the dream come true and take the first step. Launch TripPlanner to piece together and price your ideal route. Not sure where to start?  You can always call one of our travel consultants and get some complimentary advice!

2. Travel opens your eyes.

If you’re open and willing, travel will make you an incredibly more well-rounded human being. And that’s really the goal, isn’t it? If you don’t know where to start, check out our Around the World planning guide .

3. Traveling helps you learn who you are.

All the challenges and opportunities travel lays at your feet help you discover who you are in a way that’s only possible on the road.

4. Travel creates meaningful relationships

People you meet while on the road become some of the most valued names on your contact list. They become places on the map to visit later on. These folks give you a glimpse outside your hometown circle of friends, and force you to take in new and refreshing perspectives, and ultimately realize that everyone is the same.

5. Traveling develops skills you didn’t know you had

Sometimes it’s only far from home that you realize you you’ve got skills you’ve never used. It’s travel that brings them to the surface and makes you smile, satisfied to have reached the mountain top, or  crossed a gorge  or helped a villager clean up after a storm, or even to have successfully ordered a meal at a rural Chinese restaurant.

6. Travel helps you learn new languages

There’s something satisfying about being able to throw around a few words of Greek, knowing how to say thanks in Thai, pulling out that long dormant Spanish to book a room in Santiago, or simply hearing a language you didn’t know existed just a few weeks before.

7. Travel means adventure

Zip-lining over the jungle canopy in Peru, successfully navigating the maze-like streets of Venice, bartering for the best price in the traditional markets of Marrakech, taking a speedboat ride in New Zealand, or hopping in a Land Rover and heading out to watch animals grazing  in Tanzania: these are adventures worth having. People are hardwired for the excitement of adventure and travel may just be the best way to tap into it.

8. Traveling gives you perspective

Meeting people from other cultures will teach you that the way you’ve been looking at the world isn’t the way everybody else does. In fact, your point-of-view might have some major blind spots. Seeing the world for yourself will improve your vision and your grip on reality.

9. Travel helps you move forward

If you’re between jobs, schools, kids, or relationships, around the world travel can be a perfect way to move from one of these life stages into your next great adventure. A big trip won’t just ease your transition into the next stage of your life , it’ll give you a chance to reflect on where you’ve been, where you’re going, and where you want to end up.

10. Travel is education

Seeing the world provides an education that’s absolutely impossible get in school. Travel teaches you economy, politics, history, geography, and sociology in an intense, hands-on way no class will.  Fortunately, the school of travel is always taking applications , no entrance exam required.

11. Travel challenges you

Getting your daily latte at the same place and staring at your screen at your nine-to-five every day not nearly interesting enough? Even if you choose to work on the road (and keep staring at the screen), you’ll have to find a new place to drink your latte, and depending on your destination, finding coffee, and foamy milk or a good place to sip them could prove to be a sizeable challenge. Travel is full of moments of joy and challenges. Overcoming the challenges gives you some of the greatest joys of all.

12. Travel shakes things up

It sucks to be stuck in a rut. Everyone knows what that’s like. A big trip can be your perfect solution. Fly around the world, stopping over in all of the places you’ve always wanted to visit. Go ahead and plan your ideal route around the world  (it’s easier than you think!)

13. Traveling proves that dreams do come true

You imagined it, daydreamed about it, envisioned it. Guess what? It can be done. Around the world travel is possible, you just have to decide you’re willing to take the first step and start planning your itinerary.  What are you waiting for? We’ve put together some specials to inspire you to live your dream .

14. Travel gives you cool stories

Let’s face it. Even for folks who can’t tell a story, just the words “last year in Mongolia” get you instant party points.  Even when events seem trivial, nostalgia and distance create an irresistible spin that makes mundane things like getting your laundry done in Zanzibar, entertaining. Just don’t be that person and overdo it!

15. Travel is literally food for thought.

You’ll be constantly surprised at the flavors the world has to offer.  The way people in other cultures and countries prepare food, and break bread together (not that all cultures even eat bread) will astound you.

16. Travel gives you a sense of accomplishment

If you’re the kind of person that dreams big, you’re probably one to reach for new challenges. Finishing a trip gives you the satisfaction that you were able make a goal to travel and  accomplish what you set out to do–see the world.

17. Traveling for the hell of it

Why travel? Because you can. Because you want to. Because it beats the alternative (staying home). Why not  pick up your tickets and get the ball rolling!

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Best way to travel Europe: all you need to know to plan your trip

If you are wondering what is the best way to travel Europe, in this article you will find all the useful information to plan your trip to this amazing continent

Jessica Jessy Around The World

Apr 29, 2024

Europe is one of the most beautiful continents on Earth. It has everything: great beaches , colonial and historical cities, national parks , hiking trails, and  adventure places . There is a reason why lots of travelers and backpackers choose Europe as a destination every year.

The Old continent is quite fascinating, and maybe you won’t believe it, but Europe is also the easiest continent to visit. It is so easy to move around, it is very safe, public transport works really well and there is plenty of accommodation options , for every kind of traveler and for every budget.

Now you are wondering what is the best way to travel Europe , and in this article, you will find all the information you need, from how to travel Europe on a budget , how to save money on transport and food, and even how to get free accommodation . So, keep reading until the end and get ready to pack for your trip.

What’s the best way to travel Europe? Tips and hacks for your trip 

Traveling to Europe is very easy. The continent is safe, transport is good and efficient in most of the countries, water is safe to drink and food doesn’t usually have any problems. There is plenty of accommodation, from cheap hostels to very beautiful and fancy hotels. But, even if it’s so easy, you may want to know some tips to make it easier.

For example, there are some ways to save tons of money while traveling in Europe. One of the rules is: avoid summer . I know that most people have holidays in summer, and that’s exactly why you want to avoid this period. It’s peak season, too many people around, crowds everywhere, and prices are too high.

Hostels and hotels all around Europe’s most famous cities increase prices by more than 50 percent during summer. So you will find the same hostel at a very higher price if you want to travel in that period. And you also have to plan everything, book everything, because you risk finding it full. It is quite stressful and wasteful, isn’t it?

You can avoid all of this if you travel in autumn and spring . These are the best seasons to travel in Europe. Fewer crowds, good prices, and good weather, because spring and autumn can still be very good months and the weather in Europe is still good. So, here you have one of the best ways to travel Europe: travel during low season .

Another good piece of advice is to travel light . The less you have with you, the easier it will be to move around. And it will also take less money. If you want to take planes around Europe, and you only travel with a backpack , you will find very cheap tickets.

 On the contrary, if you have big luggage with you, you will have to pay to take it. That’s how it works for example on Ryanair , the most used airline to travel around Europe. It is very cheap if you just have a backpack, but you have to pay if you have something bigger to carry. So, travel light, and even your body will be happy about it, not only your bank account.

The last very good tip is: sleep in hostels . Sleeping in hostels is the best way to travel Europe. They are so cheap, you meet a lot of people, and you can use their kitchen to cook your food. The best of the best for a traveler, especially if you travel on a budget. Going to a restaurant every day can be pricey, but supermarkets are quite ok in Europe, so cooking your food is the best choice. And sharing your meal with other travelers is even better.

Best way to find accommodation in Europe

As we said before, Europe is full of different kinds of accommodation. The most common kind among backpackers and travelers on a budget  are  hostels . They are very cheap, you can meet lots of other travelers and make friends, and you can have a kitchen at your disposal to cook your own food, which is much cheaper than going to eat in restaurants and bars all the time.

Hostels are very common even for solo travelers because you can really make friends and find travel buddies if you just want to have company during your trip. You can also listen to other travelers’ stories and learn new useful tricks and tips for your trips.

The best way to find hostels is to look on websites like Booking.com or Hostelworld , but always double-check the website of the hostel when you find one that you like because sometimes it could cost less to book directly.

Register with Worldpackers through this link and earn 2% cashback on your bookings with Booking.com ! When you are ready to become a member, choose the Plan Pack to earn 4% cashback and other benefits .

*Cashback benefit is limited to USD 200 per booking and you must log in to your Booking.com account to access Cashback.

As I mentioned before, did you know that you can get free accommodation during your trip? You just have to volunteer in the place you want to visit, work some hours per day, and in exchange, you will get a free place to sleep. This is very easy, thanks to Worldpackers .

Worldpackers is a platform in which you can look for volunteering positions all around the world. You just apply, you work the hours that the host requires (never more than 5 hours per day), and in exchange, you get free accomodation and sometimes free board . 

Europe is full of volunteering positions , if you want to have a look. This is the best way of finding accommodation, isn’t it? It’s free, you save tons of money, and you meet locals and other travelers like you. The best deal ever. You should really think about traveling Europe through volunteering  because it is definitely one of the best ways to travel Europe.

What is the best way to get around Europe?

Getting around Europe is very easy . Public transport works very well, and in some countries, you can even try van life if you prefer to have your own transportation and you like to have more freedom.

For example, Northern Europe is perfect to travel with a van. Sweden and Norway are so wild and natural countries , that the best way to explore them is by driving and sleeping wherever is allowed, with stunning views. Norway has some of the most amazing roads in the world. And sometimes camping is free, something very important in such expensive countries like northern countries.

You can have an interrail , which means that you can buy train tickets for different destinations in Europe, all together, getting huge discounts and city hopping. In this way you can visit different cities in different countries, saving money. Trains in Europe work really well and they usually link all the most beautiful cities, even in different countries.

You can even travel by bus if you like it more. Buses travel all around Europe and they link lots of cities, and they are very cheap. You can have a look at the  Flixbus website, just to give an example of a common bus service used in Europe.

Finally, if you want to be faster and you love to fly, you can use one of the low-cost companies to fly from one city to another, in Europe flights are very cheaper compared to other continents. Ryanair, Easyjet, and Wizzair are the most used companies.

Best routes to travel Europe

 It is not easy to choose the best routes in Europe, because there is so much to see and do on this continent. It really depends on your interests, your budget, and what you want to see and do. 

Southern Europe

If you love the sun and warm weather, you want to spend some time at the beach but also sightseeing some wonderful cities, you should opt to travel to the South of Europe. This area includes Italy, Greece, and Spain . You can find amazing beaches here, but also cities to explore, ancient ruins to discover, and great food to try.

Greece and Italy are well linked by plane, but you can also opt for the ferry. You can take it from the South of Italy to the island of Corfu if you have more time to spend traveling.

Italy and Spain are linked by cheap flights, or if you prefer to have a road trip and have more free time, you can take buses or drive all the coast from Italy to Spain passing by France. It is definitely an amazing route to do.

In Italy,  you can’t miss the South if you love beaches and nice cities, but if you have time, you should also reach the central areas of the country, like Tuscany, which is one of the most amazing regions.

One of the top experiences to do is to go to an agriturismo and try the delicious food. In Tuscany, there are lots of places in the middle of nature with a view of the worldwide famous hills. 

On Worldpackers, there is a volunteering position in Tuscany about helping in an agriturismo , so you could have a unique stay for free. 

In Spain,  you can explore the coast, from Costa del Sol to the other side, until the  Galicia region. It is such a long trip, but if you love beaches and small little villages, you should try this route. The coast in Spain is so beautiful and it changes a lot from one place to another. It is full of wonders to explore.

If you want to save money on accommodation and you have some skills to give to hosts, you should try to apply for volunteering positions, like this one near Cadiz which only requires help in social media management for their farm. It is a perfect way to save money and even to learn new skills that can become one day a real source of income, like a travel job . 

Central Europe

Central Europe it’s a place full of hidden gems . For example Germany , such a big country, full of nice cities and castles to discover. You would need months to explore the whole country. And a good thing about Germany is that public transport is so efficient and you can even take buses and trains to so many destinations all around Europe, in the nearby countries, like Eastern Europe countries, Denmark, or Belgium .

Germany can be a bit pricey, especially in terms of accommodation, but you can save money volunteering. There are some amazing eco projects, like this place which is a nice organic café  looking for help.

If you love cities, you should definitely add Belgium to your Central European route , because this country is small but full of wonders. It is impossible to pick the best city in Belgium, because all of them are amazing, like Bruges , Antwerp , and Bruxelles , just to name some. And in Bruges, Worldpackers has one of the best volunteering experiences ever, a beer-tasting experience ! You will save money on accommodation and you will have the time of your life. Is this the best way to travel Europe? I think it is.

Read more: Germany on a budget: a guide with the best tips and the cheapest places to visit

Northern Europe

Northern Europe is not always visited because it’s more expensive than other European destinations, but some routes up there can be done with a low budget. I am talking about the route of the Baltic Republics . These three countries have the charm of Northern Europe’s destinations without being too expensive, on the contrary, they can be very cheap.

Estonia, Lithuania, and Latvia are three beautiful countries, and they are less crowded than other destinations in Europe but totally worth visiting. And there are plenty of volunteering opportunities up there, also in the ecotourism field, like this place in Estonia , not too far from the capital Tallinn .

Now you know the best way to travel Europe , and you know that is super easy to visit this country and you can try to volunteer to save tons of money and live the best experiences during your trip. So, don’t waste another minute, pack your things, and don’t forget to subscribe to one of Worldpackers plans to enjoy your travels in the best and cheapest way!

Maybe you could find some more inspiration in other articles from Worldpackers community :

The best ways to save money while traveling

10 easy and creative ways to make money while traveling

Tips and tricks on the cheapest way to get to Europe (and travel around)

Join the community!

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Jessica Lazzarini

Jessy Around The World

an Italian full time traveler. After years planning my full time travel, I finally quit my 9 to 5 job to start exploring the world with a one way ticket. My goal is to visit as many countries as I can and to work as a digital nomad while I am traveling, but also to challenge myself doing travel jobs in the places I visit. I really want to live a lot of different experiences in a way only a real traveler can do.

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The best way to travel Europe depends on your preferences and budget. Consider options like train passes for extensive travel, budget airlines for quick hops, or even road trips for flexibility. Research destinations, modes of transportation, and accommodations to tailor your trip to your needs and interests for a memorable European adventure.

More about this topic

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Eurail global pass coverage, the ultimate guide: what is it, how much and how to get one.

Vegan in Portugal: what are the best options you can find during your trip

How do worldpackers trips work.

As a member, you can contact as many hosts and travel safely as many times as you want.

Choose your plan to travel with Worldpackers as many times as you like.

Complete your profile, watch the video lessons in the Academy, and earn certificates to stand out to hosts.

Apply to as many positions as you like, and get in contact with our verified hosts.

If a host thinks you’re a good fit for their position, they’ll pre-approve you.

Get your documents and tickets ready for your volunteer trip.

Confirm your trip to enjoy all of the safety of Worldpackers.

Have a transformative experience and make a positive impact on the world.

If anything doesn’t go as planned with a host, count on the WP Safeguard and our highly responsive support team!

After volunteering, you and your host exchange reviews.

With positive reviews, you’ll stand out to hosts and get even more benefits.

15 Reasons Why Cruising is the Best Vacation Ever

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What is it that makes cruising so special? If you’ve never cruised before, you may wonder why so many people claim that cruising is the best vacation and the best way to travel and see the world.

I asked a wide variety of cruisers, including repeat and first-time cruisers , for reasons they believe that cruising is the best vacation. This list is based on my experience, as well as input from clients, friends and those in my Facebook community

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my full disclosure policy  for details.

Why Cruising the Best Way to Travel

1. Cruising is an Escape

There is nothing like being on a cruise ship in the middle of the ocean and feeling like life’s routines and job stress is far behind. Cruise ship life is pretty good and it doesn’t take long before you give in and can’t help but relax.

  One of my favorite things about cruising is the Sailaway . My husband and I both swear that we physically and mentally feel lighter and more at ease as we watch our cruise ship sail away from land. I love that feeling.

As one of my cruise friends pointed out, your biggest decision on a cruise is likely, what fabulous restaurant or bar to go to that evening. Nice and easy!

2. Amazing Crew and Service

On what vacation will you have your room cleaned twice a day and have your every need looked after , without paying a fortune? A cruise, that’s where.

I still recall our first cruise and how our waiter remembered our beverage preferences and which type of bread we enjoyed each evening. It’s a little thing, but a great feeling!

As a cruise friend pointed out, the crew is so welcoming and friendly, and it really makes the cruise experience special. It is not often something we think about, but cruises really do have the very best staff, and without them, the cruise wouldn’t be the same.

3. Something for Everyone

One thing you’ll notice on a cruise is that no one is bored. The truth is, even on a sea day , each person finds what they like best.

Whether you’re like me and enjoy relaxing by the pool with a book and a frozen cocktail, or prefer one of the other exciting things to do on a cruise likes race cars, waterslides or ziplines, there’s something for everyone on a cruise!

One thing to keep in mind is that different cruise lines will offer a different type of cruise experience, so make sure you do your research or check with your travel agent to find out which cruise ship is best for you .

Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner

Regular price: $27 now just $17.

4. Cruise food

Have you heard that you’ll gain weight when you cruise ? While this doesn’t have to be true, cruises have earned that reputation because the quality and choice of food on most cruises is really, really good!

Plus, most food is included on a cruise, so it’s pretty tempting to indulge and try dishes you may not eat regularly at home.

Cruise Tip: Consider cruise line specialty restaurants. One of our favorite cruise foodie experiences has been dining at the Tuscan Grille, Celebrity Cruises Italian Steakhouse . Even though the restaurant had an additional charge , it was well worth it.

5. Exciting Itineraries

If you love to travel, cruising is a great way to see and experience some of your wish list destinations. If you love the beach and turquoise waters, plus seeing several islands all in one cruise, Caribbean cruise is perfect. Do you prefer to visit one destination and stay a few days and explore? Plan a Bermuda cruise .

If you want to experience scenic wonders, nature and wildlife, as Alaskan cruise is a dream. If sight-seeing and historic travel is most appealing, consider a Mediterranean or Baltic cruise.

One of my cruise friends said “It’s like seeing the world, one ship at a time. It’s window shopping of the Earth.” I couldn’t have said it better!

6. Unpack Only Once

One of my favorite things about cruising is that you unpack only once, all while visiting several destinations. We experienced this on a 12 day Mediterranean cruise where we visited 9 different ports and cities. No packing and unpacking!

The same trip as a land tour would mean packing and unpacking at each destination, and probably living out of a suitcase. You would have to carry luggage on and off coach buses, and endure early morning drives to the next destination.

Whereas on a cruise, after a busy day sightseeing, you get to return home to your luxurious cruise ship. All you need to do is enjoy a relaxing dinner and perhaps see a show, or chat with new friends.

Cruise ships often sail to the next during the night, while you sleep in your comfortable cabin. This is a big reason that cruises are the best way to travel!

Read more:   25 Cruise Packing Tips All Cruisers Need to Know

7. Cruising is a Great Value

Cruises are often thought of as an expensive vacation,. However, this misconception about cruising being only for the rich has been debunked over the years, as many people have found that they are such a great value.

In fact, many families with children find cruises less expensive than land vacations and theme park holidays. Plus, with the quality kid’s club and loads of engaging activities, it makes a great vacation for all.

When my children were young, we found so many ways to save money on our family cruises, so we could cruise more often!

8. Shore Excursions and Activities

While cruise sea days are awesome, it’s pretty exciting to wake up to a new port of call and adventures ahead. Cruise ports offer opportunities to do activities and shore excursions , either planned with the cruise line or on your own.

Days in a cruise port of call is the time to sightsee, go to the beach, shop for local art or souvenirs and do some exciting activities. Whether you want to swim with stingrays in Grand Cayman , tour the Crystal Caves in Bermuda or snorkel at your cruise line’s private island, there are so many adventures to be had when cruising.

After a fun day at a cruise port, you will often hear other passengers exclaiming at they board, “this is the best vacation ever!” .

9. Making New Friends

Did you know that over 3000 people are on most cruise ships? This means there are many people to meet and connect with. Plus, on the most part people are pretty friendly on cruises.

While there’s no requirement to be social, if you’re like me and you like to meet new people, you’ll be in your element!

I love to talk to people from different cities and countries and I enjoy learning a little bit about them. I especially enjoy talking to those who have traveled and cruised extensively. They have amazing stories and cruise tips !

10. Learning New Skills

The opportunity to learn new things is all around you on a cruise. Whether you sign up for salsa class, learn origami, attend a lecture about ancestry research, participate in a cardio-boxing class (I did this!) or attend an art auction and learn about up and coming artists; there is always something new to learn and do while you are on a cruise.

11. Disconnecting

While wifi and cruise ship internet is improving, cruising remains a great way to disconnect. You can put your phone away, or check on emails and social media only at certain time of the day. While out in the middle of the ocean, you can get lost in the ocean and cruise ship life, and truly disconnect.

Related: 21 Things You Need to Know About Ocean Medallion

12. Family Memories

If you bring your kids on a cruise when they’re young, you’ll have memories to last a lifetime!

Plus, the reality is, there is probably no easier and more fun vacation for families than a cruise. It’s easy to understand why. With amazing kid’s clubs staffed with qualified personnel, children and adults love it.

I remember my own kids begging me to stay longer at the kids club for Pajama parties, pirate parades and late night games of Ga-Ga Ball. If you don’t know what Ga-ga Ball is, as I sure don’t, my kids explained enthusiastically, “Only the greatest game on the Seven Seas!!!” . I still recall this and it brings back wonderful, happy memories.

If you asked my kids today, who are both young adults, they would 100% tell you that cruising is the best vacation ever!

13. A Romantic Vacation

Cruises are the ultimate romantic vacation . Sunrises and sunsets at sea, romantic dinners for two, exciting adventures and activities – it’s easy to see why so many couples cruise to celebrate anniversaries and other special occasions.

Read more:   10 Romantic Things to Do for Couples on a Cruise

14. No Fly Cruises

While this isn’t talked about much, some people don’t like to fly and will avoid it if possible. Cruises are a great way to travel, by ship instead of by plane. 

Of course, you’ll still have to drive to a cruise port or take a train, but perhaps you have a cruise embarkation port only a few hours from your home?

15. Cruise Cocktails & Bars

One of the first things you might want to do on a cruise after you board is to sit and enjoy a cocktail. Not only are the drinks on a cruise awesome, but many cruise ship bars have a special atmosphere you might enjoy.

Whether you love a lively martini bar, or a friendly Piano bar, you’ll find a favorite bar and bartenders on a cruise. Even if you don’t drink alcohol, you can sit and have a virgin drink and take in the atmosphere and enjoy being with friends.

Related and Popular Posts:

37 Surprising Cruise Ship Facts  

50 Must-have Cruise Essentials to Bring on a Cruise

30 Cruise Cabin Hacks Every Cruiser Needs to Know

20 Super Practical Tips for first-time cruisers

27 Cruise Travel Hacks Repeat Cruisers Swear By

17 Most Annoying Things About Cruises

10 Things that Cost Extra on a Cruise but Are Totally Worth It

Final thoughts: Why Cruising is the Best Vacation

In this post we’ve gone through the reasons why people love to cruise, and why so many people say cruises are the best way to travel, make memories and enjoy cruise ship life!

Do you agree? If you’ve been on a cruise and enjoy it, what do you enjoy most? Please let me know in the comments below.

Happy cruising!

If you found this post helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Share it on Facebook or Save for later Pinterest (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

Let’s connect:

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Ilana, I think that I hate you!! We’re set to take our fourth cruise on Celebrity, from Singapore in January 2019, but you have made my wife and me want to go tomorrow!! I wholeheartedly agree with all that you have written and although not big drinkers, need to investigate ‘Crush’ and thank you for that recommendation. We have a really great Agent, Bryan Villella of Cruise One and I share our wants and wishes and he always comes through for us and he is in the process of arranging our 2021 cruise, to The Suez Canal. Although it is unlikely, it would be great if we were on the same ship, sometime. Best wishes and carry on with your Blogging. Tom

I hope that was meant only in a nice way, lol! I’m glad to hear that you’ve liked my blog posts, it means a lot to me! Thanks so much for taking the time to comment and have a fantastic time on your cruise in January (sounds very exciting!)

Hi Ilana! Hubby and I absolutely love love (did I say love?) To cruise. We’ve been places we lost lonely would have never been to. It’ll be #7 for the hubby and #8 for i’tsin January! This time we’re doing a 14 night out of NYC to the Western Caribbean! Our longest yet! I am so so excited since we will be going with my best friend and her hubby. I’ve been planning and shopping and have already started packing!

Yes-cruising IS the best vacation!

I’m just not 100% clear on if you really love cruising, lol!! Haha, this was one of the most fun comments I’ve read so far!

Oh wow, this cruise in January sounds amazing! Please let me know how it goes. I have’t cruised out of NY in the winter yet, but I’m up for giving it a try in the future.

Have a great cruise and happy shopping (I know that’s fun too!)

For me it is where these fabulous ships take me. Seeing lava flowing into ocean in Hawaii. Glaciers 7 miles wide 400 feet tall in Alaska. Panning for gold in Alaska. ( I bought a pan at Amazon and found about $40.00 of gold) Other favorite Panama Canal. I would not say I am addicted to cruising. I one went 14 days between disembarking day and booking my next cruise.

Hi Russell,

Your travel experiences sound amazing! Thanks so much for sharing them.

And I agree, I wouldn’t say you are addicted at all ;-)! LOL!

WE HAVE CRUISED A DOZEN DIFFERENT PLACES BUT OUR FAVE IS ALASKA. WE HAD BLUEBIRD SKIES, THE WHALES WERE LIKE MINNOWS , THE EAGLES LIKE SPARROWS THE SALMON WERE RUNNING. IT WAS PERFECT. WE SAILED SEATTLE TO SEATTLE ON HOLLAND AMERICA (THE OOSTERDAM ). BEST SHIP EVER!! THOSE PEOPLE DO IT RIGHT. I WISH EVERYONE COULD HAVE AS GREAT A TIME AS WE DO ON CRUISES. TREAT YOUR STAFF WELL AND POLITELY AND THEY WILL BEND OVER BACKWARDS FOR YOU. BE SNOTTY AND THEY WILL SPIT IN YOUR ICE..

Sounds like your time cruising has been incredible. The way you describe Alaska really makes me want to go.

I agree that the cruise staff are generally just wonderful and really contribute greatly to the cruise experience.

Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment!

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6 Things to Know Before Traveling on Amtrak

Here's everything you need to know before traveling on Amtrak.

Riding the rails — it's a beloved experience that many prefer to plane or car travel. There are no security lines and no traffic, plus the benefit of wider seats and more legroom. But among those who don't travel Amtrak regularly, it's common to hear complaints about ticket fares , the lack of luxury offerings more commonly seen with air travel , as well as the boarding and exiting frenzies famous in places like New York's Penn Station and Washington, D.C.'s Union Station.

We can dispel some of these myths. With a little advance planning and some well-trod intel, you can enjoy the best that train travel can offer in a way that works for your budget and peace of mind. Read on for our Amtrak tips, then get ready to sit back and enjoy the ride.

Many people think of train travel as a last-minute getaway option (and they should, last-minute fare deals are out there — more on that below), but planning ahead will always work to your advantage. "The more in advance you make your travel decision, the better off you are," says Marc Magliari, a spokesman for Amtrak. "Your best chance to get the lowest price is to book as far in advance as possible."

Booking your trip at least three to four weeks before you depart can give you drastically lower fares, often 50 percent less than what you'll see within two weeks of your departure and return dates. Magliari also notes that sleeping compartments for overnight trains often sell out farther in advance — so bear that in mind for long trips.

Know About Discounts

Booking tip.

Amtrak has a discount for those aged 65 and over, starting at 10 percent — thought it varies from route to route.

Magliari recommends that travelers head to the deals section on Amtrak's website before purchasing a ticket. There, you may find offers for 25 percent off a trip on Acela, the high-speed business class train on the Northeast corridor, or reduced fares for getaways to New Orleans or Miami.

You don't have to wait for special offers, either. Amtrak has standing discounts for children, who get half-price fares from age two to age 12 (infants under two ride for free), senior travelers , active military personnel as well as veterans, and more. Select these options when booking, and you'll regularly get a percentage off of a standard fare.

Check Out a Station Lounge

Though station lounges aren't quite up to par with some of the luxury offerings that airlines are investing in, Amtrak does have several types of private lounges for Acela Express First Class passengers, sleeping car passengers, Amtrak Guest Rewards Select Plus, and Select Executive members.

With free beverages and snacks, internet access, and TVs, as well as attendants who can help you with your trip, they're a great way to spend time before departure. Magliari also notes that this is an area Amtrak is investing in — there are new options for buying day passes to lounges, too.

Make Use of Red Cap

Carrying bags? You'll want to opt for Red Cap service, a free baggage handling service available at 12 major stations nationwide. Most travelers don't realize Red Cap is available to all travelers. Look for the people in uniformed red shirts, show them your ticket, and they'll escort you and your bags to your train, allowing you to board early. You can pick where you want to sit, and they'll stash your bags for you; upon arrival at your destination, a conductor can set up a Red Cap for you when you de-board. Note: though this is a free service, tipping is recommended — especially during heavily trafficked times, like the holidays.

Consider the Quiet Car

Several lines on Amtrak reserve one Quiet Car per train — an entire car where all passengers adhere to a blissful library-like atmosphere, eschewing cell phone use, keeping conversation to a minimum, and politely donning headphones for their devices. If you don't want to talk to your seatmate or hear someone else's music the whole ride, this is the car for you.

Join the Rewards Program

If you're interested in taking the train more than a handful of times a year, Amtrak Guest Rewards quickly becomes worth it. You earn two points for every dollar you spend on Amtrak or with partners like Hertz, Hilton Hotels, and more. You can redeem points for Amtrak reward travel (beginning at just 800 points), hotels, car rentals, and gift cards. Once you hit certain levels, like Select and Select Plus, you get more perks (upgrade coupons, lounge access), and your reward point earnings increase even more. Bonus: unused points won't expire until there hasn't been any qualifying activity for 24 months, giving you plenty of time to redeem them.

Related Articles

30+ Portugal Travel Tips for First Timers & Must Knows Before You Go

Last Updated: July 20, 2023

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

Take a single glance at Portugal and you’ll soon leap to the same conclusion as its millions of doting visitors: this is one of those destinations that seems to have it all.

From verdant valleys and golden beaches to fairytale castles and buzzy cities, visitors are swimming in choice as much as they are in sweet, custardy pastries.

But it’s not all custard tarts and photo opps. The truth is, Portugal often catches first time visitors off guard with random culture shocks, unexpected tourist traps and (sadly) even pickpockets and scams.

Luckily, I’ve learned all these the hard way (over 3 week-long trips) so you don’t have to.

So, from tactical tips for itinerary planning to assorted mistakes to avoid, here are my top Portugal travel tips and must knows for first time visitors. I hope you find them helpful!

Save this list of Portugal Travel Tips for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. Go beyond the most famous Portuguese destinations

We’ll start with the basics: when planning your trip to Portugal, remember that there’s a lot to see beyond the coastal hotspots of Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve.

Portugal is a (satisfyingly rectangular) country composed of 18 districts and two autonomous regions, with a myriad of places to visit beyond the most frequented, from its many historic cities up North (e.g. Braga, Guimares, Lamego) and inland (e.g. Coimbra, Evora, Elvas), to its spectacular nature in Peneda-Gerês National Park and on their many islands.

SO, all that to say, if time permits, definitely expand your itinerary beyond the most famous sights, because this will allow you to experience a bit more of the country, while dodging some of the popular areas’ notorious crowds at the same time.

2. Public transport is fine for city to city travel, but you’ll need a car for more remote areas

I’ve never rented a car in Portugal, and have found the public transport system to be simple and easy for getting from city to city.

But, truthfully, the most flexible way to get around and potentially explore off the beaten path is renting a car. Doing so will give you the best opportunities to control your own schedule, and find more remote areas like quieter nature spots or beaches (especially in the Algarve).

I did find the lack of car to be quite limiting when we wanted to get out to less popular areas, so if exploring more offbeat spots is a priority to you, then a car rental is something to consider.

This Portugal tip comes with a big disclaimer however: beware that driving in Portugal involves many tolls and a lot of close encounters with the country’s most notorious danger….. Portuguese drivers.

For a potential ‘in-between’ option then, I’d suggest looking into taxis/hiring a driver. I’ve found these services to be quite affordable in Portugal, with Uber being an especially easy option.

3. Consider flying in/out of different airports

In terms of arriving in Portugal, there are 3 international airports: Lisbon (LIS), Faro (FAO) and Porto (OPO).

And after personal experience at each of these airports, I have the following planning tip to offer: if you are visiting multiple destinations, consider booking flights into one city and then out of another (provided the price difference isn’t eye-gougingly painful).

This is because Portugal is small, but many of its most popular destinations aren’t that close together, so getting around does still take time, hence why you’d ideally want to avoid having to double back.

In the past, I’ve flown into Porto for instance and then spent 10 days going from there down to Lisbon, then down to Lagos in the Algarve and then departing via Faro Airport.

This made for a much smoother journey than going all the way back up to Porto, which meant more time spent soaking in views like these:

4. On a budget? Look into Europe’s low cost airlines

If you’re travelling Europe on a budget, then here’s a big Portugal travel tip: Portuguese airports are very well serviced by budget airlines like RyanAir and easyjet .

SO, if you’re planning a big Europe trip involving other countries, it may be worth looking into whether you can find cheaper flights into other European destinations, then flying into Portugal through a budget airline. This could potentially save you hundreds of euros!

You might want to check out my cheap flights to Europe guide for more.

5. Use the TAP Portugal Stopover to Save Money

Another potential money saver is looking into a TAP Portugal Stopover.

TAP Portugal is an airline that offers a really great deal where you can organize a free stopover in either Lisbon or Porto for up to ten nights en route to another destination.

So, if you plan properly, you can essentially get two destinations for the price of one!

NOTE: While this tip could potentially save you money, beware that TAP Portugal doesn’t have the best reputation, and is notorious for delays/other issues. One of my friends living in Portugal even told me that people say TAP stands for ‘Take Another Plane’ so be sure to keep these potential drawbacks in mind before booking.

6. Avoid visiting Portugal in July and August

Now as for when to visit Portugal, a good rule of thumb is to avoid July and August. I say this in my general Europe tips post for pretty much every destination.

This is when the crowds and heat are at their worst, with hyper inflated prices to match.

The same applies for major school holidays like Easter because Portugal is a very popular family vacation spot among Europeans.

Instead, aim to visit between May – June or September – October. I’ve been to Portugal before in both March and April and found it to be quite rainy both times, so shoulder season would be more ideal for dodging both crowds and biblical downpours.

7. Beware that there will still be crowds in shoulder season

On that note though, I don’t want you to underestimate how crowded it can get in Portugal, even in shoulder season.

Portugal may still be seen as an up and coming destination among North American travellers, but it has been a go-to vacation spot among Europeans for YEARS and years and years…

So don’t be surprised when there’s a lot of people around. Even in March. or April. Sadly, there’s no true ‘off-season’ in Portugal these days!

8. Book popular day trip destinations as overnight stays instead

Of course, in spite of the country’s frightening popularity, there are still ways to avoid crowds and outsmart your fellow tourists.

One of my top Portugal travel tips for this is booking popular day trip destinations as an overnight stay instead.

This will allow you to wake up really early to see the busiest sites before the day trip crowds arrive, and then enjoy them properly after they leave.

I did this for instance in Sintra, opting to stay for two nights instead of going as a day trip from Lisbon as most visitors do. The result? I was able to enjoy many of Sintra’s palaces without feeling like I was in a selfie stick mosh pit.

… So, I’d highly recommend doing popular day trips as overnight stays instead. Book early enough and sometimes accommodation in these areas is cheaper than in big cities!

9. Learn some Portuguese basics & have Google Translate handy

For first time visitors to Portugal, an immediate culture shock is often that English is not as widely spoken here as other tourist areas in Europe, especially among older residents.

And while getting with English is usually fine in larger cities, once you venture out into smaller towns, speaking no Portuguese can be a challenge… so I’d advise having Google Translate (one of my must-have Europe apps ) ready to go.

BUT more importantly: at the very least, you should learn how to say hello and thank you. So, memorize these! Tattoo them on your wrists:

• Hello is Olá, but it’s more common to greet according to the time of day so Bom Dia (Bong Dia) for good morning, Boa Tarde (Boa Tarht) for good afternoon and Boa Noite (Boa Noit) for good night
• Thank you in Portuguese is gendered, and the way you say it depends on if YOU are a man or woman. So men say Obrigado, women say Obrigada

10. Note that there’s differences between European and Brazilian Portuguese

Now, if you decide to go all-out and learn some Portuguese for your trip, it’s probably a good idea to make sure you’re learning European Portuguese pronunciation, as opposed to Brazilian Portuguese.

Like with most languages, Portuguese has various accents/dialects/variations, but I’ve heard the difference between European vs. Brazilian Portuguese can actually be quite stark, so to maximize your chances of being understood, try to make sure you’re learning European Portuguese.

One channel I came across that was great for this was Practice Portuguese, so give them a watch.

11. And… remember that Portuguese and Spanish aren’t the same

It feels silly that I have to say this, but I’ve anecdotally heard of many visitors busting out Spanish in Portugal, expecting to be understood.

Therefore let me clarify this most obvious Portugal travel tip: remember, in Portugal, they speak Portuguese, which may share some similarities with Spanish, but is an entirely different language of its own.

So keep in mind that while you may be somewhat understood, it’d be pretty rude to just randomly speak Spanish at people. So… let’s all just make a pact right now to not do that.

12. Learn to pronounce destination names in Portuguese

Apart from learning the basics in Portuguese, another important Portugal language tip is to learn how to properly pronounce your destinations in Portuguese.

This will save your life when it comes to asking for directions, because many places are pronounced differently to how they may be pronounced phonetically in English.

I found this video to be super helpful for this purpose.

13. Beware of ‘Portuguese Time’

Another cultural difference is to beware of Portuguese time.

Unlike in some central European countries like Germany , Austria or Switzerland, punctuality isn’t really a huge priority in Portugal, and things tend to be more laidback in terms of time.

As a tourist, this probably won’t impact you that much unless you’re making plans with Portuguese friends, but just know that time is definitely a bit more flexible there, and so if you have tours that start a bit later than planned, just don’t be too surprised.

14. Be prepared to walk uphill a LOT

Now onto another Portugal travel tip that pretty photos fail to convey: prepare yourself for the leg workout of your LIFE.

Portugal is overall an incredibly hilly country, so you’ll be encountering plenty of ups and downs during your visit, especially if you visit Lisbon and Porto.

The cobblestones are also very slippery, especially when it rains so make sure you have good, solid footwear. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.

15. Consider attraction passes/cards to save money

If you plan to visit a lot of museums and paid attractions while you’re visiting Portugal, you should also look into attraction passes like the Lisbon Card and the Porto Card which offer you unlimited public transport and also admission to multiple attractions for one set price.

This can work out to a lot of savings, although to be honest, I’ve found many of the best things to do in these cities are free!

Especially if you’re not super into museums, this option may not be worth it, so just crunch the numbers and total up the price for your must-see attractions to see if the pass works out to be cheaper.

16. Beware of tourist traps

Okay, now it’s time for me to get a little controversial. I love Portugal as a destination, but I have to concede there are a lot of tourist traps (many of which are perpetuated by online guides/influencers) so I’m going to quickly share my opinion on some to be mindful of in the country’s most popular destinations:

Here are some tourist traps in Lisbon to keep in mind:

‘The Pink Street’: In real life, it’s just a street with restaurants and bars, and the pink isn’t nearly as perfect or vibrant as the photos make it look. It’s also usually crowded in the evenings… so don’t get your hopes up too much!

Tram 28: Super congested, super busy, lots of pickpockets, and you can enjoy the views much better if you just walk along the same route.

The Santa Justa Lift: Nice to look at, with great view from the top, but the lines are insanely long and you can easily walk up to the viewpoint for free and not have to wait in line. The best part of this attraction is really just seeing it and enjoying the view, so don’t think it’s a must do to actually ride it. 

Here are some tourist traps in Porto to keep in mind:

Libreria Lello: Initially got famous because it was claimed that JK Rowling wrote Harry Potter there or was inspired by it (a claim she has now publicly denied). It is of course still a very pretty bookshop but unless you get there first thing in the morning or just before they close, it will not be magical at all because it is painfully crowded and almost impossible to get these nice photos without people in them because the shop is small. There’s also a 5 euro voucher you have to purchase to get inside, which gives you 5 euros off a purchase, but it’s not free to go in to take a look.

Private Property Viewpoints: Unfortunately, irresponsible Instagrammers have made a habit of taking photos from areas that are private property, so many of the most sought after views in the city aren’t actually open to the public. So, make sure you do your research before you set out!

17. Look beyond social media to find unique hidden gems

So, on that note, it’s important to look beyond social media to find fun places to visit and cool activities in Portugal.

Most travel content about Portugal focuses on the same spots over and over, but the flip side of that is there are TONS of cool gems just everywhere that you can kind of discover along the way for yourself.

I would recommend doing research on Portuguese language blogs or check out local Portuguese bloggers to get an inside scoop on more offbeat places because there are so many, and I can’t wait to go back and see more for myself.

18. Seek out Miradouros everywhere you go

On that note, one really easy way to find beautiful places in Portugal is searching for Miradouros.

This is Portuguese for viewpoints and there are SO many of them especially in Lisbon.

So if you ever feel bored, just search Miradouro and go – guaranteed you’ll find a good view.

19. Beware that free museum days aren’t free for everyone

A lot of travel guides online have been perpetuating the Portugal travel tip that many museums are free on the first Sunday of each month in Portugal…

BUT it’s important to note that actually when you look at the fine print, many of these offers are only valid for residents of Portugal (e.g. here ) so keep that in mind and double check on official websites before you head out expecting your freebie.

20. Make sure you try Vinho Verde

Moving onto Portugal tips for food and drink – AKA the most delicious and valuable section.

My first recommendation is to try Vinho Verde or green wine. I know it sounds weird, but the ‘green’ part of the wine has less to do with the wine’s colour, and more with its age.

In short, Vinho Verde is a young drinkable wine that’s not aged, and often a little fizzy, making it THE most delicious and refreshing accompaniment for a sunny terrace. I warn you though: this is some dangerously drinkable stuff, and you’ll be swallowing it by the gallon throughout your trip.

21. And avoid ordering Port wine with your meal

On the topic of wine, if you find yourself wanting to try the famous Portuguese Port wine, know that it’s a very sweet dessert wine that is usually enjoyed on its own after a meal (though sometimes before) and not one you sip during your meal.

… So avoid pairing your dinner with Port. That’s not the best way to enjoy it!

22. Research regional specialties before you go

Food-wise, Portuguese cuisine is super hearty and delicious, with many regional specialties depending on where you are in Portugal so be sure to Google the particular must-tries of your destination.

Of course, I can’t resist sharing a few quintessential recommendations.

First off, if you’re by the coast, fresh seafood is abundant and delicious, especially Bacalhau or Codfish which is available in literally hundreds of ways, including Pastéis de Bacalhau which are deep fried balls of potato and cod. So good!

In Porto, one very gluttonous must-try is the incomparable Francesinha – a thick sandwich stuffed with all kinds of meat and cheese then topped with more melted cheese, a dreamy sauce and often a fried egg.

And, a specialty of Belem and Lisbon is the almighty Pastel de Nata. These are egg custard pastries that come in a crispy crust. They are absolutely incredible, and sure to be one of the highlights of your trip (and possibly life).

23. Consider ordering Petiscos to sample a variety of flavours

Not sure where to begin with Portugese cuisine? A great way to try a lot is by ordering Petiscos, which are small shareable bites similar to Tapas.

Of course, what is served as Petiscos can vary regionally as well, so be sure to do some research or ask for local recommendations, but overall, ordering a bunch can be a nice way to try a lot of different dishes and it can also be a more affordable alternative to getting full main dishes as well. 

24. Prepare for late meal times

In terms of dining out, there are a few things you should know. First off – mealtimes in Portugal may be later than you’re used to.

It’s not uncommon for dinner time to be around 8 or 9pm or even later. Meals often last longer here too, taking several hours, so don’t feel any need to rush. Remember, Portuguese time is relaaaaaxed and fluid.

25. Do not expect continual service in restaurants

Another Portugal must-know is you should not expect continual service in restaurants here.

Often smaller local restaurants (or their kitchens) will be closed in the late afternoon to early evening, so from 2 or 3pm until 7pm, during which they only have some snack items or might not be open at all.

In larger cities, you’ll probably still find some places open but often these will be the ones that cater more to tourists.

So, keep these timings in mind so you can manage your hanger accordingly.

26. Learn how to spot tourist trap restaurants in Portugal

Speaking of restaurants that cater to tourists, there are a few easy ways to spot touristy restaurants in Portugal.

The first is if they’re in a particularly touristy area near a big attraction, you can probably expect prices to at least be a bit higher, and the value for money to be worse. A huge red flag is any place where there’s a host actively trying to get you to eat at their restaurant, as well as places with huge pictures or where the menu is a bunch of languages. 

Often you can escape these by just walking a few blocks away from the main sights so be sure to look around a bit before committing.

Or if you want to enjoy the atmosphere because sometimes these touristy restaurants do have some great views and locations, just pop in for a drink, rather than a full meal. 

27. Know that your table snacks will probably cost extra

Another important Portugal must-know is that often when you arrive at a restaurant, there will be snacks like olives or bread put on the table.

To the surprise of many first time visitors, these aren’t actually included and come at an extra cost, known as “Couvert”, which is usually 1-2 euros per person.

Just know this isn’t a scam, it’s just a cultural difference in the way they charge for things so keep that in mind if you’re eating at a restaurant, and feel free to say ‘no thank you’ if you don’t want any, and you will not be charged for them. The price of the Couvert is also usually listed on the menu, so you can double check the cost before committing.

28. Learn Portuguese tipping etiquette

Tips aren’t expected in Portugal to the same extent as in North America, but if you want to, usually rounding up or doing 10 percent is fine.

29. Bring cash (in smaller denominations)

Another important Portugal must-know once you arrive is that you should make sure you have cash on you.

While many places are taking card now, paying with cash is still the norm in Portugal, especially with smaller bills. The smaller the denominations you can get the better, because I’ve found that smaller places like cafes don’t like to break large bills. Ideally, keep to ten euro bills or below.

30. Don’t carry too much cash at once

That said, do not bring too much cash out with you at once, especially in touristy and busy areas in Lisbon, because pickpockets can be a an issue.

I’ve only been pickpocketed twice in my life and Lisbon was one of them so I’m still a bit sore about that.

So, go by my rule of thumb, which is to not carry more cash than you can stand to lose.

31. Beware of sketchy dealers

Another scam to look out for is dealers offering to sell you ‘illicit substances’ when you’re just out and about, minding your own business on the street. 

This is of course mainly an issue in high-traffic tourist areas, as they always target silly tourists who don’t know better.

Here’s how it works: someone will come up to you and ask if you want something innocent like sunglasses, then they’ll follow up with whether or not you want said illicit substances. Apart from the fact that this already sounds sketchy, they’re also not selling real illicit substances, so no matter what, make sure the answer is no.

32. Be mindful of later opening times

Another thing to be mindful of when visiting Portugal is opening times.

(I’m talking of course about actual shops and restaurants, not those aforementioned dealers)

Overall, things run on a later schedule in Portugal relative to most of central Europe, so you can expect supermarkets to not open until 8am and close later as well, usually at 9 or 10pm.

33. Pack warmer layers no matter when you visit

Okay final Portugal packing tip for you, be sure to pack some warmer layers, even if you’re going in the summer because the wind in Portugal (particularly along the coast) is vicious .

No – seriously. My trauma can attest! Portuguese wind can be really biting, especially when temperatures drop at night, so having at least one warm layer in your suitcase is a must.

I hope this list of Portugal Travel Tips was helpful!

Congratulations on making it through the longest ever list of Portuguese travel tips. I admit this was already a VERY long list of tips for Portugal, but if you have any more questions, let me know in the comments.

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1 thought on “30+ Portugal Travel Tips for First Timers & Must Knows Before You Go”

Thank you! I enjoyed the common sense approach. This was very helpful.

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Why guided touring is the best way to travel Europe

A s we embrace the chill of winter and the thermostat reading lowers and the electric blankets come out of storage, your mind is probably wandering to the sun-soaked streets of Europe. Fortunately, Travelmarvel  has an enviable range of European river-cruise itineraries and three decades of experience touring the globes most marvellous destinations.

More than likely, you have already considered guided touring, but are not entirely convinced it is the right option for you. Trepidation among travellers trying guided touring for the first time is very common, but once guests have experienced the ease and enjoyment of group touring and cruising, it is hard to imagine travelling any other way. Read on to discover why guided touring could be the right for your next European holiday.

Travel worry free

Planning a trip can be overwhelming, particularly if you want to visit multiple destinations. Where to begin on planning you itinerary? How do you know which towns and attractions are must-sees, and which you can afford to miss? Combine this with trying to book accommodation, dining and entertainment and you have the perfect recipe for a rather stressful few months before you have even left on your travels. Travelmarvel’s travel experts and guides take the hard work out of planning your holiday, leaving you nothing to do but sit back, relax, and enjoy each destination to the fullest.

You will have an expert Tour Director to guide you 

With an experienced Tour Director with you every step of the way, you will no longer have to waste precious time getting your bearings at each new destination. Ready with a map and a smile – your Tour Director will be there to navigate language barriers, transport and any unexpected difficulties that crop up while travelling, so you don’t have to.

Local guides will ensure you never miss a thing

Guidebooks and tourist information centres are all well and good – but nothing beats experiencing a new place with a local. Travelmarvel links guests with local guides who will offer more than just the obvious tourist experiences. From recommending the best café to sample a local delicacy, to directing you to a rarely visited local artisan, you can be confident of an authentic slice of every town and city you visit.

As Travelmarvel first-time traveller Aaron explained “I did not think I would enjoy following a paddle around a city! However, the local guides were very engaging and were able to include personal storytelling and insider-knowledge in their tours. I feel like I got so much more out of visiting each location because of the local guided touring.”

Enjoy a perfect balance of touring and free time 

The last thing you want to feel on holiday is rushed, which is why Travelmarvel tours are careful to ensure there is plenty of free time built into the day’s itinerary, so you have ample opportunity to explore each destination at your leisure – or perhaps just watch the world go by with a coffee for the afternoon; the choice is yours.

First-time river cruiser Trudi particularly loved the freedom of choice guided tours can offer: “I thoroughly enjoyed getting to a new town and doing the walking tour, then enjoying the free time we had to explore each village or city by ourselves. The freedom and design of the trip so you could opt-in to meals and tours, or do your own thing, was delightful to discover.”

Make friends for life 

Many of Travelmarvel’s guests end up staying in touch long after their tour has ended. On a guided tour you will travel in a small group of like-minded individuals, so you are assured to meet people with the same interests as you, and with so many places to visit together – there will never be shortage of things to talk about!

Curated experiences just for you

One of the main benefits of guided touring is gaining access to places and experiences you wouldn’t be able to if you were travelling on your own. Travelmarvel offers Insider Experiences which will make your time abroad unforgettable. For example, on the Balkan Adventure in Belgrade your Tour Director can arrange for you visit a local family on their farm and sample their home-brewed port, a special experience unique to your guided tour.

Great value for money 

Budgeting for travel is tricky, unexpected expenses pop-up, accommodation needs to be rearranged and when you don’t know the local language or customs – it is easy to get caught out. With a Travelmarvel guided tour, accommodation, transport, and a large portion of your meals are included, meaning your only expenses while travelling will be for souvenirs, sampling delicious local cuisine and treating yourself to an extra-special event or two. Also, you will always have a Tour Director on hand to help navigate the local markets and eateries.

It’s good to know where you are going to go

Book your guided tour today and start getting excited! Travelmarvel provides an enticing glimpse of what you can expect on each tour – from German palaces and wineries you will visit, to the premium accommodation you can expect to return to at the end of each day, locking in a guided tour means you have plenty to look forward to long before you touch down.

About Travelmarvel

Travelmarvel makes holidaying easy, giving guests the freedom to simply marvel at the world. As a part of Australia’s largest home-grown travel company, The APT Travel Group Travelmarvel delivers a premium holiday experience while offering exceptional value, so guests can enjoy every journey to the fullest.

For more information, visit  www.travelmarvel.com.au   

Images: Supplied

This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with Travelmarvel.

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Saro Seattle

What do you think is the best way to travel? Why?

a) Backpacking - just take it as it comes in one's own terms

b) Research and plan the vacation down to every detail - a DIY approach

c) Buy a custom ready-made vacation or package from a travel expert such as a tour operator

It comes down to a number of factors - time, personality, confidence, money. Over the years, I've done all three. These days, I definitely take a DIY approach. I enjoy researching & engaging with communities online (here and on Twitter in particular) to get ideas. I subscribe to a lot of 'deal' newsletters and hunt out bargains. More than once I've booked something just because I could get a bargain air fare (coming from Australia, the flight is often a hugely significant cost). Having said that, there are trips I'd consider buying 'off the shelf' because travelling independently is impossible - such as a voyage to Antarctica.

I also spent an amazing summer in Europe with a first-class Eurail pass. I was very happy to just jump on and off trains and went everywhere from the south of Italy to Trondheim in Norway. It was my first trip to Europe, I had six weeks and I just wanted to see everything I could. I wouldn't push that sort of schedule again.

So I'd look at (a) if my goal was to travel economically. It certainly opens up a lot of possibility to live like a local and get out of the tourist traps. I'd look at (c) if it were somewhere very hard to access independently but it would also need to provide enough personal space (such as on a ship) that I could spend time apart from the group when I needed it (no bus tours for me, thanks), but for me, (b) gives me the excitement, enjoyment and sense of accomplishment when I've researched, engaged with like-minded people and had a great experience.

Comments (1)

A DIY approach is the best way for me, you can plan your trip exactly as you prefere, you spend more time doing what you enjoy the most, you visit exactly the things you like.

Comments (0)

i like to keep it to one small checked bag and a carry on. i keep a couple changes of clothes in my carry on in case my luggage gets lost. i chose just below average accommodations so i have more cash to drink and eat.

It really depends on the travellers preferences, there is no wrong way to travel and so much depends on the time and money involved. 

I tend to take the DIY approach and the planning is a great part of the fun of it for me - I learn SO much! - but I make sure to *not* sort it out down to the detail and leave room for spontaneity and surprise as those end up being the greatest rewards on the road.

The backpacker approach sounds ideal but most people who travel only have a limited time frame and some preliminary planning can save from wasting what precious time is available. 

I know so many who love the packed tours because the organizational part of it just isn't their thing but for me discovering things on my own (whether they turn out good or bad) trumps it for me. 

Thinking about this answer really showed me how my teacher brain applies to travel. I try to be logical and analytical while learning everything I possibly can and hate it when others do the work for me - thanks for the self-reflection! :) 

For me, the best way to travel is how you described in letter "A". In this way, it's a lot less about traveling and more of a state of mind. You are left to your own devices and are responsible for your own pace. This is the kind of environment I learn most about myself and have the time to really learn about a certain place and get to know others on a level a bit different than if I was just passing through or feeling rushed (which is exactly how I would feel if I had everything planned out).

Man, I just think you can't beat backpacking hey. You can count on seeing the world in your own terms/staying where you want to stay/develop your own perception of the place. 

I suppose it's the least touristy way of travelling, so you can become a part of the landscape, instead of sticking out. That's pretty important to me I guess. 

This depends on the person and how much time you have for the trip.

If your time is limited to a few days then it can be a good idea to get things organised a bit in advance so you don't waste too much time waiting for transport and so, but if you have several months then you are better off just winging it.

I mostly travel by foot and bicycle when I travel as I like to travel slow and for several weeks at a time when I travel.

Will be doing a bicycle trip from  Jakarta Capital Region to  Sumbawa in december and This is exatly my kinda trip with no accomodation planned in advance.

Just me and my bicycle all alone.

Mentioned in this answer:

I love researching every place, not to waste time. I think I begin my holidays when I start investigating, studying maps, watching videos and reading everything about a place!

Comments (2)

This is so individual!  I have done A B and C at different points in life and they all have their place in the travel community.  For example, where I would feel most comfortable as a student living in Europe is certainly different than, many many years later, where I would feel most comfortable now.

What I have learned in all my travels is that if you can afford it, upgrade your air travel and stay where you personally are most comfortable as much as possible. 

I will occasionally play tourist and visit more tourist-y sites, but I mostly like to melt into where I am as much as possible and hang with locals or other travelers, either people I already know or new friends.  Whether I'm somewhere for a weekend or a month.  It's difficult to immerse yourself if you stay in a huge, fancy hotel where everyone speaks English (though there is something to be said about those places from time to time).  It's less difficult to do that if you stay in a smaller place - whether a hotel, B&B, hostel, AirBnB, etc. 

To  me, the whole point of traveling isn't to take selfies in front of [famous place/thing/etc.], but to really absorb and observe your surroundings and to learn about where I am.  The rest is what I call "surface travel", that 10 countries in 8 days stuff.  That is for people who are more interested in ticking things off of some list than actually experiencing a place, culture or atmosphere.  Which is entirely fine, if that's what you're into, but I prefer a deeper approach and one in which I come home with a real understanding of somewhere new.

 I always go with option B because I love to research and plan my own travels and I don't like traveling with travel agences but I'm not much of a backpacker either, thought I backpacked once, in  Bolivia and  Peru and it was great. Now I'm going to  Southeast Asia and I was tempeted to backpack because I think it's the best way to explore destinations like that. 

Can I choose somewhere in between A and B? I like to plan and do my research using Trippy, but I also love going with the flow and seeing what happens when you get to a destination. So I'd go with a lite DIY approach, but keep it simple based on my general tastes and leave some decisions and destinations open to the excitement of being present and living in the moment! 

For me the DIY approach is the best way! 

Hello Saro!  I don't really think there is a best way to travel.  I know how I, generally, like to travel.  It's close to B, but only in regards to flights, accommodations, and a few things I know I want to do, or see.  Beyond that it's fun for me to have a list.  The way I feel about something now, may not be the way I feel about it when I get to a particular destination.  For me, it's nice to have a game plan, but also the ability to adjust based on my feelings and experiences once I get there.  Expectations and ideas often change once I arrive at a particular place, and part of the fun is the unknown of what that day holds.

The best way to travel is completely subjective. Everyone has their own preference when it comes to travel. I'm the type of person who usually has an idea of what I'd like to get done at each destination. Once I've crossed off items off my list, I let the rest of my journey takes its course. 

France Travel Blog

What is the Best Way to Travel in France? A Detailed Guide for Tourists

Regardless of whether you’re a tourist or living in France , commuting is very important to fully experience what the country has to offer. So, the answer to what is the best way to travel in the country depends on certain factors. Some of them are:

• The time you have to spare
• The budget you’re operating on
• The location you’re traveling to

Knowing the specifics will help you make an informed decision about the mode of travel to choose. But for this article, let’s look at the three most popular ways in which you can travel around France.

Travelling France by Bus

Prior to 2015, only international companies passing through the country used to travel by bus. However, the bus routes are now expanding their reach. The  SCNF  is now operating buses in routes where trains cannot travel.

If time is not a problem, and you want to keep commuting costs to a minimum, choose buses. Inter-city travel might take you several hours through this medium, but you will save a lot of money in the process. Do check out  https://free-lookup.net  if you’re looking for a number lookup service for any purpose.

Travelling France by Plane

If you have limited time and can shell out a fair amount of money, then taking a flight is your best bet. If you choose to travel to Paris, you will have access to two airports in the city. Roissy-Charles-de-Gaulle is located 25km north of the city, and Orly is 14km to the south. Both these airports are linked by shuttle buses and railways.

If you’re planning to come from abroad, catching a flight is no doubt the best way to travel to Paris. Not only are you saving time, but you are also making the journey more convenient. Other cities like Nice, Marseille, Strasbourg, Lyon, and Toulouse have international airports. They all have good links to Paris through the flight system.

Travelling France by Train

French rail travel is the best way to travel around the country. Due to the TGV , it is very fast and convenient to travel around France by train, and it is also quite affordable if you book early. You don’t have to arrive at the station hours before boarding a train or deal with strict baggage rules.

So, taking into account the check-in and cab time in the case of flights, the actual travel time is quite high. However, this is not the case when considering trains. The railway system is the most popular way to travel around France.

The train service can become quite expensive if you’re late in securing your ticket or have an emergency. However, SCNF has implemented several schemes to make traveling more affordable for people. It has several loyalty programs that you can take advantage of, and they are as follows:

• Avantage Jeune: for people aged 12 to 27
• Advantage Senior: for senior citizens aged over 60
• Advantage Week-end: for people aged 27 to 60, traveling during the weekend.
• Advantage Familie: for family travels

So, What is the Best Way to Travel In France?

Now that we have covered the three most popular ways, you have all the information you need to decide which model is best for you. The best way to travel around Paris is surely through trains due to their accessibility. However, you can also opt to  rent luxury cars  or cab services if you want. These services can often be more convenient based on your location and destination.

But, if you’re considering inter-city travel, then choosing either one of the trains or airways will be the best option for you. Not only will you save time, but you will also have a more convenient journey. Buses can be used if you’re traveling overnight or going somewhere trains don’t operate but do keep in mind that they take several hours.

Peter is the editor of France Travel Blog. He has traveled to France many times and is ready to share the knowledge in this travel guide for France.

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Why May Is the Best Month to Visit Disneyland in 2024

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Table of Contents

What to expect when visiting Disneyland in May

Ways to save money at disneyland, beware of crowds.

For a brief period this month, the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, is bringing together a trifecta of entertainment across both of its theme parks.

Disneyland regularly hosts special festivals at the park for Halloween and other holidays, but this is one of the rare times of the year when visitors can experience two festivals at once.

This year’s Pixar Fest and Seasons of the Force feature two beloved franchises — Pixar and Star Wars — through over-the-top food and meet-and-greets with characters never seen before in the parks. Unique entertainment options include a fireworks show that depending on where you view it is either Pixar- or Star Wars-themed with two separate soundtracks.

And that’s not all. One of Disney’s most iconic nighttime shows, “Fantasmic!,” returns in May.

Plus, there’s a ticket offer for Southern California residents that could make experiencing this somewhat affordable — at least by Disney standards.

Pixar Fest kicks off

A sculpture sitting on the esplanade between Disney's two California theme parks pays homage to all things Pixar. (Photo by Sally French)

From now through Aug. 4, Disneyland Resort is sporting a new makeover for Pixar Fest, a festival devoted to films made by the company’s computer-animation subsidiary, Pixar Animation Studios. NerdWallet got an inside look during a press event for the festival's kickoff.

As part of Pixar Fest, there’s an abundance of Pixar-themed entertainment, including a dance party and a new daytime parade. Character meet-and-greets will include Pixar characters such as Wade and Ember from “Elemental" for the first time at the Disneyland Resort.

You’ll also see decorations throughout both theme parks, including a 25-foot tall sculpture of the iconic Pixar Ball outside Disneyland’s main gate.

An assortment of desserts is on sale for a limited time during Pixar Fest. (Photo by Sally French)

One of the big draws of Disney festivals is the food. For example, you might see Mr. Potato Head-inspired churros, which top the iconic snack with, yes, potato chips.

On May 10, a series of marketplace stands will open at Disney California Adventure Park with even more limited-time food offerings based on some of Pixar’s newer films, including Hanger Management inspired by “Inside Out.”

One of the most popular pieces of merchandise for sale is a Pizza Planet truck, seen in the film "Toy Story." (Photo by Sally French)

Then, there are the fireworks. Tinker Bell is the usual star of Disney fireworks shows, but during Pixar Fest, Buzz takes the torch and flies across the sky between Matterhorn Bobsleds and Sleeping Beauty Castle. Later, Carl and Ellie’s house featured in “Up” floats above the castle.

Season of the Force continues

For fans who prefer Chewbacca over Sulley as their hairy creature of choice, May also features a Star Wars-themed festival called Season of the Force. Season of the Force runs through June 2, providing about a month where both festivals overlap.

“The two festivals aren’t actually intended to interact with each other,” says Tracy Halas, creative director at Disney Live Entertainment. “It’s really just an opportunity to share everything and have something for everybody at the parks.”

And there are plenty of Star Wars fans, indeed. After all, “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” still holds the title of highest-grossing film of all time in the domestic market, according to Box Office Mojo.

Among the festival's star attractions is a temporary retheming of the Space Mountain ride to Hyperspace Mountain, where the soundtrack now includes the films’ iconic theme song. There’s also Star Wars-themed food, including a bantha burger based on the furry, horned mammals that roam the fictional planet of Tatooine.

While those Disneyland special events spotlight two of Disney’s biggest franchises, that’s still not the only reason why May could be the best month for Disneyland fans.

Fantasmic! returns

“Fantasmic!”, a nighttime show at Disneyland involving costumed characters, stunts and pyrotechnics, went dark after a massive, fire-breathing dragon prop fell victim to its own flames during a live performance in April 2023. That performance was cut short, marking the last show for more than a year. That changes on May 24, when the show returns.

Southern California resident tickets

Disney uses variable pricing on its theme park tickets , where higher-demand days command higher prices. Disneyland prices its one-day admission tickets across seven tiers, ranging from Tier 0 (least expensive) to Tier 6 (most expensive).

The average single-day ticket price in May is $162, about 7.4% cheaper than July’s average of $175, according to a NerdWallet analysis of Disney ticket prices.

For locals, a limited-time ticket option offers even lower prices. Southern California residents can purchase a three-day ticket package that costs $225 for weekday tickets ($75 per day) or $275 ($92 per day) for the version that offers weekend access, too.

The last day to use tickets sold through that promotion is June 2.

Hotel discounts

Then, there's another offer available to anyone — not just local residents — that could make trips more affordable. Hotel stays on Sunday through Thursday nights are as much as 15% off for trips booked via Disney's website through June 3 and completed by June 7.

Hotel prices can be the biggest cost in a Disneyland trip — more so than other expenses like food and theme park tickets. The weeknight hotel deal could make them more affordable. Plus, weekday theme park tickets tend to be cheaper than weekends, adding to the savings.

But for all the goodness set for May, you might have to contend with crowds. The ticket prices of Fantasmic!'s reopening weekend falls into the highest pricing tier, suggesting Disney is bracing for big crowds on that weekend.

High school students also descend upon Disney California Adventure on certain nights in May and June for Grad Nite. There may be bigger daytime crowds if students arrive early, and the park will close earlier than usual. This year’s Grad Nites are set for May 10, 14, 15, 17, 19, 22, 23, 28 and 31, as well as June 2, 5, 7, 9, 12 and 14.

Plus, with Southern California resident tickets expiring on June 2 and the summer blackout dates starting May 31 for certain annual pass holders, many people might squeeze in a visit in May.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-3x Earn 3X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

How to taste your way through Tuscany

Italy is known for its vibrant and varied cuisine. Discover it at its best in the region of Tuscany, where an assortment of inviting culinary experiences offer a true taste of the country.

Located in west-central Italy, the region of Tuscany is rich in natural beauty. Its striking landscapes vary from the chiselled Tuscan-Emilian Apennines in the north and the rugged Apuan Alps in the north-west, to the gentle green hills of Val d’Orcia in the south.

The region’s capital, Florence, is a destination renowned for its art and architecture. Its most iconic sight is the eminent Duomo, a stunning 400ft-tall masterpiece of the Renaissance. During its 100-year build, architect Filippo Brunelleschi is said to have introduced a pulley system to speed up lunch breaks, feeding the workers on the cathedral’s roof with peposo , a black pepper and beef stew.

Today, food remains an important part of Tuscany’s culture, and visitors are encouraged to slow down and savour the wide variety of culinary experiences on offer across the region — from truffle hunting and cheese tasting to sampling fine wine and sipping fresh coffee — here's how to get a taste.

1. Join a truffle hunt

Truffles are deeply rooted in Tuscan history, found throughout the region in all shapes and sizes and revered for their distinctive aromas and flavours. Learn about the timeworn traditions and distinct hunting practices of those seeking these subterranean delicacies at Italy’s first museum dedicated to truffles — the Museo del Tartufo e Centro di Documentazione — housed in an old castle in San Giovanni d’Asso. At Cucina Giuseppina , near the town of Certaldo, forage for your own truffles with the help of a guide and trained truffle-hunting dogs, before indulging in a truffle-based Tuscan lunch. In summer, you'll search for the elusive black truffle, while in the fall, the white truffle is the prize.

2. Try tasty cheeses

Tuscany is best known for pecorino, a sheep’s milk cheese — and especially treasured by Tuscans is the bold-flavoured pecorino cheese produced in Pienza, the aptly named pecorino di Pienza . Elsewhere in the region, the exuberant Palio dei Caci event draws crowds to the town of Volterra each October, where ‘runners’ compete to skilfully guide wheels of pecorino down a cobbled street. Many working farms in Tuscany are open to visitors, too, so you can learn how the cheese is made. Fattoria Corzano e Paterno just south-west of Florence produces cheese, wine and olive oil and also has guesthouses, a farm shop and a restaurant, with tasting sessions available year-round.

3. Make pasta from scratch

Handrolled pici is a popular pasta in Tuscany, often served with tomato, garlic and breadcrumbs. Pappardelle pasta is also a local favourite, generally served with rich and meaty sauces. Join a class to learn how to make your own pasta at wineries such as Magida in Brunello, which also offers accommodation packages. Private cooking lessons are also an option, where you can learn the art of the perfect pasta dish from professional chefs such as Antonella La Macchia .

4. Sample a variety of wines

Tuscany is well known for its geographically protected wines such as Chianti, Montepulciano and Brunello. Stop by the Enoteca la Fortezza wine bar inside the Fortezza di Montalcino and sample Montalcino's intense and complex Brunello wines. Enjoy tart and spicy Chianti wines at Pietraserena Azienda Agricola Arrigoni in San Gimignano, as you admire the impressive views across the hills and vineyards. Although Tuscany’s established viticulture scene is revered, there are also a growing number of organic, natural and biodynamic wines being developed, helping the region stay at the forefront of Italian wine production. Antinori nel Chianti Classico has been making wine since 1385 and now has an ultra-modern winery attached, which is open to visitors. Or find one of the unique buchette del vino (wine holes) hidden around Florence — at restaurants such as Babae , Belle Donne and Il Latini , to name a few — where wine is served through a tiny window, a tradition that dates back to 1559.

5. Experience a traditional trattoria

With charming hilltop towns seemingly around every bend, it’s easy to fall in love with a new local trattoria every evening in Tuscany. On the edge of Panzano-in-Chianti, head to the terrace at Il Vescovino to enjoy homemade ravioli stuffed with leeks and taleggio cheese, served in a simple tomato sauce. Along Tuscany’s western coastline, restaurants such as Il Romito in Livorno serve up a homely fish stew called cacciucco — a 500-year-old dish traditionally made using five or more types of fish in a red wine and tomato broth.

6. Sip freshly roasted coffee

Italy has an affinity for coffee and on almost every corner in Florence you’ll find coffee ‘bars’ in which you can quietly perch to people watch. The city is also home to the Accademia del Caffè Espresso , which features a coffee museum and an indoor coffee plantation, and also offers a selection of educational tasting sessions. Away from the city, learn more about Tuscan artisanal coffee and the finer details of the roasting and blending processes with a tour of Pienza Coffee in Val d’Orcia.

7. Peruse local markets

Intense and aromatic, Tuscany’s local food markets are sure to delight — piled high with humble but delicious ingredients, from bread and cheese to tomatoes and beans. While some markets such as Florence’s Mercato Centrale are open daily, smaller towns in the region host their weekly markets on varying days. In the city of Lucca, head to the MercoledìBio on Wednesdays — for organic fruit and vegetables, honey, olive oil, cold cuts, wine, bread and baked goods, as well as sheep’s, cow’s and goat’s cheese — or the Campagna Amica market on Thursdays — for fresh fish and seasonal vegetables, cheese, plants and flowers.

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• FOOD TOURISM

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What's your chance of seeing the northern lights tonight? A look at Saturday's forecast

Illuminating the night sky with pink, green and gray colors, the northern lights made its appearance in the United Kingdom and the northern half of the United States on Friday. The magical phenomena could happen again tonight.

The show fascinated many onlookers as they took out their phones to capture the beauty of the night sky. On Friday, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issued extreme (G5) conditions across the United States. A storm of this intensity has not been seen since October 2003. The storm gained the name "Halloween Storm" and caused many power outages in Sweden and damaged transformers in South Africa, according to Earth.com .

Meteorologists have predicted that the northern lights can be visible on Saturday as well as Sunday. If you are going outside to see the northern lights, forecasters want to remind the public that their solar eclipse glasses can be used for viewing the phenomenon.

Here's what you need to know to prepare for the next viewing of the northern lights.

The northern lights: Danced across the US last night. It could happen again Saturday.

What is the cloud forecast Saturday night? Will clouds block the northern lights?

If you missed the aurora borealis Friday night, you might still catch a glimpse on Saturday or Sunday, depending on where you live. But not if clouds get in the way.

The cloud forecast for Saturday night is generally good for most of America, but some of the people who missed their chance last night due to clouds may have a similar problem Saturday, said AccuWeather senior meteorologist Tom Kines. Areas that are likely to be cloudy include New England and Mid-Atlantic regions, as well as parts of the Southern Plains, including Oklahoma, Kansas and Colorado.

“Even just a few breaks in the clouds will allow the aurora to be visible,” Kines said. “There’s always hope.”

Peak visibility time Saturday night will be between 9 p.m. and midnight, with some chance until 2 a.m., Kines said. The best views will be in dark areas away from the light pollution of cities, he said, though some reported seeing the auroras Friday night from metro areas like Milwaukee and Detroit.

Sunday night, if there is any aurora to see, those in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic can rejoice, because Kines said the skies should be clearer.

Where can you see the northern lights tonight?

The Space and Weather Prediction Center  offers an experimental forecast map  that shows the aurora may be visible in a wide swath of the U.S. including Oregon, Nebraska, Indiana and Pennsylvania. Other states like California, Alabama, Mississippi and Florida could also see the sky light up again for an encore performance. But visibility will depend on shifting factors that include weather, pollution and cloud cover.

Below are forecast predictions for seeing the northern lights in New York, Michigan, Wisconsin, Ohio and Indiana on Saturday.

Rain and clouds are expected to damper expectations to see the aurora borealis around the Rochester, N.Y. area . Elsewhere in NY, the  Lower Hudson Valley could see the lights again, if weather permits. 

NWS maps predicting the intensity and location of the northern lights Saturday and Sunday show the aurora will be visible in mid to northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula.

Saturday and Sunday are predicted to be mostly cloudy with some rain showers and isolated thunderstorms. The NWS predicted 48% to 58% sky cover in metro Detroit from 8 p.m. Saturday to 2 a.m. Sunday. The western portion of both peninsulas are expected to have a lower cloud cover.

In the Milwaukee area , the evening is expected to bring mostly clear skies and overnight will have scattered clouds, said Tim Halbach, local meteorologist with the National Weather Service. 

Those living around the Cincinnati region could be treated to the northern lights Saturday night with the NWS' Wilmington, Ohio , office forecasting dry, partly cloudy conditions. Clouds shouldn't be an issue as many Ohioans reported seeing the lights Friday despite some cloud cover.

 In a telephone interview, Mike Bettwy, operations chief of the NOAA's  Space Weather Prediction Center  in Boulder, Co, said Indianapolis and surrounding areas might have a better chance of seeing the aurora today and Sunday.

They can expect clear skies tonight, Bettwy said.

"The aurora itself might be actually a little bit less active than it was last night," he told IndyStar. "I think the ability for you to see it will be better because the skies will be clearing out — at least in the Indianapolis area and that immediate vicinity."

Northern lights forecast path

If you want to get a better idea of if you will be able to see the northern lights from your state, check NOAA's aurora forecast tool , which has a 30-minute forecast window. 

The auroras are a natural light display in Earth's sky that are famously best seen in high-latitude regions.

Scientist left amazed by the aurora

The aurora seen on May 10 amazed Antonella Fruscione, an astrophysicist at Harvard University. She sent photos of the lights and the April eclipse to her friends in Italy. The northern lights weren't as prominent in Italy as it was in other places.

"And I sent them the picture that I took at the solar eclipse and I said, 'Can you imagine how fortunate I was this year, one month apart, I see these two incredible spectacles of the universe,'" she recalled telling them.

The phenomena seen Friday and possibly Saturday night isn't usual, she said.

"It's a very rare occurrence, especially because last night it was really visible," Fruscione said.

That's because the Earth's magnetic activity was at a nine, the highest the index goes, coupled with the Sun being at an active peak, causing eruptions. She added the colors cannot be predicted either as it depends on how the solar energetic particles interact with oxygen and nitrogen atoms. Oxygen appears green, while nitrogen appears purple, blue or pink, she said.

"It just depends on which atoms in the atmosphere this particle interact with," Fruscione said.

She declined to predict how strong Saturday's aurora could be as it's not in her expertise, but said people make predictions all the time about space weather not just for the northern lights, but to ensure communications, space stations, astronauts and other matter in space doesn't get majorly disrupted.

Down on Earth, however, the activity is harmless to humans.

"It's completely harmless because the particles do not don't do not reach us," Fruscione said. "The reason why we see the colors is that the particle interacts with the atoms and they make these beautiful colors and that's it."

For Saturday, and any other day where chatter about the aurora borealis is high, Fruscione encouraged people to download an aurora forecasting app to their phones so they can see the colorful skies.

What are the northern lights?

The northern lights materialize when energized particles from the sun reach Earth's upper atmosphere at speeds of up to 45 million mph,  according to Space.com . Earth's magnetic field redirects the particles toward the poles through a process that produces a stunning display of rays, spirals and flickers that has fascinated humans for millennia.

Contributing: Eric Lagatta and Dinah Voyles Pulver , USA TODAY ; Tanya Wildt, Detroit Free Press ; Alex Groth, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel ; Contributing: Bebe Hodges, Cincinnati Enquirer ; Contributing: Steve Howe, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle; Rockland/Westchester Journal News ; Alexandria Burris, Indianapolis Star

Ahjané Forbes is a reporter on the National Trending Team at USA TODAY. Ahjané covers breaking news, car recalls, crime, health, lottery and public policy stories. Email her at  [email protected] . Follow her on  Instagram ,  Threads  and  X (Twitter)

Hot Take: Angel's Landing Might Not Be Worth The Hype

Angel's Landing is Zion National Park's most famous trail, but with big crowds and exclusive permits, it may not be as worthwhile as advertised.

• Angel's Landing is famous as the most dangerous hike in Zion National Park, with a lottery system to limit crowds.
• Despite the hype, there are quieter, permit-free alternatives that offer similar views without the crowds.
• Completing Angel's Landing is a physical and mental challenge, but there are other ways to enjoy Zion National Park.

Angels Landing is by far the most famous hike in Zion National Park. A prominent feature in Zion Canyon, the Angel's Landing rim, with its 1,000-foot drops on either side, beckons thousands of hikers to attempt the treacherous climb year after year.

Angel's Landing is famous in part due to its dangerous nature. Dubbed America's most dangerous hike, Angel's Landing has claimed the lives of at least 17 people since 2000. As one of the most dangerous hikes in the US , the National Park Service has implemented an exclusive lottery system to limit the crowds and increase safety on the trail. Despite being one of the hardest hikes in the country to get a permit for , thousands of people apply for the lottery every day, hoping to have their chance to hike " where only an angel could land ."

With all these challenges and dangers, the question is — is Angel's Landing worth it? Having just spent 48 hours exploring Zion National Park ourselves, our answer is, maybe not. After all, only 1,000 people, at most, get to hike Angel's Landing every day. Are they the only guests having a fulfilling experience at Zion National Park? Of course not.

While Angel's Landing absolutely has its place in the hiking world, our own experience seeing the crowds and other hiking opportunities around Zion suggests that Angel's Landing may not be worth the hype it generates.

Zion National Park charges an entry fee of $35 per vehicle for one week of access. Additionally, those who use the shuttle often have to park in Springdale due to limited in-park parking. Springdale parking is $30 per vehicle per day during peak season.

This Utah Hike Is Beautiful (But Also Super Dangerous)

The angel's landing trail is extremely crowded, despite the permit system, angel's landing is not the best way to find solitude in zion national park.

Perhaps one of the biggest misconceptions about Angel's Landing is that the permit system makes for less crowded trails. Angel's Landing is a 5.4-mile hike, but only the half-mile chain portion (one mile out-and-back) to the summit actually requires a permit.

The other 4.4 miles of the trail are not only permit-free, but are shared between the Angel's Landing Hike and two other popular trails.

The result? A literal procession of people walking up the canyon wall. The Grotto Trailhead is one of the busiest in the entire park, rivaling even easy trails like the Narrows Riverside Walk and Emerald Pools with its crowds.

Even the permit-only portion of the trail welcomes up to 1,000 hikers a day, with most visiting during the main shuttle hours between 6 am and 7:15 pm. Lines regularly form at pinch-points along the ridge that can only accommodate one-way traffic, making this scenic trail feel more like a checkout line at the grocery store.

Zion Shuttle Service

Private vehicles are not allowed on the Zion Canyon Scenic Byway between March and November. If hikers want to explore the trails outside the shuttle hours, or if they miss the last shuttle out of the canyon, the only other way to travel along the road is to walk.

As someone who prioritizes solitude, or at least breathing room, on my hikes, one look at the line of people walking up the trail was enough to make me detour for one of the less-trafficked trails nearby.

With only two days to explore all of Zion National Park, the sheer number of people on every inch of the trail was enough to make me appreciate not having a permit to use.

There Are Several Other Ways To Enjoy The Same View

A variety of trails offer zion canyon overlooks, making it unnecessary to hike angel's landing for an elevated viewing.

Sometimes, it seems that visitors are under the impression that Angel's Landing is the only way to get a view of the entire Zion Canyon in Zion National Park. Considering the canyon is the heart of the park, the NPS has created multiple trail options to reach that iconic viewpoint.

With no permit in hand, we had to explore one of these other options to enjoy an overlook perspective. The three most popular alternative hikes to Angel's Landing that offer a similar view are the Scout Overlook Trail, the West Rim Trail, and the Canyon Overlook Trail.

Each trail has its own advantages, and all of them prove that Angel's Landing does not have a monopoly on Zion Canyon views.

Due to our limited time and desire to see as much of the park as possible, we opted for the short and easy Canyon Overlook Trail. At just over half a mile each way, the whole trail took around an hour to complete (and photograph). This left plenty of time to enjoy some of the other attractions in Zion National Park, without having to sacrifice on scenery.

Indeed, at no point as I looked out over the vast canyon landscape below did I feel like I was being denied a beautiful view just because I wasn't on Angel's Landing.

Trail details have been provided by AllTrails. Estimated hike times have been excluded, as our experience in Zion National Park quickly revealed that the crowds, photo op breaks, and high elevation dramatically slowed hiking progress, making the suggested times wildly inaccurate.

Three Hardest Hikes At Zion (That Aren't Angel's Landing)

Both the West Rim Trail and the Scout Lookout Trail start at the same place as Angel's Landing. All three use the same trail until hikers reach the Angel's Landing offshoot. This is considered the Scout Lookout, and where a majority of hikers without a permit end. Not only does this trail give a spectacular view of Angel's Landing, the entire canyon is on display as well.

At the top, views nearly 1,000 feet above Angel's Landing spread for miles. For some hikers, the West Rim Trail is considered the best hike in Zion National Park, and many question why it hasn't gained the popularity of Angel's Landing.

Just because they aren't Angel's Landing doesn't mean that these overlook trails are completely without dangers. Both the West Rim trail and the Scout Overlook trail are considered some of the most dangerous hikes in Zion National Park besides Angel's Landing . As of publication, the West Rim/Scout Overlook trail has already seen two fatalities in 2024, including one hiker who passed near Scout Overlook on the day we arrived in Zion National Park.

Why Angel's Landing Is Worth Hiking

Despite the downsides, many consider angel's landing the hike of a lifetime.

Of course, there are absolutely reasons to try the Angel's Landing Hike. This author tried (and failed) to secure a permit of her own, so even I see the allure of the trail. However, the reasons Angel's Landing is worth hiking are perhaps not the reasons most commonly given.

Completing the Angel's Landing Hike is a test of one's physical and mental limits, and reaching the end of that rim comes with serious bragging rights.

While the hike itself takes only half a day to complete, there's not too many people who can say they've balanced on that ledge, gripped those chains, and stared down into the canyon from that height.

While it may not be the only place to get a view of Zion Canyon, there is no denying that the landscape is awe-inspiring, and one that only a very small percentage of Zion National Park's guests get to enjoy.

Perhaps that is why nearly a third of the souvenirs in Zion National Park's visitor center feature the famed trail. Angel's Landing creates a feeling of accomplishment that few other feats can, and for many, that makes this trail worth every challenge.

7 Underrated Alternatives To Zion National Park

Angel's Landing is one of the most famous hikes in the US. The top-rated hiking trail on AllTrails, Angel's Landing seems to win the hearts of everyone who completes it. Despite the fanfare and the huge amount of swag available at the shops, the argument can be made that Angel's Landing isn't worth the hype.

Multiple other trails offer similar views, and the immense crowds, even in the permit-only area, can be off-putting for many. If hikers are interested in testing their physical and mental prowess, the Angel's Landing Hike is likely to be worth the effort, but for the vast majority of visitors just looking to enjoy the scenery, Angel's Landing is not needed to have an amazing Zion National Park experience.

Money blog: 600 new skyscrapers 'on way' for London, report finds

A reader seeks help as her employer of 24 years is bringing in a new clock-in system to pay her by the minute. Read this and all the latest personal finance and consumer news in the Money blog - and share your own problem or dispute below.

Monday 13 May 2024 15:52, UK

• Gen Z would rather deliver parcels than work in restaurants, Michel Roux Jr claims
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Ask a question or make a comment

Once the UK's favourite alcoholic beverage, beer's popularity seems to be fading among the younger drinking generation... 

In fact, only 30% of people aged 18 to 24 ever drink it, according to a study commissioned by the Society of Independent Brewers. 

Instead, younger drinkers say they prefer drinking spirits, wine and cider. 

Pub visits appear to be suffering as well, with almost a quarter of the 2,000 people surveyed saying they have never visited their local. 

SIBA's 2024 Craft Beer Report paints a more positive picture for small and independent brewers, however, with more than 55% of beer consumers saying they now drink "local craft beer". 

It also found average beer production volumes among independent breweries has risen by 14% since last year - a return to pre-pandemic levels for the first time in 4 years. 

"Demand for local, independently brewed beer in the UK is strong, with independent brewers reporting production volumes up by 14%, meaning they have returned to 2019 volumes again," Andy Slee, SIBA's chief executive, said. 

But, he said, it's time for "cautious optimism" only, with the industry still plagued with a number of issues. 

"The short-term issue for small independent breweries isn't demand; it's profitability, rising costs and financial pressures such as lingering COVID debt," he said. 

"Far too many breweries are simply trying to survive rather than thrive, so while there are many positives signs highlighted in the report, for now it's cautious optimism."

Earlier this year, our Money reporter Emily Mee explored whether the UK's big night out culture was dying out. 

Nightlife experts warned we're losing one club every two days at the moment - and if we stay on this trajectory, we will have none left by 2030.

You can read more about her findings here...

A total of 583 skyscrapers are "queuing up in the pipeline" to be built across central London, a development thinktank has said. 

That is more than double the 270 built in the past decade. 

In the eastern borough of Tower Hamlets alone, 71 tall buildings were completed in that time that time, the report by New London Architecture found. 

A further 24 were in the City of London and 27 in Canary Wharf and Isle of Dogs. 

The report said the rapid change has been fuelled by a "burgeoning demand" for office and residential space, overseas investment and a supporting planning environment. 

"Tall buildings have changed the face of London substantially over the last 20 years and will continue to do so - the pipeline that NLA has tracked means there is at least 10 years' supply that has already been defined," Peter Murray, the organisation's co-founder, said. 

"London's population continues to grow, passing the 10 million mark at the end of this decade.

"We'll still need tall buildings; and NLA will continue to keep a close watch on what's going on." 

Restaurants might only be able to open three or four days a week due to staffing problems, Michel Roux Jr has warned. 

Speaking to The Telegraph as he gears up to open his new restaurant Chez Rouz, the Michelin starred chef admitted the industry needs to change to accommodate flexible working hours. 

"Just because I worked 80 hours a week or more doesn't mean the next generation should," he said. 

"Quite the contrary. That is something that we have to address in our industry."

But, he warned that the move will come at a cost... 

"It will mean ultimately that going out is going to be more expensive, and that maybe your favourite restaurant is no longer open seven days a week - it's only open three or four days a week," he said. 

The industry is known for its long, unsociable working hours, and Roux Jr explained that the real issue hit after the pandemic, with people no longer wanting to work weekends. 

"People don't want to work unsociable hours and would rather work delivering parcels as and when they want to. It's as simple as that," he added. 

Earlier this year, Roux Jr said goodbye to his famous restaurant Le Gavroche in London. 

It had been opened by his father Albert Roux and uncle Michel Roux in 1967. 

Now, he said it's "brave" to open a new restaurant, with the market "very, very tough". 

"I really feel for anyone that is brave enough to open up a restaurant now. It's incredibly difficult," he added. 

Chez Rouz at The Langham in Marylebone, central London, is due to open on 22 May. 

By James Sillars , business news reporter

A pause for breath on the FTSE 100 after a 3% gain over the course of past week that took the index to a fresh record closing high.

The rally of recent weeks - significant for London's standing and pension pots alike - has been broad based and reflects several factors.

A major driver has been sterling's weakness versus the US dollar.

The US currency has been strong as the Federal Reserve, its central bank, has hinted it will be some time yet before it begins to cut interest rates.

Language out of the Bank of England last week sparked a flurry of bets that UK rates could be cut as early as next month.

A weaker pound boosts dollar-earning constituents on the FTSE 100 because they get more for their money when dollars are converted to pounds.

Also at play is the view that UK stocks represent good value, as they are cheaper compared to many of their international peers.

A few moments ago, the FTSE 100 was trading 6 points lower at 8,423.

A major talking point is the possibility of the Chinese fast fashion firm Shein listing in London.

According to Reuters, the company has shifted its focus to the UK after receiving a lukewarm reception in the United States.

The news agency, citing two sources, reported that Shein was stepping up its preparations for an initial public offering in London that would be expected to be one of the biggest carried out globally this year.

By Emily Mee , Money team

No one likes the date in their calendar when their MOT rolls around. 

But to make things a little less stressful, consumer expert Scott Dixon - known as The Complaints Resolver - has given us some tips on what to look out for to help your vehicle pass with flying colours. 

Some of the most common failures are faulty steering, brakes, suspension, worn or damaged tyres, cracked windscreens and faulty lights. 

Mr Dixon recommends you get your car serviced a couple of weeks before your MOT, in case there are any complex or costly issues. 

This will give you time to get them fixed and get your car through first time without any advisories. 

Aside from taking your car for a service, there are also some easy checks you can run yourself... 

Listen for unusual clunks while you're driving - this could be a sign of a damaged suspension. 

You could also check by pushing the car down on each corner. It should return to normal without bouncing a few times. 

Another option is to look with a torch under the wheel arch, as this should reveal any obvious defects. 

Blown bulbs are a common MOT failure, but they're cheap to fix. 

Walk around your car and check all the bulbs are working - this includes the headlights, sidelights, brake lights, indicators and the number plate bulb.

Mr Dixon says it's "not an easy job" to change the lightbulbs yourself on most modern cars, as the MOT will also check the positioning of the light. Therefore he recommends getting this done professionally. 

Squealing or grinding noises may be a sign your brake pads need replacing. 

You should also check whether your car stops in a straight line, or whether it pulls in different directions. 

Don't forget about the handbrake, too. Test it out on a slope and see if it securely holds the car. If it doesn't, you should get it adjusted. 

It's easy to check if your wipers work okay, but you should also make sure to inspect the blades for tears and rips. 

They should be able to clean the windows with no smears. 

Mr Dixon says you don't need to pay Halfords to change your wiper blade as you can "do it yourself in seconds". All you need to do is look for a YouTube tutorial. 

He also recommends buying the Bosch wiper blades, as he says these are good quality and will also be a sign you've looked after your car well when you come to sell it. 

One thing to look out for is tread depth. You can do this by looking for the "wear bar" that sits between the tread. 

If it's close to 1.6mm and is low, you should get the tyre replaced so it's not flagged as an advisory. 

Also check for perished tyre walls, which can happen when a vehicle is standing for any length of time. 

Uneven tyre wear is another potential issue, and if there are signs of this you should get the tyre replaced and tracking and suspension checked. 

These must be in good condition and working order, with no tears or knots. 

Registration plates

Your number plates should be clean and visible with a working light bulb at the rear. You may need to give them a wipe and replace the bulb if necessary. 

This should be in good condition, without damage such as loose bumpers or sharp edges. 

Mr Dixon advises against using automatic car washes during your car's lifetime, saying they "wreck your car". 

"It's not just your paintwork but they can also damage the wiper blades and the bodywork," he says. 

Check for warning lights

You'll need to take your vehicle to a trusted garage or mechanic for this. 

Exhaust emissions

Some diesel vehicles can fail their MOTs based on emissions. To avoid this, you can buy a fuel treatment pack and take your car for a good run to clear the fuel lines and tank.

Driving for at least 30 to 50 minutes at a sustained speed on a motorway or A-road should help to clear the filter. 

You should make sure the driver's view of the road isn't obstructed, so check for stone chips at eye level and remove any obstructions such as air fresheners and mobile phone cradles. 

What else should you think about? 

Make sure your car is clean beforehand, as a tester can refuse to do your MOT if the vehicle is filthy and full of rubbish. 

Giving your car a clean can also give you a chance to inspect it, Mr Dixon says. 

Another thing to do is to check last year's MOT for any advisories that might crop up this time. 

These potential issues will still be there - so it's best not to ignore them. 

You can check your vehicle's MOT history using  https://car-check.co.uk . 

Every Monday we get an expert to answer your money problems or consumer disputes. Find out how to submit yours at the bottom of this post. Today's question is...

I have worked at a bank for 24 years - the facilities are outsourced. This new company is bringing in a system where the staff have to click in and out and are then paid by the minute? Is this allowed? Amber

Ian Jones, director and principal solicitor at Spencer Shaw Solicitors, has picked this one up...

Your rights depend on your contract and what it says about payment. Does it specify an annual salary, or payment by time? Does it allow for changes to how payment is calculated?

If the contract does not allow for this type of payment, your employer may be trying to vary the contract of employment unlawfully.

If you're directly employed by the bank, and your pay arrangements are changing because of a new monitoring system, this would be an internal contract variation. If you work in the facilities department and the new contractor is taking over as your employer, the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations (TUPE) 2006 may apply. 

In this case, your current terms, conditions and previous service will transfer to the new employer.

TUPE may make the issue sound more complicated but, in practice, either way the changes will be valid only if the employee agrees to them.

If you have not agreed to the change, then this could be a breach of contract. This could give rise to a successful claim in the civil courts or the employment tribunal. 

If the breach is serious (for example, you're paid less than agreed in the original contract) and you resign in response, this could amount to constructive dismissal for which a claim can be made in the employment tribunal. 

It would be sensible to get the contract reviewed by a solicitor for advice. But act swiftly - if you continue working for the employer, you are effectively waiving the breach and accepting the change to your contract.

To make it possible to pay by the minute, employees may be monitored while at work. When collecting and processing data and using it to make a decision, the employer must comply with data protection laws. If not, the employee could be entitled to compensation, depending on the breach, or the employer could be at risk of a sanction by the regulator the Information Commissioner's Office.

This feature is not intended as financial advice - the aim is to give an overview of the things you should think about.  Submit your dilemma or consumer dispute via:

• The form above - make sure you leave a phone number or email address
• Email [email protected] with the subject line "Money blog"
• WhatsApp us  here .

Please make sure you leave your contact details as we cannot follow up consumer disputes without them.

We're back for another week of consumer news, personal finance tips and all the latest on the economy.

This is how the week in the Money blog is shaping up...

Today : Every week we ask industry experts to answer your Money Problems . Today, a reader's employer is bringing in a new clock-in system to pay workers by the minute - but is this allowed?

Tuesday : This week's  Basically...  explains everything you need to know about the PIP. 

Wednesday : We speak to one of London's top chefs for his Cheap Eats at home and in the capital.

Thursday : Savings Champion  founder Anna Bowes will be back with her weekly insight into the savings market.

Friday : We'll have everything you need to know about the mortgage market this week with the guys from Moneyfacts.

Running every weekday, Money features a morning markets round-up from the  Sky News business team  and regular updates and analysis from our business, City and economic correspondents, editors and presenters -  Ed Conway ,  Mark Kleinman ,  Ian King ,  Paul Kelso  and  Adele Robinson .

You'll also be able to stream  Business Live with Ian King on weekdays at 11.30am and 4.30pm.

Bookmark  news.sky.com/money  and check back from 8am, and through the day, each weekday.

The Money team is Emily Mee, Bhvishya Patel, Jess Sharp, Katie Williams, Brad Young and Ollie Cooper, with sub-editing by Isobel Souster. The blog is edited by Jimmy Rice.

By Jess Sharp , Money team 

Money saving trends are constantly popping up on social media - but one in particular has been gaining huge amounts of attention.

Created accidentally by a comedian, loud budgeting is breaking down the taboo of speaking about money.

The idea is based on being firmer/more vocal about your financial boundaries in social situations and setting out what you are happy to spend your money on, instead of "Keeping up with the Joneses". 

On TikTok alone, videos published under the hashtag #loudbudgeting have garnered more than 30 million views - and that figure is continuing to climb. 

We spoke to Lukas Battle - the 26-year-old who unintentionally created the trend as part of a comedy sketch. 

Based in New York, he came up with the term in a skit about the "quiet luxury" hype, which had spread online in 2023 inspired by shows like Succession. 

The term was used for humble bragging about your wealth with expensive items that were subtle in their design - for example, Gwyneth Paltrow's  £3,900 moss green wool coat from The Row, which she wore during her ski resort trial...

"I was never a big fan of the quiet luxury trend, so I just kind of switched the words and wrote 'loud budgeting is in'. I'm tired of spending money and I don't want to pretend to be rich," Lukas said. 

"That's how it started and then the TikTok comments were just obsessed with that original idea." 

This was the first time he mentioned it...

Lukas explained that it wasn't about "being poor" but about not being afraid of sharing your financial limits and "what's profitable for you personally". 

"It's not 'skip a coffee a day and you'll become a millionaire'."

While talking money has been seen as rude or taboo, he said it's something his generation is more comfortable doing. 

"I've seen more debate around the topic and I think people are really intrigued and attracted by the idea," he said. 

"It's just focusing your spending and time on things you enjoy and cutting out the things you might feel pressured to spend your money on."  

He has incorporated loud budgeting into his own life, telling his friends "it's free to go outside" and opting for cheaper dinner alternatives.

"Having the terminology and knowing it's a trend helps people understand it and there's no awkward conversation around it," he said. 

The trend has been a big hit with so-called American "finfluencers", or "financial influencers", but people in the UK have started practising it as well. 

Mia Westrap has taken up loud budgeting by embarking on a no-buy year and sharing her finances with her 11.3k TikTok followers. 

Earning roughly £2,100 a month, she spends around £1,200 on essentials, like rent, petrol and car insurance, but limits what else she can purchase. 

Clothes, fizzy drinks, beauty treatments, makeup, dinners out and train tickets are just some things on her "red list". 

The 26-year-old PHD student first came across the idea back in 2017, but decided to take up the challenge this year after realising she was living "pay check to pay check". 

She said her "biggest fear" in the beginning was that her friends wouldn't understand what she was doing, but she found loud budgeting helped. 

"I'm still trying my best to just go along with what everyone wants to do but I just won't spend money while we do it and my friends don't mind that, we don't make a big deal out of it," she said. 

So far, she has been able to save £1,700, and she said talking openly about her money has been "really helpful". 

"There's no way I could have got this far if I wasn't baring my soul to the internet about the money I have spent. It has been a really motivating factor."

Financial expert John Webb said loud budgeting has the ability to help many "feel empowered" and create a "more realistic" relationship with money.

"This is helping to normalise having open and honest conversations about finances," the consumer affair manager at Experien said. 

"It can also reduce the anxiety some might have by keeping their financial worries to themselves." 

However, he warned it's important to be cautious and to take the reality of life into consideration. 

"It could cause troubles within friendship groups if they're not on the same page as you or have different financial goals," he said.

"This challenge isn't meant to stop you from having fun, but it is designed to help people become more conscious and intentional when it comes to money, and reduce the stigma around talking about it." 

Rightmove's keyword tool shows Victorian-era houses are the most commonly searched period properties, with people drawn to their ornate designs and features.

Georgian and Edwardian-style are second and third respectively, followed by Tudor properties. Regency ranked in fifth place.

Rightmove property expert Tim Bannister said: "Home hunters continue to be captivated by the character and charm of properties that we see in period dramas.

"Victorian homes remain particularly popular, characterised by their historic charm, solid construction, and spacious interiors. You'll often find Victorian houses in some of the most desirable locations which include convenient access to schools and transport links."

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