3 Tips to Unplug While on Vacation

We live in a world where people are expected to be connected at all times. Between having smartphones practically glued to our hands lest we miss something on Facebook to the constant need to check our work email, unplugging from our digital world is hard. And yet, it’s something that needs to happen once in a while. For example, nobody can be expected to truly enjoy a vacation if they have to constantly monitor their social media accounts or respond to every email they receive.

If you really want to relax and have a good time during your next holiday, you need to unplug from the rest of the world. If that’s too hard for you, here are some tips that will help.

Don’t Worry About Work

One reason why so many people simply can’t unplug when they’re away from home is that they are terrified of missing out on something important at work. They might think someone will need them to perform an all-important task that only they can do, or they think a client or co-worker will need their advice about something. As a result, they end up checking their work email constantly when they should be doing something fun. Some of them do this out of habit. We understand that you have an important role to play at work; that’s why you have the job that you have, after all.

Still, you have to understand that you aren’t the only one who can handle emergencies that might pop up. You have co-workers who can cover for you and supervisors who can let you know about any important goings-on after you come back. Tell yourself that your place of business will be just fine while you have fun and de-stress from work for a week or two. And no, you won’t be swamped when you come back as long as everyone else is doing their job.

Digitally Declutter

Just about everyone receives emails and messages that they don’t want. If you don’t want to be constantly bugged by notifications that you don’t care about, cancel some of the subscriptions that you don’t need and unfollow accounts that annoy you. You’d be surprised at how much this cuts down on the number of unwanted messages you get every day. While you’re at it, turn off your push notifications if you don’t want to be bothered at all for a while.

Put Your Phone Down

If you find yourself mindlessly scrolling through Facebook or checking your email, just put your phone down for a while. Leave it in your hotel room when you go out, put it on the table face down when you sit down to eat, or do whatever you can to physically go without it for a while. It might feel stressful if you’re not used to being unplugged, but we guarantee you’ll get used to it and learn to relax.

The Best Beaches In Costa Rica

One of the reasons Costa Rica is such a popular vacation/honeymoon destination is its many beaches. Each one is breathtaking in its own right, but some attract more tourists than others.

Among the best beaches is Hermosa. It is well-known for its spectacular sunsets and trees that provide some much-needed shade during the day. It is one of the few beaches in Costa Rica where the water is calm enough that it is safe to swim in. Located close to many restaurants and hotels, it is the ideal place for a family-friendly beach getaway.

Another beach in Costa Rica where it is safe to swim is Samara. The entrance to the beach is marked by a cove shaped like a horseshoe. Coral reefs shield the entrance from the land beyond it. The beach is located in a town where residents are friendly and families are welcome.

Dominical is a part of Costa Rica that attracts surfers. Trained, professional lifeguards are on duty to keep everyone safe. However, the water is better suited for surfers than it is for swimmers. It’s located close to a rainforest that houses wildlife refuges.

Pavones is an isolated beach suitable for surfers and those who enjoy horseback riding. Surfers are attracted to it because it is more challenging to them than most other beaches. It is also close to an elaborate rainforest that features unique wildlife.

The isolated Santa Teresa beach is difficult to reach but offers vacationers fun activities such as swimming, snorkeling, surfing and even hiking. The two hot spots for surfing are Suck Rock and La Lora. The surrounding jungle provides even more excitement to visitors.

One of the best beaches in Costa Rica to swim at is Flamingo. It is also ideal for sailing and scuba diving, in addition to being a popular place to watch the sun set. It is close to the center of the town, putting it near intimate restaurants and various souvenir shops.

Conchal is another beach where many visitors go to swim and snorkel. Though it is more popular among locals than tourists, it can be fun for those who do decide to visit.The beach is far enough from the nearest resort that it is tranquil.

5 Handy Tips for Traveling to South America

South America is a popular destination for tourists. Some people go there to enjoy its natural beauty, while others visit historical sites or enjoy the local culture. While the details of any trip to South America will vary dramatically based on the itinerary, there are a few tricks and techniques that can make almost any journey easier.

Study the Currency

South America is a diverse continent that is home to many countries. Those nations all have their own currencies. Travelers who want to visit several countries should keep a close eye on the exchange rates and be careful to carry the correct currency for their destinations.

Practice the Language

Many people in South America speak some English, but few of them speak it natively. Spanish is the dominant language in most of South America, with Brazil as a notable exception. Traveler’s don’t need to speak perfect Spanish to get by in South America, but it can be a good idea to learn a few basic phrases. That will make it much easier to get through simple interactions, such as ordering food or even asking for directions.

Focus on Timing

Timing is everything when traveling. Many local events, such as festivals, only take place for a few days or weeks each year. Nature lovers should be careful to make sure that they schedule their trip during a season with good weather. On the other hand, it is usually possible to save money by avoiding the height of the tourist season.

Shop Around

A trip to South America can be a highly affordable choice, especially for people who shop around. Prices vary dramatically from one airline, hotel, or restaurant to the next. Travelers can often save a lot of money by shopping around and taking the time to find the best deal. They can use that money to extend their trip or fill it with new experiences without going over budget.

Stay Flexible

South America is full of surprises. It is common for travelers to encounter unexpected attractions and local events as they explore the continent. Taking the time to enjoy those pleasant surprises will build memories that last a lifetime. It is best to build a rough schedule to be sure of hitting all of the important sites and events, but the schedule should also allow for free time to explore the unexpected.

Costa Rica’s Top Hiking Locations

Costa Rica’s reputation as a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts is well-deserved. While surfing may be the first thing that comes to mind when considering a trip to Costa Rica, one shouldn’t neglect the ample inland beauty. 30% of the land area in this small county is protected by national parks, wildlife refuges, and preserves.

As such, hiking experiences abound, with seemingly endless opportunities to take in the stunning scenery. The varied terrain offers a variety of hiking experiences, from easy coastal walks to more rigorous mountain climbs, and everything in between. The majority of hikes in Costa Rica lead one to a natural attraction, be it a waterfall, stunning ocean vista or isolated rain forest oasis. Here is a list of just some of the many incredible hiking trails Costa Rica has to offer. As the variety of this list demonstrates, there is truly something for everyone.

Los Angeles Cloud Forest

This private park is one of Costa Rica’s best kept secrets. The 2.5 mile long hike is ideal for birding.

Mount Chirripo

With an elevation of 3,821 meters, Mount Chirripó is the highest mountain in Costa Rica. Miles of trails in this national park offer access to more ecological zones than one can find in most entire countries.

Corcovado National Park

Widely regarded to contain the best hiking trails in the country, visitors can opt for a number of day trip excursions, such as San Pedrillo and Sirena. More ambitious hikers should commit to the 16 kilometer overnight hike from Leona to Sirena to truly explore the wild jungles of Costa Rica.

Nauyaca Waterfalls

This is one of the most accessible hikes in the country, but the ease of it shouldn’t diminish the reward at the end. The trail winds for an easy 4 kilometer to reach one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Costa Rica.

Arenal Hanging Bridges

A perennial favorite for visitors, the park offers a skyline hike, by way of a series of sturdy bridges that form a path along the top of the rainforest.

Tenorio Volcano

While the entire Tenorio Volcano National Park offers a wealth of great hikes, the crown jewel is arguably the trail to the park’s namesake.

With 26 national parks, there are obviously so many more hiking opportunities in addition to the above list. However, hopefully this list has provided a great starting point for mapping out one’s own incredible Costa Rican hiking experience.

How to Make the Best Use of Time During a Layover

Long-distance flights often put you in difficult situations, especially when you have to be exposed to long layovers. With layovers, the chances of becoming extremely bored and having a highly tedious traveling experience are significantly high. However, whenever laid over, you can innovatively use this time to engage in some exciting activities that will keep you motivated and thrilled. Here are five such activities that will ensure that you meaningfully use your layover time.

Visit the duty-free shops

The first thing you may think of is visiting and touring the airport while taking advantage of the duty-free shops to purchase a few souvenir items. These shops are normally packed with electronics, books, and even artworks that may add value to your trip. Strolling around the airport may also help you familiarize yourself with the area.

Get a nap

Sleeping is another way to meaningfully pass your time as you wait for your next flight during a layover. In case the airport offers hotels for laid over passengers, you should utilize the opportunity to take a nap. It pays to remember to set the alarm to ensure you don’t miss your next flight.

Work out

Sometimes, visiting a gym may be an exciting activity, especially if you are a workout enthusiast. Checking into the gym or fitness center may help you burn some calories as you get physically fit and prepare for your next flight. Doing a few cardio exercises may keep your circulatory system in check, especially after having traveled for a few hours.

Tour the city

If your layover time allows you to take a quick tour of the city, then you may utilize this opportunity to familiarize yourself with a few historic and notable features. In case you are not familiar with the city, you may consider hiring a local tour guide to take you around. Besides, this may give you an opportunity to sample out a few local items, such as food and clothing, while also taking pictures.

Play some games

In case you are a gaming enthusiast, then you may utilize the layover time to play a few games. Thanks to tech gadgets, such as smartphones, you can play any game of your wish or even visit a nearby gaming center and play indoor games. This is also a great opportunity to get to know a few local people while making friends.

This article was originally published on michaelreiterman.org.

Planning Your First European Vacation

First-time travelers to Europe may find the planning process daunting. There are so many things to think about: how to prepare, where to go, how to get there. A few tips can make the trip go a lot more smoothly.

Passports

Getting a passport takes 6-8 weeks, so advanced planning is necessary. Expedited services can shorten the wait time some but at an extra cost. Forms and instructions for new passports and renewals are available on the State Department’s website.

Budget

Creating a budget early in the planning process simplifies choosing destinations, lodging, and transportation by narrowing down the options to those that fit within the budget. Some anticipated expenses that should be included in a budget include airfare, transportation around the destinations, lodging, meals, sightseeing and entertainment, plus miscellaneous expenses.

Itinerary

First-time travelers shouldn’t try to see everything in one visit. Trying to pack too many things into a trip results not only in exhausted travelers but also in less time spent actually sightseeing and more time traveling from one place to another. Choosing a few destinations allows for spending enough time to really enjoy each one.

Flights

It isn’t necessary to fly in and out of the same city. Sometimes a great deal of travel time can be saved by flying out of the airport nearest the end of the trip rather than circling back to return to the arrival airport. Many times, this doesn’t cost any more than a round trip from the same airport. But even if it does cost a little more, it may be worth it to avoid extra travel time

Lodging

For an authentic European experience, look past the large international hotels. B&Bs and small hotels can be convenient and less expensive options. Staying in the center of a large city may be more expensive, but it could save in the long run on transportation.

Local Transportation

The kind of transportation that is best depends on the locations of planned activities. Public transportation is excellent in European cities. Trains and air travel are both efficient ways to get between destinations. Cars are a better choice for rural areas where public transportation isn’t readily available.

Last-Minute Logistics at Home

Travelers should check with their cell phone carriers to find out what their plan allows in terms of international calls and data charges. Data charges can add up fast, so savvy travelers take advantage of free Wi-Fi or pay a nominal fee at internet cafes. Let your credit card company know that you will be traveling abroad. Ask if there are fees for using cards overseas and where ATMs are located on your route.

Packing

The advice seasoned travelers most often give is “pack light.” Taking minimal luggage saves money on airline checked bag fees. European travel can require a lot of walking. The lighter the luggage, the faster and easier it is to get around. Packing light takes some planning but can make the trip much easier. Smart travelers bring layers instead of a heavy coat. It’s possible to buy more toothpaste, soap, or razors anywhere in Europe, so it isn’t necessary to bring large quantities of these necessities.

With some good advanced planning, a first European vacation can be an experience of a lifetime, and an enticement to return again for another adventure.

This article was originally published on michaelreiterman.org.

Travel Spotlight: Dublin, Ireland

Ireland’s capital city of Dublin is full of many wonderful tourist attractions and activities. A visit here will give anyone the chance to learn more about the country’s history and culture while having fun in the process. Here are some of the best things to do in Dublin.

Party at Temple Bar

No visit to Dublin would be complete without stopping by this iconic neighborhood, which is home to some of the best pubs and restaurants in the city. Many of the pubs here feature live music and serve authentic Irish beers, whiskeys and other beverages. Shops throughout the Temple Bar area sell great souvenirs that make excellent keepsakes.

Learn About Irish Heritage

One of the best places to go in Dublin to learn about Irish Heritage is EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, which features exhibits that detail the county’s emigration history and how the Irish people continue to influence the world today. Anyone who wishes to learn more about their personal Irish heritage can visit the National Archives of Ireland or the Genealogical Service National Library of Ireland.

Tour Dublin Castle

Standing since the 13th century, Dublin Castle has hosted grand galas attended by Irish and foreign royalty throughout its history. Visitors can tour the castle to see elaborate rooms that are filled with fine artworks and other ornate items that are used to create an elegant atmosphere.

Go to Prison

Getting arrested isn’t necessary in Dublin for visitors to have the opportunity to tour a prison. Kilmainham Gaol is a former prison that was once used to hold some of Ireland’s most important freedom fighters. The prison was also the execution site for many of these freedom fighters. Guided tours need to be arranged in advance before entrance to the prison is allowed.

Learn About Ireland’s Religious Influences

Learning more about the country’s religious influences is one of the other top things to do in Dublin. St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Christ Church Cathedral and John Lane’s Church are some of the city’s notable churches where visitors can go to gain more knowledge of how Christianity has impacted Ireland’s foundation. The Irish Jewish Museum contains exhibits that tell the story of Ireland’s small (but significant) Jewish community.

Dublin features attractions that help give Ireland its distinctive appeal. Visitors with various interests will have no trouble finding plenty of fun things to do while spending time in the city.

International Travel Tips

No matter how much or how often you travel, your first international trip can be both thrilling and terrifying at the same time! Going somewhere new in a foreign country is exciting but can be scary and overwhelming. Before heading overseas, the following tips will help you plan the best trip!

Choose Your Destination

Whether you know exactly where you want to go, or you’re still weighing your options, the hardest part of traveling is deciding where to go. Are you looking to stay closer to your home country and start close before becoming an international globetrotter, or are you looking to go as far away as possible for your first trip? You should also consider the cuisine and language when choosing your destination. Once you’ve answered these questions, you should be able to narrow your choice down to one or two locations.

If you are still unsure, ask friends or family members who have traveled internationally were their favorite destinations have been. It’s okay to ask for advice while planning your trip. Sometimes the people you know can give you the best insight on different locations.

Book in Advance

Travel experts say that you should book your airfare between 56-62 days before your scheduled departure to get the best deal. Some of the best flight deals can be found on Tuesdays and flying on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Saturday will often offer travelers the best prices.

Current Passport

While this is the most obvious thing you need when traveling internationally, it’s often the item people forget to grab on their way out the door to the airport or they realize that it’s expired right before their trip! Most countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months from your arrival date. Once you book your trip, locating your passport and making sure that it is valid during your trip should take top priority.

Some travel companies recommend making a copy of your passport in case you lose it on your trip. Instead of carrying it as an additional document while you’re traveling, send a copy of it to your email, or upload it to a document storage service like DropBox, iCloud or Amazon Drive.

Give Yourself Time for Jet Lag

Recovering from long flights are challenging enough, but recovering from the actual trip is something additional people do not plan for. It can often take up to a week to adjust for time changes. Try to remember to fight your jet lag by getting plenty of rest before your trip and try to adjust your schedule to get your body prepared to travel.

How to Safely Manage Your Money While Traveling

There are so many things to worry about when traveling. How do I get where I’m going? What do I do if X happens? Will the taxi driver scam me? One of the most common worries is how to manage your money while you’re traveling. As with any of these worries, a solid plan of action is the best way to keep yourself safe and put the worries off to the side so you can enjoy your travels.

How to Use Your Credit Cards While Traveling

It used to be true that exchanging cash or using traveler’s checks were the best ways to pay in a foreign country. That’s no longer true. Whether your travels are domestic or international, your credit cards are a safe way to pay. If you lose your card or it’s stolen, you won’t be responsible for the charges you didn’t make. You can call the company to have your card frozen immediately. You can’t get your cashback once it’s gone.

If you’re traveling internationally, your credit card will usually give you the best currency exchange.

Two Bonus Tips for Credit Card Safety

The first is that you need to check your terms and conditions if you’re traveling internationally. Do you pay a foreign transaction fee? There are many great travel cards that have a 0% rate, so you might want to get one before you go.

The second consideration is how you will handle your money while traveling so you always have a backup. It’s better to travel with at least two credit cards so if one is lost, stolen, or the company puts a hold on your card for suspicious activity, you have a backup. If you have two bags, pack your cards in different spots.

How to Carry Your Money

Fanny packs became a tourist cliche for a reason. It keeps your money in a bag that’s wrapped around you so it’s tough for a bag snatcher to grab. It gives you easy access. And hey, the 90s are back, and lots of people are walking around with fanny packs these days. If that’s not your style, consider a money belt or a passport wallet you can wear under your clothes for managing your travel money safely.

Always put your wallet in your front pocket, not the back. This makes it more difficult for pickpockets to grab.

If you’re particularly concerned, think about carrying a fake wallet. Put some old cards in the fake wallet and carry it in a pocket that’s more obvious. The pickpocket will grab that without looking further.

They also now sell travel vests and jackets with inside pockets to keep your valuables safe.

Be Aware of ATM Fees

While credit cards are the way to go in most situations, sometimes you need cash. If you’re traveling internationally, consider opening a checking account with a bank like Charles Schwab or HSBC, which have no ATM fees. In fact, Schwab reimburses the ATM Fees charged by the other bank at the end of the month.

You don’t want to pull too much money from an ATM in foreign currency because then you’re walking around with a wad of cash, but try to think ahead and pull out more at once to pay fewer fees.

Don’t Worry Too Much

You need to be smart and aware while traveling, but don’t let the worry ruin your fun. You manage your money every day at home. You can do it while traveling just as well.

Best Travel Destinations for Frequent Travelers

Traveling allows us to explore the world around us and expand our views on things that happen in different cultures. Travel allows us to become more empathetic to the people around us and allows us to be more well rounded. But for some people, they have the opportunity to travel all the time and claim to have “seen it all.” It’s time to broaden your horizons and try somewhere you never thought to visit!

Mauritius

Located in the Indian Ocean, this tiny island nation is the perfect spot for active travelers. With endless turquoise waters perfect for relaxing on the beach to water sports, there is something for everyone. Visitors can also explore Mauritius’ colonial trade hub history and sample local rum and street food. Mauritius is also home to churches, temples, mosques, and lighthouses all within walking distance of the panoramic beach views.

Kazakhstan

The ninth-largest country is the perfect destination for anyone who loves architecture. Kazakhstanis known for its city tours and expansive wilderness. With destinations stops in Almaty, home of clothing markets and upscale restaurants, to the Tian Shan mountains to hike the sacred forests, Kazakhstan is perfect for any adventurer.

Ecuador

Tucked along the Pacific Ocean, Ecuador offers mountains, beaches, rainforests, volcanos, and the Galapagos Islands. This oasis offers the best of both pre-Columbian and Spanish colonial culture perfect for any history buff. Ecuador is also a great location for anyone looking to travel on a budget.

Samoa

The island nation of Samoa is part of a ten island chain full of volcanoes, waterfalls, rainforests, beaches, and a variety of swimming holes. Whether you’re looking to swim in a natural ocean blowhole or dive deep into a cave pool, there is a swimming adventure for everyone in your travel party. Samoa is also the perfect destination for anyone who isn’t fond of staying in fancy, over the top resorts.

Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea may be towards the top of the U.S. State Departments travel caution list due to high crime rates, doesn’t mean that you should skip this amazing destination. Trips to Papua New Guinea should be planned through a reputable travel agency so you can explore the country’s stunning and diverse landscapes. Papua New Guinea is perfect for anyone looking to pack a bag and go on a hike!