If you travel regularly, you’ve probably noticed just how many travel companies use both custom embroidered patches and direct embroidery for branding purposes. Developing a strong brand identity is vital for any business, but especially so in the very competitive tourism industry.

Whether its staff uniforms, or products you plan to sell like travel bags, jackets, hats, or other travel accessories, branded goods can help your travel business stand out. You’ll find that well-known luxury travel agencies, adventure tourism companies, and even smaller boutique travel gear stores all add embroidered branding to their clothing and merchandise.

Whether you already have a popular travel brand that’s known worldwide or are a simple travel blogger looking to create brand awareness, consider adding embroidered branding to your business model to gain attention.

Custom Patches vs. Direct Embroidery: What’s Best for Your Travel Business?

You have two choices when it comes to embroidery, and they include direct embroidery or bespoke patches that you can add to clothing and merchandise. Let’s explore these two options to let you decide what may be best for your branding.  

Custom Patches: The Dynamic Choice

Travel companies have found custom patches to be really appealing and versatile thanks to the varied selection of available choices including embroidered, woven, PVC, and leather. There are simply endless ideas for custom embroidered patches to make your travel brand stand out from the crowd and get noticed.

Custom patches can be sewn or ironed onto all kinds of merchandise you plan to sell, as well as staff uniforms. Patches allow for flexibility if your branding changes or if you want to give your staff options to move patches between clothing.

Flexibility and Durability

Custom branding patches offer several advantages in terms of flexibility and durability. The durability of custom patches is well-known as they may be fashioned using thicker fabrics and complex embroidery because they are created separately from the clothing or products you are looking to place them on. Therefore, they are not directly tied to the lifespan of the products you plan to use them on.

For starters, custom patches can easily be affixed to a wide range of products which you may already have in stock, meaning you don’t have to replace or purchase all new inventory. This versatility will allow you to use the same patch design across different types of travel merchandise to maintain consistent branding.

Patches can be sewn, ironed on, or applied with Velcro, making it easy to transfer patches from one item to another, which is particularly useful if you want to update your uniforms or reuse patches on new garments without having to re-embroider everything. This makes them a cost-effective option.

Patches are most often made from strong materials that can endure rugged environments, frequent washing, and heavy wear, which is ideal for both travel industry staff who regularly work in outdoor settings and avid travelers who often visit travel destinations where they may face extreme weather or climate conditions.

Because customs patches are created separately from the items you plan to put them on, they are by nature more resistant to wear and tear. Even if the underlying fabric or material gets damaged, the patches themselves often remain intact and can be easily transferred to a new item, thereby saving you the cost of having to order new embroidery.

And unlike direct embroidery, patches can often be removed without damaging the items they are affixed to. This comes in handy if your company’s name or logo changes, or if a patch becomes worn out and simply needs replacing.

Cost-wise, custom patches provide a money-saving solution to branded merchandise, especially when it comes to ordering products in high volume. Generally speaking, making a patch is less expensive than straight embroidery. New patches can also be designed for special campaigns or events without having to order new products or alter the ones you already have in stock.

Branding and Aesthetic Beauty

Patches make popular giveaways or souvenirs for clients and customers, especially at travel trade shows or tourism industry conventions. You can hand out branded patches at all kinds of events, in welcome kits, or free with certain purchases to further promote your travel products or services. Travelers often like collecting patches from destinations or travel experiences and readily add them to items like their personal luggage, backpacks, and hats.

Custom patches can revolutionize your travel company’s goal of trying to maintain a consistent and identifiable brand. Produced individually, they provide greater control over the final appearance, therefore guaranteeing consistency throughout your items.

Patches are also often nostalgic since they can remind travelers of badges and emblems collected during their travels, therefore making them a perfect option for travel companies hoping to build a close relationship with their clients.

You could also create special embroidered patches for specific events or campaigns, such as celebrating your company’s or brand’s anniversary or launching of a new product or service. Distribute them as collectible items or attach them to limited-edition merchandise.

Best Strategies for Utilizing Custom Patches for Branding

Utilizing custom patches for branding within the travel industry can be a highly effective strategy, especially if you make the added effort of targeting specific groups of travelers. For example, if you run an outdoor adventure travel company that books trekking or kayak tours, you may want to create custom patches that feature symbols and themes related to adventure. This can include using elements like mountains, wildlife, landmarks, a compass, paddles, or adventure slogans.

Travelers who prioritize sustainability often seek eco-friendly options, so to target this group of travelers you’ll want to make sure your patches as well as your products are made of sustainable or recycled materials. Be sure to highlight this in your marketing or product labels.

You could also choose to donate a portion of proceeds from sales of certain patches and the products they are used on to environmental organizations and be sure to let your customers know of this.

Travelers who are more interested in honoring or displaying the cultures and history of the places they visit or wish to visit may be seeking products with patches that reflect these destination-specific cultural or historical elements. Examples include New Zealand Maori designs, French Fleur-de-lis, Egyptian hieroglyphics, or the Turkish naẓar.

Offering customers the ability to further personalise custom patches with their name or specific destinations is another good marketing strategy. Solo travelers in particular may appreciate the ability to showcase their individual journeys.

Be sure to create trendy, eye-catching patches that will entice people to want to share products with your patches on their social media platforms. Consider vibrant, bold colors and designs that appeal to travelers who are readily active on social media for free added promotion.

Direct Embroidery: The Perfect Choice

Unlike custom patches that are created separately and affixed to a product, direct embroidery involves stitches an emblem or logo straight onto clothing or products. Direct embroidery can be a perfect option for adding logos to travel company uniforms and travel products where permanence, professionalism, and durability are your main concerns.

Direct embroidery provides a clean and professional appearance that is well-suited for high-end uniforms, such as those worn by travel agency staff, airline employees, or luxury tour guides. The stitched logo integrates seamlessly into the fabric, giving a refined and cohesive look.

Since logos are stitched directly onto products with direct embroidery, it removes the potential issue of it coming off like custom patches. Therefore, this option becomes a potentially better choice for travel uniforms that will be washed frequently or subjected to heavy wear. Direct embroidery is ideal for long-term use because it remains intact even with repeated laundering.

Patches may sometimes fray around the edges or peel off if not applied properly, whereas direct embroidery remains more tidy and secure. This makes direct embroidery great for travel clothing and gear that will be subject to harsh weather or rugged travel conditions and regular handling like rain jackets, hiking daypacks, beanies, gloves, etc.

Budget Issues with Direct Embroidery

Direct embroidery is generally more expensive than custom patches when it comes to travel company logo and branding designs. This cost difference is primarily due to the intricacies of the embroidery process, the time involved, and the type of materials used.

Direct embroidery’s process of threading designs directly onto products requires specialized machines and usually involves additional production time and cost. The cost of direct embroidery is typically based on the number of stitches required to create your logo or design. Designs that are more complex and detailed that require a higher stitch count or those that contain many different colors will also be more costly to produce.

The initial cost to digitize your logo for embroidery can be expensive as well. This may be a one-time cost, but if you are looking to create a variety of designs, these setup costs can quickly add up. If you only need a few items, the per-unit cost of direct embroidery will likely be significantly higher than opting for custom patches.

Branding and Aesthetic Design

Creating appealing direct embroidery travel gear and uniforms for travel companies involves combining branding consistency with a stylish, functional design that resonates with both employees and customers. To make the embroidered gear and uniforms stand out while effectively promoting the travel company’s identity, it’s important to focus on a few key design and branding elements.

Consistency helps build brand recognition and makes both company uniform uniforms and travel gear you sell more cohesive. Keep logo size and placement rather consistent across all items and select visible spots for embroidery that won’t detract from the comfort or function of clothing and other products.

Stick to your company’s primary brand colors in the embroidery. This ensures that uniforms align with the your overall branding and creates a strong association with your brand. Utilize contrasting colors for the embroidery to make the logo stand out clearly.

Decide whether you want subtle or bold branding. For luxury travel companies, smaller, more understated logos may convey exclusivity, while adventure or youth-oriented travel brands might opt for larger, bolder logos to attract attention.

When incorporating a company name or tagline, use clean, simple font that is easy to read even when embroidered. Avoid overly intricate or script fonts that may not translate well into stitching.

You may also wish to consider going with 3D or puff embroidery to create a raised effect for your logo. This can create a more dynamic, textured look that works well with bold, simple logos or initials.

Guidelines for Direct Embroidery

When using direct embroidery for travel company branding, practicality and design considerations are crucial to ensure the logo and branding elements look great, remain durable, and resonate with your target audience.

For starters, when using direct embroidery for uniforms and clothing you sell, be sure to embroidery designs or logos onto clothing made from materials like cotton blends, polyester, canvas, or denim, which all hold up well under embroidery. Avoid fabrics that are too thin or stretchy, as these can distort the logo or cause puckering.

Direct embroidery has limitations in replicating very fine details. Simplify intricate designs to ensure that the brand logo and symbols are clearly visible when stitched. Reduce shading, complex patterns, or very small text to maintain legibility.

Logo placement is another important aspect of ensuring your brand will get noticed. Popular locations for embroidered logos include the left chest, sleeves, back, and collar. Placing the logo on the front chest is the most common and visible option for brand recognition.

Go with thread colors that will contrast well with the product colors to make the embroidery pop. Dark thread on light fabrics or light on dark ensures your logo will be more legible and stand out. Avoid using similar shades, as your logo may become indistinguishable.

Use proper backing materials to support the embroidery and ensure it stays in place. Backing materials are especially important for heavier fabrics like jackets or bags, which are often part of travel uniforms.

If embroidering on travel gear like jackets or bags, consider using water-resistant threads to ensure durability. This is particularly useful for companies offering outdoor or adventure travel experiences where gear is exposed to rain, humidity, and dirt.

Direct Embroidery or Custom Patches, Which is Better for You?

When choosing between direct embroidery and custom patches for travel companies looking to gain brand awareness through products and promotional items, the decision depends on several factors such as cost, flexibility, durability, and the desired aesthetic.

While patches are excellent for flexibility and durability, direct embroidery may be preferable for high-end or formal branding, such as uniforms for airline staff, where a more polished and permanent look is desired.

Embroidered logos are typically longer-lasting and resistant to wear and tear, especially when applied to high-quality fabrics. The logo becomes part of the garment, making it more durable for long-term use.

With this said, we have already covered how direct embroidery is typically more expensive than patches, particularly for complex or multi-colored designs. It also involves setup fees for digitizing the logo. And once applied, direct embroidery is permanent, making it less versatile for temporary branding or updating logos.

Meanwhile, custom patches tend to be more affordable for large designs or when ordered in bulk, especially for multi-colored logos. They offer a budget-friendly option for companies looking to create eye-catching branding across multiple products.

Patches offer a wide range of materials and styles, such as embroidered, woven, or PVC patches, allowing you to choose the texture and finish that best suits your brand identity.

Patches can be applied to a variety of products and easily transferred between items. This makes them great for companies that want to distribute branded items like backpacks, hats, or jackets without committing to permanent logos.

We hope we’ve been able to shed some light on how you can use embroidery, whether through direct embroidery or custom patches to create travel products and uniforms that get noticed for successful brand recognition that will allow your travel company to grow.

Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 50+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.

    

Thailand has long been considered a top travel destination for solo travelers and backpackers due to its affordability, social atmosphere, and backpacker hotspots like Bangkok’s Khao San Road and Koh Phi Phi Island.

But Thailand is also a remarkably versatile destination that offers excellent experiences for traveling families. There are many family-friendly resorts alongside countless child-friendly attractions that will all but ensure memorable family getaways.

See why Thailand is more than just a budget-friendly party destination and can prove to be a fun and safe travel option for families seeking adventure. Here are 5 top reasons to consider making Thailand your next pick for a family escape.

5 Reasons to Head to Thailand on Your Next Family Vacation

It’s Affordable and Easy to Plan

Thailand’s affordability will allow your family to enjoy memorable experiences without overspending, while its ease of planning ensures a stress-free and enjoyable vacation that can easily cater to everyone in the family despite age.

Many resorts cater specifically to families, offering kids’ clubs, family rooms, and amenities like pools, all without breaking the bank. There are affordable luxurious beachfront resort options, as well as even more budget-friendly hotels.

And when it comes to feeding a big family, you’ll be happy to learn that dining out in Thailand is incredibly inexpensive, even in popular tourist areas. Street food is delicious, safe, and cheap, with unique local dishes and snacks available a fraction of what you’d expect to pay in other travel destinations like Europe.

Many of Thailand’s top attractions and experiences can also be booked without spending a fortune. National parks, beaches, and Thai cultural sites like temples are often either free or have minimal entrance fees. Even activities like island-hopping tours and snorkeling trips are readily available at affordable prices.

Transportation is both affordable and rather fun, especially if you opt for rides in tuk-tuks or on longtail boats to get around locally which will add a bit of adventure to your family travel.

Thailand is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, which means it has a well-developed infrastructure to support traveling families. Thailand’s major cities, such as Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai, are well-connected with international flights, making it easy to get here and there are plenty of family-focused travel services and online options for booking accommodation, transportation, and activities with ease.

Family-Friendly Resorts & Accommodation

Thailand’s family-friendly resorts are another key reason why it makes such a great choice for a family getaway. You’ll find family-friendly resorts particularly in destinations like Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui. These resorts often offer kid-friendly amenities such as playgrounds, babysitting services, children’s menus, and fun activities for all ages.

As an added bonus, many resorts in Thailand offer family vacation packages that include spacious accommodation, meals, and wealth of onsite activities. These packages simplify the planning process, offering convenience and often discounted rates for families with limited travel budgets.

Many resorts offer family suites, interconnecting rooms, or villas, providing space and privacy for both parents and children. They also often come equipped with special amenities designed to entertain and accommodate young minds such as kids’ clubs with supervised activities like arts and crafts, children’s pools and splash zones, and indoor play areas.

Family-friendly resorts are often located in secure, well-maintained areas, providing peace of mind for parents. Additionally, many resorts are designed to be stroller-friendly and offer child-proofing options in rooms. Staff at popular resorts are generally experienced in hosting families, ensuring that even the smallest details are taken care of.

You can also time your visit to take in one of Thailand’s popular vibrant festivals like water-fun-filled Songkran Festival held in April or the sight of thousands of lanterns illuminating the night sky with the Yi Peng Lantern Festival.

Beautiful Beaches & Island Adventures

Thailand’s best beaches and island adventures provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable family vacation. Thailand’s beaches, particularly in popular destinations like Phuket, Koh Samui, and Krabi, are known for their soft sands and calm, shallow waters, making them perfect for children to swim and play safely.

Many beaches have gentle waves and designated swimming areas, ensuring that even younger kids can enjoy the water with few safety concerns. Thailand’s many beachfront family resorts also make it quite easy to access many of the country’s most popular beaches.

Thailand’s beaches aren’t just for sunbathing either, but instead are ones in which you can find all kinds of fun water-based activities. Thailand’s crystal-clear waters off islands like Koh Phi Phi and Koh Tao are perfect for snorkeling, with shallow coral reefs near the shore where you can spot all kinds of colorful fish and marine life.

You can also rent kayaks or paddleboards in places like Phang Nga Bay to explore stunning coastline and hidden lagoons. One of the most exciting adventures for families is island hopping, which will allow you to take in the Phi Phi Islands or James Bond Island. Island tours usually include stops at remote beaches and snorkeling spots.

Thailand’s many islands are not only about beaches but also offer exciting land-based adventures as well. You can book activities such like exploring caves such as Koh Phi Phi’s famous Viking Cave or visiting waterfalls in places like Koh Samui.

Child-Friendly Attractions

You then have a wide variety of options for child-friendly attractions to create a Thailand family holiday itinerary that will ensure your kids never get bored or want to bury themselves in their phones or iPads.

From outdoor adventures and ethical wildlife encounters to educational experiences and cultural festivals, Thailand offers a wide range of activities that will entertain both your kids and yourself.

Activities like snorkeling, zip-lining, jungle treks, and bicycle tours are sure to bring the child out in all of us. You can explore Thailand’s national parks, like Khao Sok or Erawan National Park, where your kids can roam through lush jungles in search of wildlife and hidden waterfalls. Easy-to-navigate trails, boat tours through limestone cliffs, and canopy walks make these parks both safe and exciting for all ages.

Thailand is home to many ethical wildlife experiences as well, including elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai and Phuket where you can learn about the importance of wildlife conservation and interact with elephants in a safe and humane environment.

Coastal areas like Phuket and Koh Samui have marine conservation centers where you’ll learn about sea turtles, coral reefs, and marine conservation efforts. Some centers even offer hands-on activities like releasing baby turtles into the sea or participating in coral planting projects.

Thailand offers many fun and educational activities that engage children’s curiosity and provide opportunities for hands-on learning. Exploring Thailand’s ancient temples, such as Wat Pho in Bangkok or the ruins of Ayutthaya, offers an exciting way to learn about Thailand’s long history.

Many places also offer family-friendly cooking classes, where your kids can learn how to make many of the popular Thai dishes that lure foodies from around the world such as pad Thai, spring rolls, and Tom Yum Goong.

You can also participate in workshops where your kids can learn authentic Thai arts and crafts, such as traditional painting, weaving, or pottery. These workshops are a creative way for kids to immerse themselves in the local culture and bring home a special souvenir they made themselves.

Safe and Welcoming Environment

Thailand’s combination of comfort, security, and hospitality will allow your family to relax and focus on simply enjoying your time together. Thailand’s well-established and reliable tourist infrastructure makes it especially easy to plan travel in places like Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Krabi.

One of the most memorable aspects of traveling in Thailand is the warmth and friendliness of the Thai people. Known as the “Land of Smiles”, Thailand has a culture of hospitality that is especially welcoming to families.

Thai people often go out of their way to accommodate children and are known for being exceptionally kind and patient with young travelers. This welcoming attitude makes parents feel at ease and helps children enjoy experiences more since locals make an effort to engage with them.

Thailand is also known for having a relatively low crime rate in its tourist areas as well, making it a safe destination. Violent crime is rare, especially in popular tourist regions like Phuket, Koh Samui, and Chiang Mai.

Thailand is world-renowned for its delicious food, and you can feel rather confident that even the most adventurous Thai dishes and snacks, including its iconic street food, can be enjoyed safely. Restaurants, particularly in tourist areas, prioritize hygiene and cater to families, offering kid-friendly menus and familiar Western dishes alongside authentic local cuisine.

And should your kids get injured or run into health troubles while visiting, know that Thailand is home to high-quality medical care, particularly in larger cities like Bangkok and Phuket. Hospitals and clinics in tourist areas are well-equipped, with English-speaking doctors and 24-hour emergency services.

Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007.  Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 100+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.

    

Prague celebrates its rich and well-preserved Gothic marvels. As a flagbearer of Czech culture, it is packed with bohemian magic and stunning architecture that promises to transport tourists back in time.

From Prague’s Old Town to the striking zigzags of St. Vitus Cathedral, architecturally, historic parts of the city have largely remained untouched since the 16th century.

As one of the only major capital cities untouched by World War II, it has remained a unique portal to some of the most prominent pieces of Gothic architecture in the world. From the powerful Powder Gate to the Brno Dragon at Moravia’s Old Town Hall, there’s lots to discover when it comes to architectural originality.

Now that we’ve piqued your interest, how about we explore seven of Prague’s top Gothic wonders you definitely need to make time for the next time you visit this stunningly beautiful and historic city.

Exploring Prague’s 7 Iconic Gothic Gems

The Powder Gate

First up is Prague’s iconic Powder Gate. This fine piece of architecture is sure to leave a strong impression and also acts an attractive entrance to the old town.

Constructed in the 15th Century, the Powder Gate is just one of more than a dozen Gothic city gates you’ll find throughout the city. If you take a free walking tour in Prague, you may just get the chance to visit them all. If you only have time for one though, then the Powder Tower is definitely the one to check out.

We can thank Vladislav II, King of Bohemia and Hungary, for the gate’s design. He helped lay the building blocks of what would become a striking stop on the royal route to the castle. At 65 metres high, it towered over surrounding buildings, and even today, you can still see every intricate detail of the stone’s elegant carvings of past land rulers.

The Powder Gate got its iconic name in the early 17th century when it was used to store gunpowder during the revolution, just in case you were wondering.

Prague Castle

Prague Castle is another one of the most famous Gothic sights to tick off your list. Standing as one of the largest castles in the world at nearly 70,000 square metres, it’s no surprise that most are impressed by its grandeur at first sight.

Dating back to 870, this Prague masterpiece exhibits just about every architectural style you can think of. As rulers from each era added their own personal touches to the building’s design, it quickly became one of the most unique royal buildings in Europe.

We recommend buying tickets to tour the castle’s interior if you want the full Gothic experience. For example, the ceiling vaults of the castle’s Vladislav Hall are home to beautiful 15th-century patterns crisscrossing for over 16 metres, from floor to ceiling.

The Knight’s Stairway leading into the castle hall is a true ode to the Bohemian monarchy and makes an especially prime spot for a photo op.

St. Vitus Cathedral

If you’ve made your way to Prague Castle, you may as well check out St. Vitus Cathedral while you’re there since it’s situated within the castle complex itself. This cathedral is not only a beacon of Gothic-century architecture but is also the largest church in all of the Czech Republic.

While building works began in 1344, the Cathedral which was designed by Gothic architectural master Petr Parler, wasn’t finished until roughly 600 years later.

Not only is the Cathedral a striking part of the castle, but it has its own ingenious flourishes to celebrate. Make sure to check out the doubly ribbed vault patterns from the inside of the cathedral and enjoy the way the light hits the stone during the high sun.

The Old Town Square

Whether you need a lunchtime stop or simply want to explore a beautiful square to take in the sights, the Old Town is not to be missed when it comes to hunting for hidden Gothic gems.

Prague’s Old Town Square is not only considered one of the most picturesque spots in Europe but it’s also surrounded by Baroque and Gothic-style buildings. 

Some of these include the Old Town Hall and the Church of Our Lady before Týn, which we will touch upon later as we uncover more hidden sightseeing opportunities.

One of the square’s must-see attractions is Prague’s famous Astronomical Clock, which sits right in the centre of the old town. Not only does it sport a fabulous Gothic exterior, but its vibrant medieval colours pop against a square surrounded by traditional sand-coloured stone. 

Charles Bridge 

We can’t talk about the most iconic Gothic landmarks in Prague without mentioning Charles Bridge. Situated right in the heart of the city, you can’t miss it, especially when it is packed full of tourists. 

Yet another striking Gotjhic design by architect Petr Parler, it’s a perfect place for photos that you can flaunt on your socials. The bridge’s intricate carvings and more than 30 statues from the Baroque period turn this bridge into something extraordinary.

The bridge is named after King Charles IV, who instructed the construction in  1357 in response to the previous bridge (Judith’s Bridge) collapsing.

The Brno Dragon at Moravia’s Old Town Hall

Photo By: David Novák, CC BY 3.0  via Wikimedia Commons

The last two sights on this list come from Prague’s Old Town, which, in our opinion, is the best spot to take in the Gothic architecture scene in the city.

If you make your way over to the Old Town Hall, you’ll find breathtaking Renaissance wall reliefs, a baroque-themed gallery and even a brilliant viewpoint if you’re willing to climb the 63-metre tower.

One attraction not to miss is the Brno Dragon. Despite its name, the “dragon” is actually a very large and very real crocodile that has been stuffed and now hangs from the ceiling of the town hall’s passageway.

The legend of the dragon dates back to the 17th century and tells the story of a ferocious dragon that lived near the River Svratka and terrorized the citizens of Brno and ate livestock. The large beast continues to represent Brno’s rich history and folklore, contributing to the city’s unique charm and promoting its legends and medieval stories.

The Church of Our Lady before Týn

Last but not least, be sure to visit the Church of Our Lady before Týn, also located in the old town square. This stand-out Gothic church, constructed in the late 14th century, is home to two 80-meter-tall towers that watch over the square.

With a reworked 17th-century style Baroque interior, the inner cathedral serves as a brilliant gallery for all things Renaissance and Gothic. Make time to check out the working 17^th century organ which is said to be the oldest working organ in Prague.

Just The Tip of the Iceberg 

If you’re a Gothic architecture fan, Prague is the city for you. While we’ve shared seven of our favourite hidden gems today, we can assure you that there are many more to discover in this historic city.

Simply join a city walking tour that will leave you feeling architecturally inspired, whether you end up getting  lost in the old town, stepping inside the castle, or taking in the iconic viewpoints from Charles Bridge.

Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007.  Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 50+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.

    

I often recommend the importance of packing light when traveling solo, but that doesn’t mean you have to necessarily sacrifice style. Jewelry is thankfully both lightweight and takes up very little space in your luggage but can go along way when it comes to adding a touch of elegance or personal touch to any outfit.

From multifunctional designs to minimalist pieces that suit any occasion, choosing the right jewelry can allow you to express your personality or show your connection to the places you visit or come from. Ideally, travel jewelry should be versatile, comfortable, and able to withstand the rigors of the road while still allowing you to look stylish and feeling confident.

From minimalist designs to culturally inspired pieces, the best jewelry choices for solo female travelers are those that enhance a journey rather than hinder it. Here are our top 7 picks for jewelry pieces that every solo traveler should consider packing this summer.

7 Jewel Picks Perfect for Solo Traveling Women This Summer

Birthstone Necklaces

Birthstone necklaces are a subtle yet elegant way to add personal flair to your travel wardrobe and make the perfect jewelry for the summer or any season really. Birthstone necklaces are personal and meaningful, whether you are displaying your own personal birth month or that of a loved partner, family member, or friend.

Wearing such as a personal item can provide a sense of comfort and connection while traveling alone as a solo female traveler. Wearing birthstones can also act as a conversation starter with fellow travelers or locals you run into, allowing you to have social interaction and hopefully make deeper connections to further feel a sense of belonging while travelling.  

Birthstone jewelry’s timeless appeal ensures they complement any wardrobe, making them a practical choice if you want to pack light without sacrificing style. As an added bonus, birthstones of course have long been associated with various protective and healing properties for centuries.

For example, amethyst is believed to promote calmness and protection, while aquamarine is thought to provide courage and clarity. Wearing a birthstone necklace can provide you with a sense of empowerment and security, adding a layer of comfort as you set off to explore the world on your own.

Minimalist Bracelets

Minimalist bracelets are incredibly versatile, easily pairing with various outfits, from casual daytime wear to more formal evening attire. Their simplicity allows you to complement any look without overpowering it.

The versatility of minimalist bracelets allows you to wear them with a wide variety of outfits, making them especially valuable for solo travelers who are aiming for a minimalist packing mindset where every inch of space in a travel bag becomes valuable.

Because of their simple design, minimalist bracelets are easy to mix and match with other jewelry. You can layer multiple bracelets for a more personalized and stylish look or wear them alone for a more subtle, classic statement. This flexibility allows for creative expression and the ability to change up your look effortlessly, even with limited jewelry options.

Minimalist bracelets are designed to be lightweight and comfortable, making them easy to wear all day without causing discomfort. They won’t weigh down your wrist or get in the way, while also offering subtle and understated look which can be advantageous if you don’t wish to draw too much attention to yourself with more expensive bracelets.  

Stud Earrings

Stud earrings offer a subtle yet elegant look that can complement any outfit, from casual daytime wear to more formal evening attire. Unlike larger or more intricate jewelry, stud earrings require minimal maintenance and are less likely to get tangled, damaged, or lost while traveling.

Stud earrings are easy to wear and remove, and their small size makes them easy to store and carry without taking up much space. This practicality is ideal for solo female travelers who prefer to travel with low-maintenance jewelry that won’t require constant attention.

Stud earrings are comfortable to wear all day long and they won’t get in the way or cause discomfort with a range of activities, whether exploring a bustling city, hiking, or lounging on a beach. This comfort makes them an excellent choice for solo travelers who are always on the move and want jewelry that can keep up with their active lifestyle.

Like minimalist bracelets, stud earrings also offer a more discreet alternative to larger, more noticeable earrings that may attract unwanted attention from potential thieves. And despite stud earrings being known for their simplicity, they come in numerous designs, materials, and colors, allowing for personal expression.

Stackable Rings

Stackable rings are another type of versatile jewelry designed to be worn together on one finger or spread across multiple fingers to create a personalized, layered look. One of the best features of stackable rings is their adaptability which allows you to wear a single, simple band for a minimalistic look during the day and then add more rings to create a bolder, layered statement for an evening out.

This customization is one of the main benefits of stackable rings. Being able to mix and match different rings to suit your style or mood means you can create a unique look daily with limited effort.

And because stackable rings are worn close to the body and securely on the fingers, they present a much lower risk of loss or theft compared to other types of jewelry. This discreet nature means they’re less likely to attract unwanted attention.

Ankle Bracelets

No, I’m not encouraging you to go and commit a crime in order to sport one of those electronic tracking devices used by police, rather get yourself some cute anklet jewelry pieces that naturally have a feminine and flirty appeal.

Anklet jewelry is often associated with carefree, bohemian styles that reflect a love for exploration and discovery, making them a fitting accessory for women who travel solo.

Naturally, ankle bracelets are most suitable for warm weather destinations and beach getaways where you’ll be showing of your legs and feet. They pair nicely with open footwear like sandals or flip-flops and can add a nice finishing touch to a cute sundress.

Unlike more common jewelry pieces like necklaces or earrings, anklets are less frequently worn, making them a unique accessory that can help set you apart from the crowd. They can also potentially be a great way to connect with or show respect for local traditions since ankle bracelets hold symbolic meanings in many regions like Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

Anklets come in a wide range of designs, from minimalist chains to more intricate pieces adorned with charms or beads. This variety allows you to choose a style that matches your taste and will complement a variety of outfits.

Layered Necklaces

Layered gold and turquoise necklace.More: View public domain image source here

Layered necklaces make perfect transitional pieces of jewelry that can adapt to your daily travel activities as you go from daytime to night-time outings. By mixing and matching different necklace lengths, materials, and designs, you can create a variety of styles.

Layered necklaces work well with various necklines and outfits, from deep v-necks and scoop necks to turtlenecks and button-down shirts. Their ability to complement different clothing styles makes them a versatile accessory for solo travelers who want to maximize their wardrobe choices and ensure their jewelry always enhances their overall look.

Easily transition from displaying a casual and boho style by day to being more chic and elegant by night. This adaptability means you can pack light but still have multiple accessory options to suit both day and night activities.

Even when wearing basic clothing, such as a t-shirt or a simple dress, a well-styled layered necklace can add a touch of sophistication and style. This ability to be fashionable with minimal effort is always welcome when constantly on the move as a traveler who often has little downtime.

Statement Earrings

Sometimes while traveling, you still want to show off a bit or make bold statement. Statement earrings are more eye-catching than subtle studs or simple hoops, Statement earrings are ones that feature intricate designs, vibrant colors, unique shapes, and are often larger in size.

Statement earrings have the power to instantly elevate any outfit, taking your look from plain to a polished fashionable appearance. For solo female travelers who readily enjoy taking photos and selfies, which is most of us I’m assuming, statement earrings can enhance facial features and make your self-pics more striking.

Statement earrings are perfect for mixing and matching with different outfits and hairstyles, allowing you to experiment with your look without needing to bring an extensive jewelry collection.

And lastly, the distinctive nature of these bold earrings can make you feel more self-assured and ready to take on new travel experiences, adding a sense of adventure and flair to your travels.

Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 100+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.

    

Planning a trip to Canada but unsure when the best time to go is? The honest answer is that any season can be a perfect time to visit Canada and will ultimately depend upon what kind of experience you’re after.  

Each of Canada’s four seasons offer up different sights and attractions. Whether you’re a fan of snowy adventures like skiing in Whistler, lush valleys ablaze with colourful springtime wildflowers, sun-soaked summer days spent kayaking on idyllic lakes, or viewing the fiery autumn foliage of Algonquin Park, Canada offers  a year-round travel destination eager to be explored.

Canada is a country that transforms dramatically with each passing season, offering you a chance to experience its natural beauty in different ways throughout the year. Join us as we explore what each season has to offer and help you decide when to embark on your Canadian getaway.

Best Time to Visit Canada: Seasonal Highlights and Travel Tips

Winter in Canada (December to February)

Overview of Winter Weather

Winter in Canada can get very cold, especially in the North, but while Canada’s winters may be famously frigid, wintry weather conditions can vary throughout its provinces and territories.

You can escape the worst of the chill by visiting coastal areas like Vancouver in British Columbia since it experiences much milder winter temps. Meanwhile, the mountain regions further to the east such as Alberta’s Canadian Rockies can get heavy snowfall and much colder sub-zero temperatures.

If you wish to feel the true bite of winter’s chill, then head to the prairies of Saskatchewan and Manitoba where temps can dip to -20°C to -30°C, with intense wind chills and blizzards making it feel even colder.

Ontario and Quebec see frequent snowfall and the odd ice storm, making these spots ideal for winter sports. Montreal and Quebec City will likely feel much colder than cities further to the south like Toronto.

You won’t be able to escape the cold in Canada’s popular Atlantic Coast destinations either, with places like New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island getting nor’easter storms that can bring heavy snow and freezing rain.

Winters in Yukon and the Northwest Territories can best be described as dark, extremely cold, and snowy. Despite this extreme weather, it does offer up a magical bonus in the form of the northern lights which is a sight to behold.

Top Winter Activities

Cold and snowy winter weather doesn’t keep residents indoors, rather it does the opposite. There are endless winter sports and activities that lure not only locals but also countless travellers from around the world every winter season.

First of all, Canada is home to some of the world’s top ski resorts, offering a range of slopes for both skiing and snowboarding. You have the choice of hitting the fresh powder in Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper, Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia, Mont Tremblant in Quebec, or Ontario’s Blue Mountain.

Both natural and man-made ice rinks also pop up across the country. Skating on the frozen UNESCO -listed Rideau Canal in the nation’s capital is especially iconic. You then  have dog sledding across frozen lakes in places like the Yukon and Northwest Territories, as well as snowshoeing on well-marked trails in Canada’s many national parks.

The northern lights are best viewed in Canada’s far north, with many guided tours available. There are even heated viewing domes which provide comfort while getting to witness the vivid colours dance across the dark winter night sky.

Winter festivals are a great way to experience Canadian culture, featuring ice sculpting competitions, snow slides, sleigh rides, outdoor concerts, and an excuse to drink hot chocolate. Notable events include Ottawa’s Winterlude, Festival du Voyageur in Winnipeg, SnowDays in Banff, and the Quebec Winter Carnival.

If all that wasn’t enough to entice you to visit Canada in winter, you then have great snowmobiling, ice fishing, ice climbing, cross-country skiing, and hot springs.

Winter Travel Tips

There are a few things to consider during winter visits to ensure your safety and comfort. The first recommendation is to dress in layers since most of Canada gets extremely cold, and temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day. Remember to limit your exposure to extreme cold as it can cause frostbite and hypothermia, both of which are of course serious health risks.

Keep in mind that in many parts of Canada, daylight hours are much shorter in winter, which may affect the timing of when you plan activities. If you plan on renting a vehicle, make sure it’s equipped with winter tires which will offer better traction on snow and ice. Keep an emergency kit in your car, including a blanket, flashlight, and extra food/water in case you get stuck on snowy roads.

Consider adding winter sports coverage to your travel insurance policy since activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling come with risks and are often not automatically covered by standard policies.

Spring in Canada (March to May)

Overview of Spring Weather

In the spring, the sun slowly returns, especially in May, which is widely considered to be one of the best times to visit Canada. After the winter chill, spring brings the thaw that reveals many of the hidden natural treasures previously hidden by the snow.

Spring marks a period of transition, bringing a refreshing change from the cold winter months to warmer, longer days. The warmer season arrives earlier on the West Coast and with it comes wildflowers and regular rainfall.  

Winter can still stick around in Rocky Mountain regions like Banff and Jasper in the spring, especially in higher elevations.

In Southern Ontario, including cities like Toronto and Ottawa, spring weather starts to become milder by March which sees rain showers replace snowfall. Spring can be a bit slower to arrive in cities like Montreal and Quebec.

Animals begin emerging from hibernation in the north and days start to get longer quickly. To the east, coastal areas may remain cooler longer due to the influence of the Atlantic Ocean, but inland regions warm up faster.

Top Spring Activities

Spring is a transitional season, making it a great time to visit Canada because nature wakes up and starts living again. For one thing, the sugar maple season peaks in early spring, making it a great time to experience sugar shacks and maple syrup production.

Spring is also the prime time to witness Canada’s waterfalls in all their glory since snowmelt turns many into thundering cascades such as Niagara Falls, Montmorency Falls, and Helmcken Falls.

Spring also marks the cherry blossom season which is best witnessed in cities like Vancouver, Toronto, and Victoria. Tulips will also be blooming so you may want to check out Ottawa’s Canadian Tulip Festival.

If you’re after something a bit larger, spring also marks whale-watching season on both coasts. You can book guided boat trips to hopefully witness humpback and minke whales on the Atlantic Coast or orcas and grey whales on the Pacific Coast.

Spring is an ideal time for wildlife watching in general, since many animals become more active after the winter months. Bears, elk, moose, deer, and all kinds of migrating birds can be spotted in various national parks.

Spring in Canada is a vibrant time for cultural and music festivals. Toronto’s cultural calendar includes film, storytelling, and food festivals. Vancouver is known for its vibrant arts scene with numerous festivals celebrating theatre, dance, and children’s entertainment.

Spring Travel Tips

Spring weather in Canada is best described as being unpredictable, with fluctuations between warm and cold temperatures, and a mix of rain, snow, and sunshine. Pack a variety of clothing and include waterproof options since rain is often a common occurrence.

While things are starting to open up, keep in mind that some tourist attractions, trails, and parks may still be closed or have limited access due to lingering snow, flooding from snowmelt, or preparation for the summer season. Bes sure to check the websites of national parks, attractions, and local tourism boards for up-to-date information on opening dates, accessibility, and conditions.

Since bears will be starting to roam around once again, it may be wise to carry bear spray if you are planning to visit bear country. Remember to make noise while hiking to avoid surprising animals and always store food securely when camping.

Driving can still be a bit hazardous due to snowmelt which can lead to flooding and washouts, especially in rural areas. And as beautiful as all the blooming flowers and trees may be, be sure to pack antihistamines or other allergy medications since spring marks allergy season with often high pollen counts.

Summer in Canada (June to August)

Summer Weather Overview

Summer is the busiest time of year in Canada in terms of tourism. It’s when you’ll get to enjoy the most sun and warmest weather. More people mean peak crowds at Canada’s attractions and national parks, so booking earlier is essential when it comes to things like camping spots.

Enjoy very longs days that allow you to pack in all kinds of activities into a 24-hour period. The coastal regions of British Columbia enjoy mild to warm summers, with temperatures rarely feeling uncomfortably hot or sticky. 

The Rockies will remain rather cool during summer, especially at higher elevations and during the night. That means you can enjoy prime weather for hiking, kayaking, and camping. Toronto, Ottawa, and Quebec can get a bit hot and humid at times, offering a more traditional summer feel.

Coastal areas such as Newfoundland and Labrador often have cooler and more variable temperatures due to the influence of the Atlantic Ocean, with frequent fog and breezy conditions. New Brunswick on the other hand will usually offer far warmer temperatures.

Summer in the north is characterized by long daylight hours, with regions above the Arctic Circle experiencing the “midnight sun” where the sun remains visible for 24 hours a day. The weather can be unpredictable, with rapid temperature changes and occasional rainfall, but generally offers pleasant conditions for exploring the rugged wilderness.

Top Summer Activities

Summer in Canada is when national parks are at their finest, offering all kinds of outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, camping and water sports. Thankfully, there are many national parks scattered from coast to coast that helps to spread out the summer nature-loving tourists.

Not only is Banff Canada’s first national park, it’s also one of its most iconic and highly visited. Must see attractions in Banff include Lake Louise and the Banff Gondola.

Located just north of Banff, Jasper NP offers even more expansive wilderness with rugged mountains, deep-blue lakes, and numerous glaciers like Athabasca Glacier. You can also enjoy the Jasper SkyTram.

Then there’s Glacier National Park and Pacific Rim National Park Reserve in British Columbia, Prince Edward Island National Park, or Kluane National Park and Reserve which is home to Canada’s highest peak known as Mount Logan.

Canoeing and kayaking are quintessential Canadian summer activities. Taking to the waters of Algonquin Park is a must for any first trip to Ontario. It’s renowned for its network of lakes and rivers, offering endless peaceful paddling experiences. Bowron Lake in British Columbia provides another exceptional canoe circuit.

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy one of Canada’s scenic drives as well. The Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia offers stunning coastal views and charming fishing villages, while the Icefields Parkway in Alberta provides breathtaking scenery of glaciers, waterfalls, and wildlife. The Sea-to-Sky Highway in British Columbia will take you from Vancouver to Whistler and provides spectacular ocean and mountain views.

Summer in Canada is festival season, with a wide array of events celebrating music, culture, food, and heritage. Cities like Montreal host various music festivals like the very popular Montreal International Jazz Festival which has become one of the world’s largest jazz festivals, while Calgary hosts the famous Calgary Stampede, a rodeo and exhibition that captures the spirit of the Wild West.

Canada’s cities come alive in the summer with numerous green spaces and waterfront areas perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, or bike rides. Stanley Park in Vancouver offers scenic seawall walks and beaches, while Toronto Islands provide a peaceful escape with stunning city views.

If all that wasn’t enough, you then having surfing along the coast, championship course golfing, fly-fishing, white-water rafting, and endless hiking.

Summer Travel Advice

Encounters with wildlife are a common aspect of outdoor adventures in Canada, especially during summer when most people are visiting national parks and wilderness areas. Be sure to research safety guidelines for local wildlife such as bears and moose which can both get defensive when protecting their young. Learn how to store food properly and avoid attracting bears or other wildlife into campsites.

Mosquitoes are another thing that can prove to be a huge nuisance during the summer. Pack or pick up insect repellent if you’re planning to spend time in heavily forested or wetland areas.

As mentioned before, major tourist destinations can be crowded in the summer. Consider booking accommodations and popular attractions well in advance to avoid long wait times and ensure availability. Summer is also wildfire season, so check for fire bans or restrictions before planning any campfires or barbecues in national parks.

Autumn in Canada (September to November)

Autumn Weather Overview

Autumn in Canada is a beautiful season marked by vibrant foliage, cooler temperatures, and a gradual transition to winter. Coastal British Columbia will see a gradual decline in temperatures, while the Rockies can usher in cooler temperatures rather suddenly.

Eastern Canada often sees an increase in storm activity while Northern Canada will start to see a transition to sub-zero temps with quickly shortening days. Much of Southern Canada will still remain pleasant in early autumn and this makes it a perfect period to visit natural areas without the large crowds of summer.

Top Autumn Activities

Autumn is the perfect time to experience Canada’s vibrant autumn foliage. Scenic drives like the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia or the Pacific Rim Highway in British Columbia offer some of the best locations to check out vast stretches of colourful woodlands.

Autumn also marks the harvest season, a perfect time to visit famers markets to enjoy fresh apples, pumpkins, and squash. You can even participate in events like apple picking, pumpkin carving, and corn mazes. Many towns and cities host festivals celebrating the harvest season with local foods, crafts, and entertainment.

Fall is also the prime time to visit the country’s wine regions, making it an excellent time for wine tasting and vineyard tours. Explore wineries, enjoy wine festivals, and sample seasonal wines. The vineyards are often at their most picturesque, with rolling hills and colourful leaves

Canada’s historic sites also come alive in autumn, offering up haunted tours. Visit Quebec City’s historic old town, explore Ottawa’s Parliament Hill, and take ghost tours in St. John’s and Victoria. Many locations offer special Halloween-themed tours and events.

Travel Tips for Autumn

Autumn can bring unpredictable weather, especially as the season marches on. You can experience both rain and early snow, as well as hot and cold temps. Pack a wide range of clothing to ensure you’ll be comfortable.

Plan your outdoor activities to make the most of daylight hours, as days get shorter quickly in autumn. Carry a flashlight or headlamp if you’re out in the early morning or late evening. Some attractions and areas within national parks or their facilities may begin to reduce hours or be closed, so be sure to research any closures or restrictions.

Each of Canada’s seasons present their own unique charm and opportunities for outdoor adventure, ensuring that every visit is a memorable one. We hope these seasonal tips for visiting Canada can act as a beginner guide to traveling in Canada.

Embrace the changing seasons and discover the many ways this vast country can delight you all year round.

Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007.  Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 100+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.

Destination weddings are all about creating unforgettable memories in stunning locations, whether it’s getting married in a Tuscan vineyard, beachside in the Caribbean, or within a European castle.

The chance to say “I do” in a breathtaking location surrounded by loved ones is a dream for many couples, a dream that sadly often comes with a hefty price tag. From travel and accommodation costs to venue hire and guest meals, a destination wedding budget can spiral out of control quickly.

Thankfully, with a bit of planning and savvy money-saving tips, you may actually be able to turn that destination wedding dream into a reality. Let’s see how you make your destination wedding affordable without compromising on quality.

Tips for Saving Money on Your Destination Wedding

Choosing a Wedding Destination & Venue

When it comes to destination weddings, there are endless possibilities. Simply scrolling through your Netflix account will reveal many iconic movies with a wedding theme, many of which can offer inspiration for choosing a wedding destination such as My Big Fat Greek Wedding or Mama Mia!. There’s even a movie actually titled Destination Wedding.

Saving money on a destination wedding begins with choosing an economical travel location and venue. While there are some popular wedding destinations that are perpetually expensive, many other desirable locations can still be reasonable options if you choose a wedding date that falls during their off-peak season. Flights and accommodation will likely be cheaper, and resorts and venues may offer discounts on weddings during less popular times.

Consider choosing a lesser-known or up-and-coming travel destination instead of a popular wedding hotspot like Hawaii. These less-hyped wedding destination locations may offer lower prices for venues and services due to less demand and can provide a more unique and memorable experience for you and your guests.

You can also opt for a weekday wedding which will often prove cheaper than weekend ones. This of course is dependent upon you and your guests being flexible with schedules, but destination weddings often mean taking several days to a week or more off for international getaways and this makes it easier to plan a cheaper weekday wedding.

Choose a location where the currency exchange rate works in your favor as this will allow your wedding budget to stretch further, whether it’s paying for hotels, venues, food, or local vendors. Booking flights, accommodations, and venues early can be another way to secure lower rates and early bird discounts. Planning ahead can also give you more time to save and budget for a destination wedding.

Some locations will have fewer travel restrictions or visa requirements than others which further reduces travel costs relating to visa fees or mandatory vaccinations. Likewise, choosing a country where the legal requirements such as marriage licenses are straightforward and inexpensive will also save on costs.

Use Local Vendors

Hiring local vendors can reduce travel and shipping costs associated with bringing vendors from your home country. Local vendors also tend to know the area better and can provide cost-effective options.

You may even find that there are plentiful options for vendors in your chosen travel destination, such as a more highly-skilled photographer that knows how to create creative documentary-style wedding photography, which may actually be cheaper than those in your own hometown.

Hiring a wedding planner who is familiar with the destination can help you navigate local regulations, find the most economical vendors, and negotiate deals. Their insider knowledge can save you money and prevent costly mistakes.

Instead of shipping items to your destination, consider buying or renting locally. This can help you avoid expensive shipping fees and the potential hassle of dealing with customs restrictions.

You can also ask friends and family to contribute their services free of charge if they happen to be good at photography, makeup, hair, cake baking, or know how to DJ. This can help reduce costs for professional services and adds a personal touch to your wedding.

Limit the Guest List

Keeping your guest list small not only reduces costs for catering and venue size but also creates a more intimate atmosphere. Consider inviting only close family and friends to keep expenses more manageable.

If you’re planning to cover or subsidize your guests’ accommodation costs, it gives even greater reason to limit numbers since a smaller guest list will significantly reduce this expense.

Catering is often one of the largest expenses for any wedding. With a smaller guest list, you’ll spend less on food, beverages, and service staff. You can also opt for more intimate and personalized dining experiences, which can be more cost-effective than large-scale catering.

If you’re providing transportation like airport transfers or shuttles between accommodations and the venue, fewer guests will mean fewer vehicles or transfers are needed, which can significantly reduce costs even further.

Lastly, fewer guests also means you need to hire fewer items for the wedding whether its chairs, tables, linens, centerpieces, and other rentals or purchases. It also reduces the number of invitations you need to purchase and send out, as well as wedding favors you may want to hand out to guests and your wedding party.

Combine Your Wedding and Honeymoon

Why not save money by choosing a destination that can also serves as your honeymoon location. There’s no need to spend extra on a separate holiday when you’re already on one. This smart and cost-effective strategy for saving money on a destination wedding avoids having to pay for additional flights, taxis, and other travel related costs.

Many resorts and hotels offer discounts or packages that combine wedding and honeymoon stays as well. Or by staying an extended period of time, it may qualify you for long-stay discounts which will reduce your total accommodation costs

Planning both the wedding and honeymoon in the same place also simplifies logistics. This not only reduces planning stress but also cuts down on the costs associated with coordinating multiple locations.

Staying in one location allows you to plan more affordable local activities and excursions, as you can take advantage of local deals or discounts that the venue or local vendors might offer. Group rates for activities may also apply if some guests stay on for the honeymoon.

By eliminating the need to travel to a second location for the honeymoon, you can also reduce the amount of time you’re away from home since you will have less travel time between two different destinations. This means you can get back to work more quickly to start paying off that memorable destination wedding.  

Look for Package Deals

Many resorts and venues offer all-inclusive wedding packages that bundle together the venue, catering, decorations, and sometimes even the photographer and entertainment. These packages can often be more affordable than booking each service separately.

Some destinations may also have strong ties with certain airlines or travel agencies, and can therefore offer special group travel discounts or packages. These can help reduce the cost of flights and accommodation for you and your guests.

Venues often have partnerships with local vendors, such as florists, photographers, and musicians. If you use the venue’s preferred vendors, they may offer a discount on the overall cost. Bundling services through the venue can save on vendor fees and sometimes reduce the complexity of coordinating multiple vendors, leading to both financial and logistical benefits.

Many resorts offer a complimentary room or suite for the bride and groom if a certain number of rooms are booked by their guests. Others may offer a free stay for you on your one-year anniversary, an incentive that will provide a future financial savings benefit.

Send Digital Invitations

Physically mailing out fancy wedding invites may be fun and no doubt look beautiful, but opting for digital wedding invitations is a far more cost-effective and eco-friendly way to invite guests to a destination wedding.

This eco-friendly option saves costs on printing and postage while also allowing for easier tracking of RSVPs and changes to guest information. Use a digital invitation service like Paperless Post, Evite, or Canva, which offers customizable templates and user-friendly interfaces.

You can easily create beautiful, professional-looking invitations with these websites without needing to pay higher fees to a professional graphic designer or wedding company. Digital invitations can also prove more engaging despite their reduced cost, as you can include interactive elements such as videos, music, or animated graphics. You can even include a video message from you and your soon to be husband or wife which will add a special personal touch.

Leverage social media and email to distribute invitations quickly and directly. You can create a private event on Facebook or send invites through an email list, ensuring everyone receives the invitation without worrying about lost mail.

Skip the Traditional Wedding Dress

Consider alternatives to a traditional wedding dress, which can be expensive and hard to transport. Skipping the traditional wedding dress for a destination wedding is a great way to save money, and it opens up a variety of alternative choices that may actually be more suitable for your chosen location and theme.

Traditional wedding gowns often require multiple fittings and alterations to achieve the perfect fit, which can quickly add up in costs. Non-traditional dresses will likely require fewer if any alterations, saving on tailoring expenses.

Transporting a traditional wedding dress, especially if it’s elaborate or has a long train, can be challenging and expensive to haul on a flight. Many airlines actually charge extra fees for carrying large or delicate garments.

Traditional wedding dress also continue to rack up fees even after the wedding is over, since elaborate dresses often require professional cleaning and preservation, which can get costly. A simpler, non-traditional dress may not require special care or could even be something you can actually wear again for other fancy or formal events.

Alternative choices for a destination wedding dress include shorter dresses or tea-length gowns which are great choices for casual or outdoor weddings such as those taking place on the beach, at parks, or in botanic gardens.

Boho-style dresses, often made from lace, cotton, or lightweight fabrics, offer a relaxed, romantic look perfect for outdoor or rustic destination weddings. A maxi dress, often in a solid white or pastel color will provide an elegant yet laid-back style that’s suitable for beach weddings and other casual settings.

Other costs saving options include purchasing a pre-owned dress or a vintage gown from a thrift store, consignment shop, or online marketplace. If you don’t like the idea of wearing an older dress, you may be able to simply rent a newer fancier wedding dress simply for the day from a local bridal boutique.

Renting allows you to wear a designer or high-quality dress for a fraction of the price of purchasing one, and you won’t have to worry about transporting your dress to a destination wedding or need to pay to preserve and store a dress after your wedding.

Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 50+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.

    

Planning  a solo trip for yourself can be both empowering and intimidating at the same time. Exploring new destinations on your own is a wonderful way to force yourself out of your comfort zone and experience personal growth.

The freedom and flexibility that comes with solo travel are unparalleled, but traveling alone without the support of a travel companion does require careful preparation to ensure a smooth and safe travel experience.

If you’re looking to turn your dreams of taking your first solo trip into a reality, follow some of our practical tips and essential advice to help get you ready so you can confidently embark on this rewarding opportunity and make the most of your independent travels.

Are You Ready for Your First Solo Travel Experience?

Budgeting

In some aspects, budgeting for solo trip can prove easier than when traveling with family or friends, but there is still a lot to consider. Budgeting for solo travel requires self-discipline and having financial smarts to ensure you get the best bang for your buck and don’t leave yourself with a hefty debt that needs to be paid off upon returning home.

You get to have complete control over your travel finances when traveling alone, so there are likely to be fewer surprises that can arise which may affect your budget drastically. That being said, solo travel like any travel can still involve unexpected expenses such as cancelled flights, travel emergencies, dealing with illness or injuries abroad, or lost luggage.

Budgeting effectively will allow you to allocate funds for activities and experiences that matter most to you, ensuring you get the most out of your trip. Remember, that all travel costs are your responsibility, so there’s no sharing of expenses or splitting costs.

There’s also nobody to assist you with determining whether hotels, flights, or tours are a good deal or are overpriced.  This means you may have to take on more responsibility when it comes to researching travel deals and ensuring you can afford the itinerary you’re crafting for yourself.

Determine how much you can afford to spend on your trip, considering your daily expenses and trip length. Include all potential costs such as flights, accommodation, food, activities, transportation, and add an emergency fund just in case.

Research the cost of living in your destination to understand how much you’ll likely need for daily expenses. Use travel blogs such as this one, social media travel groups, and online budgeting tools or calculators to get accurate estimates.

And the budgeting doesn’t stop at just setting a budget before your trip and trying your best to stick to it. While you’re traveling, use budgeting apps or keep a travel journal to track your expenses in real-time. This helps you stay within budget and make adjustments if need be.

One of the biggest tips with budgeting for solo travel is to be prepared to adjust your budget if necessary. Solo travel often involves more spontaneity than group travel and being flexible with your budget allows you to adapt to new opportunities or challenges that solo travelers may face.

Booking In Advance

It’s generally wise for solo travelers to book as much travel in advance as possible, since it can not only save money but also provide several practical benefits. You can often secure better rates, which is important since you are only relying on your own finances and not splitting travel costs.

Booking in advance also reduces the stress of last-minute planning and provides peace of mind that key aspects of your trip are locked in and you won’t throw yourself in the deep end potentially creating a sink or swim situation.  

Booking flights, hotels, and rental cars in advance often allows you to secure lower prices as mentioned before. Airlines and hotels typically offer better rates for early bookings, and you can avoid price hikes that may occur closer to your travel dates.

Booking early also allows you to research travel deals, sign up to newsletters to receive special offers, join loyalty programs, or apply for special credit cards that can offer travel bonuses in the form of points you may be able to use to pay for free hotels and flights.

Another potential benefit of booking all your travel early is that it can allow you to pay for significant expenses upfront, which can help in managing your overall trip budget and spread out costs over time rather than facing a large financial burden all at once.

In addition to cost savings, booking early will also give you a greater selection of hotels, flights, and tours to choose from. This is especially important for popular destinations or peak travel seasons when availability can be limited.

And one added bonus of booking hotels early which may be more beneficial to solo female travelers who have safety concerns, is that it allows time to research safe neighborhoods and book reputable hotels or hostels.

You will have a greater chance of securing safer rooms such as those on higher floors. Anything you can do to provide added security and peace of mind during your trip is a great idea for your first solo trip.

Just make sure you fully read and understand cancellation policies for flights, hotels, and tours when booking far in advance. It’s of course best to seek out options that offer flexibility and refundable bookings should you need to change or cancel your plans.

Pack Well

General packing tips for solo travel doesn’t differ all that much from traveling with friends or loved ones, but there are some specific packing tips geared towards solo travelers that can enhance comfort, convenience, and safety.

When traveling alone, it’s important to be self-sufficient and prepared for various scenarios since you won’t have a travel companion to rely on. Packing comfort items can also be particularly beneficial to provide a sense of familiarity and ease when you’re navigating unfamiliar places on your own.

When traveling solo, it’s crucial to pack light since you alone will have to manage all your bags. Taking a less-is-more approach will make it easier to manage your luggage on your own, especially if you need to navigate public transportation or crowded areas.

Not only is hauling a lot of baggage yourself physically difficult, but it can also present challenges when it comes to keeping track of all your bags and ensuring their security in places like airports, especially when needing to use restrooms or leaving your belongings to grab a bite to eat at an airport restaurant or lounge.  

When traveling alone, comfort becomes even more important. Pack a few personal comfort items or things that create a sense of home such as a favorite keepsake or special gift given to you by a family member or friend. Make sure you have things that can distract your thoughts should anxiety creep in from traveling alone, whether it’s packing a good book or sudoku puzzles.

Keep in mind that even if you aren’t prone to anxiety, traveling solo often means having more downtime, especially during transit. Having downloaded movies, music, or podcasts will help keep yourself entertained and less likely to feel lonely.

As a solo traveler, staying connected is also crucial for safety and convenience. Make sure you have enough portable power to keep your devices charged, especially if you rely on your smartphone for navigation, accessing booking confirmations, or staying in touch with loved ones.

Employ Social Skills

Employing social skills is highly important when taking your first solo trip. Being social can provide opportunities for connection to avoid loneliness, safety, learning, and simply enjoyment.

Traveling alone can sometimes feel isolating even for the most independent personalities, especially in a new place where you don’t know anyone or where to find places. Being social helps you build connections with fellow travelers or locals, providing companionship and support if and when you need it.

By being social, you can receive valuable advice from locals or other travelers about safe areas to visit, places to avoid, and cultural norms. This information can help you navigate your destination more safely and confidently on your own.

Building rapport with others can be beneficial in case of an emergency. Having a friendly network, even if it’s only temporary, can provide support if you encounter difficulties or need assistance.

Successfully navigating social situations while traveling alone can boost your self-confidence and self-reliance. Each positive interaction reinforces your ability to communicate and engage with people, which is a valuable skill both during travel and in everyday life.

Being social enables you to join group activities, tours, or events, which can be more enjoyable than experiencing them alone. This can also lead to shared experiences, where you bond with others over common interests.

One way to increase your chances of staying social on solo trips is to book group tours or choose hostels, guesthouses, or other accommodations that encourage social interaction. Many hostels offer common areas, organized events, or tours that provide great opportunities to meet other travelers.

Utilize travel apps or social media groups to connect with other solo travelers or locals. Apps like Meetup, Couchsurfing, or local Facebook groups can help you find events, gatherings, or travel buddies.

Self-Care

Self-care is crucial for solo travelers, as you are solely responsible for your well-being. You need to look after your physical, emotional, and mental well-being all at once. It starts with ensuring you’re getting enough rest each night to recharge for your next day’s plans. Solo travel can be physically and mentally taxing, so aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night.

While it’s tempting to want to see and do everything on solo trips since you are given the added freedom to see and do anything you personally wish to whenever you want, you don’t want to overfill your itinerary. Allow time for breaks and downtime to relax and recharge.

If you’re feeling tired or overwhelmed, take a break. Rest at a café, sit in a park, or head back to your hotel for a nap. Remember that it’s okay to take it slow, be a bit boring, and enjoy a day without major plans.

Try to maintain some sense of routine, such as having meals at regular times, exercising, or simply checking your emails in the morning. Familiar routines can provide a sense of comfort and normalcy while you’re away from home.

Regularly check in with family and friends back home. This helps you feel connected and supported, reducing feelings of loneliness. Use video calls, messaging apps, or social media to share your experiences and stay in touch.

If you do find yourself succumbing to stress or anxiety while traveling alone, give meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga a try to hopefully reduce stress and stay present during your travels. These practices can help you manage anxiety and remain calm in new environments.

Keeping a travel journal or writing posts for an online travel blog can also be therapeutic and provide a creative outlet to reflect on your experiences, emotions, and thoughts during your trip.

Treat yourself to small indulgences, such as a massage, spa visit, shopping day, or a nice meal at a fancy restaurant. These moments of self-care can rejuvenate you and make your solo journey more enjoyable. But be careful to balance alone time with social activities. Engage in group tours, classes, or social events to interact with others and avoid feelings of isolation.

Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007.  Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 100+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.

    

The appeal of planning a remote escape deep into nature is all about getting away from the feeling of being weighed down with responsibility and stress that often plagues our normal everyday life. The last thing you want to do is lug around a heavy backpack filled with every conceivable piece of hiking and camping equipment available.

Embracing a minimalist packing strategy can make your outdoor adventures more enjoyable, far less stressful, and surprisingly more adventurous. By focusing on packing only the essentials and leaving behind what you don’t truly need, you’ll find yourself more in tune with nature and more adaptable to whatever Mother Nature throws your way.

Let’s explore the essentials of packing light for remote adventures, including choosing multifunctional gear and how to reduce your load without sacrificing comfort or safety. We hope this less-is-more philosophy will transform how you approach remote trekking and camping trips.

How to Prepare for Remote Adventures with Minimal Gear

Prioritizing Essential Power Use

While getting back to the peace and simplicity of nature is what makes outdoor adventures so rewarding, the reality is that most of us still require some source of power for safety, convenience, and to run or charge essential electronics.

Portable power stations offer a balanced solution for off-grid adventurers who want to reduce gear size and weight while also ensuring reliable power for their electronic devices. They combine the benefits of compactness, versatility, and sustainability, making them a superior option to traditional power sources like disposable batteries, solar panels, or generators.

There’s no denying that using bulky generators are not only burdensome to you, but also not exactly environmentally friendly. They produce a lot of noise and produce unpleasant fumes and harmful greenhouse gas emissions.

Portable power stations are compact, rechargeable battery units that use high-capacity lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries to store electrical energy. They are designed to provide power to a variety of electronic devices and appliances, such as smartphones, cameras, laptops, and even small camping equipment like lights or portable coolers.

Most portable power stations come with multiple output ports, such as USB, AC, DC, and car ports, allowing you to charge several devices simultaneously. They also often include an inverter to convert DC power to AC power.

Portable power stations are versatile and can power a wide range of devices. Unlike single-use power banks that might only charge phones or small gadgets, power stations can handle more demanding electronics, such as laptops and cameras, and even small appliances, making them ideal for longer or more remote adventures.

Portable power stations are far more compact and lighter than alternative power sources like generators, making them a perfect option for trekking and camping, where every ounce of weight and every inch of space matters. They are also not dependent upon having nice sunny weather which is what solely relying on solar panels requires.

Opt for Multi-Functional Gear

Choosing to pack multi-functional gear is crucial for outdoor adventures when trying to minimize your load because it allows you to carry fewer items without compromising on functionality or safety.

Multi-functional gear equates to items that can serve multiple purposes, which helps reduce the weight and volume of your daypack. Carrying less weight reduces fatigue and strain on your body, especially on long treks or hikes, and ensures more comfort and space in a vehicle when driving to a campsite

Freeing up space and weight means you can give greater focus to carrying adequate amounts of essentials like food, water, and first aid supplies. Investing in multi-functional gear can also save you money because you’ll be investing in fewer, high-quality products that serve multiple purposes as opposed to buying numerous single-use items.

Some examples of multi-use items that can be useful for outdoor adventure include a buff or headband that can be used to keep sun off your neck, as a face mask, a wristband, hat liner, towel, potholder, or to cover a minor wound to keep it clean of dirt and debris.

A sleeping bag liner can serve multiple purposes as well It can be used to add warmth to a sleeping bag, as a standalone lightweight sleeping option in warmer weather, or even as a makeshift pillow by stuffing it with clothes.

A poncho can serve as rain gear and be converted into a shelter or groundsheet. When used as a tarp, it provides shelter from rain or sun and can also be used to collect rainwater. Clothing items like pants that convert to shorts or jackets with removable sleeves can adapt to changing weather conditions, reducing the need for multiple clothing items.

A high-quality multi-tool is also a must since it includes a wide range of tools including a knife, scissors, screwdriver, pliers, can opener, and more. It can be used for countless tasks such as cutting, repairing gear, preparing food, and maintaining equipment while trekking or camping.

Even a quality cooking pot with a lid can prove multi-functional, as you can use it to boil water, cook meals, as a container for storage, and the lid can be used as a makeshift plate, shallow bowl, or cutting board.

Packing Light but Smart

Packing light but smart for remote outdoor adventures is about balancing the need to minimize your load with the need to be prepared for various situations. Packing light goes beyond simply reducing weight and entails being smart with the items you choose.

Research the weather, terrain, and conditions of the area you’ll be visiting. This will help you determine what type of clothing and gear will be essential. The length of your trip will influence how much food, water, and clothing you need. For shorter trips, you can often get away with fewer items, especially if you can source food and safe drinking water naturally.

If camping, choose lightweight and compact shelter options like a tent, tarp, or bivy sack. For sleeping, consider a lightweight sleeping bag or quilt and a compact sleeping pad.

When packing clothing, focus on lightweight, moisture-wicking materials that can be easily layered. This allows you to stay comfortable in varying weather conditions without needing to bring multiple outfits. Quick-dry clothing is particularly useful, as it can be washed and dried quickly, reducing the need for multiple changes of clothes.

Use compression sacks to reduce the volume of your sleeping bag, clothing, and other soft items. Organize your gear into categories and pack them in separately labeled dry bags for easy access and waterproofing.

Make an effort to distribute weight evenly in your backpack to maintain balance and prevent strain on your body. Keep heavier items close to your back and centered, with lighter items on the outside. Frequently used items should be made easily accessible in external pockets or at the top of your pack.

When it comes to food, pack lightweight, high-energy meals that require minimal preparation, such as dehydrated meals, trail mix, and energy bars that are lightweight yet nutritious. These meals are easy to pack and can provide the necessary nutrients and energy you’ll need to fuel your adventures.

You can reduce the amount of water you need to carry by making sure you have a portable filtration or purification system to make naturally sourced water safe to drink. They make filtration bottles and straws as well as tablets to ensure water is potable.

Emphasizing Safety with Minimal Gear

Even when packing light, safety should never be a something that is compromised. Essential safety gear should include a first aid kit, a reliable map and compass (even if you have a GPS), and a lightweight emergency shelter.

These items are non-negotiable, as they ensure you’re prepared for unexpected situations, such as sudden weather changes or injuries.

In addition to these basics, you should again consider bringing a compact multi-tool that can assist with everything from food preparation to emergency repairs.

Staying Flexible and Prepared

Remote adventures often require adaptability, as conditions can change quickly and unexpectedly in nature. Flexibility allows you to adapt to changing conditions, whether it’s a sudden weather change, a route alteration, or an unexpected injury.

Preparation means making sure you have the necessary skills, gear, and mindset to properly handle a wide variety of potential outdoor situations you may face.  Weather can change drastically in a matter of just a few hours and trails can become impassable due to landslides, fallen trees, or flash flooding.

Injuries, fatigue, and many illnesses can also come about quickly and unexpectedly. Being prepared with a well-stocked first aid kit and the knowledge of basic first aid can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.

Be mindful of wildlife you may encounter and make every effort to avoid risky contact, whether its touching animals or inadvertently tempting them into your camp with food scraps.

Keep in mind as well that gear can break or malfunction, so be sure you will have the ability to either repair essential items or replace them with alternatives. Practice reading maps, using a compass, and operating a GPS. Understanding how to navigate without electronic devices is a valuable skill to know if batteries die or electronic devices malfunction.

Always prioritize safety and well-being over sticking rigidly to a planned itinerary. If conditions become unsafe, be ready to turn back, take a detour, or wait out adverse weather.

Preparation begins long before your outdoor adventure starts. Be sure to get yourself in good physical shape as well as strong mentally. You can start visiting a gym or going on smaller treks near home in the leadup to your trip, and look to mindfulness and stress-management techniques in order to learn how to stay calm and think clearly under pressure when far from civilization.

You may also want to think about sharing your detailed itinerary with a trusted family member or friend back home. Include details about your route, expected times of arrival, and emergency contact information.

Embracing the Minimalist Mindset

Preparing for a remote adventure with minimal gear requires a mindset shift. Instead of focusing on what you might need or want, concentrate on what you will absolutely require and items you can likely do without.

Embracing the minimalist mindset when packing and preparing for remote outdoor trekking and camping adventures allows you to connect more deeply with nature and experience the freedom of the great outdoors without being weighed down by unnecessary gear.

By prioritizing essential, multi-functional items and maintaining a flexible approach, you can reduce your load and increase your mobility, safety, and enjoyment. Ultimately, packing both light and intelligently ensures that you can enjoy a healthy balance of comfort, convenience, and safety on your outdoors trips.

Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007.  Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 100+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.

    

Tuscany may be known for its rolling hills, Renaissance art, and medieval towns with iconic landmarks, but your eyes won’t be the alone in thanking you for visiting this splendid region of Italy. Tuscany will easily delight your tastebuds as well since food and drink is a way of life here as opposed to mere sustenance.

From its ancient olive groves that produce some of Italy’s finest olive oil to the sun-soaked vineyards that yield world-renowned wines with robust flavours, Tuscany is blessed with a rich culinary heritage.

Come with us as we explore the historical roots of Tuscany’s culinary traditions, uncovering its time-honoured cooking methods and notable ingredients sourced from fertile land and bountiful harvests. We’ll also highlight the best food and wine specialties that embody the soul of the region.

Best Food & Wine of Tuscany, Italy

History of Tuscan Cuisine and Cooking

The history of Tuscan cuisine is a story of resourcefulness and a deep connection to the land. Rooted in simplicity, Tuscan cuisine has managed to evolve over the centuries, yet also has managed to keep a lot of its original character and heart.

Typical food in Tuscany dates back before the Roman Empire to a region called Etruria. The Etruscans introduced the cultivation of grains, olives, and grapes, creating some of the world’s first olive oils and wines, two staples that of course remain central to Tuscan cuisine today.

The Romans built upon the Etruscan agricultural foundation, enhancing farming techniques and introducing new ingredients such as farro which remains a popular ingredient today in Tuscan soups and salads.

The Medici family was another huge reason for Tuscany’s embrace of cooking as a form of art. Although Medici’s wealth came from finance as they were a banking family, they were also patrons of the arts which including cooking.

The Medicis promoted the already popular Tuscan olive oil for cooking and also regularly hosted lavish banquets that featured innovative dishes and more refined cooking techniques. During the Medieval and Renaissance periods, unique breads also became a major staple of the Tuscan diet, leading to the creation of dishes like ribollita and panzanella.

Catherine de’ Medici helped spread Tuscany’s culinary traditions across Europe when she brought Florentine chefs to the French court upon marrying Henry II of France. This of course led to French haute cuisine.

Even monasteries played a significant role in preserving and developing Tuscan culinary traditions. Monks and nuns cultivated herbs, produced cheeses, and developed recipes that have been passed down through generations and still used today to temp foodies from around the world.

Notable Tuscan Ingredients

Olive Oil

The Medici family’s focus on olive oil was successful to say the least. They invested in ensuring the production and quality were of the finest and all but guaranteed that different types of olive oil including Tuscany one would become a key ingredient to many local dishes.

Tuscany’s “liquid gold” offers a high antioxidant content and presents an intense peppery flavour being that it’s usually pressed from less ripened green olives. You’ll find it featuring in countless Tuscan dishes, whether it’s drizzled over salads and vegetables or used in the preparation of meats and fish.

Pane Toscano

Most bread recipes call for salt, but not in Tuscany. The production of unsalted bread dates back nearly a thousand years and continues to accompany local soups and stews. The lack of salt makes it pair nicely with savoury flavours, and as such it complements instead of competes with items like prosciutto, salami, and pecorino cheese.

Pecorino Cheese

And speaking of pecorino cheese, it also dates back to Etruscan times. Produced from sheep’s milk, it can boast a mild and creamy flavour or offer a bit of a tangy taste as it matures. You can enjoy it as a snack all by itself or pair it with things like bread as mentioned before, or simply grated over Italian pasta.

Truffles

Tuscany has some of the best truffles in the world including San Miniato’s white truffle. This delicacy adds an earthy flavour to local pastas, risottos, or even your breakfast eggs. Tuscany is known for its annual truffle festivals and fairs where you can enjoy truffle tastings, hunting demonstrations, and a variety of truffle-based dishes.

The season for white truffles runs from late September to December, while the black truffle season runs from December to March. There are also black summer truffles which are harvested from May to August. That means there are fresh Tuscan truffles all year round.

Cinta Senese Pork

The meat from Tuscany’s rare breed of pig is flavourful and tender thanks to the acorns, wild herbs, and natural forage that make up its free-range diet. You’ll find the fat-marbled pork being used for the region’s finest cured meats, such as prosciutto di Cinta Senese and finocchiona.

Farro

Farro is an ancient grain with a nutty flavour and chewy texture. It goes perfectly with soups, salads, and side dishes. It’s a healthy grain that’s easy to digest, and it contains high amounts of fibre and protein. You’ll find it featuring in farro salad and farro soup.

Cannellini Beans

Sometimes referred to as Tuscan white beans, this local staple has been used as a so-called “meat of the poor” for countless generations due its affordability as opposed to more pricey meats.

A creamy and mild bean, they are used in dishes like fagioli all’uccelletto and ribollita where they have a tendency to absorb the intense flavours of herbs and olive oil that these dishes contain.  

Sangiovese Grapes

Famous Tuscan wines like Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano all use Sangiovese grapes. They are the number one grape variety grown in the region and help to produce fines wines that pair heavenly with local chefs’ rich and hearty dishes.

Sangiovese wines have a tendency to age very nicely and contain a high acidity, firm tannins, and flavours of red cherry, plum, and earthy notes

Porcini Mushrooms

A mushroom with a nice meaty texture, porcini mushrooms are yet another delight found in many local pastas and soups. Chefs often source them from the wild in places like the Tuscan Apennines.

The mushrooms with their white flesh hold up well to various cooking methods, making them a popular choice for use in a wide range of dishes. Their flavour can be best described as being a bit nutty and sweet, with a pleasant woodsy aroma.

Classic Tuscan Dishes

Pappa Al Pomodoro

This local signature soup embodies the true essence of Tuscan cooking. It may be a simple dish, but it provides such comfort for anyone fortunate enough to sit down to enjoy it. The soup blends ripe tomatoes, stale bread, sautéed garlic, olive oil, and basil into a hearty and thick, stew-like masterpiece.

It’s a dish that can be enjoyed year-round, although is especially favoured during cooler months where it warms the body and soul. The ability to make use of stale bread to create such a pleasing dish reflects Tuscany’s resourcefulness and practical approach to cooking.

Bistecca alla Fiorentina

Arguably one of the region’s most iconic dishes, this traditional Florentine bone-in T-bone steak is sourced from native Chianina cattle which is one of the oldest breeds in the world.  

The steak is best enjoyed rare to medium-rare, cooked over an open flame or charcoal. The goal is to sear the outside while maintaining the natural juices within, using just a hint of salt and pepper to season so as to not overpower the natural flavour of the meat.

Ribollita

Yet another signature soup of Tuscany, ribollita is a staple vegetable-based soup made with a variety of seasonal vegetables, cannellini beans, and once again stale bread. The soup is traditionally prepared by simmering these ingredients together, then reheating or “reboiling” the mixture the next day, which enhances its flavours and thickens its consistency.

Vegetables used for the soup often include onions, potatoes, celery, carrots, leeks, and tomatoes. The sautéed vegetables are combined with beans and broth and simmered until tender. The bread is then added and allowed to soak up the broth.

This dish is the embodiment of local “cucina povera” which emphasises using simple, readily available ingredients to create humble, yet flavourful and satisfying meals. As an added bonus, it provides a healthy source of fibre, protein, and essential vitamins.

Tuscan Appetisers

Florentine-style artichokes known as Carciofi alla Fiorentina are steamed or braised with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. It’s a simple preparation that avoids losing or overpowering the natural flavour of the artichokes with other ingredients.

Another popular appetiser is Crostini di Fegato, small toasted slices of bread topped with a spread consisting of chicken liver, onions, capers, and anchovies. The result is a rich and savory pre-dinner treat. The liver pâté is often seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices,

Delightful Tuscan Wines

Chianti Classico

This red wine produced from Sangiovese grapes in the region between Florence and Siena is a medium to full body wine with a long, dry finish. It presents vibrant red fruit flavours, balanced tannins, and hints of herbs and spices.

Then there is simply Chianti, a broader DOCG classification than Chianti Classico, and it includes wines from a larger area in Tuscany to include zones like Chianti Rufina and Chianti Colli Senesi.

Brunello di Montalcino

Another prestigious Tuscan red wine made exclusively from Sangiovese grapes, Brunello is a rich, full-bodied wine sporting flavours of dark fruit, tobacco, and leather. True to its name, you’ll find if produced exclusively in Siena’s Montalcino.  

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano goes against the grain a bit by being produced by Prugnolo Gentile grapes as opposed to Sangiovese. With that said, these grapes are still a close local variant of Sangiovese grapes.

The wine typically features flavours of red and dark fruits, with additional hints of herbs, spices, and sometimes leather or tobacco much like Brunello di Montalcino. It has a medium to full body with well-integrated tannins and acidity.

Vin Santo with Cantucci

When it comes to dessert wines, look no further than Vin Santo, a sweet Tuscan wine, often served with cantucci which are Italian almond biscotti biscuits. Dipping almond-laden cantucci into this sweet, amber-coloured wine is the perfect way to top off any Tuscan meal.

Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 50+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.

    

Engagement rings and wedding bands have long served as visible signs of a couple’s commitment to one another, a promise to love each other unconditionally and forever. They help to display to the world that you and the one you love most are dedicated to each other.

Choosing an engagement ring or wedding band is of course a deeply personal decision, but for those whose lives are defined by continuous travel, the selection process involves more than just aesthetics and sentiment.

If you’re an avid traveler who’s constantly roaming the globe, you must consider factors like practicality, durability, and security when selecting a commitment ring such as an engagement ring or wedding band.

Find out how you can find that perfect ring that not only captures your personal love story but also stands up to the demands of a life on the move, ensuring your symbol of commitment remains as enduring as your travel adventures together.

How to Choose the Perfect Engagement Ring or Wedding Band for Your Travel Lifestyle

Durability and Material Choices

Durability should be at the top of your considerations when selecting a ring, especially when you consider it’s an item you will wear daily and in all kinds of conditions.

While gold is arguably the most common choice for wedding and engagement rings, there are actually far better materials that you may want to consider if you are an avid traveler. Rings made of metals like platinum, tungsten carbide, and titanium will stand up better in humid climates or when exposed to salt water.

Known for its strength and resistance to tarnishing, platinum is a top choice for travellers due to not only its strong durability but also the fact it maintains its lustre over time, even with frequent exposure to different environments.

Then there is tungsten carbide. Tungsten is a naturally occurring metal that is one of the hardest and densest metals found on Earth. It has a very high melting point and is known for its strength and durability. When tungsten powder is combined with carbon atoms at high temperatures, you get tungsten carbide which becomes an extremely hard and dense material which is even more durable than pure tungsten itself.

Tungsten carbide’s hardness makes it an ideal material for low maintenance wedding bands, resisting scratches and retaining its polish for a long time.

Lightweight and incredibly strong, titanium also makes a good choice. It’s not only resistant to corrosion and scratches, but also ideal for people with sensitive skin since it’s hypoallergenic.

You may want to consider getting a brushed or matte finish ring instead of one with a high gloss, as it can help conceal minor scratches and keep your ring looking like new even on your tenth or twentieth wedding anniversary.

And when it comes to gemstones, thankfully most wedding and engagement rings use diamonds which are the hardest and most durable option. Provide even greater protection to your diamond or other choice of gemstone by considering a bezel setting where the stone is surrounded by metal.

Versatility in Design

After deciding on a metal choice, it’s then time to think about what design will work best for frequent travel. A plain band without stones or intricate details will be less prone to damage and easier to clean, but if you are including stones, maybe get them set flush with the ring band or placed in a bezel setting where they will be less likely to snag on clothing, suitcases, or travel gear.

As for the cut of diamond if your ring will include one, a round brilliant cut is often the most popular diamond shape, and its symmetrical shape that is void of sharp corners make it less prone to chipping or catching on objects.

That being said, don’t overlook stunning princess cut rings, as this design blends classic beauty with modern appeal, effortlessly fitting a wide variety of personal styles and activities. While the pointed corners can be more vulnerable to chipping, you can help avoid this by setting the diamond in a protective bezel or V-prong setting which can help reduce this risk.

Avoid rings with intricate patterns that may wear down or catch dirt over time. Consider a design that complements various styles of clothing and accessories, as you may need to dress for diverse occasions and climates while traveling.

Practicality

Choose a band with a comfort-fit design, which is rounded on the inside. This reduces the risk of irritation during long periods of wear and is ideal for the many different climates and activities you’ll likely encounter during your travels.

Opt for a ring that doesn’t require frequent or complex cleaning, as this can be challenging to stay on top of while on the road. Rings with fewer crevices or intricate designs are simply easier to maintain.

Try to avoid engraving since detailed engravings or intricate designs can trap sweat and dirt, so a simpler design may be more practical.  In humid climates such as in Southeastern Asian countries, moisture can accumulate under the ring, leading to discomfort or skin irritation. Ensure the ring you choose has a good fit to prevent moisture accumulation.

Meanwhile, if you regularly travel to colder climates like in Finland, consider choosing metals with lower thermal conductivity like tungsten carbide which are less likely to feel excessively cold against the skin. Gold and platinum conduct heat more efficiently, which can equate to feeling more uncomfortable in very cold conditions.

Keep in mind that fingers can shrink in cold weather, so ensure your ring is not too tight to avoid discomfort or risk of the ring becoming stuck. Best bet is to have your ring professionally sized to ensure it will fit comfortably in various weather conditions.

And if you’re an adventurous traveler, keep in mind that bumpy train rides or rugged road trips and jeep safaris on dirt tracks will call for durable settings that securely hold stones in place.

Security

Travel always puts personal items at greater risk, but the level of risk will often be determined by where you choose to travel. This is where choosing a ring that is less flashy or opulent-looking will be beneficial, as it will draw less attention from potential thieves.

Keep your ring in a hotel safe or other secure location whenever you’re not wearing your ring. Another potential idea is to have a secondary, less expensive substitute ring you can wear when traveling to higher risk areas or where environmental damage may be a concern.

Keep a digital record of the ring’s purchase, including photographs and receipts, and have these documents available on cloud storage or simply email them to yourself so you can access them from anywhere with an internet connection. This can be useful for insurance claims if necessary.

And speaking of insurance, be sure to insure your ring against loss, theft, or damage. Make sure the insurance covers international travel and includes full replacement costs, with the lowest premium and deductible possible. You may have to add additional coverage to a standard travel insurance policy or look at alternative insurance options for items that are of especially high value.

Be mindful of activities that could potentially damage or dislodge the ring or its stones, such as strenuous sports or adventure travel activities. Use common sense and maybe avoid wearing rings when partaking in activities like scuba diving, swimming at resort pools or beaches, skydiving, bungee jumping, etc.

Be sure to have your ring regularly serviced and cleaned by a professional jeweler to ensure all settings and components are secure. You can also inspect your ring yourself before and after traveling for any signs of wear, loose stones, or damage.

Costs

There are several costs associated with wedding rings and they include the initial purchase, price, ongoing maintenance, and insurance.  

In terms of purchase price, while it may be nice to wear an expensive ring with large carat diamond(s), consider if that money could be better allocated towards your travel fund. Opting for an economical ring over an expensive luxurious one could allow you to extend your travel budget to travel longer or in greater style such as flying first-class or staying in fancier hotels.

Set a realistic ring budget that includes not just the initial cost but also ongoing maintenance, insurance, and potential additional expenses. Determine which features are most important and prioritize spending in those areas while staying within your budget.

Be mindful that traveling increases the risk of loss or damage. Investing in a high-quality but reasonably priced ring allows for peace of mind. Some materials and designs require more frequent maintenance as discussed earlier. Weigh the ongoing costs of keeping the ring in good condition, especially if regular professional cleaning or adjustments may be needed.

Purchasing a Ring Abroad

A lot of people also consider purchasing an engagement or wedding ring overseas, but there are potential risks and potential added costs to be aware of. First off is to of course avoid scams. Only buy jewelry from reputable companies abroad and not small shops or vendors that are potentially selling faux diamonds or gold/platinum rings. If the price is too good to be true, it most likely is.

Be aware of potential costs related to currency exchange if purchasing the ring internationally. Significant fluctuations in exchange rates can happen overnight which can have a great effect on the final cost of high value items such as an engagement ring.

Make sure you use a credit card with zero foreign transaction fees as well, unless you want to pay an additional 3% or more for your ring. Also research if there are any potential customs duties or import taxes that you may need to pay.

Resell Value

While you are likely never planning to hopefully sell your ring, the reality is that relationships do break down or you may want to upgrade your ring down the line. Some materials and designs retain their value better than others. If you’re considering future resale or trade-in options, research the potential appreciation or depreciation that is likely with the ring you choose.

Insuring Your Ring

Insuring your ring can prove to be a significant expense if your ring is of considerably high value. The cost will depend on your ring’s value and the extent of coverage. Check the terms of the insurance policy, including deductibles and claims procedures.

And again, ensure your policy provides adequate protection for the specific travel you plan to do and read the fine print. For instance, if you lose your ring on a cruise but did not take out cruise travel insurance and instead only have a standard travel insurance policy, you may only be covered for the period of travel that did not take part during your cruise.

Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 100+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.

    

In today’s economy, it’s no surprise that many people are considering a move to another country, even across continents. Whether it’s for lower living costs, better job opportunities, or a more appealing lifestyle, international relocation can offer fantastic financial benefits. Not to mention life experiences.

But while the potential savings are enticing, the costs of relocating to another country can often add up quickly if you’re not careful. Here are some of our best tips for minimizing moving costs while ensuring a stress-free transition to your new international home.

6 Tips for Minimizing Moving Costs on an International Journey

Pack Smarter, Not Harder

When you’re moving internationally, every inch of space counts. Shipping costs are often calculated by volume, so the less you pack, the less you pay. You should begin by downsizing your belongings, and this can be done by  selling, donating, or simply discarding items that either won’t serve you in your new home or can be replaced for less than the cost of moving such items. Once you’ve decluttered your belongings, you can the focus on packing essentials and irreplaceable items.

Also consider investing in vacuum-seal bags to compress clothing and soft goods, which can save a surprising amount of space. And if you’re still lugging around lots of books, whether they be novels, coffee table books, or ancient textbooks from college, you may want to consider ditching the books and replacing your physical library with digital eBooks.

Doing your own packing can also save a ton on labor costs, and you can more easily group items together and label boxes as you wish. Make use of old towels, clothing, or newspapers to protect breakable items instead of paying a lot of money for bubble wrap.

You may be able to collect free boxes from local stores. Many businesses often receive stock regularly that of course comes to them in boxes of all shapes and sizes. They often break down these quality boxes and simply place them in their recycle dumpsters. Simply give them a call to see if you can swing by and make use of the boxes before they get picked up.

Compare Movers’ Quotes

Not all movers are created equal, especially when it comes to international moves. Some companies specialize in overseas relocations and can offer better deals or more tailored services.

We recommend gathering quotes from at least three different movers. To simplify this process, consider using a moving cost calculator. It’s a handy tool that lets you calculate your moving costs so you can prepare in advance.

But don’t just look at the price, rather pay close attention to what’s included. Find out if the moving company offers free packing materials, included insurance, or provide complimentary customs clearance in their fee. Reading reviews from other expats or checking out forums can also give you a sense of who’s reliable and who’s not.

Explore Shipping Options

Airfreight might get your belongings to your new home faster, but it’s also the most expensive option. If time isn’t a constraint, consider shipping by sea. Yes, it’s slower, but also significantly cheaper.

Another option is shared or consolidated shipping, where your items share container space with others, thereby reducing costs. But be mindful that with shared shipping, the timeline might be less predictable, so plan accordingly.

Find Free Resources

There’s no need to pay for every little thing when you’re preparing for an international move. Many community groups, especially those for expats, offer free moving boxes or packing supplies. You can also find detailed country-specific relocation guides online, often created by other expats who’ve already gone through the process.

These guides can save you both time and money by helping you avoid common pitfalls. And don’t overlook government resources either, since many countries provide online tools or brochures that explain the logistics of importing personal belongings. This can help you avoid unexpected fees.

Take Advantage of Airline Allowances

When booking your flight, check your baggage allowance carefully. Some airlines offer generous baggage policies, especially on international flights. If you’re a frequent flyer with a specific airline, you might be eligible for even more.

Take full advantage of this by packing heavier or more valuable items in your checked luggage, reducing the volume of what you need to ship separately.

Plan Ahead

We recommend planning your move as early as possible. This will give you time to shop around for deals, both for moving services and for flights. And if you have the flexibility, moving during the off-season can save you a bundle. Many movers offer discounts during less busy months, typically in the fall or winter, when fewer people are relocating.

Save on Visa Fees

You may also want to explore ways to save on visa costs when relocating internationally. Be sure to research all available visa categories, since some may have lower application fees or longer validity periods, which could save you money in the long run.

Many countries now offer special visas for remote workers or digital nomads, often with lower fees and simpler application processes. Some companies may also be willing to cover the full cost of a visa as part of their relocation package. There are even certain countries that will offer financial incentives to people choosing to move and remain in their towns for a set period of time.

While visa agencies can be helpful, handling the application yourself can save you a lot of money. Most visa applications are rather straightforward. Simply follow the instructions provided by the embassy or consulate and rely on official government websites for guidance to avoid misinformation that could lead to costly mistakes.

Submitting your visa application directly to the embassy or consulate will also save money, as opposed to going through a third-party service, which often charge extra fees. Many third-party visa websites are scams and charge substantially more for services that you can do yourself for free or at a much lower cost.

Getting your visa well in advance of your move will help you avoid expedited processing fees, which can be quite a bit higher. Applying early also gives you time to correct any errors or submit additional documents without needing to reapply, which would cost more.

Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007.  Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 100+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.

    

There’s no denying that travel leaves lasting impressions on us all, often providing us with many unforgettable moments. However, upon returning home there lies the challenge of trying to keep the essence of those fond travel memories alive in our daily lives.

The simple fact is that for most of us travel is fleeting, and we aren’t afforded the luxury of roaming around the world endlessly. But while the excitement of travel must come to an end, you can continue to relive those special moments and places you’ve visited through the power of art.

By channelling your travel memories into artistic pursuits, you can stay connected to the places that made an impression on you. Here are innovative and creative ways to transform your travel memories into various forms of art that will hopefully enrich your everyday life by offering constant reminders of your endeavours and allowing you to relive your trips around the world.

Reliving Your Travels at Home Through Art

Turn You Home into an Art Gallery Showcasing Your Travels

Turning your home into an art gallery that showcases your travels can transform your mundane living spaces into an almost personal museum of your adventures. You can simply focus on showcasing your travels in a single room or throughout your entire home.

Create a gallery wall in a central area of your home, such as the living room or a hallway, where you can hang travel photos you’ve personally taken or beautiful canvas art prints from professional painters and photographers that best capture the essence of the places you’ve visited.

You can search for canvases featuring notable travel landmarks like the Eiffel Tower in Paris, beach or rainforest scenes, artwork depicting cultural elements or people dressed in traditional clothing, local wildlife you observed, or even recreations of famous painting you saw in museums while traveling like the Louvre’s Mona Lisa.

There are many ways you can use wall art to make an ordinary space come alive with the memories of your travels. While paintings and photos are an obvious choice, you can also create hangable shadow boxes containing 3D displays of various souvenirs you’ve acquired such as international coins, postcards, seashells, or figurines.

And you can keep your gallery always looking fresh by swapping out/rotating photos or paintings from time to time. Likewise, you can rearrange shadow boxes at intervals, such as anniversary dates of past trips, to display new items in order to remember other places you’ve visited.  

You can also use digital frames to display a rotating slideshow of your travel photos, a good option if you have endless travel photos you want to see regularly and simply can’t decide on just a few images to print and hang.

You can further accent your wall art with natural art pieces you’ve picked up while traveling such as stones, driftwood, dried plants and flowers, or feathers.

Try Your Hand at Travel-Inspired Crafts

DIY travel-inspired crafts will allow you to creatively express your travel memories while also adding a personal artistic touch to your home. The only limit to what you can create is your imagination and commitment.

One of the easiest projects to create is a travel scrapbook journal compiled of photos, postcards, plane or train ticket stubs, hotel rooms keycards, and other memorabilia. Accentuate your journal with personal sketches, thoughts, and reflections about each destination.

Another idea is to craft a personalised travel wall map by marking all the places you’ve visited. You can use pins if using corkboard as a backing, string, or stickers to indicate your journeys. Add small photos of your travels to give the map even more added colour.

You can create a memory quilt made up of various fabric souvenirs like t-shirts, pieces of exotic fabrics you’ve picked up, or other textile souvenirs. Alternatively, you can simply seek out fabric squares with imagery or embroidery depicting scenery or landmarks from the places you’ve been to  then craft into a quilt.

Easier options include creating photo books online or designing a custom travel-themed calendar featuring photos from your travels for each week or month depending on the calendar style. You could also turn small souvenirs or photos into magnets by attaching them to magnet backings and then display them on your fridge where they’re guaranteed to be seen daily.

The possibilities really are endless when it comes to crafty ideas to remember your travels. From pillowcases to coasters and coffee mugs, focus on items that you use or see daily so as they can allow you to relive your travels regularly.  

Relive Travel Experiences by Visiting Art Exhibitions and Special Events

Many cities and even small towns host special annual events and festivals that often showcase the culture of different countries or regions around the world, meaning you might be able to experience a slice of the various places you’ve visited right in your own hometown.

Cultural festivals often showcase the art, music, dance, and culinary traditions of different regions. These events can easily transport you back to your travel destinations through immersive experiences.

Keep an eye out for traveling exhibitions as well which are often hosted by museums. This might include artworks or archaeological artefacts from around the world that get selected for a traveling exhibition that may visit an institution in your local area.  Visiting such events allows you to experience diverse art from around the world which may remind you of the artistic influences you personally encountered during your travels.

Some art institutions may also host workshops and classes that focus on traditional techniques and crafts from around the world, allowing you to reconnect with the cultural heritage of travel destinations you may have visited.

Travel-Inspired Music and Performance

If you’re musically inclined or simply enjoy dancing, consider expressing your travel memories through music or dance. Write or compose a song that is inspired by somewhere you’ve visited. Bonus points of you are able to record a song using instruments or exotic sounds/styles used in visited destinations.

You could also choreograph a dance or create a theatrical performance that encapsulates the spirit of a place or its culture. Of course, if you cannot carry a tune or bust a move, you could simply create a playlist of songs to listen to that include tunes or artists from the places you visited, songs you heard on the radio while travelling, or songs that somehow remind you of your travels.  

Travel-Inspired Writing

Using writing as a form of art is a powerful way to relive your travel adventures and keep those memories vivid long after you’ve returned home. You can simply choose to keep your writing private or share it with others to help inspire them to visit the places you’ve seen.

While it’s always better to record a travel journal while you are travelling in order to record greater details of your experiences as they happen, you can always create a journal after you’ve returned home. You can record voice notes while travelling in order to remember details of experiences or use photos to help jog your memory on what you experienced or felt.

Another option is to start a travel blog to share your adventures with a public audience online. Writing blog posts allows you to not only reflect on your travels, but also allows you to connect with others who may then comment or ask questions about your travels.

Write your own travel guides or reviews of the places you visited, providing practical information and personal insights for other travellers. You can focus on writing restaurant or hotel reviews, or create Top 10 lists that focus on subjects like the top landmarks, parks, museums, or day trips travellers should include on their itinerary.  

Then there is poetry and short stories. Compose poems inspired by your travels, using descriptive words and colourful language to capture the essence of the places you’ve been and the emotions you experienced. Turn your travel experiences into short stories, using fictional or real-life characters to bring your adventures to life in a narrative format.

If you are especially talented at writing and have a great deal of free time on your hands after returning home, you can also think about writing a book. It can be a real-life autobiographical account of your adventures or a fictional novel which may blend factual travel events you experienced alongside storytelling elements to create a unique and imaginative piece of writing.

You can use sensory details to recreate the sights, sounds, and smells of the places you visited, or possibly include characters based on real people you’ve encountered on your travels or dialogue you had with them.

Travel Inspired Painting & Drawing

Bring out your inner artist by starting a sketchbook that showcases your travels. Draw from memory or use photos for reference. Draw scenes or subjects that stood out to you during your travels such as wildlife you saw, people you met, or landmarks you observed.

When it comes to painting your travels, you of course can experiment with acrylics, oils, or watercolours. Or you may wish to use coloured pencils, markers, charcoal, pen, or a simple graphite pencil. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different art media as well as styles of art such as realism, abstract, or impressionism.

Thanks to today’s technology, you can now also use digital tools and software to create paintings and illustrations of your travel experiences, which can be printed or shared online. Design posters, postcards, or digital collages that highlight the essence of your travels using graphic design.

You can even make painting or drawing a social activity by gathering friends or family for a special art night where you each create art that is inspired by your travels, whether it’s a trip you shared together or you each paint something from your individual travels and then exchange travel stories about what you each chose to paint.

Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 50+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.

    

While traveling solo can offer unparalleled opportunities for personal growth and discovery, it can often present unique challenges when it comes to keeping yourself entertained. Traveling alone means you have nobody encouraging you to try new things, so it’s up to you to motivate yourself to not miss out on travel experiences.

While the freedom to explore at your own pace is undeniably liberating, the challenge of keeping yourself entertained without a travel companion can often lead to decision fatigue and loneliness which can make it difficult to stay motivated and engaged.

As a person that regularly travels solo, let me offer some tips for best places and activities to seek out when traveling alone. These recommendations will hopefully allow you to avoid the potential pitfalls of solo travel and ensure you give yourself opportunities for personal growth, endless excitement, and unforgettable experiences. Don’t be afraid to go it alone, but let’s ensure your solo adventure is anything but boring.

Great Ideas to Keep Yourself Entertained on Your Solo Travels

Document Your Trip

One of the most personally rewarding ways to keep yourself entertained when traveling solo is by documenting your travels with a personal journal, public travel blog, or through photos and videos you share on your socials.

Writing about your travels allows you to reflect on your experiences, preserve the memories and emotions you felt, and share your thoughts with others or yourself at a later date. I personally find it incredibly therapeutic, providing an outlet for your inner thoughts and a way to process the many new experiences you’ll encounter on solo trips.  

As a travel blogger, I am then able to share my various journeys and experiences to provide insights and tips to an audience, as well as hopefully inspire others to give solo travel a go. The interactive nature of a blog or posting to social media can also help you deal with the sometimes lonely aspect of solo travel, since it gives you the opportunity to reply to comments and feedback from readers or followers that can become a supportive virtual community of like-minded individuals.

Documenting your travels turns solo adventures into creative projects, offering a sense of purpose and achievement. By capturing your experiences through words and images, you create a tangible record of your journey that allows you and others to relive your past travels.

Go Sightseeing

Another excellent way to stay entertained when traveling alone is to push yourself to do as much sightseeing as possible. Getting out and exploring new destinations allows you to interact with your surroundings, stimulates your curiosity, and engages all your senses.

Whether it’s iconic major city landmarks or little-known hidden small-town gems, it really doesn’t matter. What matters is that you get out and explore the things that truly interest you and at the same time encourage yourself to step outside your comfort zone to broaden your horizons with places and activities you normally wouldn’t think to go see or do back home.

Exploring historical sites, such as ancient ruins, castles, and monuments, can offer a fascinating glimpse into the past and the stories that shaped a destination, while local museums can offer insight to even more history along with the culture of a destination.

To employ sightseeing as a boredom prevention tactic effectively, plan a mix of activities that cater to your interests and energy levels. Start with a list of attractions you really want to see, but then also leave room for spontaneous exploration.

Visit tourist information centers, use travel apps, and read through travel guidebooks to discover things to do and places to go. Make your sightseeing personal by seeking out landmarks or places that may have ties to your favorite celebrities, movies and TV series, or books.

Make New Friends

A huge part of travel is trying to connect with locals and other fellow travelers. Just because you are choosing to travel solo doesn’t mean you need to become a traveling hermit. Making new friends while traveling is one of the most rewarding ways to stay entertained, especially when you are venturing around the globe alone.

Interacting with new people, especially those from different cultures and backgrounds, provides fresh perspectives, shared experiences, and a sense of connection with the world. It transforms solo travel from a solitary endeavor into a social adventure, where simple conversations can lead to new opportunities or changing your rigid perspectives.  

One of the best ways to make friends while traveling alone is by staying in social accommodations such as hostels or guesthouses. If you’d prefer booking private accommodation for personal or safety reasons, you can alternatively look to social apps like Meetup or local Facebook groups that often publicize various events and meetups specifically for travelers looking to connect with locals or fellow travelers who share similar interests or travel goals.

Other ways to get social while traveling solo is to attend a cultural event, join a walking tour, or take part in various workshops like local cooking or art classes. Most major cities offer free guided walking tours that regularly attract good sized groups of people, and they are often organized around a theme such as history tours, art tours, nature tours, foodie tours, pub crawls, etc.

Do Side Hustles to Earn Money

There are also many financial side hustles for travelers looking to not only keep themselves entertained, but also earn some cash in the process. Being able to earn money while traveling, whether it’s being a digital nomad or seeking out odd local jobs, will allow you to extend your travel budget which in turns means you can travel for a longer period of time.  

Many travelers find that freelance work is a good option as it allows you to work whenever you want while traveling as opposed to being locked into a committed work schedule which would likely greatly impact your travel plans. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer offer a wide range of opportunities that can be done remotely while traveling.

Other side hustle options include teaching or tutoring various subjects whether its language learning or helping others learn a new hobby or talent.

Even travel blogging or creating a following on social media who follow your travel experiences can also turn into a lucrative side hustle. You can monetize websites with content advertising, affiliate marketing, or selling products like your travel photos or travel guides.

Finally, you can seek out part-time or seasonal work wherever you travel. Hospitality jobs are readily available such as working the front desk of a hotel, restaurant and bar staff, or cleaning jobs. Keep in mind that when traveling internationally, you will need to ensure your visa allows you the ability to legally work and if there are any specific restrictions or requirements in place.

Volunteer Your Time

What better way to fill travel downtime or boredom than to give back to the places you visit. Seeking out volunteer work transforms your travel experience from mere sightseeing to active participation, offering a deeper connection with the places you visit.

The really are so many different volunteer options available these days, which means you can always find something that will feel less like work and more like something you would actually pay to experience. You don’t want to feel like you are greatly sacrificing your travel time to volunteer when there are options that will allow you to do things you actually enjoy doing during your travels.

Volunteering should accentuate your travel enjoyment, not be something that takes aways from your travels or leaves you feeling a sense of regret. Therefore, don’t be afraid to be selective in choosing ways to help that align with your interests or abilities.

Environmental volunteerism may include cleaning up beaches or planting trees. Examples of humanitarian and community-focused volunteering include cooking and serving meals to those in need or helping to build simple housing and infrastructure for communities.

To find the best volunteer opportunities, check out platforms like Workaway, WWOOF, and Volunteer World which will outline the various opportunities that are available according to your chosen destinations, travel plans, and skills or interests.

Take Time to Read

Reading has that magically ability to transport you to another world whenever you wish and no matter what setting you may find yourself physically in. This makes reading perfect for preventing boredom while on flights, trains, buses, or waiting for hotel check-ins.

Reading also forces you to slow down and simply take in the atmosphere of a place. Whether you choose to read in a local café or at a local park, you can literally stop to smell the roses, feel the sun or breeze on your face, and take in the sounds around you.

There are of course endless things to read while traveling. You can select fiction as an escape or may want to go with a travel guide to learn about the local culture, cuisine, history, or notable people of the places you visit.

And it doesn’t have to be a novel or involved book, rather you can simply choose to read magazines you pick up at an airport lounge, travel brochures from visitor centers, or short blog articles and news stories you find online. The point is that reading will almost always provide you with either added knowledge or the ability to momentarily escape to a more entertaining world.  

If you aren’t keen on reading or find that reading is difficult to do while traveling, then maybe consider audiobooks or podcasts which can also offer up useful knowledge or a temporary escape from the real world.

Connect with Nature

Whether its strolling through a beautiful botanical garden or hitting the beach, embracing nature and participating in nature-based activities will almost always leave you feeling positive and refreshed.  

Taking the time to step into nature and enjoy a digital detox without the distraction of screens and social media alerts going off on your phone allows you to be present and pay greater attention to the sights, sounds, and smells of the natural world which many of us have become detached from.

Connecting with nature most often helps to clear the mind, reduce stress, and provide a wide range of health benefits both in terms of physical and mental health. Whether it’s paddleboarding along the coast, trekking through a national park, or simply visiting a city garden, nature is never far away. It’s simply a matter of seeking it out.

You would be surprised at just how much wildlife is around as well, even in the middle of busy cities. You can often find a wide range of animals living in local parks, reserves, and gardens which can offer you a chance to connect with animals if you struggle to connect with people when traveling solo.

Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007.  Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 100+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.

    

Setting out on a solo road trip can be a freeing and empowering experience, offering unparalleled freedom and the chance to discover new places and maybe even a bit more about yourself in the process.

That being said, there’s no denying that cross-country road trips can often be filled with seemingly endless hours of driving which can see boredom creep in to compete with your excitement.  

Thankfully, there are a number of ways you can transform these quiet miles into periods that may actually enhance your trip or at the very least keep you entertained during the downtime transiting between destinations on your road trip itinerary.  

From in-car entertainment to unique ideas for road stops to break up long periods of monotonous driving and prevent boredom, let’s explore how to make every moment of your journey an enjoyable one next time you’re planning for a road trip.

Planning For All That Downtime on Your Next Solo Road Trip

Plan Scenic Routes or Detours

One of the easiest and best ways to keep boredom at bay is to make your daily drives interesting. Keeping your mind engaged with constantly changing scenery that’s actually enjoyable to look at will make time spent driving feel much quicker. Unlike major highways, scenic roadways have character and create more interactive driving where you must navigate winding roads, changing elevations, and often cut through a range of different landscapes.  

Research scenic byways and lesser-known routes that may offer beautiful natural views or interesting landmarks. Many regions often have dedicated tourist routes that take in notable small towns, quirky roadside attractions, or scenic lookouts.

Scenic routes are made even more enjoyable if you are able to time your road trip to take in natural seasonal events like autumn when the trees are ablaze with colour or spring when wildflowers or cherry blossoms in are full bloom.

Scenic routes not only often provide your very own nature documentary in real time right if front of your eyes, but also tend to be more relaxed and less prone to traffic than many highways or more popular travelled routes. You are also likely to increase your chances of spotting local wildlife along the road by opting for a scenic route or detour.

Before setting off on your road trip, go out and get an old-fashioned atlas as well, since physical atlases often highlight scenic routes, historic landmarks, and lesser-known attractions that digital maps often overlook.

While GPS and digital maps are convenient, an atlas offers a tangible connection to the journey, allowing you to see the bigger picture of your route. Use it not just for navigation but as a tool to learn about the destinations and regions you’ll pass through.

And don’t be afraid to mark up your atlas, since marking out your planned routes, jotting down notes, and highlighting favourite spots or interesting things you came across can create a personalised travel keepsake that will allow you to relive your road trip later on.

Become a Photojournalist

While most of us take photos while traveling, they often end up being a random serious of snaps that we post on social media without any organisation. Why not change that and become a sort of amateur photojournalist where you actually tell a story with your photos.

Becoming an actual photographer as opposed to simply someone who takes photos here and there not only provides a creative outlet but also gives you another purpose on your road trip. Create a goal of images you wish to capture or simply allow fate to run its course and document those moments to tell a story.

Constantly being on the lookout for photo opportunities makes you more observant and attuned to your surroundings, helping you not only appreciate the journey more but also makes the time go quicker.

Photographing your trip helps create a visual diary of your experiences, which you can then plan to share on social media with friends, family, or followers if you have them. The key is to post daily in chronological order so as to make people feel as though they are tagging along with you for the journey.

Simply create a visual daily diary with your images or perhaps consider focusing on a specific themed photo project such as roadside oddities, beautiful skies, impressive bridges, notable rivers, etc.

The pursuit of photographs not only fills downtime while your actually taking pictures, but can then also fill downtime later on at stops or in a hotel when you go to review what incredible shots you managed to take and possibly wish to edit.

Meals on Wheels: Equip Your Vehicle with Snacks

Never underestimate the power of good snacks on a road trip. A well-stocked supply of your favourite treats can make long stretches of driving much more enjoyable. Packing your car with snacks not only helps fill downtime and prevent boredom, but it will also boost your mood and energy levels while driving.

Eating snacks regularly helps maintain your blood sugar levels, preventing energy dips and keeping you alert. Certain snacks, like chocolate, can also trigger the release of endorphins, which improve your mood during those especially long stretches of straight road that are often inevitable.

Having snacks and planning out intervals to eat them will also give you something to look forward to, almost creating a reward system for completing a set amount of driving whether that is a certain number of miles or duration of time.  

When packing snacks, you want to bring easy-to-eat options that won’t create a distraction if you plan to eat while driving. You will have more flexibility of course if you plan to pull over for stops to have snacks. Bring a mix of sweet, savory, crunchy, and chewy snacks to keep things interesting and to satisfy your different cravings.

Individually wrapped snacks like protein bars, fruit snacks, and jerky are easy to eat on the go. If you happen to have a portable cooler, you can then include snacks like individual yogurts or a sort of on-the-road, snack-sized charcuterie board of meats and cheese you pack.

And for a few health and safety tips when snacking while driving, be sure to keep snacks within easy reach while driving so as to not interfere with driving. Have plenty of bottled water handy as well in the car to keep you hydrated during daily drives and in case you experience a vehicle breakdown and are far from a town.  

Pack snacks in single-serving portions to avoid overeating and keep snacks fresh with resealable bags, tupperware, or coolers.

Create a Road Trip Playlist

Creating a music playlist to fill downtime is hardly a unique idea, as road trippers have been resorting to music to fill downtime while driving ever since the ability to play music in vehicles was invented.

No road trip is complete without a killer playlist. Music has the power to boost your disposition and keep you from nodding off. Take some time before your trip to curate a playlist that captures the spirit of your journey.

Organise your playlist into themed periods such as upbeat tunes to wake you up on those early morning drives, more relaxing tracks for when you want to wind down during evening drives, and perhaps a mix of nostalgic songs thrown in to help you relive fond memories to take your mind off monotonous stretches of road.

It’s always a good idea to include a diverse mix of music styles such as rock, pop, indie, jazz, classical, and hip-hop to keep things interesting. You should also use a road trip as an opportunity to listen to genres you normally wouldn’t, to see if you’ve been missing out.

If you know your favourite artist(s) are releasing new tracks, maybe hold off on listening to new releases so you can treat yourself to their new tunes during your road trip, giving you something to look forward to.

And because road trips often mean multiple days of long driving, ensure your playlist offers enough songs to not only get you through a single day’s driving, but also many days so as to not have to constantly be listening to repeated tracks. Utilising shuffle mode will also help keep playlists unpredictable and therefore more interesting.

Lastly, think about including music from local artists of the destinations you will be traveling to, which may allow you to feel a stronger connection with the culture of the regions you visit.

Listen to Podcasts

Podcasts are yet another fantastic way to stay entertained and engaged when you’re riding solo on a road trip. Hearing human voices talk in the car with you can help you avoid feeling lonely. There are endless podcast choices these days, ensuring you’ll be able to find a topic that intrigues you whether its history, science, sports, birding, true crime, comedy, navigating relationships, etc.

Be sure to download a variety of episodes  and switch up topics for different days to keep things interesting. Have a mix of podcast lengths so you can choose ones that are suitable for the lengths of drives you have planned.

You have the option to select podcasts with compelling narratives and captivating storytelling to keep you hooked, or maybe you want to find one that teaches you a new skill. There are podcasts that will help you learn a new language, how to improve your chess game, assist with personal development, or how to improve productivity and business skills in your career

Record Voice Notes for a Travel Journal

One of the advantages of being alone in a car on a solo road trip is the ability to not only sing your heart out to songs on the radio without being judged by passengers, but also record voice notes without feeling embarrassed by others in the car.

Recording voice notes while driving can be an excellent way to keep a detailed travel journal of your experiences. You’ll be able to record your immediate thoughts and observations of travel experiences while they’re still fresh in your mind. This will allow you to later write travel journal entries that are much more vivid and detailed.

Using voice recording to save your thoughts is ideal for when you’re on the road and need hands-free things to keep your mind occupied. You can easily record voice notes these days thanks to smartphones with memo apps or voice-activated assistants, which are readily available and simple to operate.

Voice notes require much less effort than writing, especially during long drives, and can be more efficient for capturing lengthy thoughts. They also allow you to share and save spontaneous and detailed descriptions of travel experiences in real time as you encounter them if you wish.

Simply transcribe and edit the voice notes later when you have more time, turning them into a well-written travel journal you can keep for personal use, share with friends and family, or to help you create engaging and comprehensive travel articles for travel blog posts you can share online.

Use folders or tags to better organise your recordings by date or location in order to make it easier to find various recordings and transcribe them later. Maybe also mention the date and time in each recording as a backup to ensure you can keep notes in chronological order.

Sample Local Cuisine with a “Food Crawl”

You may have heard of a pub crawl where you hit up a number of bars in a single night to sample drinks, but why not plan a “food crawl” on your road trip that focuses on sampling local food specialties at roadside restaurants to introduce yourself to new adventurous flavours you may have never tasted before.

Research various restaurants and cafes along your route that may offer authentic local flavours and then plan your road trip stops around them. Or you may be fortunate to have a local festival or weekly market that’s happening where you might be able to catch food stalls selling a wide range of unique local produce and culinary creations.

Just as seeing new scenery keeps things interesting on a road trip, so too does discovering new and unique foods. And engaging with local food vendors or restaurant owners and staff often results in gaining interesting facts about the local area, with advice on things to check out while you’re passing through.

Hunt for Things You Collect

And our last recommendation goes out to all those collectors who have a passion for collecting something, whether it’s coins, stamps, postcards, antique bottles, books, or various antiques. Seek out shops that may sell whatever it is you collect, and plan stops to browse for a hidden treasures to add to your collection.  

Not only will you get to add another piece to your cherished collection, but items acquired while travelling often hold an added significance as they allow you to recall your travels. You often find too that you may be able to find items on the road while travelling that were otherwise hard to locate in your own hometown or even online.

You will of course be able to pick up items that are significant to the local area as well, such as books written by local authors, art created by local artisans, and local historical items that have a story to tell.

Shops selling collectible items are often locally or family-owned, meaning you will be supporting locals and be able to bring home more unique or one-of-a-kind souvenirs from your road trip.

Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 100+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.

    

With inflation driving up many of the costs associated with travel, travelers are seeking out whatever ways they can to save money. One sure fire way to cut down on costs while traveling is to book accommodation with self-catering kitchen facilities. Not only will this save you a great deal of money not having to eat out for every meal, but it will also likely see you eating healthier and experiencing more authentic local culture.

While hotels may offer convenience, luxury, and a range of amenities, there is something to be said for gaining the flexibility to plan meals on your own schedule as opposed to needing to adhere to restaurant hours or the availability of reservations. It can also be a lifesaver in instances where you have special dietary needs or wish to maintain a healthy diet.

Let us explore the many benefits of booking accommodation with kitchen facilities so you too can start making your travel budget go further and not starve yourself in the process.    

Top Benefits of Staying in Hotels with Kitchens While You Travel

Financial Savings

Whether you’re a backpacker looking to seek out a hostel with shared kitchen facilities or desire the convenience and comfort of having your own private kitchen, staying in hotels with kitchen facilities can lead to significant savings. This is especially true when needing to book long-term stays whether for business or leisure travel.

I have often tried to create my own makeshift kitchen in fancier hotels by lugging a microwave in my luggage along with maybe a rice cooker, electric frypan, dishes, and utensils. I can say from experience it’s a hassle trying to make your own kitchen, especially when it comes to washing up after meals and being restricted to the small space and sink of a hotel bathroom.

You’re far better off simply booking accommodation with dedicated kitchen facilities for the simple ease it brings.  Having a dedicated space to cook is especially beneficial when having to cook for a travelling family or group of people.

Dining out for every meal can quickly add up, especially in tourist areas with pricey restaurants. Not only will shopping at local grocery stores and markets allow you to get more food for less, but it also allows you to engage with locals and get a bit of authentic culture living as the residents do.

Cooking your own meals also allows you the ability to minimize waste by saving and storing leftovers in a fridge, so as to make the next day’s meals even easier and reduce costs further.

You also do away with restaurant gratuities, automatic service charges, or surcharges for dining during major holidays which can add up quickly.

Healthier Eating Options

Beyond the savings, choosing hotels with kitchens can ensure healthier eating options. You get to control ingredients, how meals are prepared, and portion sizes. You can shop at local markets for fresh organic produce void of unhealthy additives and preservatives.

Both restaurant chefs and fast-food chains are all about creating flavor and making diners happy, and this sometimes means adding unhealthy levels of salt, sugar, or unhealthy fats to meals.

When preparing your own meals, it’s often easier to serve up well-balanced meals featuring a proper mix of vegetables, proteins, and whole grains, rather than relying on the often-imbalanced options available at restaurants.

Kitchens also make it easier to prepare healthier snacks as opposed to relying on the offerings of a hotel mini bar or convenient store that’s maybe down the street from the hotel. You can pick up fruits, veges, nuts, yogurt, and other healthier snacks while shopping for the meals you plan to make and then properly store them in your accommodation’s kitchen.

Convenience and Flexibility

Staying in hotels with kitchens offers unmatched convenience and flexibility for travelers. It not only simplifies meal preparations, but also allows adjustments to individual schedules.

Hotels with kitchens provide the freedom to plan meals to your needs, whether that means planning early breakfasts in order to catch booked tours that depart in the early AM hours, or when you return late from a long day trip and need to cook a late dinner when restaurants may have already stopped serving for the evening.

Travel often means unpredictable schedules, so being able to adapt your meals around your desired travel activities as opposed to your activities around meal needs leads to more rewarding travel and added experiences.

Preparing and eating meals in your own private space is also just plain more relaxing. Many times, after a long day of exploring a new destination, I simply want to return to my accommodation to unwind, and having kitchen facilities allows me to do this.

I can get comfortable in pajamas or loungewear and don’t have to worry about getting dressed up or ready again for a dinner reservation, not to mention having to spend precious travel time waiting to be sat, served, and given the bill in a restaurant which can prove burdensome at especially busy establishments.

Having kitchen facilities also becomes a lifesaver when traveling in more remote areas where restaurants are not readily available or when travelling during peak travel periods or public holidays when it may prove difficult to get reservations, especially if you leave planning reservations until the last minute.

Comforts of Home

Being able to cook and eat within your own accommodation also allows you the ability to personalize your environment. Restaurants can prove to be too noisy, too hot or cold, or too dark or bright. You get to create the dining conditions that are most desirable to you and can choose to eat meals while watching a movie, listening to your favorite music, or simply gazing out at a sea view from your oceanfront balcony.

Cooking your own meals in a kitchen provides a sense of routine and normalcy, making the environment feel more familiar and comforting which can be easier on children. Self-catering kitchens also enable families to better socialize with each other without distractions from large numbers of other diners.

Hotels rooms with private kitchens also often come with laundry facilities which means you can easily clean up soiled clothing if you have kids with messy eating habits or happen to tip that delicious glass of red wine on your favorite white top.

Family-Friendly Benefits

As any parent can tell you, traveling with kids can be a tedious job, especially when it comes to meals times and keeping tantrums at bay. Kids can be picky eaters, so being able to shop for their favorite meals and snacks they may normally eat at home can provide them with familiarity and comfort.

With a kitchen, traveling families can easily store and prepare healthy snacks throughout the day, keeping children satisfied between meals without needing to resort to less healthy foods out of convenience. And of you are traveling with an infant or toddler, having kitchen facilities makes it a breeze to prepare formula and heat bottles, not to mention providing a more comfortable space to breastfeed.

Eating in your own hotel room also eliminates the struggle to keep your kids entertained and well-behaved as they wait for restaurant meals to be served. You can occupy their minds while you cook by putting on the hotel TV or letting them play in a safer dedicated space. And speaking of space, accommodations with kitchens are often much bigger than standard hotel rooms, providing dedicated dining and living areas in addition to sleeping rooms.

You can celebrate special occasions much more easily and cost effectively as well, whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or holiday. You can bake or purchase an economical cake at a local grocery store for a fraction of what a restaurant would charge you and avoid the potential of having to pay a cake cutting charge if you bring in your own cake to a restaurant which is quite common these days.

Lastly, kids can also get sick often. This can prove challenging while traveling, especially when you still need to eat meals. Having the ability to dine in your hotel room means you don’t have to force anyone in the family to go out when they aren’t feeling well.

Ideal for Specialized Diets

If you’re a traveler with specialized diet needs or food intolerances, preparing your own meals is the only guaranteed way to avoid complications. While many restaurants these days are happy to accommodate food intolerances, the reality is that they can never fully guarantee there won’t be any cross-contamination or may not fully realize the full extant of various allergies.

The other issue that can arise with food allergies can come about when traveling internationally and there is a language barrier.  A slight miscommunication can lead to serious complications if you happen to consume food you’re allergic to or at the very least may leave you with a great deal of discomfort during your trip.

Having kitchen facilities and the ability to cook you own meals means you can ensure your needs are met, whether you are gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, or have another intolerance.

And for others that don’t have intolerances, there may simply be a desire to sick to a specialized diet for health, religious, or personal reasons. This can include diets such as vegetarian, vegan, low-sodium, low-carb, low-sugar, keto, or others. It’s not uncommon for there to be hidden ingredients and additives that may be present in meals ordered in restaurants, cafés, or from street food vendors.

In other instances, you may simply feel comfortable cooking with specific brands or products you trust and know are safe for your dietary needs. People with IBS often have restrictive diets unique to each individual, so being able to hand-pick your known “safe foods” provides peace of mind.

Staying in hotels with kitchens offers convenience, flexibility, the ability to save money, and in some instances ensures you stay healthier while traveling. Whether your personal goal is to save money, eat healthier, or simply enjoy the comforts of home while traveling, self-catering accommodation provides the perfect solution.

Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007.  Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 100+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.

    

Slow travel invites us to step off the beaten path, linger a little longer, and savor each moment with a more mindful presence. By slowing down, you’ll open yourself up to unexpected experiences that might be missed when trying to adhere to a tightly packed schedule.

Sadly, it’s inevitable that travel will always come with its share of stressors, whether it’s missed flights, delayed luggage, or simply trying to navigate unfamiliar destinations. Therefore, it’s vital you have flexibility, practice patience, and find comfort in small routines that will help ground you.

Whether it’s meditation, a favorite book, a relaxing playlist, or finding other ways you can relax while traveling which you can read more about out, having go-to strategies to manage the stressful periods of travel can help you stay calm and centered as you adjust to a slow travel mentality.

Your Guide to Slow Travel: Savoring Every Moment

Embrace the Journey, Not Just the Destination

Slow travel is a growing trend that encourages travelers to immerse themselves fully in their destinations, prioritizing quality experiences over the quantity of sights seen. Embracing slow travel allows for deeper connections with local cultures, environments, and even yourself, ultimately leading to more enriching and memorable travel.

One of the core principles of slow travel is to enjoy the journey itself. Instead of rushing from one tourist attraction to another, take the time to savor your surroundings. This could mean opting for a leisurely train ride through scenic landscapes instead of a quick flight, or choosing to walk or cycle rather than using buses or rapid transit like London’s Underground or Singapore’s MRT.

Many attribute the phrase “It’s the journey, not the destination” to American philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson, and while he didn’t specifically coin the exact phrase, it embodies what he preached in regards to finding enrichment in the process of life’s experiences and not fixating on an end goal or achievement. 

Embracing the journey is about valuing the process of travel itself, appreciating each step, and finding joy in the present rather than focusing on the outcome. Focusing on the journey encourages mindfulness where you can allow yourself to be fully engaged in your surroundings and experiences, making full use of all your senses.

By not fixating on the destination, you can reduce the pressure and stress that often come with achieving specific goals or timelines. It’s about not judging the success of your trip on whether you were able to get that specific travel photo you wanted, whether you got a reservation at that popular touristy restaurant, or simply were able to tick everything you wanted to see and do off a long-listed itinerary.

It’s about simplifying your itinerary and leaving it more of a blank canvas whereby you will simply allow fate to play a larger role in filling in your travel itinerary with experiences that were maybe meant to be or less forced.

Choose Longer Stays

Instead of cramming multiple destinations into a single trip, consider staying longer in one place. This allows you to explore beyond the typical tourist spots and experience life more authentically as the local residents do,

Renting an apartment or staying in a homestay can provide a more authentic experience than staying in hotels. These types of accommodation options can also allow you to gain an even deeper understanding of the local culture since they are often located outside the usual tourist centers of a city. They also often come with cooking facilities which means you will be visiting local markets and grocery stores to cook your own meals, thereby engaging with locals even more.  

Staying in one place for an extended period allows you to settle in, create a comfortable routine, and feel more at home. This sense of stability can make travel more calm and less hectic. Longer stays are also better on your health as you will likely be more inclined to enjoy proper sleep patterns, include downtime to your itinerary for rest and recuperation, and eat meals at more regular times.  

Mindfulness is also achieved more easily when there is less moving around or fewer time constraints. You will also benefit from a more immersive travel experience, as you can really get to know a destination, having time to dig into the deeper layers of local culture and finding time to possibly build genuine connections with residents.

Engage with the Local Community

Interacting with locals is a cornerstone of slow travel. Take the time to learn about local customs, traditions, and daily lives. Attend local festivals, visit family-owned restaurants, and support local artisans.

Language doesn’t have to be a barrier either, because today’s many helpful language learning apps are readily at your fingertips to help teach you useful words and basic phrases which will go a long way in building rapport and showing respect for locals.

You will also find that by engaging with locals, they may end up sharing local insider tips about places to go and things to see and do that may not be listed in the guidebooks or popular travel websites. Such locally-sourced recommendations can see you discovering hidden gems that make travel surprising and unexpected which adds to the magic of what travel used to be before the advent of social media.

Facebook and Instagram travel posts have flooded us with images and people’s experiences of places around the world to such a degree that there are now few surprises when travelers visit places if they simply choose to stick to the normal well-trodden tourist routes and most popular attractions they saw on social media.  

Sustainable Travel Practices

Embracing slower-paced and more meaningful travel often goes hand in hand with adopting sustainable travel practices. By staying longer in one place, you reduce the carbon footprint associated with frequent travel. Additionally, supporting local businesses and using eco-friendly accommodations and transportation options contribute to the well-being of the local environment and community.

Seek out destinations that prioritize sustainability and offer opportunities for eco-tourism, such as conservation projects or organic farms. Longer stay accommodation options are often locally-owned and tend to have a lower environmental impact compared to large pricey hotel chains which are meant more for short stays.

By staying longer in one place, you’re more likely to shop at local markets, eat at local restaurants, and use local services, which supports small businesses and helps keep money within a community.

Longer stays also help reduce global cultural misconceptions and insensitivity, since you will have the time to really immerse yourself in a destination, have more opportunities to have deeper conversations with locals, and see for yourself what the true realities are about destinations and their people.

It then becomes your responsibility to become an advocate for sustainable travel and share the experiences and insights you learned from slower=paced travel, including real facts about local culture and authentic experiences that showcase the real heart and soul of a destination.

Slow Travel Destination Recommendations

Some destinations are particularly well-suited for slow travel due to their culture, landscape, and pace of life. Here are a few top recommendations:

Tuscany, Italy

Known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages, Tuscany is perfect for leisurely exploration. Stay in a countryside villa, indulge in local wine and cuisine, and take your time exploring medieval towns like Siena and San Gimignano.

Kyoto, Japan

With its serene temples, traditional tea houses, and beautiful gardens, Kyoto offers a peaceful and culturally rich experience. Spend your days visiting historic sites, participating in tea ceremonies, and walking through bamboo forests.

Costa Rica

Ideal for nature lovers, Costa Rica’s focus on eco-tourism makes it a great slow travel destination. Explore rainforests, relax on pristine beaches, and engage in sustainable activities like bird watching and visiting organic farms.

Provence, France

Known for its lavender fields, charming markets, and historic towns, Provence invites travelers to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Stay in a rural cottage known as a gîte, visit local vineyards, and take part in traditional Provençal festivals.

New Zealand

With its stunning landscapes and laid-back lifestyle, New Zealand is perfect for a slow travel adventure. Rent a campervan and explore at your own pace, hike through national parks, and connect with the friendly locals.

Activities to Enhance Slow Travel

Incorporate activities that promote deeper connections and a slower pace into your travel itinerary. Consider the following options:

Guided Nature Walks

Join a guided nature walk or hike led by a local expert. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the local flora, fauna, and ecosystems, enhancing your appreciation for the natural beauty around you.

Art and Craft Workshops

Participate in workshops that teach traditional arts and crafts, such as pottery, weaving, or painting. These activities allow you to engage with local artisans and learn about their techniques and heritage.

Volunteering

Spend part of your trip volunteering with local organizations or community projects. This not only gives back to the community but also provides a meaningful way to connect with locals and understand their challenges and triumphs.

City Walking Tours

Explore cities on foot, allowing you to take in the sights, sounds, and smells at a leisurely pace. Join guided tours or simply wander through neighborhoods, parks, and markets.

Cooking Classes

Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional dishes so you can treat your friends or family back home to exotic meals. This hands-on activity engages your sense of taste, smell, and touch while connecting you with the local culture. It may also allow you to sample more authentic or age-old recipes that may not be readily found in popular local restaurants,

Keep a Travel Journal

Take the time to keep a travel journal to document your experiences, thoughts, and reflections. Writing helps you stay mindful and appreciate each moment, while also allowing you to relive and reflect your travel memories at a later date. The more detailed you are with your journal entries, the more vivid of a picture you’ll be able to recreate of your experiences ten or twenty years down the road.  

Slow travel is about savoring every moment and creating meaningful connections with the places you visit. By embracing the journey, engaging with local communities, practicing mindfulness, and choosing sustainable practices, you can enhance your travel experiences and create lasting memories.

Whether you’re exploring the rolling hills of Tuscany or the serene temples of Kyoto, slow travel allows you to see the world in a more profound and enriching way. So, jump on the opportunity for slower-paced travel, but then sit back, relax, and simply enjoy the ride.

Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 100+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.

    

You may not think globetrotters and gamers share many similarities, but when you think about it, they do share a number of things in common. For one, they are both driven by a passion to explore new worlds, albeit travellers seek out real-life destinations and gamers get lost in virtual ones.

Whether navigating a foreign city or completing different levels and solving puzzles in a game, both require you to have good problem-solving skills and involve strategic planning. And one such aspect of that strategic planning for both is finding the best ways to pay for their respective passions.

Today’s broad range of credit cards have become more personalised than ever, allowing both travellers and gamers the ability to seek out and find a credit card that is perfectly aligned with their lifestyle in terms of the perks and rewards they offer.

So, whether you’re a traveller or a gamer, let us detail some important factors each should consider when applying for a credit card and making purchases, as well as some of the top credit card options for both in 2024

Best Credit Cards for Travel and Gaming in 2024

What is a Travel Credit Card? 

A travel credit card is exactly what it sounds like it is, it’s a card specifically tailored to the needs of travellers. They not only reward you with greater points for travel-related expenses, but may also offer annual travel bonuses like free hotel nights or airline flights. They may also come with complimentary perks like free travel insurance or a guaranteed higher status level within hotel loyalty programs.

Travel-based credit cards will often earn you reward points at higher rate for travel purchases than normal everyday purchases. They may provide free travel insurance for trips booked with the credit card, giving you complimentary coverage for things like trip cancellations, overseas medical treatment, lost luggage, and other travel mishaps.

Some travel credit cards come with free airport lounge access, which means you’ll be treating yourself to free drinks, food, magazines, sofas, possibly beds, showers, and nicer airport bathrooms.

How Does a Travel Rewards Credit Card Work? 

Travel credit cards work the same as other traditional credit cards. You simply use them to make purchases and ideally pay off each month’s bill in full so as to avoid paying interest charges and simply reap the benefits of the reward points received.

You will be credited with travel reward points or airline miles after each closing statement date. The closing statement date of your credit card determines when the cut-off of charges will take place each month and when your payment will be due. Understanding your statement, its closing date, and your payment requirements is vital to ensuring you manage your card effectively, avoid charges if possible, and improve your credit score.

A good travel credit card understands that travellers will be likely making many international purchases, and therefore won’t charge you any foreign transaction fees. You may even be able to score free travel insurance as stated previously, but keep in mind that the insurance protection usually only applies to travel purchased using the credit card.

The next step after looking for these features in a travel credit card is to seek out a card that has possibly partnered with your preferred choice of hotel chain or airline. By doing this, you will begin to earn greater points, rewards, and perks with these companies you are loyal to.

As you accumulate points or miles from making purchases, you can then redeem them for free flights, hotel stays, and other travel-related expenses. And some travel credit cards offer enticing sign-up bonuses, whereby if you meet a certain dollar amount of purchases in the first few months, you may get a bonus like 50,000 or 100,000 points you can use for travel right away.

As rewarding as travel credit cards can be, you do need to research if they carry an annual fee. You will need to decide if the travel benefits you will receive will outweigh this annual cost. Other factors to consider is how high the charged interest rate will be if you are not able to pay each bill in full, and note that some credit cards travel reward programs may impose restrictions or blackout dates for redeeming points or rewards.

Origins and Future of Travel Credit Cards

Travel credit cards have been around for quite a while now, getting their start back in the 1950s with Diners Club cards. Roughly thirty years later, we saw the introduction of frequent flyer programs launched by airlines which in turn enticed credit card companies to want to partner with airlines and offer co-branded cards that earned miles.

As we look to the future, the advent of mobile apps and digital wallets will likely offer more seamless integration of travel rewards and benefits. And there will likely be an even greater growth in the use and acceptance of credit cards globally as we continue to move away from cash payments. We may also see AI play a role in an increased offering cards with even more personalised rewards and travel experiences.

Recommendations for Travel Credit Cards in 2024

Below are some credit cards currently recommended for travellers. Keep in mind that the perks, bonuses, and offerings of these credit cards may readily change, as may their interest rates, annual rates, restrictions, or requirements.

We encourage you to research these cards and others and read their full terms and conditions to ensure you choose a credit card that best aligns with your needs and interests. Keep in mind that specific travel credit cards available to you will vary depending on what country you live in as well as your financial background or history.

• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
• Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card
• Hilton Honors American Express Card
• The Platinum Card® from American Express
• Chase Sapphire Reserve®
• British Airways Visa Signature® Card
• IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
• The World of Hyatt Credit Card

What is a Gaming Credit Card? 

A gaming credit card does for gamers what a travel credit card does for travellers, and that is offer various rewards and benefits that are tailored to gaming-related expenses. These cards provide incentives for purchases made on various gaming platforms, game stores, and for in-game transactions.

Gaming credit cards are worth looking into if you spend a significant amount on gaming. While they may not offer the wealth of perks we see in travel credit cards, you will earn higher rewards rates on gaming purchases compared to general spending.

Score discounts or rebates on popular gaming subscriptions such as Xbox Live, PlayStation Plus, and game streaming services. And as with travel cards, there may be significant rewards or signup bonuses for new cardholders who meet a minimum spending requirement within the first few months.

You may also be able to access special gaming events, early game releases, and in-game content depending on the card you choose. Some gaming credit cards will have annual fees much like travel credit cards, and these could again offset the benefits you’ll receive if not used extensively.

Keep in mind that if you are just a casual gamer, choosing a gaming specific credit card whose rewards and benefits is largely focused on gaming purchases as you’re your main credit card you use for everyday purchases, may actually see you missing out on saving money overall for credit card purchases.  

When it comes to online gambling and virtual casinos, most credit card companies do not offer specific reward programs to gamblers due to the various government regulations. However, there are credit cards with rewards that might allow you to earn points, cashback, or miles on gambling transactions if they are not explicitly excluded in the card’s terms and conditions. There are also a few casino resorts that have branded credit cards.

How Does a Gaming Rewards Credit Card Work? 

By leveraging a gaming credit card’s rewards structure and perks, you can maximise your spending power, gain access to exclusive perks, and potentially save money while doing what you love to do.

A gaming rewards credit card operates similarly to other rewards credit cards like travel credit cards in terms of how purchases, payments, and statements are dealt with. The difference with gaming cards largely relates to the benefits and perks you’ll receive for making purchases with the card.

When you use the card to purchase items like video games, consoles, accessories, or in-game purchases, you should earn a higher rate of points or cash back compared to other spending categories like groceries or fuel.

Many gaming cards operate on a points system where you accumulate points for every dollar spent, while others offer cash back or statement credits. If you do receive points, you may be able to redeem them for gaming-related items such as gift cards for popular gaming stores or gaming gear.

Gaming-related equipment and accessories that is purchased using your card may also receive an extended warranty with specific credit cards.

When it comes to gambling, some nations have passed laws making it illegal to pay for online casino or gambling charges using a credit card. Therefore, you may be better off simply seeking out the best crypto casinos online.

You may be able to still earn reward points when you use various credit cards for purchases at casinos and casino resorts for non-gambling purchases such as booking a room or dining purchases. For gambling purposes, you will likely be forced to use an ATM to access cash which can then be used to gamble.

Review your card’s terms and conditions to ensure that gambling transactions or related charges are eligible for rewards. Some cards explicitly exclude gambling from earning points or cashback. You also want to make certain that gambling transactions are not treated as cash advances, as these often do not earn rewards and come with high fees and interest rates.

Origins and Future of Travel Credit Cards

Gaming credit cards are somewhat in their infancy within credit card industry. Credit card company are only just beginning to realise the significant spending power and loyalty of gamers, and will likely continue to partner with gaming companies to offer cards offering greater perks for gamers.

They may also expand their reach to include partnering with tech companies, e-sports events, and various streaming services that may entice gamers.

Recommendations for Gaming Credit Cards in 2024

Below are some credit cards currently recommended for gamers. Keep in mind that the perks, bonuses, and offerings of these credit cards may readily change, as may there interest rates, annual rates, restrictions, or requirements.

We encourage you to research these cards and others and read their full terms and conditions to ensure you choose a credit card that best aligns with your needs and interests. Keep in mind that specific gaming credit cards available to you will vary depending on what country you live in as well as your financial background or history.

• PlayStation® Visa® Credit Card
• Xbox Mastercard Rewards Credit Card
• Caesars Rewards® Visa® Credit Card
• MGM Rewards Mastercard®
• Amazon Prime Visa

Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 100+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.

    

One of the best aspects of travel is getting to stay in lavish hotels or vacation rentals in far-flung exotic destinations, but for many of us, we end up leaving behind our own cherished home for weeks if not months.

Yes, you can simply leave your property vacant while you’re away, but why let your home or apartment sit empty when there are many ways to transform it into a source of income while you’re away. It is after all likely your most valuable asset.

Earn Additional Income from Your Home Instead of Leaving it Empty When You Travel

Choosing to Rent Out Your Home While Traveling

Renting out your home has never been easier thanks to advanced online platforms that can find suitable tenants quickly for both short-term rentals and longer-term leases. Surely the sound of earning extra income that can go towards repaying your mortgage, maintenance costs, or your travel budget is music to your ears. 

In addition, having your home occupied while you’re away can give you peace of mind that it’s being cared for.  Check out these top strategies you can use to start monetizing your property while you explore the world.

The Airbnb Opportunity: Turn Your Home into a Guest Haven

Listing your home for short-term rental on platforms like Airbnb is one of the easiest ways to generate extra cash with minimal work required on your part. Thanks to short-term rentals’ growing demand, you can rent out your entire house or simply selected rooms as guest accommodations with their variety of short-term rentals listings.

The greatest advantage of platforms like Airbnb is its flexibility in terms of being able to choose when and how often to rent out your property. This allows you to only have to rent your property during the periods you plan to travel.

Airbnb offers host guarantees and insurance, providing protection against potential damages or issues that may arise from renting to guests. Plus, you can set house rules and expectations you want guests to follow such as not allowing pets, no smoking allowed, or what areas of the house may be off-limits.

Key Tips for Success on Airbnb

• Create an Inviting Space: Decor should not only match your style and preferences, but also be pleasing to a wide range of personalities when it comes to guests. Therefore, you may have to make some interior design alterations to make it appealing to a wider audience.
• Establish Competitive Pricing: Research comparable listings in your area in order to set an appealing yet profitable price point for your listing. Don’t forget to add cleaning fees which should also be factored into this calculation.
• Communicate Promptly: Responding quickly to inquiries can improve your host rating and increase booking opportunities.
• Create an Attractive Listing: Take high-quality photos and write a detailed description of your property. Be sure to highlight your home’s top amenities and what local attractions or activities are offered near your home.
• Provide Amenities: Stock your property with essential amenities such as fresh linens, toiletries, kitchen supplies, and maybe even a few food and beverage item gifts in the fridge. Welcome snacks and drinks as well things like local guidebooks and brochures on the local area are always a nice added touch that go a long way with guests.

Long-Term Rentals: A Stable Source of Income

Another option is to go with long-term leasing which may be a more suitable choice if you plan to be away for many months or longer. Maybe you got a 12-month work contract abroad, are taking an education course in another country, landed a volunteer gig overseas, or simply wish to live the life of an expat somewhere internationally for a while.

Whatever the reason for your planned extended travel, going with a long-term lease on your property ensures continuous occupancy and stable income without the need for frequent management.

Keep in mind that some cities also have strict regulations on short-term rentals like Airbnb’s, making long-term leasing much less of a headache from a legal standpoint.

Benefits of Long-Term Rentals

• Less Administrative Work: While short-term rentals often necessitate ongoing management, long-term rentals often have less obligations. 
• Reliable Income Stream: Knowing exactly how much income will come through each month helps budget effectively for travel expenses.
• Trustworthy Tenants: You can conduct thorough background checks to locate reliable tenants and reduce risk of property damage.
• Less Maintenance: Long-term tenants are more likely to treat your property as their own, leading to less wear and tear often caused by short-term vacationer renters.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that your property is occupied by stable tenants who will likely be actively looking after your property daily can provide peace of mind when traveling for extended periods.

House-Sitting: Get Paid to Leave Your Home

Unlike renting, choosing to go the house-sitting route will not directly generate income from you, but it can still end up saving you a great deal of money. House-sitters can care for your pets while you’re away which can save on boarding facilities. They can also mow your lawn, water your plants and grass, maintain your home with regular dusting and vacuuming, gather your mail, and provide security to reduce chances of break-ins.

One option is to rely on a trusted friend or family member to either live in or regularly stop by your house to check on it, or you can choose to go online and seek out reliable house sitters with websites like TrustedHousesitters which can quickly and easily connect you with reliable sitters. 

While house sitting is often done in exchange for free accommodation, you may wish to charge a nominal fee for the convenience of staying in your home, or at least ask them to cover the costs of various utilities like water and electricity or services like internet if they plan to reside in your home while you’re away as opposed to simply checking in on it every few days.

You can often find house sitters for specific time frames that match your travel plans, allowing you to forgo the formalities of signing tenancy agreements. However, keep in mind that house-sitting is generally suited for shorter duration travel and not extended travel.

Always carefully research potential sitters by reviewing their references and testimonials from prior homeowners before accepting one as your house-sitter. Establish clear expectations of what their responsibilities will be in terms of caring for your home.

Renting Out Storage Space to Monetize Unused Areas 

If you’re not comfortable renting out your home to strangers or even reliable tenants, you can still generate income from your property by renting out other areas of your property. People are often looking for short and long-term storage solutions for items like cars, boats, trailers, or personal goods.

This means you may be able to simply rent out your garage if someone needs to store their vehicle or boxes of personal goods, or they may simply need a driveway to park a car or boat in. Parking is often needed by people especially in or near big cities where parking options may be limited or costly.  

People often need flexible storage solutions at cost-effective rates, and subletting these spaces can yield significant revenue with minimal effort required from you. You can even rent out space in your yard for RV storage.

Getting Started with Storage Rentals

• Advertise Locally: Use local community boards, social media groups, or rental websites to publicize the availability of storage.
• Create Contracts: Draft clear agreements defining duration, costs and responsibilities so as to avoid any misunderstandings. Be sure it is clear that only specific parts of your property will be accessed by renters for storage, while other areas are to be kept private and secure.
• Make Sure Security Is in Place: For extra peace of mind, consider installing locks and camera surveillance for added peace.
• Insurance: Ensure you have appropriate insurance coverage for stored items or require renters to have their own insurance for high-value items.

Sell Unwanted Items: Turning Clutter into Cash

Take the opportunity to declutter your home before you take off on vacation by selling items. This is another way to make money of you don’t wish to rent out your home. If you plan to be gone for an extended period of time, you may consider selling your vehicle or other items that may depreciate in value, require regular maintenance, or cause issues if left behind unused.

Selling unused cars or motorcycles can generate a substantial amount of cash and eliminates ongoing costs such as insurance, registration, and maintenance. Or you may simply want to do a bit of spring cleaning to get rid of the old treadmill or exercise bike that has become a place to simply hang clothes on. Go through the garage to see if you can sell off old sports equipment like golf clubs or surf boards.

Power tools and lawn equipment such as mowers may also require regular maintenance to keep in working order, so if they will be left unattended for very long periods of time it may be time to sell before they become useless.

Traveling without having to worry about certain possessions back home can provide peace of mind, while also giving you extra funds for your travels from items that may otherwise again simply depreciate while you’re away.

Effective Ways to Sell Items

• Online Marketplaces: eBay and Facebook Marketplace can all provide fast ways of selling items quickly. 
• Host a Garage Sale: Hosting a weekend garage sale can be an enjoyable way to clear out items while engaging your community.
• Charity Donations: For items you’re no longer using but do not wish to sell, consider making donations instead. Many organizations will pick up donations directly, saving you the hassle.

Enhancing Your Home: Raising Value Before Monetization

Before leasing your home, consider making some strategic upgrades that will enhance your property’s aesthetic appeal and boost market value. Minor renovations or upgrades could attract potential renters or may allow you to charge a higher rental fee.

Likewise, make sure you give items you plan to sell such as a vehicle or sports equipment a good cleaning before you go to sell to ensure you receive top dollar.

Simple Upgrades to Consider

• Fresh Coat of Paint: Fresh paint can bring life and brightness into any room, creating an inviting space that welcomes everyone who enters it. Opt for neutral hues that appeal to a broad audience for best results.
• Enhance Curb Appeal: Clean your gardens, tend to your lawn, and consider placing potted plants near the entrance for increased curb appeal. First impressions count.
• Declutter and Organize: Create the illusion of space by decluttering common areas, then utilize storage solutions for improved organization to showcase the property’s full potential.
• Industrial Shelf Brackets: Add some industrial charm to any room by installing industrial shelf brackets. Perfect for both functional and decorative uses in the kitchen, living area, and bedroom settings, industrial shelf brackets add an edge that won’t go unnoticed.
• Thorough Clean: Giving your space a deep clean can make a significant impactful statement to guests or potential buyers alike.
• Highlight Functionality: If you’re renting out a room or storage space, stage it so as to highlight its uses, showing future users of what benefits could be gained by renting this particular area.
• Add Personal Details: Make your home even cozier by personalizing it with artwork, plants or cozy throw blankets that make the atmosphere warm and welcoming.

So, the next time you book a trip, make your home work for you by turning it into an asset that brings in income. From hosting guests or renting to long-term tenants, to storage solutions and selling personal items you no longer need, there are endless ways to make money from the things you leave behind while traveling.

Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007.  Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 50+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.

    

As exciting as travel can be, it can be a rather stressful time with bouts of loneliness that can set in due to being away from the ones we love most, especially during holidays or special occasions.

Thankfully, we live in an age where distance no longer prevents us from connecting with family and friends even when they may be traveling on the other side of the world. One of the most timeless thoughtful ways to bridge the miles and show you care about someone is by sending flowers.

Whether you want to celebrate a milestone, offer encouragement, or simply remind someone how much you care about them, flowers sent to family or friends who are traveling either interstate or abroad can convey emotions and sentiments in ways simple words may not be able to achieve.

Surprise Your Adventurous Travelling Friends: How Canadian Flower Delivery Can Brighten Their Day

Brightening Someone’s Day with Flowers

Surprising friends while they’re on the go can be a wonderful way to show you care. When your adventurous travel-loving friends or family are exploring stunning natural landscapes like those found throughout Canada, a thoughtful gesture like sending flowers via Canadian flower delivery can be a delightful and unexpected way to remind them that they are loved and remembered, even from afar.

The Unexpected Delight of Receiving Flowers on the Road

The Power of Flowers, Especially When Unexpected

There’s something incredibly special about receiving a gift when you’re far from home, especially when it’s least expected. Flowers can lift spirits and bring joy, turning an ordinary day into a memorable one and keeping travel loneliness or homesickness at bay.

Imagine if you were to receive a vibrant bouquet of flowers unexpectedly while traveling, either awaiting you at hotel reception upon checking in or being delivered surprisingly by room service as you are trying to connect to the hotel’s Wi-Fi to send an email to friends and family back home.

Why Flowers?

Flowers have a universal appeal. They carry different meanings and can convey a range of emotions, from love and friendship to gratitude and encouragement. 

Here are some Canadian flowers and their meanings:

Maple Leaf (Acer saccharum)

Yes, we know what you’re thinking. The maple leaf is not a flower, but it is a national symbol of Canada, symbolizing strength and endurance. Canada may not have a true national floral emblem as of yet, but its iconic maple leaf is the next best thing and of course made it on the nation’s flag. It reflects the resilience of the Canadian people.

Prairie Crocus (Pulsatilla patens)

These represent renewal and new beginnings. This flower is one of the first to bloom in the spring, signalling the end of winter.

Trillium (Trillium grandiflorum)

A symbol of modest beauty and simplicity. Known for its three-petaled white flowers, the trillium is a beloved symbol in Ontario.

Fireweed (Chamaenerion angustifolium)

Symbolizes perseverance and resilience. This vibrant purple flower is often the first to grow after a wildfire, representing new life and recovery.

Bunchberry (Cornus canadensis)

Represents adaptability and strength. This small, hardy plant thrives in various Canadian landscapes, from woodlands to wetlands.

Western Red Lily (Lilium philadelphicum)

Stands for passion and pride. This striking flower, known for its bright red petals, is the floral emblem of Saskatchewan.

Dogwood (Cornus nuttallii)

Signifies durability and protection. The dogwood’s beautiful white flowers and strong wood make it a symbol of resilience and protection.

These flowers not only reflect the natural beauty of Canada but also carry meanings that can convey heartfelt messages, making them perfect for surprising friends and loved ones.

The Impact Flowers Can Have on Relationships

Sending flowers is more than just a gesture; it’s a way to strengthen bonds. It shows your friends that you are thinking of them, even when they’re miles away. This thoughtful surprise can deepen friendships, making your friends feel appreciated and cherished, despite the physical distance.

Choosing the Perfect Floral Arrangement for Adventurous Spirits

Considering Personal Preferences

When choosing flowers, think about the recipient’s personality and tastes. Are they vibrant and bold, or do they prefer something more subtle? For travel lovers, consider flowers that reflect their adventurous spirit, such as wildflowers, sunflowers, or proteas.

You can never go wrong with choosing their birth month flower as well, or possibly certain flowers that may remind them of fond childhood memories.  

Matching Flowers with Travel Destinations

Canada’s diverse landscapes offer a perfect backdrop for pairing flowers with travel experiences. For coastal destinations, consider arrangements with blue and white hues to mirror the ocean’s colours. In mountainous regions, vibrant and hardy flowers like alstroemerias or lilies can complement the rugged beauty of the surroundings.

Incorporating a Personal Touch

Personalize your floral gift by adding personal notes, a poem, or small souvenirs such as a postcard from home or their favourite spot. These little additions make the gift even more special, reflecting the shared memories and experiences of your friendship.

Making It Happen: Navigating Canadian Flower Delivery Services

Sending flowers to friends exploring Canada is a thoughtful way to brighten their day, but it requires careful planning and execution. Here are some tips to ensure the smooth delivery and desired impact of your floral surprise.

Find Reliable Florists

To ensure a smooth delivery, choose reputable florists who have experience delivering to travellers. Look for florists with positive reviews and a wide selection of arrangements.

Mind Timing and Logistics

Timing is crucial. Coordinate the delivery to arrive when your friend or family member will be at specific location such as the Canadian accommodation they booked. This might involve working with the florist to navigate logistics, especially in remote areas.

Think about Budgeting for the Gesture

While flower delivery can be a luxurious treat, there are ways to manage costs. Many florists offer seasonal discounts or special deals. Plan ahead and shop around to find the best options that suit your budget.

Blooming Canadian Travels

Sending flowers to friends on their travels through Canada is a heartfelt way to brighten their journey and strengthen your connection. Canadian flower delivery services offer a convenient way to share joy and love, no matter the distance.

So why not take a moment to surprise your adventurous friends who love to travel and make their day a little brighter? Explore local florists and start planning your floral surprise today!

Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 100+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.

    

For many travelers, traveling is more than just moving from one place to another; rather it’s an exploration of the unknown in which a journey can lead to unexpected and meaningful encounters. Many travelers find that their travels are sprinkled with moments of so-called synchronicity, a term that describes those extraordinary coincidences that seem to defy explanation.

Whether it’s meeting a kindred spirit in a café on the other side of the world, experiencing an event or seeing a landmark in a foreign land just when you need it the most, or receiving timely advice during a fleeting moment with a stranger abroad that changes the course of your life, synchronicity can have a profound impact on your travel experiences.

Find out more about how when synchronicity shows up in travel, these meaningful coincidences can not only shape your journeys but also reshape or redirect your course in life.  

Exploring Synchronicities: How Travel Can Change Your Life

Synchronicities: The Magical World

You may have never heard the term synchronicity, but countless travelers claim they have experienced synchronicity while traveling. They are again those meaningful coincidences that seem to defy the odds. One Swiss psychiatrist, Carl Jung, coined this term to describe some events that may not be causally related but feel like they have a significant connection.

Whether this is due to you being more in tune with your senses while traveling or simply being relaxed and away from the chaos of everyday life which allows you to be more present and in greater touch with your inner-self, synchronicities have a funny way of popping up when we are out seeing the world far from home.

Synchronicities can come about during your travels in instances where you have encounters with people that seem serendipitous, where you seem to share a deep connection or closely aligned interests or values.

Other travelers say it comes about when they feel the universe led them to the places they traveled or to specific landmarks or attractions within those visited destinations.

Others find that certain cultural elements they encounter while traveling resonate with them deeply for some reason or feel like they were introduced to their lives to teach them something or guide them to make important changes in their life.

Synchronicity and its Role in Meeting Others While Traveling

However they come about, there’s no denying synchronicities have the power to add a special layer of magic and meaning to travel, making your personal journeys especially memorable. These moments can prove even more meaningful when they involve other people, since meeting someone who thinks or feels quite familiar or similar to you can lead to long-lasting friendships or even romantic relationships.

Usually, one common tell-tale in these synchronicities is the concept of the twin flame connection. It’s tagged as the ultimate union between souls that’s often seen and described in the context of twin flames. It’s said to show in some people when they’re inexplicably drawn together, feeling that intense, undeniable, and unexplainable connection. 

These encounters are often filled with synchronicities, especially espousing the idea that certain meetings are destined, meant to be, or fated to be. Accordingly, these one-of-a-kind experiences happen during travels to foreign lands or destinations, where you get to meet a special someone who ignites a spark in you, bringing twin flames together in the most unexpected and life-changing ways. 

Synchronicities: Life-Changing Encounters

Your travel may open doors to some extraordinary experiences, like enjoying fine dining with an array of Turkish cuisine in Fethiye, or climbing to the top of Africa by trekking up Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.  

But it is those special human connections that come about when we travel which are the true extraordinary experiences we remember the rest of our lives, and synchronicity often feels as though it plays a large role in who we encounter when we travel.

What if you meet someone, a kindred spirit, who’s also passionate about the ecosystem and its conservation while hiking in the Andes, sparking a collaborative project that could impact global sustainability?

How about meeting and sparking a conversation in a Parisian bookstore with someone who introduces you to a mentor who might just reshape your career path?

These can be life-changing encounters, not just “chances are.” They can be real and synchronistic moments that align with your destiny. It’s like harnessing the law of attraction but with someone who can partner with you during your travel, affecting or even changing your life’s course and purpose.

Synchronicities can guide travelers towards a new life purpose or mission, or serendipitous moments may reignite forgotten passions or hobbies to bring purpose to your life.

Synchronicities can also highlight your personal strengths, weaknesses, and desires, leading to greater self-awareness. Meaningful coincidences may end up teaching important life lessons, such as resilience, patience, and the importance of breaking yourself out of your comfort zone.

Synchronicity in Cultural Experiences

It can feel very magical when you experience synchronicity, especially in cultural contexts. Just like visiting a place for the first time, then you suddenly notice the locale’s practices that are quite the same as what grandma had been preaching to you when you were young and resonate deeply with your personal journey.

These happenings or amazing instances can offer you loads of insights, connecting you to a higher level of human experiences and creating within you a feeling or a sense of belonging and value. 

Taking the time to engage with locals in meaningful ways often lead to a deeper appreciation and understanding of different cultures, not only broadening your views on the world but also maybe making you adopt new ways of doing things that you’ve learned abroad and incorporating them into your life back home.  

Synchronicity in Uncovering Hidden Talents

Your travels can reveal your hidden talents, especially when you’re pushed out of your comfort zone and into some unknown parts of the world. For example, you’re well into a foreign city, and you suddenly uncover a knack for languages or problem-solving skills just so you can “survive.” 

More often than not, engaging with new people, cultures, and activities can spark unexpected passions and may allow you to discover and develop some skills you never knew you had. This redounds to enriching and building your personal and professional life.

Whether it’s a chance encounter with a kind stranger, a perfect moment of serendipity that leads us to an unforgettable experience, or the way events seem to align in our favor, travel has a way of revealing the magic of the universe.

Embracing these moments of synchronicity enriches our travels, deepens our connections, and leaves us with a profound sense of wonder and gratitude. In the end, it’s these seemingly coincidental experiences that often become the most cherished memories of our adventures.

Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 100+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.