Bronislav Leydiker | Travel - Bronislav Leydiker blogs about traveling around the world.

Travel Trends of 2019

On March 5, 2019

Whether traveling alone to enjoy the peace and quiet that a new environment offers or traveling with the family to spend quality time together, there are a few trends of 2019 to look for in the world of travel.

Many companies that sell homewares are opening hotels for travelers. While staying at the hotel, guests can see some of the products that the company sells, purchasing these items before going home or getting more information to make a purchase later.

Learning Experience

Instead of staying in hotels, a trend for families is the nomadic way of life while traveling. Children can learn about what it’s like to be one with nature as the family explores areas that are located off the beaten path. Many families are turning traveling into an educational trip, keeping the children out of school so that they can learn through experience.

Home-Sharing

Although traveling in a group isn’t anything new, it appears to be a trend in 2019 that will occur more often. Sharing a large home while traveling is a way for everyone to save money and offers a comfortable setting for guests instead of staying in a hotel room. There are homes for rent that are large enough for groups of travelers in numerous cities, making it easier for the group to find a location that is fun to visit and relax.

Dark Travel

Dark travel is a trend for 2019. There are more tourists who are exploring amusement parks that have been closed for years or places that have a dark place in history, such as Chernobyl. Traveling alone is a trend for the year as well. Many people who take solo trips participate in walking excursions in locations that include Vietnam and Cambodia.

Travelers will likely take the time to enjoy their surroundings this year. It’s a time when people can put aside their differences and begin to enjoy nature once again instead of taking a vacation that is full of hustle and bustle, making it feel like the trip wasn’t a vacation at all.

Weekend trips will be something to look for in 2019 as more people plan to get away from home for even a few days to enjoy spending time with family and friends. Technology looks to be taking over the world of travel as well. From apps that track luggage in real time to using a phone for keyless entry to a hotel room, travelers will begin using more technology when they leave home.

Traveling By Train

By bronislavleydiker

On January 23, 2019

In Blog, Travel

Traveling by rail has long been customary and essential in Europe and Asia, but with the affordability of automobiles and the culture of cars in the United States and the availability of air flights, traveling by rail is rare except by city commuters going to and from work. Although American trains have not kept pace with those in other countries such as China in which trains can reach speeds of nearly 200 mph, there is still no travel experience quite like that of riding in a train, sitting back without worry and viewing the beauty of the United States.

A Part of History

As an integral part of American history and culture to be preserved, riding on a train should be part of everyone’s experiences. A train ride on Amtrak can be enjoyable for all members of a family since parents can relax as their older children explore other cars and mix with travelers their age. These young adults can also visit the observation lounge, the glass-domed floor in the cafe car that is great for panoramic views of passing mountains or gorgeous landscapes. Another advantage of traveling on a train is the fact that no one has to drive so everyone in the family is able to see the interesting sites as they pass through different areas.

Amenities

Besides being a much less stressful experience than flying or driving, riding on a train is more economical than air travel and, unlike airfare, train tickets can be purchased at stable fares at any time before departures. While airlines charge for extra bags, Amtrak allows a passenger to carry up to 200 pounds and personal items for free. For those that are going on overnight trips, coach fares are competitive with airline tickets and the comfortable coach seats with footrests recline for sleeping. The dining cars have complete meals available. If a passenger is taking a longer trip, there is the sleeper car that provides seating that can later pull out to make a bed. The sleeper car also has a shower, toilet and sink. There is a family bedroom available with two beds for adults and two for children. In all the sleeper rooms, there are controls for the air conditioners and a large window and space for baggage. From these rooms, parents can walk with their children to the cafe car or to other areas of the train, giving restless youngsters some exercise and the opportunity to enjoy a scenic view out the windows of the cars. Indeed, there are good reasons to travel by rail.

The Future of Travel

By bronislavleydiker

On January 3, 2019

In Blog, Travel, Vacation

Travel is not what it used to be. Because of the fast and easy access to the internet, travelers can use it to book their flights, find hotels, reserve tables at restaurants, and navigate through unfamiliar places. These changes are just the beginning of what travel will be like in the future starting today.

The changes that are pending for traveling are something that sounds like they have been inspired out of a sci-fi movie. Using AI and virtual reality will be the new ways of booking a flight and preparing everything beforehand. Although there are is not enough market and technology advancement for it quite yet, it is quickly preparing the ground to become part of the massive travel experience.

Those that already have a Virtual Reality headset on the phone can use it to preview places that are to be visited. For example, the German airline company Lufthansa has several VR 360-degree videos of different destinations that could be viewed through their YouTube channel. Besides this, the airline offers local events that can allure clients to use their services.

There are companies that are working on integrating virtual reality into the process of choosing flights and accommodation on the plane. The clients of various airlines will have the option of taking a virtual tour of a potential visiting destination. Once they are sure where they will go, the option can be chosen with a connected pair of gloves directly through the images of the VR headset.

The Amazon Alexa voice recognition can be used to choose and book a travel as well. Saying the name of the destination will search all the options for booking.

While AI is used even today in travel planning and booking, in the future it will play an even greater role in tailoring the individual travel experience. AI will be used to find cheap flights and book the best seats on the plane. For those that want to travel during the quiet periods, the quietest travel options will be revealed on the screen in real time.

AR is also another part of future travel. Even now, the language apps are constantly being improved to instantly recognize speech and language and translate it. Holding the phone up to a building or an artifact in a museum gives them the chance to see it with greater detail and with information about what it is, what is inside, and the history of it thanks to AR.

Planning A Trip Going Anywhere

By bronislavleydiker

On November 26, 2018

In Blog, Travel

For those who want to have an adventure, taking a trip is the best way to do just that. There’s always an element of spontaneity that is required when trekking, especially if one is intending to do so via a car. There are variables upon variables that may arise such as car breakdowns, sideshow attractions, and city-wide events that one may notice as one is passing. To make the most of a trip, and to be prepared for it, one should follow these tips to ensure that one is safe and ready for whatever comes.

Budget

Unless becoming stranded somewhere is a traveler’s idea of a good time, budgeting is a must. Have some put away for travel costs, hotel costs, and food costs. Those are going to be the biggest drains on anyone’s budget. With an estimated amount set out, a traveler can accurately prepare for any variable that might arise during their trip. It doesn’t hurt to have a credit card handy in the event that the budget runs out, but one still needs to spend in order to return back home or to even eat food.

Figure Out Accommodations

Perhaps the biggest aspect of a trip one is going to have to consider is lodgings. Unless one intends to sleep in a car or trailer, then one is going to need to find hotels. Luckily, there are numerous sites out there that can be utilized to find the lowest price for the quality of hotel that one desires. It also doesn’t hurt to utilize friends and family that may be living in the area and staying with them. That can shave off the cost of a hotel for a few nights, at least. To ensure that there is always a room available, making reservations at the hotels is a must.

Efficient Touring

For those who have a specific destination in mind, one can make the most of one’s trip by planning out exactly what the group wants to see, where to see it, and how. By knowing the steps needed to access certain sites and buildings, a great deal of time consumed by aimless wandering can be removed and efficient touring can begin.

The Best Credit Cards For Travel Rewards

By bronislavleydiker

On September 25, 2018

In Blog, International, Travel

If you travel frequently, a good travel reward credit card can provide you with great opportunities to save money and add peace of mind to your adventures. The following travel reward credit cards are the top recommended by reviewers around the country.

Chase Sapphire Preferred and Chase Sapphire Reserve

The Chase Sapphire suite of credit cards are an excellent value for earning travel rewards. Both cards accrue Chase Ultimate Rewards points, which are redeemable in an online portal for a variety of travel rewards including airfare, hotels, rental cars and more. Chase Ultimate Rewards points can also be transferred to several different airline and hotel partner loyalty programs at a one for one rating. With the Chase Sapphire Preferred, you pay a $95 annual fee and will earn two points for every dollar spent on travel and food related expenses and one points for every dollar spent elsewhere. The Chase Sapphire Reserve has a $450 annual fee and accrues three points for every dollar spend on travel and one point for every dollar spent elsewhere. It also includes an annual $300 travel credit and many additional perks that offset the high annual fee. The Preferred redeems points at 1.25 cents per point through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal while the Reserve redeems points at 1.5 cents per point.

The Platinum Card from American Express

The American Express Platinum Card is the top-rated travel credit card for 2018 according to The Points Guy. This card has a $550 annual fee but includes a $200 travel credit for airline incidental fees, $200 in Uber credits, $100 in Saks Fifth Avenue credits and access to lounges valued at $250. This card also provides its holder with Hilton Honors Gold status and Starwood Preferred Guest elite status. Hotels and flights booked through American Express earn five points per dollar spent and one point per dollar elsewhere.

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Card

The Capital One VentureOne rewards card is the best no annual fee travel rewards credit card. It offers 1.25 points per dollar spent everywhere and five points per dollar spent at hotels. The card has no foreign transaction fee which is unique for cards with no annual fee. Points stay valid without expiration and are redeemable for travel through Capital One’s reward portal.

Beautiful Places To Visit In Fall Bronislav Leydiker

Beautiful Places To Visit This Fall

By bronislavleydiker

On September 18, 2018

In Blog, International, Travel

With summer coming to a close, soon it will be time to break out the rakes and leaf blowers. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t sneak away for a quick getaway. Fall is also one of the best seasons to take a vacation.

There are plenty of places you can visit to see fall foliage, but why not take a trip to one of these warm locations. Read this article to learn about some of the most beautiful places to visit in the fall!

San Francisco

Use the fall as an excuse to go tour Los Angeles’ northern cousin and enjoy everything it has to offer. Here in San Francisco, fall is known as “Indian Summer” because the warm weather is carried all the way through November. Fall in San Francisco is considered the season every person looks forward to because it’s when all the greatest events and festivals happen like the Treasure Island Music Festival.

Italy

Italy is one of the most most beautiful places in the world. From its ancient architecture to its historical locations, there are many reasons to visit Italy in fall. To start, airfare and accommodations are a lot cheaper during fall so getting around is easier than it is in other seasons. In the month of October, visitors can enjoy waking up to cool, crisp mornings and evenings while enjoying the sunshine in the afternoon. During autumn, you can attend some exclusive fall festivals like Boccaccessa Food and Wine Festival or the Bra Cheese Festival.

Mexico

Mexico is a place that is calm and serene during the fall as not many people travel during this time, making it the perfect season for a romantic getaway. The weather in Mexico is absolutely divine because it hardly rains, so be sure to get as much fresh air as you can while taking in the sight of the lush vegetation. Participate in the festivals that are only available in fall such as Day of the Dead or Reto al Tepozteco. Like Italy, the travel costs are low and that means the attractions won’t be crowded as much.

Everyone needs time to unwind, so fall is a great time to take a break from your career. There are many other places to go to during this time of year, so conduct some research to find the perfect fall getaway! The world is yours to explore!

How Travel Is Good For Your Health

By bronislavleydiker

On August 29, 2018

In Blog, International, Travel

Eating good food, enjoying the company of friends, and traveling are three things that seemingly everybody enjoys. While traveling typically does require people to be apart from their pets, loved ones, and friends, unless they’re welcome to hop aboard and tag along, the benefits of traveling greatly outweigh the negatives.

Just last year, the world’s population spent more than one trillion dollars on traveling – to be specific, $1,036 billion was spent across the planet by people who were traveling, according to the United States Travel Association.

Despite the allure and historical popularity of traveling, Americans have actually begun to travel less over the past two decades. A study published by Project: Time Off found that United States employees took only 16 vacation days in 2013 – in 2000, they took about 20. Regardless of this fact, traveling has major benefits for someone’s health.

Here are some of the most important, powerful benefits of traveling. While everybody might not experience all of them, most travelers do to some extent.

More Active When Traveling

When people vacation, they often rent homes and hotels to store their belongings and sleep at. Most of the vacationers’ time is spent away from their temporary places of living. As such, people who are actively traveling are more likely to be active than their non-traveling counterparts. Exercise, even physical activity as simple as walking is known to have positive effects on mental and physical health.

Dealing With Stress More Easily

In general, facing your mental health problems is almost always a better idea than running away from them. However, the American Psychological Association supports research that indicates frequent travelers view traveling as a break from mental health issues. Traveling can help people deal with stressors more easily.

Travel Makes Us Happier

Is constantly traveling as a means of lifting one’s mood a good idea? Probably not. However, going on a vacation or traveling, whether that’s for personal use or not, is linked to improved mood in most people, says Diamond Resorts International.

Traveling is a popular activity. It includes countless activities, sights to see, and interesting places along the way. Traveling frequently is suggested to make people happier with their lives. If you are thinking about traveling in the near future, consider these benefits and urge yourself to travel!

Combining Travel & Social Good - Bronislav Leydiker

Combining Travel and Social Good

By bronislavleydiker

On August 1, 2018

In Blog, International, Travel

Tourism is one of the fastest growing industries in the world. It has become a major force for economic and social development. However, only one nickel out of every dollar spent by tourists in developing countries remains in the host region. Conventional tourism has many serious negative effects on local communities as well, such as disruption of local culture and pollution. Fortunately, opportunities are on the rise for travelers to make a positive difference. Check out these platforms that connect you with vetted local organizations to help you maximize your social impact with immersive experiences.

GOOD Travel

Set off with GOOD Travel to visit a trailblazing eco-village in Iceland or work on a solar energy project in Fifi. GOOD Travel hosts trips that make positive impacts in local economies, environments, and communities across the globe. You can join one of their existing trips or ask about building your custom itinerary.

Journey

Journey, offers six- to nine-day social impact excursions to domestic and international destinations. Journeys are comprised of two parts — impact work and cultural immersion — with projects such as school renovations, home construction and coral reef restoration. Each opportunity is a unique adventure into community, service, and self-discovery.

Operation Groundswell

Operation Groundswell is building a movement of “backpacktivists”, backpackers who have a passion for getting involved and giving. This organizations offers programs in 18 countries that are brimming with adventure, cultural education, and opportunities to volunteer. Choose a theme — education, environment, health, or human rights — or create your own topic to explore first-hand.

El Camino Travel

El Camino connects you with true Latin American culture throughout South America, the Caribbean, and Europe. You will interact with local businesses and artisans and let the natives show your their country as only they can. Many of El Camino’s “highly curated” recommendations are so new that they cannot be found on most popular trip planning websites.

For the Love of Travel

For the Love of Travel (FTLO), a boutique travel platform, promotes “slow” sustainable travel for Millennials. FTLO takes young globe trotters away from the hustle and bustle to connect deeply with local cultures around the US and abroad. To offset carbon footprints, FTLO plants 10 trees for each person who joins a trip.

Visit.org

Visit.org is a leading platform for socially responsible travelers. Visit.org offers activities and tours that directly benefit causes such as agriculture, human rights, and education. Choose a destination on any continent to support conservation, attend artisan workshops, or experience daily life in a village.

Understanding What Kind of Traveler You Are

By bronislavleydiker

On July 16, 2018

In Blog, Travel, Vacation

To understand what kind of traveler you are, you need to go on a journey of self-discovery in an effort to find an itinerary to best match your personal preferences. Before you start planning your next major trip, considering these factors will help you to determine the best vacation destination and plan. Here are a few things to consider before planning your next trip:

Busy or Peaceful

Some people prefer an active vacation where every moment is planned while others prefer a more relaxed trip allowing for maximum spontaneity. Knowing your vacationing style can help you plan the ideal trip to meet your needs. If you are looking for peaceful and relaxing, you would be wise to plan a trip to the beach or a secluded mountain cabin. If non-stop action is what you crave, then it would be best to consider a big city trip or theme park visit. Being aware of your energy limits and preferences will help you to decide which route to take.

Great Outdoors or Bustling Streets

Related to the last point is the issue of finding your location sweet spot. If the thought of roughing it in the wilderness for a week is not your cup of tea, then you would be advised to look for something with a little more creature comforts. On the other hand, if the high energy of a city vacation drains your spirit before you even step out of the airport, then a week away camping might be just what you need to recharge your batteries. Practice visualizing yourself in a variety of vacation scenarios to determine which one gives you the most joy to fantasize about. That one is probably your answer.

Body or Mind

The central question to determine this trait is whether you would rather exercise your body or your mind? If trekking through the Andes gives you a rush to just think about, then you probably want to consider a physically demanding trip that will stretch your body to its limits. If experiencing the history and the culture of a new destination is what gets your juices flowing, then it would be in your best interest to look for itineraries that will exercise your brain and feed your soul.

Tips On Going Camping

By bronislavleydiker

On July 10, 2018

In Blog, International, Travel, Vacation

Although camping is a great adventure once you get settled at your campsite, the challenge of planning and implementing a trip to the great outdoors can be tough for rookies. Here are a few tips to help you get started on your camping journey and to ensure that your experience is a great one from start to finish:

Don’t Skimp On A Tent

This is the place you will call home during your adventure so be careful not to underestimate its value to your experience. Make space a priority so that you don’t spend the trip feeling cramped and uncomfortable.

Double Check

Make your list and check it twice. Being organized is half of the battle when preparing to set out for the great outdoors. Savvy campers use their checklists as a planning tool and as a backup check.

Early Bird Gets The Worm

Especially during busy times, arriving at the campground as early as possible is a must-do. Not only will this ensure that you get the best choice of camping spots, but it will also help you to get set up and acquainted with your new surroundings during crucial daylight hours.

Meal Planning

As part of your checklist routine, be sure to plan out all meals so that you know you will arrive with all that you need to make al fresco dining one of the highlights of your trip.

Pack Smart

Don’t be caught wearing inadequate clothing because you did not bother to check all weather conditions. Be prepared for any sort of situation with more clothes than you think you will need. Camping is a dirty activity and you will likely need more than you think you do. Don’t be afraid to overpack for your trip!

Don’t Be A Weather Hero

Camping is supposed to be fun and relaxing. Be careful not to try to outsmart Mother Nature. Avoid severe weather and head home or to safe surroundings at the hint of severe weather.

Stay Close The First Time

If this is your first camping foray, experts advise to stick close to your site. Hedge your bets by choosing a location that you can make a quick escape from if things don’t go your way.

The best tip of all is to have fun and be safe! Enjoy the outdoors.