Tag: International Page 1 of 2

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.

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.

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.

Before You Pick Your Travel Partner

By bronislavleydiker

On June 21, 2018

In Blog, International, Travel, Vacation

Traveling is an experience no matter where you end up going. There are new sites to see, cultures to experience, and people to meet. It’s even more fun to share the experience of traveling with another person. Finding a travel partner is a bit like choosing a mate, it’s important that they’re going to contribute positively to the relationship being built and experiences being shared. A travel partner can make or break your trip! Follow these tips and find the travel partner that’s right for you.

Consider Your Budgets

A discrepancy in cash flow can make things way more stressful than they need to be. Discuss expectations for spending and make sure you’re both on the same page when it comes to expenses. Look to set aside extra money for potential excursions while on the trip.

Physical Fitness

This one might sound a little strange but if you enjoy doing a lot of strenuous outdoor activity and your partner doesn’t, or vice versa, you may have a hard time settling on things to do. Talk over what kind of activities you would like to do on the trip to ensure that both of you have a great experience.

Share In Good Conversation & Silence

It is ideal to be able to go on a trip with someone who you can have a good conversation with and also enjoy silence when it is needed. Look for someone who you are very comfortable with when looking for a travel partner.

What’s The Purpose Of The Trip?

Talk about what you both want to get out of the trip. If one person wants to primarily climb mountains but the other person primarily wants to shop, you might want to find someone who has more similar interests. However, if you don’t mind getting out there and trying new things, it could be great to have someone around that pushes you out of your comfort zone.

Prone To Excessive Complaining?

This does not make for a good travel partner unless you’re a pro at putting up with it. For the sake of your traveling experience, you want to give this some consideration.

Night Owl or Morning Person?

This might be one of those things you need to have in common with your partner if you want to avoid exhaustion and crankiness.

Give careful consideration to who your travel partner will be. If you have a good sense of humor and can go with the flow, it might not matter as much. But, if you think something about your partner will do more harm than good, you may want to think about it more before you invite them on a plane with you!

Creating Your Own Travel Budget

By bronislavleydiker

On June 19, 2018

In Blog, Travel, Vacation

With summer just around the corner, many folks are already gearing up for their annual getaways. Others, meanwhile, may not have anything planned, as they didn’t think they could afford a vacation this year. It’s time to think again. Travel is possible on almost any budget. Creating a budget requires foresight and a bit of discipline. This article will talk about how you can create your own travel budget to satisfy your travel bug.

Research Early

Narrow down the list of possible destinations to four or five. Go online to research travel costs, like accommodations, airfare (if necessary), and area restaurants, as well as any can’t-miss activities. Then choose whichever destination seems like the best value for the time spent there. This will help you create an overall budget with which to work. The website budgetyourtrip.com

is an excellent resource to use as an outline for your budget. The site provides pricing on a number of global destinations, making it easier for travelers to choose the right spot for their individual needs.

Don’t Forget Secondary Expenses

Some destinations require additional travel costs upon arrival. Rental cars, gasoline, bus or rail fare, or subway passes all should be considered as secondary expenses. Be sure to build these into your budget from the beginning, so you aren’t left short-handed.

Be Flexible About Accommodations

Hotels often represent the greatest vacation expense. For people on a strict budget, this is problematic but also easy to get around, depending on the destination. European hostels, for example, are no longer populated solely with backpacking teenagers, and are a clean and affordable choice. Another tip is to look for accommodations with a small fridge or kitchenette, to save on dining costs.

Create A Budget Spreadsheet

This can be as simple as a double-sided list, with income on one side and monthly expenses on the other. If your income is flexible enough to add a little something extra each month, then add a new category called “Travel Savings” and put the bonus income there. Otherwise, find an expense that can be easily trimmed by a few dollars, and put the surplus in the travel column.

Track Spending

Take notes on every travel expense that’s incurred on the trip, to get a sense of where the money is going. This will help to shape the budget for your next vacation, as it will give you a good outlook on your spending habits.

The Best Places To Visit In Europe

By bronislavleydiker

On March 12, 2018

In Blog, International, Travel, Vacation

For many people, the idea of a visit to Europe is a dream come true. When the prospect of an international vacation becomes closer to a reality, the most important topic of discussion becomes which places in Europe to visit. Below are three of the best places to visit during a trip to Europe.

London, England

London leads Europe as one of the most popular tourist destinations due to its accessibility, tourist attractions, and its labyrinthian streets rich in historical lore and unsolved mysteries. London has streets lined with small restaurants that feature British classics such as fish n chips, custard tarts, and, of course, plenty of Earl Grey tea. After delightful treats have been consumed, prepare for a whirlwind adventure as you head off on a London tour to see the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, The Making of Harry Potter Tour, and even a thrilling tour through the streets of London as you and your fellow tourists walk the same back alleys that Jack the Ripper roamed while stalking and mutilating his victims.

Paris, France

Often referred to as the City of Love, Paris boasts a plethora of stunning Gothic architecture blended beautifully with modern conveniences. Although Paris can be easily dismissed as a city that possesses a narrow range of amenities, this is far from true. Paris contains restaurants and gourmet cafes for people who love food. Paris is considered the birthplace of fashion, so there are quality boutiques around every corner. For those who enjoy learning about the history of France and of Europe, Paris is abundantly blessed with museums, churches, and monuments. Regardless of your deepest desires as a tourist, you’ll find it in Paris.

Rome, Italy
When considering a trip to Europe, it would be criminal to neglect the most elegant and ancient city in all of Europe – Rome. Rome has a rustic Old World charm that isn’t found in many other places on the planet. Many ancient buildings that were erected centuries ago, such as St. Peter’s Basilica, still remain intact and open for public tours. One of the things that many people forget is that the city of Rome is actually located inside of Italy. Italy is famous worldwide for its rich and robust cuisine. Before any ancient history site is visited, a trip to a local authentic Italian restaurant must be put at the top of your itinerary.