Posts tagged with "road trip"

6 Inspiring Gifts for Your Daughter’s Graduation

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Graduating is a very important milestone in a person’s life. Whether your daughter is graduating from high school or college, it signifies growth and is the start of the next journey in her life. As a result, it should be celebrated – it means your daughter is one step closer to reaching her full potential.

In order to show your pride and appreciation, it is customary to get someone a gift when they graduate. This could be anything, which can often make the decision of what to choose a difficult one. With that in mind, here are six inspiring and appropriate gifts to give your daughter for her graduation.

Flowers

Flowers are a graduation gift that your daughter is sure to love and appreciate. Depending on their type and color, they can have a variety of meanings: love, pride and even appreciation. These flowers can be displayed in your daughter’s bedroom or apartment, and will not only improve how the space looks, but also fill it with a wonderful scent.

There are many reasons why a flower bouquet is a perfect gift. They are very versatile, timeless, affordable and convenient for everyone involved. Also, in addition to being great for graduations, flowers are great for birthdays, anniversaries, Mother’s Day and various other holidays.

A Piece of Jewelry

Jewelry is another classic graduation gift. Giving your daughter a new necklace, ring, bracelet or pair of earrings is a lovely option to consider. You could even engrave the jewelry with a special message or quote. This could inspire them, make them happy, remind them of home or tell them anything you’d like.

The right piece can also help your daughter keep up with the latest jewelry trends, as well. If you want to show your pride in your daughter, and help her look and feel her best, some new jewelry can do just that. Every time she wears it, she will think of you and the support you gave her throughout her journey in school.

A Subscription Box

A subscription box is another good choice. These have taken off in recent years and there are dozens of different ones your daughter is sure to love. These boxes ship products to your daughter each and every month, right to her door. You can choose from beauty boxes, snack boxes, wine and spirits boxes, or relaxation boxes. If she has an interest, there is probably a subscription box for it.

A unique box might also help her discover a new hobby, work on her skills in the kitchen, learn more about a new topic or even add to a hobby or collection she already has. Many of the items in these boxes can be customized, making them completely exclusive to the recipient.

A Book

If your daughter is an avid reader, a thoughtful book can be a great gift. This could be an inspiring book about her future and how to best reach her potential, or even a book all about entertaining her to make her laugh. The choice is yours and will depend on what she likes.

If she’s always on the go and cannot always bring a bulky book or multiple books with her, consider getting her an e-reader. These can store plenty of books on them, and are very convenient to take wherever she goes.

New Technology

People love technology and most of us rely on it daily. If your daughter is a techie, a new type of tech she doesn’t have is a great gift idea. Wireless earbuds, a new laptop, or a smart speaker are just some of the many options out there. If you are not sure what she would like, consider getting a gift card to an online tech store, so she can choose exactly what she wants.

Household Goods or Appliances

If your daughter has her own place, is going to college soon or is moving out, some household goods or appliances are other great gifts to consider. This could be a fancy blender, a new coffee maker, a good food processor or anything in between. While they might not be the most exciting, they are very useful and will be much appreciated in the long run.

In addition to being incredibly useful and saving her some money, these can help inspire your daughter to think about her future. Once she moves out and finds her own place, she will think of you every time she uses the item, and will appreciate all you had to do to support her growth over the years.

Get a Graduation Gift She Is Sure To Appreciate

A graduation is a big deal in a person’s life and should be celebrated. Any of these six ideas are great ideas to give your daughter to celebrate her graduation and all the hard work she put in to reach her goal.

Tasmania’s Great Eastern Drive: An Epic Australian Road Trip

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Tasmania’s east coast boasts abundant natural beauty, stunning landscapes, and gorgeous sandy beaches. Taking a road trip along the Great Eastern Drive is one of the best ways to explore the coast, which spans an impressive 176 kilometers. While you can take all the time you want to explore this route, it can also be completed in as little as one weekend.

Drive in comfort

Living up to its name, the Great Eastern Drive involves plenty of driving. A reliable and spacious car is therefore a must to keep you comfortable on your trip. In particular, drivers commonly rate SUVs as practical vehicles with expansive interiors and roomy trunks. You’ll have plenty of legroom to stretch out your legs, as well as space to keep your belongings and luggage. You’ll also need to pack enough water and snacks to keep you hydrated and well-fueled on the road. Bananas and nuts can provide great energy boosts when your energy levels start to dip. Also be sure to bring sunglasses: having the sun in your eyes while driving can cause headaches. Tinted sunglasses will protect your eyes from the sun’s harsh glare.

Begin in Hobart

Your road trip kicks off in Hobart: Tasmania’s capital city. From here, you’ll drive north on the Tasman Highway while enjoying the expansive scenic views. It’ll take you about an hour to arrive in Triabunna, a charming small coastal town surrounded by beaches, hills and forests. Make time to sample the locally-caught fish and chips before taking the ferry to Maria Island (only half an hour away). You can explore the beautiful and peaceful island’s hiking trails, as well as go swimming, scuba diving or snorkeling. When you’re ready, catch the ferry back to mainland Orford, another nearby small village. Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants before unwinding for the night in your hotel room.

Exploring Orford and Swansea

Start the next day with a hike in Wielangta Forest — the Three Thumbs track is a 2-hour, 4-kilometre loop that passes through dry eucalyptus forest and temperate rainforest. Exploring Three Thumbs is well worth the effort: you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous views over Maria Island, Orford, and Spring Bay. Next up on your road trip, you’ll drive to Freycinet Peninsula, a large peninsula overflowing with natural beauty, including pink granite mountain ranges. Here you can enjoy a number of water sports in Wineglass Bay (think swimming, diving and surfing). If bird-watching is more your thing, head to the Moulting Lagoon wetlands and keep an eye out for the beautiful native pelicans and black swans.

If you have the time, don’t end your road trip before exploring Freycinet National Park — Tasmania’s oldest national park. It has a number of hiking trails of varying lengths, which will give you sweeping views over Wineglass Bay. If you’re lucky, you’ll also spot some of the local wildlife like honeyeaters, black cockatoos, yellow wattlebirds, white-bellied sea eagles, and dolphins.

Tourism Trends in 2021

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What’s Ahead for Travel and Tourism? 5 Trends to Look For in 2021 and Beyond

By: Stefan Read, SVP Engagement Advisory and Strategy Practice Lead at Jackman

As vaccines continue to roll out and people begin to see a light at the end of the pandemic tunnel, many consumers are starting to think of travel. A recent survey by CivicScience found that as of March 2021, nearly 6 in 10 US adults say they’d be willing to travel in the next five months. This is very promising, but much has changed in the past year and several aspects of consumer behavior have been permanently altered. In order to succeed in the new post-Covid world, travel and hospitality brands must understand the new and emerging trends impacting this industry. Below are the top trends and customer behaviors that we will see in 2021 and beyond as travel begins to ramp up again.

Cleanliness: Unsurprisingly, travelers now say that cleanliness is their top priority when selecting hotels and flights. In November 2020, Booking declared that short-term or holiday rentals have to meet a minimum cleanliness standard by May 2021, or have their properties delisted. Airbnb and VRBO created new cleaning procedures for hosts to follow in the pandemic. Even after the pandemic ends, cleanliness will remain top of mind for travelers as the anxiety around COVID and other illnesses have now become part of our new reality. Travel and hospitality brands can do their part by communicating detailed and specific information with travelers about the cleaning procedures they have in place, and making sure the procedures can be clearly observed by guests. Hotels and property hosts should also adjust their change and refund policies to allow guests to cancel at the last minute in case of a future outbreak. Brands that prioritize the health and well-being of guests over profits will win when it comes to customer loyalty and safety.
Wellness Tourism: Cleanliness goes hand in hand with wellness, and wellness tourism will keep growing over the next couple of years as people continue to seek out travel for the purpose of promoting health and well-being through physical, psychological, or spiritual activities. According to the Global Wellness Institute, wellness tourism will be worth $919 billion by 2022, representing 18 percent of all tourism globally. Brands should start to think about what services or experiences they can create or enhance that will attract these wellness travelers, such as transforming outdoor spaces to become open air yoga studios or hiring meditation or massage experts available for guests to utilize during their stay.
Staying Close to Home: It’s no surprise that during the pandemic traveler preferences shifted toward the familiar. Backpacking through Europe was no longer feasible, so travelers instead opted for domestic destinations and were more thorough in their planning. A recent AirBnB survey revealed that 56 percent of consumers prefer a domestic or local destination and one in five Americans say they want their destination to be within driving distance of home. As a result, road trips will boom – in fact, 59 percent of families say they’re more likely to drive than fly on their next trip. Smaller hotels can compete with the big hotel chains by highlighting the local aspect of their experience and engaging meaningfully with the community they’re in. They might also consider banding together to help people plan fun road trips along specific routes. Travel and hospitality brands can help take some of the anxiety off of travelers by playing a more active role in the planning aspect of the guests’ travel.

Traveling to Connect: The door is open for brands to play a more meaningful role in the travel plans for customers as Airbnb anticipates 2021 being the year of “meaningful travel.” It’s not the act of getting on a plane, standing in long line ups, and visiting crowded tourist attractions that people miss about travel. Rather, it’s the element of social connection – reuniting with old friends, spending time with family, and experiencing something new with loved ones. For a significant percentage of AirBnB survey respondents, their definition of meaningful travel has changed since the pandemic to become even more focused on being with loved ones. These people also say they intend to travel more after the pandemic, with nearly one in two (46%) saying they will travel more for pleasure, such as by going on vacation and to visit family. Brands should consider helping with family reunion planning and continue to be mindful of ways to bring families together while still maintaining a clean and safe environment.
Eco-Tourism: Defined as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people and involves education,” eco-tourism is on the rise. Consumers are taking on the role of “concerned citizens” demanding responsible travel policies, and we’re seeing a shift in behavior and sentiment toward appreciating the earth and what it has to offer. Moving forward, people will be thinking more mindfully about the way they travel, why they travel, and where they go. Rather than trying to fit as many destinations as possible into one trip, many consumers will opt for longer stays, choosing to get to know the local communities, cultures, cuisines, and landscapes.

The world of travel and tourism has been forever altered by the pandemic and lockdowns. With some valuable insights into how customer behaviors and desires have changed, travel and hospitality brands can find new, creative ways to appeal to travelers. The five trends listed above are a great place to start when looking to understand the ways these industries will continue to change moving into 2021 and beyond.

Post-Vaccination Adventures

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President Joe Biden’s recent announcement that the United States will have enough coronavirus vaccines for all adults by the end of May – two months earlier than previously thought – is promising news for travelers. Precautions will still need to be taken, of course, but domestic travel is likely to be popular again this summer, highlighted by national parks, active trips and travel where physical distancing is possible. Here are six dream vacations to take this summer once you’ve gotten your shots.

1. Long-Weekend Cycling: Adventure Cycling Association is offering a new collection of long-weekend tours close metropolitan areas to make it easy to give bike travel a try. Options include taking in the crisp mountain air and stunning vistas while cycling around the stunning Lake Tahoe on the California-Nevada border, or leaving behind the hustle and bustle of New York City to bike up the Hudson River valley and visit peaceful state parks. To learn more, visit this website

2. Greater Yellowstone Adventures: A stay at The Wilson Hotel in Big Sky, Montana, offers the opportunity to explore the surrounding mountains, rivers and Yellowstone National Park. Go hiking through shaded forests and wildflower-filled alpine meadows, float or fly fish in a clear, cool river, experience the adrenaline rush of lift-served mountain biking at Big Sky Resort, or tour the natural wonders and wildlife of Yellowstone. To learn more, visit this we bsite.

3. Explore National Parks by RV: Blacksford is a new recreational vehicle rental business with an all-inclusive pricing model that includes unlimited miles, no generator fees, bedding, bath and kitchen supplies, free Wi-Fi, free annual national park pass and 24-hour roadside assistance. Blacksford also curates road trip experiences by connecting travelers with vetted campsites, guides and other hand-picked attractions. To learn more, visit this website.

4. Channel Your Inner Cowboy: “Yellowstone,” the wildly popular cable television series starring Kevin Costner, has sparked newfound interest in luxury dude ranch vacations. Red Reflet Ranch, a 28,000-acre guest ranch in Ten Sleep, Wyoming, has experienced a surge of guests booking five-figure vacations because of their love for the series. Guests stay in fully-stocked private cabins and enjoy farm-to-table cuisine while participating in equestrian programs, cattle branding, hiking, mountain biking, ATVing, fly fishing, shooting, family-friendly activities and cooking classes. To learn more, visit this website.

5. Idaho Hot Springs, Camping and Cycling: Escape Adventures is excited to offer a multiday cycling tour showcasing Idaho’s magnificent Sawtooth Range and some of the state’s most scenic natural hot springs. The tour includes five days of transfixing road rides – including over the highest paved road in the American Northwest – colorful mining towns, wild rivers and remote natural hot springs. To learn more, visit this website.

6. Retreat to a Teton Tiny House: With sustainably built, LEED-certified “tiny house” cabins, Fireside Resort is Jackson Hole, Wyoming’s most innovative take on resort town lodging. The resort embraces modern, yet rustic design and presents a fresh approach to luxury lodging. Nestled in a wooded setting at the foot of the Teton Range, the cabins allow guests to get back to nature while enjoying the intimacy of a boutique hotel and the ambiance of their own cozy residence. To learn more, visit this website.

Lexus’ Wellness Travel “Retreats in Motion”

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Automaker offering self-guided retreats to recharge travelers.

Lexus is elevating the American road trip. To meet the growing need for deeper, meaningful experiences that promote wellbeing, Lexus is putting travelers behind the wheel in its first-ever “Retreats in Motion” program. These five-day, four-night driving retreats allow guests to take a scenic, restorative drive in a new 2021 Lexus IS between two of the brand’s luxury hotel partners, with curated self-care activities along the way.

“These days, the desire to escape on the open road to rejuvenate mind and spirit has never been more enticing,” says Vinay Shahani, Lexus vice president of marketing. “The ‘Retreats in Motion’ program not only provides perfectly planned, luxurious getaways in a Lexus vehicle, but they also elevate the classic road trip with much-needed recuperative experiences.”

The Lexus partner hotels selected for the “Retreats in Motion” program have been hand-picked for their exceptional service, beautiful design and culinary offerings. Guests will spend two nights at each resort – with an average three-hour drive between each property – before returning to the originating hotel. Participating hotels in the three California-based retreats include:

In spring 2021, those visiting the East Coast will be able to travel between XV Beacon and Chatham Bars Inn in Massachusetts.

Travelers will be paired with the new 2021 Lexus IS sport sedan at their originating hotel before embarking on a customized route featuring suggested stops and wellness activities to enjoy throughout their drive. They’ll feast their eyes on beautiful views, relax with aromatherapy or guided breathwork, and have the option to indulge their taste buds with healthy gourmet meals at the end of each day.

Unlike typical getaways, the “Retreats in Motion” program incorporates the vehicle as an integral part of the wellness experience. More than just transporting travelers from each partner hotel, the Lexus vehicle is a destination and sanctuary in and of itself and is equipped with a mobile wellness kit to help travelers get the most out of their journey.

In creating the program, the automaker has partnered with mindbodygreen, a health and well-being lifestyle media brand, to create custom content featuring some of the world’s most-loved wellness experts for each retreat. Highlights include podcasts on sustainability with best-selling author Jonathan Safran Foer and a guided walking meditation with teacher Mary Beth LaRue, along with content covering topics from mindful eating to movement for longevity. Additionally, an immersive in-car sound bath with expert Sara Auster – designed to be played through the signature Mark Levinson sound system – helps clear energy blockages and deliver a sense of calm.

“Mindbodygreen has enjoyed being a trusted destination and resource for well-being for over eleven years, bringing together experts across all facets of health and wellness for our collective audience,” says Colleen Wachob, mindbodygreen co-founder and co-CEO. “Our team is so excited to work with an innovative, forward-thinking brand like Lexus on this partnership. Together, we’re creating something really unique and so vital to people’s well-being.”

Guests are responsible for the “Retreats in Motion” registration costs and travel expenses. Fees start at $2,700 for two guests, and include:

Five-day, four-night stay at each property
Loan of a new 2021 Lexus IS vehicle
Intimate access to curated wellness content, including self-care discussions, in-vehicle sound bath, meditation, guided breathwork and more
Complimentary welcome wellness kit

Lexus and its hotel partners deeply value the health and well-being of their guests. Comprehensive health and sanitization procedures have been put in place for each Lexus vehicle and the hotels have implemented their own measures. Please refer to each partner hotel website for more details on their COVID protocols.

For more information or to book a Lexus “Retreats in Motion,” visit mindbodygreen’s website.

About mindbodygreen

mindbodygreen is a full-service wellness company offering content, supplements, classes and trainings. With a mission to help people find the tools, routines, and products they need to live their best life, mindbodygreen is committed to delivering science and research-backed advice and products that stand the test of time. At mindbodygreen, the mental, physical, spiritual, emotional and environmental are interconnected in a 360-degree approach to well-being.

About Lexus

Lexus’ passion for brave design, imaginative technology, and exhilarating performance enables the luxury lifestyle brand to create amazing experiences for its guests. Lexus began its journey in 1989 with two luxury sedans and a commitment to pursue perfection. Since then, Lexus has developed its lineup to meet the needs of global luxury customers in more than 90 countries. In the United States, Lexus vehicles are sold through 243 dealers offering a full lineup of luxury vehicles. With six models incorporating Lexus Hybrid Drive, Lexus is the luxury hybrid leader. Lexus also offers eight F SPORT models and two F performance models. Lexus is committed to being a visionary brand that anticipates the future for luxury customers.

Going the Distance: Tips for Handling Car Troubles on Road Trips

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Road trips are a rite of passage, whether you’re loading up with your whole family or you’re traveling cross country with friends. But your scenic road trip will come to a screeching halt if car troubles pop up.

You can’t avoid every car problem, but you can take steps to prep your car before you leave to minimize the risk of problems. Knowing how to handle common car problems during your trip can help you get back on the road faster.

Check out these road trip driving tips to help you avoid car problems.

Get a Tune Up

Never leave for a road trip without getting a tune up. If you skip this important step, you’ll quickly find out what happens when you don’t take care of your car.

When you skip tune ups, your vehicle is more likely to have common car problems, such as engine stalling, loss of power, and rough idling. It can also decrease your fuel efficiency, which increases the cost of your road trip.

During a tune up, your mechanic checks over the engine to clean it and repair any issues. Many items, such as spark plugs, filters, and hoses, might need to be replaced during the tune up to prevent more serious problems and to keep your car running smoothly. The mechanic also checks and tops off the necessary fluids.

Mention any issues you’ve noticed when you get your tune up, such as the car having trouble starting or any noises or odors you’ve noticed. Your mechanic can investigate those issues and fix them before they become major expenses.

Check the Basics

If you’ve had a recent tune up, it’s a good idea to do a little checking up yourself before hitting the road. Check the headlights, brake lights, and turning signals to ensure all of the bulbs are working. Replace any burnt out light bulbs before your trip to keep you and your passengers safe.

Schedule an oil change if you’re due for one. Consider how many miles you’ll drive on your trip if you’re close to needing an oil change, and schedule it early before the trip if you’ll come close to the recommended mileage before you get home. Use the dipstick to ensure your car has plenty of oil and to make sure it’s not black or gritty, which indicates the need for a change.

Check the coolant level and top it off if it’s low. When the coolant is low, your vehicle is more likely to overheat.

It’s also a good idea to top off your windshield fluid to ensure you can clean the windows if they get dirty. Inspect your windshield wipers and replace them if they look worn.

Prepare for a Flat Tire

Flat tires are common, but you can reduce your risks of having one and plan ahead in case you have a flat. Ensure you have a spare tire in your vehicle as well as a jack and a lug wrench to change a flat if needed. If you’ve never changed a flat tire, look up videos and check out the equipment in your vehicle to prepare yourself.

Before your trip, inspect your tires to ensure they’re in good condition as worn tires can result in a flat or blowout. Rotating tires every 5,000 miles helps them last longer and wear more evenly. If you haven’t rotated your tires recently, consider having it done before your trip.

Check the tire pressure in your tires to ensure they’re at the proper inflation according to your owner’s manual or the sticker on the door jamb. Not only is a properly inflated tire safer for long distance driving, it also improves your gas mileage. When your tires are inflated correctly, your gas mileage gets an average boost of 0.6% and as much as 3%.

Plan for Gas Stops

While not a mechanical failure, running out of gas is another common car problem that can happen on a road trip. If you run out of gas, you could be stranded on the side of the road for quite some time waiting for help.

When planning your route, look for good places to stop for gas, especially if you’re traveling in a remote area with long distances between towns. If you don’t plan accordingly, you might find yourself on empty with no gas station for miles.

Avoid letting your tank get too low before refilling, even in more populated areas. You never know when you’ll get stuck in rush hour traffic, construction, or other delays that keep you on the road longer than expected.

Research the Terrain

If you’re heading out into the wilderness, pay attention to the terrain in which you’ll be driving. Rough roads can increase the chances of tire damage. They can also affect the alignment of your car and put extra strain on your vehicle’s struts.

If you’re not used to driving on rough terrain, slow down significantly to ensure you can keep the vehicle under control. Slower driving can also reduce the risk of damage to the vehicle. If the road is in a remote area, it could be difficult to call for help if your vehicle gets damaged or you go off of the road.

Pack Emergency Supplies

You can’t do much if your car troubles involve major mechanical failures, but you can be prepared for minor issues with a few tools and supplies. Keep jumper cables in your car in case your battery dies while you’re traveling. Keep car chargers for your phone to keep it charged in case you need to call for help.

Pack a fire extinguisher in case a small fire breaks out in your vehicle. Reflective triangles and a reflective vest help make you and your vehicle more visible at night if you’re stuck on the side of the road.

For a winter road trip, pack blankets and warm items in case you have car troubles that keep you stranded. Cat litter can work for giving you traction if you get stuck.

Avoid Road Trip Car Troubles

With the proper prep and supplies, you can avoid major road trip car troubles to keep things running smoothly. Embark with your car in tiptop condition and keep an eye on things during long distance driving to spot problems early.

Explore the rest of our site for more useful information.

9 Tips to Remember Your Journey Forever

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Any trip is an excellent opportunity to learn many new things and break out of the routine. No matter if you have just recently returned from a vacation filled with new impressions or vice versa, are just getting ready to go and planning your route, you may be interested in this article. We have collected nine small tips to remain inspired by the journey and remember it forever.

Make Yourself a Talisman

Some trips become something much more than just a break from work and truly open up a new chapter in our lives. If you want to capture this momentous moment for yourself or your friend, a 3D crystal photo can be a great option and one of the best gifts for avid travelers.

ArtPix 3D creates customized 3D crystals, such as keychains, necklaces, or figurines of different crystals types and shapes. Such a volumetric 3D Image created by using a laser-etching method looks beautiful and original. ArtPix 3D allows ordering unique personalized crystals online and shipping within the US in the shortest terms.

Write an Article or Post About Your Adventures

Even a short story about the trip will help you remember the vacation better, and it may become an inspiration and motivator for other travelers.

Also, your personal experience and fresh travel tips will help others to avoid mistakes and pitfalls.

The sharing of practical knowledge is invaluable because it makes travel more comfortable, safer, and more beneficial.

Feel free to share your findings, overcome difficulties, and even curiosities during the trip via social media. This information can come in handy for other people!

Relax and Take Pictures

Going on vacation, forget about work issues, and monotonous routine. Just have fun, and don’t forget to take pictures! Human memory is unreliable, and even the most vivid memories fade over time. The photos will become a “time machine” for you, helping you to relive your trips in all details.

To not be distracted from your adventures by monitoring likes and views your posts get on Instagram, try not to upload photos right away, or even use a good old camera or instant camera instead of a smartphone.

Take photos of not only what “is supposed to,” like places of tourist attraction, and not only what will collect more enthusiastic comments on social networks.

Notice and capture all these little things, details, and stories that will be understandable only to those who were next to you during this journey. Such shots have a unique nostalgic atmosphere.

Taste Masterpieces of Local Cuisine

Each nation has its gastronomic preferences and delicacies. In France, there are excellent cheeses and wine, in England – ales and puddings, in Italy – prosciutto, pizza, and lasagne, in Spain – paella, gazpacho, and Jamon serrano. Any country has something to please and amaze guests from abroad.

To appreciate the local cuisine, you should better avoid restaurants in tourist areas and near interest places. The food there will be much more expensive and, very likely, of lower quality. Walk a few blocks, and you will find nicer and cheaper local restaurants.

Besides, locals do not eat in cafes and restaurants every day, so that you can follow their example. Go to the supermarket or grocery store, pick something you would like to try, and cook dinner yourself.

If there is no kitchen where you are staying, that’s no problem. Visit a local farmers market, grab some fruits and sandwiches, and have a picnic in the park. New impressions and small savings are guaranteed for you!

Visit Quirky Spots and Museums

Besides the well-known museums of art or places of historical interest, popular and crowded with tourists, each city has small, but no less attractive educational and entertainment spots.

It can be a house-museum of a famous musician, scientist or writer, or a little-known but unusual private exhibition. For example, in Paris, why not go to the Museum of Erotica or Magic, the ancient Père Lachaise Cemetery, or the catacombs? So you will look at the city from a different angle and learn something new.

Make New Acquaintances

Do not be afraid to strike up a conversation with new people – fellow travelers, neighbors at a table in a cafe, locals. A conversation with a stranger is an adventure, albeit a small one, thanks to which you can learn a lot about little-known but worthwhile places to visit, local culture, customs, and sense of humor, as well as various useful life hacks.

Feel free to be the first to start the conversation.

First, you will learn foreign words, and you can show off new knowledge in front of friends or on a date. Secondly, it is good memory training. And finally, in this way, you will find mutual understanding with the locals and show respect: not everyone knows English.

Collect Some Souvenirs

Those who love to collect various memorabilia will appreciate this idea. Returning home from a foreign country or new city, you do not have to buy yourself keychains, magnets, and other typical souvenirs.

Take them for friends and loved ones, and leave yourself something more intimate and personal:

a tram ticket
a beautiful tree leaf
a coin
an old book from a flea market
a sugar stick from a cafe you had visited

These things will bring the ride back to mind with every touch.

Ride Public Transport

Become acquainted with the country or city from the inside through the window of a tram, bus, electric train, subway, and observe the locals.

You will see how people discuss the latest country news, reading the press, joking, or rushing to an important meeting. Such a casual experience will let you have a cheap sightseeing tour and see the city in all its details, not only well-known tourist spots.

Add Some Extreme

Long promenades through the streets, museums, and galleries are undoubtedly impressive. But why not add some adrenaline rush to the entertainment program?

Visiting attraction parks, horseback riding, visiting a crazy festival, riding on a cable car, or at least cycling or rollerblading will make your journey more eventful. Give yourself some vivid emotions!

Zoey Deutch x Outdoorsy

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Actress and fashionista, Zoey Deutch took a break from LA quarantine to road trip in a luxury campervan provided by Outdoorsy the largest and most trusted RV rental marketplace. The 25-year-old actress hit the California Coast with her closest friends as they drove through Northern California hitting up the Redwood Forest, Big Sur, and Oregon. Taking to her Instagram to share pictures of her socially distant road trip and camping dreams come true, the starlet enjoyed touring from the forest to the sea. Her home for her outdoor adventure was a 19 foot, brand new 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van which came fully equipped with a queen-size bed, sink, microwave, refrigerator, ventilation, and private shower. The rig came with tons of storage space as well as insulated/magnetic blackout curtains, full laminate countertops & vinyl floors, USB & outlets throughout, LED recessed lighting, and a built-in roof rack for the ultimate viewing deck.

Outdoorsy is the new face of outdoor travel making the outdoors accessible to everyone by connecting a community of RV owners with renters. The deliverable, fido-friendly fleet from luxurious Class As to vintage airstreams to Insta-worthy campervans are packed with amenities and ideas for flexible travelers and families looking for a quick getaway. Outdoorsy RV Rentals are available in over 4,800 cities and 14 countries ensuring guests all over the world enjoy the most unique and user-friendly experience in the space.

Road Trip Hotels

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Three hotels around the country are ready to safely host road-tripping guests

The Shore Club Wisconsin, The Inn Hotel, and The Penn Stroud have recently joined Choice Hotels International, Inc.’s Ascend Hotel Collection, a global portfolio of resort, boutique and historic hotels. All three hotels are just a few hours’ drive from major U.S. cities and bustling suburbs, making them optimal destinations for guests who are looking to hit the road and start exploring again.

“Research shows that more than two-thirds of consumers miss traveling and can’t wait to hit the road again, and many people will take more trips by car as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Dianne Taylor, head of brand, Ascend Hotel Collection, Choice Hotels.

“The addition of these hotels to our Ascend Hotel Collection reaffirms that the road forward is paved with opportunity – both for guests ready to return to travel, and for the hotel owners who are ready to welcome them,” said Mark Shalala, senior vice president of development, upscale brands, Choice Hotels. “Guests value both the security of brands they trust as well as individuality, and the Ascend brand brings them the best of both. Backed by Choice’s industry-leading technology, robust distribution and reservation channels, and comprehensive Commitment to Clean initiative, Ascend hotels are poised for continued success in the months and years ahead.”

All Choice-branded hotels are participating in Commitment to Clean, which is the company’s global, holistic approach to supplying franchisees and their employees with the tools to address health and safety concerns associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. The initiative enhances existing best practice guidance for deep cleaning, disinfecting, hygiene and social distancing.

About The Shore Club Wisconsin:

Located at 276 Victorian Village Dr. in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, this recently renovated hotel provides guests with convenient access to charming attractions surrounding the shore and boasts 600 feet of private beach. Guests can lounge lakefront or try out a number of entertaining watersports, such as paddle boarding, kayaking, water skiing, wakeboarding or tubing. The Cottonwood Social and world-famous Tiki Bar are also on-site for guests seeking a drink or bite to eat.

About The Inn Hotel:

Found at 15 Dam Rd. in Arnolds Park, Iowa, this hotel channels the storied history of the building’s predecessor, which was an epicenter for social life along Lake Okoboji from the late 19th century until 2018. The new hotel leans into an Art Deco style that transports guests back to the Roaring ’20s, while still delivering the modern amenities that today’s leisure travelers seek. Embraced by tranquil lakes on three sides and quaint attractions and eateries to the south, The Inn Hotel is a true midwestern gem.

About The Penn Stroud:

Located at 700 Main St. in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, this hotel reflects nearly 200 years of history while offering guests upscale amenities in a premium location following a multi-million-dollar renovation. The Penn Stroud, nestled in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, is close to the Appalachian Trail – one of the country’s most traversed hiking routes. Downtown Stroudsburg is home to several art galleries, cafes and historic sites, and the hotel is also close to attractions including Mountain View Vineyard and Alpine Mountain Skiing.

Make Summer Memories at WonderWorks!

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After months of being quarantined at home, mixed with the tribulations of online learning, families are ready to get out, have fun, and make a memorable summer. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to make that happen in Myrtle Beach, starting with WonderWorks.

“In lieu of everything that has happened this year, we want to offer families and guests a place to come and have fun for the summer,” explained Robert Stinnett, general manager of WonderWorks Myrtle Beach. “At this time, our goal is to keep guests safe while still giving them summer memories to remember forever.”

Soar + Explore. WonderWorks offers an exciting outdoor zip line course that will take you 50 feet above water, giving guests a breathtaking view of Myrtle Beach.

Get hands-on. Whether you are learning about the Tesla Coil or laying on a bed of nails, WonderWorks makes learning fun. Families can check out the many STEM-focused activities and exhibits that WonderWorks has to offer that will bring their online curriculum to life.

Learn origami. The art of origami is great for enhancing math skills, problem-solving skills, patience, and attention. WonderWorks Myrtle Beach recently opened a new exhibit that explores the art form’s connections to STEM.

Flip Upside-down. The indoor attraction offers the thrills of a roller coaster without ever leaving the walls of the building. Pick your desired intensity and get turned upside-down on this virtual experience.

Take a Wild Ride. Get strapped in to the 6D XD Motion Theater at WonderWorks and go on an epic adventure back in time to a Dino Safari, travel down a Wild West Mine train, or get caught on canyon coaster misadventure with twists and turns that will feel like you’re actually there.

Discover space. WonderWorks gives guests a space experience without ever leaving Myrtle Beach. The Space Discovery Zone offers an Astronaut Training Challenge, a Mercury capsule, a shuttle lander experience, and more.

“As kids and families adjust to new ways of learning, we want to be a place where learning and education can be fun and exciting,” added Stinnett. “Myrtle Beach offers a great mix of indoor and outdoor fun for families who want adventure and hands-on learning.”

WonderWorks Myrtle Beach opened following the pandemic with new safety measures in place. This includes reduced hours, enhanced cleaning regimens, spatial distancing protocols, employee health screenings and employee personal protective equipment (PPE).

Current promotions include free admission for doctors, nurses, first responders, and healthcare workers with valid identification now through August 9, 2020. Teachers and all education support staff also receive free admission through August 9, 2020, with valid credentials. Guests with doctors, nurses, teachers, and education support staff will receive 50% off admission price. The offer cannot be combined with any other offers.

WonderWorks continues to add programs and exhibits in an effort to further expand its educational offerings. WonderWorks offers 50,000 square feet of “edu-tainment” opportunities, billing itself as an amusement park for the mind. It offers over 100 hands-on exhibits covering natural disasters and space discovery, an Imagination Lab, a physical challenge zone, a Far Out Art Gallery, and a light and sound zone. For more information, log on here.

WonderWorks, a science focused indoor amusement park, combines education and entertainment. With over 100 hands-on exhibits, there is something unique and challenging for all ages. Feel the power of an 84 mph hurricane–force winds in the Hurricane Shack. Make huge, life–sized bubbles in the Bubble Lab. Get the NASA treatment in our Astronaut Training Gyro and experience zero gravity. Nail it by lying on the death–defying Bed of Nails. WonderWorks has locations in Orlando, Pigeon Forge, Panama City Beach, Myrtle Beach, Syracuse and Branson.

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