Travel blog

Ciao! Without even realizing it, you’ve probably long known at least one Italian word—hello. Italy is a bucket-list destination for many travel lovers, and it is easy to see why.

Boasting an enviable mixture of cosmopolitan cities and small villages, history and art, food and wine; Italy—with its sun-drenched piazzas and Tuscan hills—is one of the most popular places to visit in the world.

Guided tours, cruises, and most packaged vacations offer optional tours in addition to included activities. An optional tour, which can also be called an optional activity or optional excursion, is an extra special experience not included in the base price of your vacation.

They are enhancements, experiences, dining or events that can be booked a la carte at your discretion. They are the cherry on the sundae, the final flourish of a great work of art, the personally significant moments that turn a great vacation into the best trip of your life.

Purchasing travel insurance is a great way to protect yourself from unexpected problems before or during a vacation. It’s a relatively low cost, hassle-free expense that we highly recommend you build into your budget.

New Zealanders—Kiwis for those in the know—are famous for speaking in their own unique dialect. Not convinced? Just listen to any local conversation. Fast and sometimes quite thickly accented, the regional speech is packed with Kiwi slang that often requires a translator.

With a turn of the calendar to 2021, a fresh start has arrived. The world beckons us to explore new destinations, embark on exciting tours, and savor new experiences. From Italy and Ireland to Peru and Hawaii, you can say hello to a clean slate and new beginnings. 

Alaska has plenty to offer visitors. It boasts everything from some of the world’s most stunning scenery, to magnificent wildlife, to the legendary Northern Lights.

It is a rugged state blessed with staggering beauty, but in order to best enjoy Alaska, it’s important to visit at the right time of the year.

We’ve put together a short guide to help you determine when to go based on what you prioritize most highly. Do you want Northern Lights or cheaper flights? See a moose or enjoy a cruise?

From April through September, the weather in Greece is ideal for traveling and sightseeing. You can expect sunny and dry conditions as you explore Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, and more.

To prepare for your trip, follow our packing list to make sure you bring all the essentials.

It’s 85 degrees, the sun is shining, and the ocean breeze carries just a hint of coconut-scented sunscreen. It’s true that there’s never a bad day in paradise, but that doesn’t mean a slip up in etiquette or a misstep in planning can’t cloud what would otherwise be the perfect trip.

However, with these 10 dos and don’ts, you’ll be well on your way to understanding the local culture, and ensuring the Hawaiian vacation of a lifetime.

One of the most rewarding ways to look back and reflect on a trip is through the souvenirs, mementos, and keepsakes. It’s also fun to choose the right gifts for your friends and family back home. After collecting your gifts and souvenirs, you must then assess how to get them all home safely and in the most cost-effective way.

Did you leave room in your suitcase, and if so, what’s the best way to pack your items to keep them safe? Is shipping your items perhaps the wiser strategy? Follow our travel packing hacks, tips, and tricks to help you choose the best option to suit your needs.

Europe is a gorgeous place to visit. There is so much culture to experience and endless historic sites to see. What the eye can’t see, however, is the occasional pickpocket. While pickpocketing is something every vacationer worries about, it won’t be a problem if you are smart about how you travel.

With the proper travel tips and preparation, you shouldn’t feel nervous as you explore new countries. Here’s how to avoid pickpockets when traveling, so you can focus on enjoying your trip.