Have you heard? Getting through the TSA checkpoints is taking L O N G E R. The TSA agents are being more careful; they are doing more thorough screening on more people. All this takes time, so to make it easier on yourself follow this guide for getting through the line faster. Get there early Even if you are organized, chances are the people in front of you aren’t. Keep this in mind when buying ... Read Full Article
Airport Security: Make It Easy
Shuffling through airport security lines is a tedious process, and it can be a lot worse than merely tedious. You could lose valuable possessions by leaving them behind in your haste to get to the gate, or be stopped for hand inspection and possibly miss your flight. Here are a few tips to get you through faster and more smoothly. Liquids The rules say all your carry-on liquids (lotion, ... Read Full Article
The Sad Tale of a Forgotten Passport
It’s one of the worst things that can happen while traveling, and it recently happened to an acquaintance of mine. A United States citizen, he arrived in Amsterdam with his old passport that was no longer valid, his new passport was left behind in America. This simple mix-up almost resulted in his immediate return to the United States. We all know that an invalid passport is no joke: it is ... Read Full Article
Surviving a Long Distance Flight
It’s safe to say that for most people, flying is the least fun part of any trip. And the longer the flight, the less enjoyable it is, especially for those of us unlucky enough to be seated in coach. The seats are cramped, the food is mediocre, and chances are there’s a screaming baby sitting next to you. How do you survive without going insane? Pack the following items in your carry-on and you ... Read Full Article
Avoiding and Dealing with Petty Crime in Europe
Most European cities are as safe as any major city in the US, but tourists can be a target for petty crime like pick-pocketing and rarely more violent crimes like mugging. There’s no fool-proof way to avoid being the victim of a crime, but you can reduce your risk by staying alert and heeding the following advice. Carry a minimum amount of cash It’s like Murphy’s Law – you’ll only get ... Read Full Article
Going to Europe? Consider a Bed and Breakfast
For many people, the term “bed and breakfast” conjures images of calico covered rooms, creaky antique furniture and enforced socialization. At some B&Bs, this stereotype isn’t far off the mark (a peek at the B&Bs website will make it instantly obvious). But at others, rooms decked out in garish floral patterns and delicate doilies have been replaced with chic, modern rooms ... Read Full Article
Free Lodging in Europe
Budget travel is not just for students; there are lots of ways to travel in Europe on a budget without staying in a dorm or hostel. Here are just a few ways to stay free on your next Europe vacation. Free Home-Stays One of the newest ideas is called Couch-Surfing. As stated on their website, "Couch Surfing" seeks to develop international networks of people and places, ... Read Full Article
Taking the Overnight Train in Europe
Taking the Overnight Train in Europe If you’re planning a packed itinerary in Europe, one of the best ways to maximize your time and save money is by taking an overnight train. Why waste six or more daylight hours traveling between cities when you can pass the time blissfully asleep? Most overnight trains cost about the same as a night in an inexpensive hotel, so you may actually end up saving ... Read Full Article
Europe’s Best River Cruises
Cruising in Europe doesn’t mean you are limited to the ocean on large mega-ships. River cruises are a great way to see a variety of locations, without the hassle of repeatedly packing and unpacking or moving from place to place. And unlike ships that cruise the seas, river boats tend to be much smaller and offer a more intimate experience. Because of their size, they can dock directly in port, ... Read Full Article
How to Take Travel Photographs Like a Pro
You’re on a trip, and there it is before your eyes: the most beautiful, unique, interesting or amazing thing you’ve ever seen. You just want to capture the image so you can show your friends and family back home or relive the moment over again. But click after click, you just can’t get the picture to do the scene real justice. Taking beautiful travel photographs can be difficult, but by ... Read Full Article