5 Reasons Why Every Entrepreneur Needs to Travel to Improve Their Business

Some entrepreneurs believe travel to be nice but unnecessary. Or, a waste of their time, when they could be in their office, nurturing leads or making sales calls. The other half knows that it’s important, but don’t feel like it could benefit them or their business, even if it is a working vacation.

I’ve been traveling around the world for over 20 years, both for business and personal reasons, and I’m 100 percent positive that traveling has made me a better person and businessmen in numerous ways. So, to help you see what so many of us traveling entrepreneurs already know, I’ve gathered a few reasons why traveling alone or with colleagues should be one of your top priorities in your business.

1. It prevents burnout.

Burnout is one of the worst things that can happen to an entrepreneur. When you’re constantly working with no end in sight, the only thing you can and will see is burnout. That’s why you need a break from work. And I don’t mean leaving your office desk to go home and work in your home office.

To prevent workplace burnout, you need to travel. It can help you decompress and take your mind off your business, even if it’s only for a few days. Sure, traveling has its own set of problems, but once again, it helps you focus on something other than your business. When you return from your travels, you’ll be using your brain at full capacity and feeling more relaxed.

2. It can inspire you.

When you’re stuck at your desk all day, you’re likely not learning new things or analyzing different perspectives. Thus, your creative muscles aren’t stimulated, so you feel like there’s nothing more to add. But how can you know that if you’re not going places and experiencing life?

Traveling to foreign countries helps you recharge your creative energy. You’ll notice the way people interact, their values, and how they do certain things. All these factors combined might lead to you launching a new product that helps to solve a problem for your customers that you wasn’t aware of before. Or, you might find a different perspective on a problem you’re facing in your business.

You’d be surprised what connection your brain can make when you travel to other cultures, and how those connections might be the catalyst to help propel your business forward.

3. Travel improves your adaptive skills.

Being an entrepreneur means constantly being thrown out of your comfort zone and having to do things that you would prefer not to so your business doesn’t fail. That means you need to always be able to adapt to the changes that present themselves to you. Travel is one way to push your boundaries.

One way I’ve done this is by traveling to places I’ve never gone before. One thing I used to do was travel to the same city, stay at the same hotel chain, and eat at the same restaurants. I was traveling, but I was traveling in my comfort zone.

I felt like I was missing something and traveling wasn’t the same. Once, I noticed that it was because traveling had become too comfortable to me, I decided to switch it up.

I started going to different countries and interacting with diverse cultures and people. It forced me to adapt to my surroundings and learn how to fit in. I wanted to enjoy my trip so I got past my limitations and started to enjoy traveling again.

Like it did for me, traveling can help you to change what you consider your comfort zone until nothing intimidates you and you start to thrive from the curve balls life throws at you.

4. It helps you read people.

As I mentioned before, I would travel to different countries and interact with people whose language I wasn’t well-versed in. To communicate more efficiently, I learned to read their body language, facial expressions, hand gestures and tone, anything that would help me understand what they were trying to tell me.

Learning to read people is a critical skill to have when conducting business, especially if you have international clients who have different social norms.

5. Travel can grow your network.

Whether you’re traveling for business or personal reasons, you can meet new people and make meaningful connections. I’ve gone to conferences and meet colleagues and potential clients. But I’ve also built relationships with people who wanted to learn more about traveling.

Some of them turned out to be great friends and years later, we still occasionally chat and if I’m nearby, we’ll meet up. It’s no guarantee that you’ll meet lifelong friends on your trip, but it’s possible to spread the word of your business and help others or learn from them.

Tickets to Brazil Are in High Demand as Visa Restrictions End

a view of a mountain: Cable car going to Sugarloaf mountain in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Travelers are scrambling to get plane tickets to Brazil now that the country has erased the need for a visa.Australian, Canadian, Japanese and American tourists will no longer need a visa starting June 17, 2019, and a new Kayak survey revealed searches for flights have shown double-digit increases. The highest increase was registered in Australia (36 percent), followed by the United States (31 percent), Canada (19 percent) and Japan (4 percent).

The end of the visa requirement came about as part of a decree from the Brazilian government. Visitors arriving with valid passports and intending to visit Brazil for leisure and business tourism, artistic or sports activities or exceptional situations of national interest are able to visit without a visa for 90 days, extendable for another 90 days.

Travelers don’t have to wait to visit Brazil, however. The country relaxed visa restrictionslast year, and electronic visas are easily obtainable.

When the move to the electronic visa process was made last year, there was a similar push from these four countries, boosting arrivals to Brazil. In 2018, the country received more than 715,000 tourists from Australia, Japan, the U.S. and Canada, a number 15 percent higher than in 2017.

Specifically, the U.S. sent more than 500,000 tourists to Brazil in 2018, an increase of 13 percent. More than 71,000 Canadians headed to the country, 45 percent more than in 2017. Australia recorded a growth of 25 percent, and Japan, 5 percent.

Europe’s Most Family-Friendly Airports

a large passenger jet sitting on top of a runway: plane, snow, airport

Summer travel planning is in full swing and, if you are taking the family to Europe this summer, it’s a good idea to know which airports cater to families the most.

Not all airport facilities are created equal, but a new survey from Play Like Mum rates European airports on their family-friendly services.

Play Like Mum researched 100 of Europe’s airports and ranked them on factors such as how clean the terminals are, airports’ average wait times, stroller facilities, play areas, family lounges and more.

The top 10 airports for families in Europe are:

Zurich Airport, Zurich

Munich Airport, Munich

Helsinki Vantaa, Helsinki

London City Airport, London

Vienna International, Vienna

Cologne Bonn Airport, Cologne

Hamburg Airport, Hamburg

Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, Madrid

Nuremberg Airport, Nuremberg

Athens International Airport, Athens

According to the survey, only five of the 100 airports scored full marks for terminal cleanliness: Zurich Airport, Nuremberg Airport, Porto Airport, Stavanger Airport Sola and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol.

For families with young children, results showed that Munich International Airport had the most dedicated children’s areas with eight.

Only thousand visitors per day can enter the world’s most isolated country

Most closed off country in the world

North Korea is a really special place on earth and is nothing like you have ever seen or experienced before. Often described as one of the most mysterious and undesirable destinations in the world due to its conservative nature, the country still attracts thousands of visitors each year. To visit the country tourists must book a guided tour from the Ministry of Tourism. Travelling alone or without a guide is strictly forbidden by the law. Without your local guide present, you won’t be able to go sightseeing, using public transportation or even leaving your hotel building.

Slide 2 of 2: Guided tours obviously don't show the complete picture of North Korea. Government approved guides are following you for the entire time of your tour, making sure the tour presents North Korea in a positive light. During these tours, unfortunately, you don't get an insight to how local people actually live because the whole tour is highly choreographed.

What beauties does the mysterious country hide?

Guided tours obviously don’t show the complete picture of North Korea. Government approved guides are following you for the entire time of your tour, making sure the tour presents North Korea in a positive light. During these tours, unfortunately, you don’t get an insight to how local people actually live because the whole tour is highly choreographed.

14 travel options that will spoil you superbly

With America having suffered a pretty harsh winter from coast to coast, would-be wanderers are rejoicing as the weather warms and vacation venues beckon with stellar offerings. In fact, industry growth this travel season is indubitably (and understandably) poised to impress as outlined in the Skift Global Travel Economy Outlook 2019 and numerous other reports. But as the hospitality trade has exponentially upped their game across the board, it’s getting much more difficult to hone in on travel destinations and service purveyors worthy of our hard-earned dollars, and, more importantly, treasured downtime. With that in mind, here’s an apt assortment of travel options and travel purveyors that’ll pamper you with a purpose.

Fairmont Kea Lani Maui

First, we’ll start all the way out in the west most United States—a journey across the Pacific Ocean—to the uber-fabulous Fairmont Kea Lani Maui, Hawaii’s only all-suite and villa luxury resort. They’re currently offer discerning travelers an expertly curated and indulgent itinerary featuring Maui’s most luxurious experiences through its “Luxe Villa Adventure” package. This elite bundle features a sumptuous stay in the resort’s exclusive collection of residentially appointed two- and three-bedroom private villas boasting 1,800 and 2,200 square feet of living space, each replete with the creature comforts of home. This includes a full gourmet kitchen with appliances and service ware, dining area, outdoor barbecue grill, multiple flat screen TVs, walk in closets, oversized marble bathroom and large soaking tubs. They each also boast a sizeable private, furnished courtyard with plunge pool for a more secluded respite from their numerous large-scale community pools with cabanas (one adult-only).

However, that’s just the beginning of this sumptuous stay. Travelers reveling in the richness of this celebrity designed package will also enjoy a signature in-villa barbeque by a private chef, with options for the desired menu items. For my visit it was surf and turf all the way (Black Angus beef filet with grilled lobster tail), served with a savory tomato shrimp penne dish, wasabi-laced potato salad, grilled island-grown asparagus and wild mushrooms all finished with a delectable crème brûlée. The package also proffers two Willow Stream Spa wellness experiences, plus access to other spa amenities like steam rooms, saunas, various Hawaiian rain experience showers and a heated stone mud bench and foot bed. Rounding out this incredible package is the private yacht charter aboard ‘Satisfaction’—Maui Yacht Charters’ 58-foot power yacht. On my recent excursion on this three-bedroom nautical beauty, I nibbled on cheese and charcuterie as a pod of migrating whales escorted our ship out to sea for a memorable Maui sunset.

Hawaiian Airlines

Speaking of Hawaiian vacations, I do want to make a quick mention about Hawaiian Airlines because they’re really going above and beyond with incredible guest services, making them my favorite way to fly to Hawai’i. Beyond the engaging and warm hospitality they are known for at each touchpoint, once on board a Hawaiian Airlines aircraft, their signature in-flight hospitality engages throughout experience with a friendly celebration of the culture, people and Aloha Spirit of the Hawaiian Islands. On a recent flight I was nary in my seat for a few minutes when I was offered a delicious guava mimosa from an extremely affable flight attendant.

In striving for excellence, this airline shares the tastes of Hawai’i as the only domestic carrier to serve complimentary meals to guests in all cabins on transpacific flights that are designed exclusively by Chef Lee Anne Wong. Definitely a unique and tasty benefit there! In the first class cabin, a representative, amply-portioned brunch menu includes the infamous pre-departure signature Mai Tai cocktail; beverage service with Mauna Loa Macadamia Nuts; a first course of seasonal fresh fruits and warm croissant with butter and jam; a main course of Shiitake mushroom, sundried tomato and cheese quiche; and a dessert course of chocolate hazelnut cheesecake offered with coffee, tea and liqueurs. Speaking or first class, Hawaiian Airlines’ unique “Bid-Up” program allows guests to bid at their discretion for first class upgrades, starting around $245—a bid I successfully “won” at that low starting rate for what was a highly enjoyable voyage.

Fairmont Grand Del Mar San Diego

A touch northward in San Diego lies the incomparable Fairmont Grand Del Mar. As one of only 11 properties in the world with a trio of Five-Stars, and named the number one luxury resort in California as voted by TripAdvisor travelers, Fairmont Grand Del Mar captures the elegance and comfort of an old-world Mediterranean estate paired with impeccable service and unrivaled luxury. Magnificently situated on 400 acres in a pristine coastal canyon just five miles from the Pacific Ocean, this architecturally-breathtaking resort features luxurious treatments at its Five-Star spa and exquisite dining at Addison under the direction of celebrated Relais AND Châteaux Grand Chef William Bradley. Quite notably, Addison is Southern California’s only Five-Star and Five Diamond restaurant where guests can enjoy elegant fine dining and creative contemporary cuisine.

The lavish, Addison Mizner-inspired resort is well-suited to San Diego’s warm climate and outdoor lifestyle, with an abundance of activities like golf at the city’s only Tom Fazio-designed course, tennis, hiking and four sparkling pools (with one adult-only). After sunset, Club M provides nightlife and entertainment just steps from the resort’s 249 elegantly-appointed guestrooms and suites. Accommodations feature spacious marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs, expansive balconies and terraces and spectacular views of the resort gardens, Grand Golf Club or Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve. Here you can relax, soak or dine in the comfort of your private and tranquil Southern California retreat.

InterContinental San Diego Hotel

Next, we’ll trek to the most southern city in California where the InterContinental San Diego hotel awaits. Having just opened in September 2018, this scenic Bayfront property has brought a new wave of sophistication to the downtown area while creating a social epicenter for locals and travelers, alike. The 400-room property is located on the historic grounds of Lane Field—the San Diego Padres’ former baseball stadium from 1936 through 1957. From my corner suite, I was able to enjoy the glow of fiery SoCal sunsets because all of the chic and sophisticated accommodations here feature full-length, floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the bay—oft also with the famous San Diego skyline and iconic Coronado bridge in view.

Location-wise, this property is perfectly situated for those wanting to get out-and-about on the town. The InterContinental San Diego Hotel is just steps away from the Embarcadero, which docks both the famed USS Midway and Maritime Museum of San Diego, plus several cruise ship ports. It’s also close to downtown hotspots, including Little Italy, the San Diego Convention Center, Gaslamp Quarter, Seaport Village and more. Guests can enjoy spectacular dining experiences at the hotel, which boasts San Diego’s only Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse, as well as Vistal restaurant, which serves coastal California-inspired cuisine spearheaded by award-winning chefs.

Theatre Box San Diego Dining & Entertainment Complex

Speaking of downtown San Diego, when you’re in the area you’ll do well to hit Theatre Box—San Diego’s new dining and entertainment complex that occupies one city block, two stories and 73,000 square feet in the famed Gaslamp Quarter. The first phase unveiled TCL Chinese Theatre’s first eight-theatre, luxury dine-in cinema, where guests can order sashimi, personalized boxes of candy, cocktails and more at just the push of a button from the comfort of their individual cushy leather recliners.

The adjoined Sugar Factory retail and café offers over 500 types of candy, a gelato bar, house-made doughnuts and a vast array of other tantalizing treats. In the evening the Sugar Factory American Brasserie is a must, as this glamorous, high-energy restaurant is known for extravagant dishes and drinks like Rainbow Sliders, Insane Milkshakes and Smoking Candy Goblets. Then there’s the Chocolate Lounge, an intimate 21-and-over lounge featuring chocolate martinis, chocolate fondue and other sugar-spurred decadence galore. Nick Cannon’s Wild ‘N Out Sports Bar and Arcade as well as Pitbull’s rooftop lounge, iLov305, will reportedly open as part of a second phase.

Pechanga Resort & Casino in Temecula

Next, for a spirited respite is the one-of-a-kind Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California, which recently completed a $300 million expansion making them the largest west coast casino-resort property. Their beautiful two-story spa and salon, the largest in the Temecula Valley, was just rated Four-Stars by Forbes Travel Guide—not surprising since their unique treatments are all inspired by native botanicals and elements from the local area. This 25,000 square foot sanctuary of luxury, wellness and serenity is designed for year-round rejuvenation of the mind, body and spirit, boasting luxurious treatment rooms and relaxation areas with panoramic views of the surrounding hillside. Its numerous amenities, such as steam rooms, saunas, whirlpools, a fitness facility and outdoor patios, are specifically created to offer an intimate escape into wellness and tranquility.

Pechanga also now boasts 1,090 rooms and suites (including 568 new AAA Four Diamond accommodations), a huge nearly 200,000 square foot casino (with over 4,000 slot machines, 154 table games, a non-smoking poker room with 38 tables, a trendy Bingo hall and more), and “The Cove”—its 4.5 acre pool complex that is open year-round. There you’ll find three pools, including a zero-edge Main Pool that features a swim-up bar, a family pool with two waterslides and a splash pad and five spas, cabanas, fire pits and live entertainment. Their golf course, Journey at Pechanga, is challenging and exciting, as it’s built around ravines and the mountainside.

When hunger strikes, guests can partake in any of the property’s 12 on-site restaurants, including the AAA Four Diamond-rated Great Oak Steakhouse offering superb 100 percent Prime Black Angus beef and many creatively inspired dishes amid a wine list recognized by the editors of Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast magazines. Its Umi Sushi & Oyster Bar, helmed by Chef Kiyokuni Ikeda, who once worked under Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto, is another not-to-be-missed epicurean experience. For some fun nightlife, Pechanga also has a comedy club, theater and rooftop nightclub and lounge where you can dance the night way to DJ beats. There’s truly something for everyone at this remarkable resort.

The Portofino Hotel & Marina Redondo Beach

If marina vibes are more your thing, the Portofino Hotel & Marina Redondo Beach—one of many distinctive hotels helmed by Noble House—is a perfect respite for both leisure and business travelers. Having recently completed a multi-million dollar renovation, this picture-perfect property proffers authentic Southern California lifestyle in a casual, nautical-chic environment replete with maritime, yacht and seascape visuals evoking a true sense of place. The Portofino boasts breathtaking Pacific Ocean and King Harbor views from sunsets and sailboats to dolphins and pelicans—all framed in the floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies allowing you to bask in the beauty that is Redondo Beach. King Harbor is also home to its own colony of California sea lions, with many rooms offering front-row viewing of the mammals frolicking, feeding and basking in their natural habitat.

The Portofino offers unique amenities, including BALEENkitchen, nationally recognized for serving eclectic cuisine amid stunning marina views. It’s ZAGAT-rated as “One of the Top 10 Best Restaurants for Waterside Dining in LA.” To this I can attest, having reveled in multiple gourmet dining experiences at the eatery, which far transcends that of a typical hotel haunt. Between meals you can take a dip their heated pool overlooking the Pacific Ocean and work out in their state-of-the-art fitness center with treadmill, elliptical trainer, recumbent bike, free weights and more. One must-do whilst partaking in The Portofino: enjoy their complimentary Beach Cruiser bikes for a ride along the local oceanfront path that runs for over 27 miles up to Malibu! Complimentary bike locks, baskets, helmets and children’s bikes are also offered based on availability. There’s also wireless, high-speed Internet access available in the guest rooms and public areas and a 24-hour business center. Whether you visit The Portofino for work or play, the newly renovated sun-splashed waterfront guest rooms and suites, which feature a casual beach look incorporating hues of blue, yellow and white, are a perfect setting for an unforgettable reprieve.

The Georgian Hotel Santa Monica

Continuing north to sunny Santa Monica is the famous Georgian Hotel—a truly unique oceanfront oasis that exudes 1940’s Old Hollywood glamour. As part of Pacifica Hotels portfolio, the largest owner and operator of boutique hotels on the Pacific Coast, it’s a must-visit venue for those looking for a quintessential California hotel experience. Adjacent to one of the best beaches in Los Angeles, The Georgian is a historic hotel with 56 guest rooms and 28 suites plus ocean view dining, making it the picture-perfect location to catch spectacular sunsets while sipping signature cocktails. Art deco-adorned accommodations offer ample amenities like plush bedding, in-room mini bar and complimentary Wi-Fi to boot.

Gastro-wise, guests can dine in style for breakfast, lunch, happy hour or dinner at its on-site Veranda Restaurant for a memorable beachfront dining experience. There, patrons indulge in its globe-hopping, chef-driven, contemporary menu that features breakfast favorites, coastal California cuisine, Mediterranean-fusion tapas and indulgent desserts. During the day, bask in the beautiful Southern California sunshine and absorb the sounds and sights of the Pacific while enjoying High Tea on The Veranda Terrace. Just steps from the famous Santa Monica Pier and storied shopping at the Third Street Promenade, at The Georgian you’re assured a charming stay with classic Hollywood ambiance near all of the beach action.

City of Anaheim

If you’re seeking a fun-filled, action-packed holiday with or without the kids, few if any American locales can compare with the City of Anaheim in Orange County, California. According to Visit Anaheim (VisitAnaheim.org), the official destination organization for the locale, this storied city welcomes 24.2 million annual visitors and is home to over 150 hotels—from AAA Four Diamond luxury hotels and trendy boutique properties to brand new, all-suite family-friendly hotels—and everything in between. Speaking of families … while it’s no surprise that millennials love to “do it for the ‘gram,” when it comes to travel buddies it’s millennials’ desire to travel with Grandpa and Grandma that may surprise you. According to a new survey from Visit Anaheim, multigenerational vacations are top-of-mind with travelers when it comes to reliving memories, while also creating new ones, with the next generation. The survey, conducted by OnePoll for Visit Anaheim, polled a sample of 1,000 Americans and found that millennial respondents (aged 25-34) lead the category when it comes to wanting more multigenerational trips, coming in at a whopping 83 percent.

According to the survey, fully two thirds (66 percent) of respondents have traveled with three or more generations of their family, making vacations with grandparents, their adult children and grandchildren, a travel trend with no signs of slowing down. In fact, the majority plan on taking more extended family trips. Nostalgia is apparently one of the main reasons the trend keeps growing. Many parents and grandparents love reliving memories. The majority (56 percent) “strongly agree” that multigenerational trips are more special when visiting somewhere their parents or grandparents have been before, and 53 percent report being “very happy” when they take trips to places they’ve previously been with their parents or children.

Dolphin Point Villas, Key Largo

Heading from one gorgeous coast to another, all the way to the southeastern tip of the United States, you’ll find Dolphin Point Villas—Key Largo’s loveliest and most intimate paradise getaway that’s refining the island vacation. This six-villa haven is nested in a seaside enclave and showcases Key Largo’s most spectacular views. The family-owned paradise is certainly a great option for romantic couple getaways or smaller family, girl or guy trips, but given that it sleeps up to 60 people (and can also accommodate up to 100 people) it’s also a perfect location for weddings, reunions or other destination events. Dolphin Point Villas is particularly suited for the discerning traveler who not only enjoys getting off the beaten path, but also relishes the modern comforts of home. The property’s sloping and curving design gives the impression that the villas were uncovered rather than constructed. Its style epitomizes the best of The Keys—casual yet sophisticated. Vaulted ceilings, spacious living areas, wrap around porches and balconies are unrelenting reminders of the ground’s most striking amenity—the storied Key Largo sunset. The property provides privacy from the bustle of the outside world and exposure to The Keys natural elegance, complemented with all the splendor of modern living.

Keep it romantic at the two-story Coral Reef Cottage with its loft-style Master Suite. Bring the family to the Sand Dollar or Tortuga Villas, each with 3,595 square feet of indoor and outdoor living space. The Conch and the Dolphin Villas are great for larger families or group reunions. However, Dolphin Point Villas’ main attraction is The Nautilus House. The five-bedroom home boasts sweeping living areas, a covered porch and a private pool. And don’t worry about a parking spot, bring your boat and tie up at the home’s private boat slip. Whichever you choose, you will enjoy spacious modern kitchens and eating areas, making your toughest decision whether to stay in or dine out. This exclusive location is perfect for laying low, exchanging vows or taking advantage of the many activities that can be arranged for guests, including kayak tours, paddle boarding, fishing charters, scuba diving and snorkeling through the only living coral reef in the continental U.S.

Atlantic Hotel & Spa Fort Lauderdale

Next, a touch northward in South Florida is the AAA Four Diamond-rated property The Atlantic Hotel & Spa, which is located right on Fort Lauderdale beach. This luxury all-suite boutique hotel—a member of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts portfolio—is an exceptional oceanfront destination for relaxation and fun-in-the-sun. With unrivaled seaside views, this hotel overlooks miles of golden shoreline. The property has 106 spacious suites, featuring private balconies with panoramic ocean vistas, large marble bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchenette with mini refrigerator, dual stovetop burners and microwave, in-room Lavazza coffee maker and a large desk. Their skyline and oceanfront view rooms offer sweeping sights of the surrounding area. Choose between the glittering cityscape of Fort Lauderdale or the calming blue waves of the Atlantic Ocean. The Atlantic Hotel & Spa has gone through great lengths to cultivate an ever-attentive staff that’s devoted to providing superior service and catering to every whim. This is especially true while pampering guests at its award-winning, on-site Spa Atlantic where they use nourishing elements derived straight from the sea to improve skin quality and enhance your well-being. Decompress in its sauna, steam, room and Jacuzzi as a space to relax before and after one of the many treatment services they offer. The options are seemingly endless, with treatments specifically for couples, prenatal, deep tissue and body melt massages. You can glow from within with one of their facials or select a body wrap for head-to-toe treatment. Salon experiences are also offered.

There are multiple dining options at the Atlantic, with fine dining offering fresh dining favorites from the land and sea. Coastal, the signature restaurant of The Atlantic Hotel & Spa, will make your mouth water with Italian-inspired coastal cuisine. The beautiful oceanfront views of the Atlantic Ocean serve as the backdrop for its dining room and patio seating. Led by Executive Chef Rocco Honig, Coastal’s relaxed, yet stylish, dining venue serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and happy hour. There, dogs are welcome to join their parents on the patio and dine off their special Atlantic barkBISTRO menu. For more casual fare al fresco, check out SKY Bar on the hotel’s 5^th Floor Oceanfront Terrace. It’s definitely “the place to be,” as the 5^th floor is also home to a heated outdoor pool, whirlpool tubs, a 24-hour gym, the spa and The Oceanview outdoor social area.

Couturista Travel Fashion-Focused Shopping Excursions

For stylish travel from Miami to Italy and beyond, if you like to shop luxe fashion brands while seeing amazing sights, this is the perfect option for you. Founded by fashion aficionados and travel experts, Couturista Travel is a tour operator offering a series of luxury-curated vacation experiences that focus on fashion and shopping in hotspots around the world like Tuscany, Miami and Mexico.

Upcoming tours like their “Tuscany Couture” trip include stays in luxury fashion-inspired hotels, such as the Ferragamo-owned Gallery Art Hotel, exclusive vineyard tours and VIP access and discounts at the world’s leading fashion retailers. Tuscany Couture gives its guests once-in-a-lifetime, exclusively curated access to coveted shops, including Prada, Gucci, Armani as well as hidden workshops of local artisans. Couturista Travelers also visit fashion museums and enjoy gourmet restaurants. In fact, for the Tuscany Couture adventure specifically, the program includes nine day/eight night hotel accommodations, deluxe private transportation, English-speaking guides, daily buffet breakfast, gourmet meals with wine, shopping tours and fashion museum entrances, winery visits, Aperol spritzes on the river and of course … shopping!

In addition to Tuscany, other upcoming Couturista fashion-inspired vacations include Mexico’s San Miguel de Allende, one of the world’s top locations for refined travel and shopping, as well as Miami in sunny South Florida.

Blacklane On-Demand Chauffer & Airport Concierge Service

No matter what region you plan to visit, if you desire reliable and luxurious ground transportation for a flight or any other “around town” jaunts, Blacklane is a true gem. The service alleviates the stress of getting to and from the airport or other destinations while vacationing. This high-quality chauffeur and airport concierge service spans more than 500 airports, 300 cities and 60 countries with fair, fixed and all-inclusive rates. All of their commercially licensed and insured chauffeurs worldwide speak English, track flights and will automatically adjust the pickup schedule if flight arrival changes. They’ll provide up to one hour of free chauffeur waiting time for airport pickups. The driver’s contact information is provided an hour before pickup and, upon guest arrival, they provide a warm welcome with meet-and-greet service complete with luggage assistance. I also love that the company is environmentally conscious, as their rides are carbon-neutral. Fully 30 cities offer Tesla rides, and Blacklane offsets ride emissions in its other vehicles. Book, change and cancel rides up to months or even just one hour ahead at Blacklane.com or through the free Blacklane app.

‘What Should We Do’ Pocket Concierge App

Visitors to New York, Chicago and Los Angeles will be thrilled to learn that Arielle Tepper, a longtime New Yorker and 45-time TONY award-winning theater and film producer, is moving on from showbiz to help locals and visitors to these regions answer the age-old question: “What Should We Do?” She’s launched an elevated, app-based concierge service that answers one of the most pervasive questions among tourists. With this app developed by expert tastemakers, users enjoy a custom experience from start to finish, including planning, booking, logistics and around-the-clock support. What Should We Do leverages an innovative AI technology approach to learn and tailor users experiences based on their demonstrated preferences. It uses this key learning and adaptation to create comprehensive plans from start to finish, resulting in a handy pocket concierge service.

25 Travel Tips & Tricks for Europe

Summer travel season is upon us! Which means several of you will be making the hop across the pond. Currently, I have zero plans to visit Europe this summer (although, Spain is slowly making it’s way onto my radar), but I will be living vicariously through you all!

Both of my little sisters will be spending their summer in Europe (in different places) — I couldn’t be more excited for them! I’ve been helping them book their travels, as well as numerous of their friends (thanks for following along ladies!).

I started to compile a list of items for them, but figured why not share it with you all! I’ve been lucky enough to travel Europe a few different ways — from trips with my families, luxury hotel stays to hopping on and off trains whilst staying in hostels.

Here are a few European travel tips & tricks I’ve picked up along the way:

1. Avoid restaurants in the city squares. Or near any major tour attractions.

2. Picnic, picnic, picnic. Grab a (euro) baguette, cheese, a bottle of wine (Paris has no outside liquor laws), and snag a grassy area.

3. Plan to use cash. Although credit cards are accepted, and ATMS are everywhere — I still run into the occasionally hiccup. Cash is also a better way to budget out your days.

4. Hostels. LOVE THEM. It’s a great place to meet fellow travelers and most hostels have free events for guests. If you are traveling with friends, book a private room!

5. Student Discounts. Bring your student ID, and ask away. You’ll be surprised how many entrance fees can be waived.

6. Free Walking Tour. Every city has one. Sign up and enjoy!

7. Trains. Personally, trains are my favorite way to see Europe. If you are planning to hop around, look into the Eurorail pass. Tickets don’t have to be booked in advance and reserved seats are cheaper!

8. Wifi. It’s free and it’s everywhere — just ask for the password!

9. Public bathrooms are hard to find. If you are at a museum or large attraction, be sure to make a pit stop at the “water closets.” You’ll most likely be paying a euro or two if you’re out and about.

10. Take a look at Eastern Europe. It’s sooo much cheaper than Western Europe, you’ll be amazed how far you’re money will go and there’s so much to see!

11. Keep your iPhone out of view. I’ve seen so many iPhones snagged while the person is taking a photo or texting.

12. Table Wine. It’s cheap and it’s delicious.

13. Bike Locks. If you are traveling by train, you’ll want to bike lock your suitcase or bag to the luggage racks. This will deter anyone from taking your bag at one of the many stops.

14. Comfortable Shoes. Most roads are cobblestone — leave the pumps at home.

15. Drinking from water fountains — totally normal and safe. If you find yourself in Switzerland, the water coming from the faucet will most likely be Evian. With that…

16. Bring a water bottle.

17. Aperitif Hour. It will soon be your best friend. Purchase a drink and all the appetizers are included. You’ll find this advertised throughout Italy.

18. Don’t try to see “all of Europe.” The worst thing I see people do is try to cram everything into one trip. Take time, relax, and enjoy the slower pace.

19. Travel plans can change and should change. After hearing about a cool city or attraction, I have changed my plans in a days notice. In fact, I encourage you to do so!

20. Big and small cities. Visit a mixture of both. You’ll get more a “local feel” in the smaller towns, and probably eat some incredible food.

21. Don’t overplan. Repeat, you do not have to have every minute of every day planned.

22. Ask people to take your picture. As awkward as it may seem, you’ll regret not having a picture of yourself in front of the Eiffel Tower.

23. Strikes. They are all too common in Europe. Keep an eye out for signs, and if you find yourself stranded, don’t panic. Enjoy the extra time in your current location.

24. Bike Tours. This is my absolute favorite way to see a new city. You’ll get the lay of the land, and it will give you some ideas of what parts of the city you’ll want to explore. Check out Fat Bike Tour.

25. Pub Crawls. If you are going to go out, I recommend pub crawls with your hostel or any other small group. You’ll be with a large crowd, and have people that will notice if someone or something “isn’t quite right.”

4 Tips to Fly a Budget Airline Without Hassle

Budget airlines often trade space and even basic amenities for crowded planes and cheaper tickets. With these four tips however, you can save some cash and even enjoy the trip.

CreditLars Leetaru

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CreditCreditLars Leetaru

I’m a recent convert to budget airlines, even though I may have once thrown a tantrum at the Ryanair check-in counter when they charged me 40 euros for forgetting to print out my boarding pass.

Frequent fliers may turn up their noses when they hear I’ve traded miles toward Delta Platinum status to fly airlines that have suggested charging passengers to use the bathroom while flying at one point, possibly removing seats to make passengers strap up and stand for the duration of the flight, and the ever-evolving hidden fees on others.

For the most part however, low budget international carriers like Norwegian Air and Wow Air have managed to work out the kinks, in my view, to make flying low budget worthwhile. Here are some tips to fly on a budget and deplane with your sanity intact.

Be smart when you book

Budget airlines don’t fly year-round to the same locations. Instead they open up chunks of time when you can book a flight to certain destinations. That also means people looking for a deal to a specific place all have to book — and travel — at the same time.

Twice a year, I travel to Cork, Ireland to see family. It had become expensive to take two trans-Atlantic trips with multiple legs. So, once those March to October Cork flights on Norwegian Air opened up, I booked a $300 dollar leg from Rhode Island immediately for a July visit. It was a couple hundred dollars more to book a flight from Georgia to Rhode Island. If you’re looking for similar deals, do some research on when the “high season” is in the place you’d like to visit. That same flight, also five hours longer because of the longer layover and flying past Ireland to Amsterdam for the connection, was nearly $1,400 dollars on KLM.

If peak flight and travel season for, let’s say, Iceland is May to September, look out for $99 Wow Air flights for January. Reykjavik, or any new location, is fun, no matter the time of year. Just bring extra sweaters.

Get around baggage restrictions

No one wants to stand in front of the check-in counter shifting headphones and chargers from the carry-on to your backpack, then to your checked bag just to avoid weight or size limits. Just pay for the bag. (Or read the fine print before you book, and be prepared to travel light!)

If you’re traveling with someone, though, remember that budget airlines usually charge you for baggage on each leg. That means one person can pay for a checked bag or carry on, while the other books an economy seat with no add-ons. That’s at least a hundred dollars in baggage fees saved. But what that also means is that one of you, the person who didn’t pay for a carry-on or checked bag, sometimes you will have to pay a little extra to sit next to your flying partner. For example, JetBlue doesn’t charge you to choose an economy seat. Spirit Airlines charges begin at $5 per leg. Norwegian Airlines begin at about $12 dollars. Most of the time, it costs about $6 to $15 dollars to choose your seat with this basic price, and you two can choose seats simultaneously and end up next to each other on the flight.

Choose a strategic seat

Most people automatically associate budget airlines with uncomfortable seats. Sure, they may not be as plush as airlines with bigger planes and more amenities, but I haven’t been on an uncomfortable budget flight in a long time because I keep an eye on the seats.

Here’s what I mean: When you first book, book toward the back of the plane. It may sound counterintuitive, but because everyone always seems to want to be up front (maybe they think it’s quicker to get on and off the plane, even though it usually isn’t), even though the seats are all the same. Plus, unlike bigger airlines, I haven’t been on a budget flight leaving the United States in a long time that was booked completely and sold out. Where are those empty seats, you ask? In the back, with me.

Also, if you’re traveling with someone, book the window and the aisle. No one likes the center seat, so your odds are higher someone just won’t book it — and if they do, you can always offer them the aisle or window so you can sit together. Who would refuse?

Social media is the best way to get help

Budget airlines are much smaller operations than their large, international counterparts. Reaching someone via Twitter direct message or Facebook message can be pretty easy. No one answered my question via email on an overnight flight to Europe, so before we took off I sent a message to the airline on Twitter. By the time I landed, I had the information and confirmation number for the shuttle transfer I needed upon arrival.

5 Travel Tips For Planning a Stress-Free Vacation

You booked that fall getaway to escape the stresses of everyday life, not trade them in for new ones. As relaxing as going out of town can be, a few unplanned events can easily turn your trip into an overwhelming situation. Follow these tips to keep your vacation memorable and, most importantly, stress-free.

Take the pressure off.

Ever felt the need to make a Friday night so fun that it ended up being the complete opposite? When you’ve got limited vacation days on top of a hectic work schedule, an upcoming trip can easily become the only thing you look forward to for months. Tons of pressure to make that vacation perfect can end up backfiring on you. Just think of it as a Monday night that just so happens to become one of the highlights of your month. Sometimes the best memories you make on vacation are those that unexpectedly come from a good conversation, a tasty meal, and the wonderful people around you.

Keep a loose, flexible itinerary.

It’s important to remember that unplanned events can account for a lot of your vacation time. You don’t want a delayed flight, slight snooze, or cancelled tour to throw your entire itinerary off. Try to plan some activities for specific days, but leave some days completely open. When your schedule’s flexible, you’re not rushing to complete everything on your travel wish list; you’re exploring a hidden street, catching up on sleep at the beach for a few hours, or relaxing at a cafe over an espresso. You’re learning to enjoy the down time, which is the entire reason you went on vacation in the first place.

Set a collective goal for your trip.

Traveling with others can become extremely stressful at times, because everyone has a different set of preferences. What if your partner wants a beach day, and you want to go explore the old town? What if your friends expected this trip to be a party weekend, and you’ve been looking forward to bubble baths and watching movies in your hotel bed? When planning your vacation with other people, have a discussion with your group to set a collective goal for the upcoming trip—are you aiming for relaxation, adventure, romance, or celebration? Doing this will avoid those awkward moments when you realize that your expectations differ from theirs.

Do your research in advance.

It is and always will be a good idea to do as much research as you can about your destination: Look into everything from public transportation, restaurant options, cab estimates, and visa requirements. The more you know before you leave, the better.

Pack light.

We’ve all been guilty of overpacking. Too much luggage makes the inescapable struggles of travel—getting to and from the airport, waiting to check into your hotel, dealing with baggage claim—that much more difficult. Keep your clothing options easy and only pack the necessities—easier said than done, I know, but there are certain things you can leave behind. Air dry your hair, and leave your blowdryer at home. Don’t pack the heels you know you’ll never wear, and pack your comfortable sandals instead. Avoid baggage claim by fitting everything you bring into your carry-on. We promise it’s better to underpack and be comfortable than to overpack and be exhausted.

How To Travel Like The One Percent On A Budget

Source : Forbes

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It’s no secret that that one percent live much more glamorous lives than most of us. While they have big houses and fancy cars, the income gap is probably most evident when it comes to how the upper echelon of society travels. Private jets, luxe beachside villas, and personal assistants are just the norm for wealthy folk. But, as entrepreneurs continue to create companies that democratize these once reserved services (Uber black cars anyone?), these types of travel perks are no longer reserved for the rich.

Yup, here are five ways you can now travel like the one percent on a budget.

Hire A Personal Trip Planner

Let someone else worry about the details. Photo: Getty

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Even though the rich are logging those airline miles, do you think they’ve ever planned the itinerary of a trip? Figuring out the logistics can be one of the most stressful parts of travel for some and why wealthy people have someone to do it for them. Luckily, there’s a more affordable option to get that top-notch service: Essentialist. For a fee of $1,400 a year, the luxury travel planning service will plan all of your family’s trips including flights, hotels, and activities. Plus, they tap into more than 75 editors worldwide to craft an itinerary that’s off the beaten path or get you exclusive access to tastemakers, shows, museums, or whatever you fancy.

Book A Private Jet

Yes, even private jets are available to those of us who don’t rake in more than seven figures. Many companies have popped up over the year allowing average Joes to book seats on private aircrafts for a fraction of the cost. JetSmarter, for example, makes booking a private flight as easy as Uber. You simply browse and book seats on existing shared flights via an app and can either pay as you go or set up a membership for $2,500 a year that gives you better discounts and accessibility. A quick search for a flight from New York to Miami showed seats on a private jet as low as $995 one way. It’s not cheap, but certainly not as expensive as owning a private plane.

Lounge In A VIP Airport Suite

There are no crowds or long lines in the VIP area. Photo: Getty

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Ever wonder why you don’t see celebrities waiting to board a plane at the airport? It’s because there’s a secret VIP waiting lounge where they can relax before take-off. But, what if I told you that you too could rub elbows with the stars? The Private Suite recently opened at LAX and is separate terminal where you can enjoy food, beds and a private TSA security check. You are also driven on the tarmac to the waiting aircraft. The cost for the convenience starts at $2,700 for four people traveling domestically. Plus, hotels like The Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles are offering access to the space as part of an overnight package.

Rent A Private Island

There’s not a soul in sight. Photo: Getty

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Five-star hotels are certainly favorites of the rich. Private staffed mansions are just a little better though. While, yes, there are services like Airbnb that let you book alternative accommodations, companies like HomeToGo kick it up a notch. They the largest vacation home rental search engine and feature everything from private islands to actual celebrity homes. And they start at just hundreds of dollars a night, not thousands. An all-inclusive—chef, transportation, water sports, etc. are all included—private island in Belize, for example, costs just $600 per person per night.

Hire A Personal Shopper

Toiletries? Forgot items? Gifts? Don’t worry. You’re covered. Photo: Getty

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There’s nothing more annoying than arriving at your destination and realizing you forgot some essentials. Although some hotels will provide backups, they’re not always what you want. And if you’re traveling with kids, you might not want to fill your suitcase with diapers. Enter Jetblack. It’s a new personal shopping service where you text what you need, and it arrives at your door. They can send all the toiletries and essentials (think bulky diapers, wipes, sunscreen, ski gear, etc.) directly to the location and ensure it’s there when you arrive so you don’t have to worry about packing these items.

Even if you forget your swimsuits, they’ll get you new ones overnight. And you can opt to order all your holiday gifts through them, and they’ll send them ahead (wrapped, of course) to your holiday vacation destination. The Founding Membership price is only $50 a month for the service and Jetblack can send to any domestic hotel or house rental (nothing international at this time).

6 INCREDIBLE CITIES TO VISIT IN SPAIN

Starting to make your Spain travel itinerary? Check out this list of best places to visit in Spain! These travel tips for Valencia, Granada, Spain, and more will make your Spain vacation one to remember!

Travel bloggers love to write about the top places in any given country. Some do it to be helpful. Others pray on your FOMO (fear of missing out).

I get it. I totally understand the pressure of feeling like you need to “do it all” when visiting a new destination.

When I was planning my first backpacking trip, I was getting advice from everyone about the “must-visit” places. I felt overwhelmed until finally realizing there are no “must-visit” places.

The most important thing to remember about your trip is this: it’s your trip.

Spain is an incredibly diverse country, and it really does have something for everyone. Food. Language. Culture. History. Pursue whatever sites and activities peak your interest. Find your Spain.

FOR ART LOVERS…MADRID

Spain’s capital is home to the Golden Triangle of Art. Travelers can visit three of the top art museums in the world: Prado Museum, Reina Sofía Museum and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum.

My personal favorite is the Reina Sofía, Madrid’s museum of modern art. Its most famous piece is Picasso’s painting “Guernica.” The first time (and second and third time) I saw the massive work it took my breath away. You can see it free of charge 7-9 p.m. Monday and Wednesday thru Saturday as well as 1:30-7 p.m. Sunday.

Madrid by night: Whoever nicknamed New York “The City that Never Sleeps” had obviously never been to Madrid. One of my first nights out there, I didn’t get home until 7 a.m.! Nights generally began with a late dinner (9 or 10 p.m.) followed by copas with friends. No one hits the clubs until at least 1 a.m. but usually not until 2 or 3 a.m. My favorite club is Space Monkey which plays rock music from the 60s to today.

There's a best Spanish city for every type of traveler.

When you visit Sol, don’t forget to look up for Madrid’s iconic Tio Pepe sign. Image Credit: Jacinta Valero

FOR ARCHITECTURE ENTHUSIASTS…GRANADA

The first time I visited Granada it was on total whim. My boyfriend and I went as a day trip from Jaén when we were in Spain in 2014. Little did we know, tickets to tour Granada’s main attraction, the Alhambra, sell out weeks (sometimes months!) in advance.We were able to see the magnificent Arabic palace and fortress complex from the outside and knew we had to get back to Granada to see the inside.

In 2016, we made our way to Granada once again. This time we had tickets. The Alhambra was definitely worth the return trip. Designed for its mountainous surroundings, the palace is a Moorish masterpiece. It’s almost impossible not to find tranquility as you walk among the structures many columns, fountains and reflecting pools.

Don’t visit Granada on a full stomach: When I’m in Granada, I hardly ever spend money on food. It’s one of the few cities in Spain with free tapas. In Madrid, you might get some peanuts or olives when you order a drink. But in Granada, every alcoholic beverage comes with a hearty snack. Drink up, eat up.

Get inspired for your trip with these must-visit cities in Spain!

Walk off some of those tapas with a tour of the Alhambra. Just don’t forget to buy your ticket in advance! Image Credit: Guillermo Torres

FOR FOODIES…SAN SEBASTIÁN

Spaniards love to ask foreigners which region has the best food. I got this question dozens of times in the two years I lived there, and I always gave the same answer: Basque Country.

Why? For starters, due to its location, Basque Country has access to all the best ingredients. I’m talking about fresh fish from the sea and quality meats from the valley. In addition to quality products, Basque chefs have a long history of embracing and building upon techniques from settlers. Not only does the food taste good, but it’s (kind of) good for you! In Basque cooking, olive oil is more commonly used than vegetable oil. Typical dishes include salt cod, young eel, cheeks of hake and baby squids in their ink.

Learn to pronounce (so you can order) txakoli: Pronounced “cha-kuh-lee”, this highly acidic (and slightly sparkling) dry white wine is produced and served throughout Basque Country. When it is served, txakoli is traditionally poured into a tall glass from a height. It has a low alcohol content, but take care! Overdue the txakoli, and you’ll wake up with a wicked hangover.

San Sebastián will take your breath away from just about any angle! Image Credit: Inovación Web

FOR TRAVELERS TIRED OF BARCELONA…VALENCIA

Truth be told, I’m not a huge fan of Barcelona. And, it’s not like I haven’t given it a chance! I’ve visited it three times over the past three years but still find it wildly overrated.

I much prefer Valencia. When I visited last year, I rented a bicycle and rode all over the city! In my opinion, it is a smaller, cleaner, less-touristy version of Barcelona. That’s not to say Spain’s third-largest city doesn’t have its own vibe. Located on the eastern coast of the country, Valencia has numerous popular celebrations and attractions. The city’s most well-known festival is the Fallas during which elaborate monuments are burnt down. Sounds crazy? You’ve just got to see it.

Pick your paella: Outside of Spain, paella is thought to be a national dish. However, most Spaniards recognize it for what it truly is: a regional Valencian food. That doesn’t mean you can order paella just anywhere in Valencia though! Because of its popularity, many restaurants serve paella, but few do it well. It’s worth doing a little research. Find a place that makes paella fresh to order. It might take an hour to get your food, but at least you know it wasn’t sitting under a heat lamp all week.

Do your homework to find the best place to eat paella in Valencia! Image Credit: Dorvial Elze

FOR HISTORY BUFFS…CÓRDOBA

When my family came to visit for my first Christmas in Spain, we decided to leave Madrid’s winter weather behind in search of sun in the south! We found sun (yay), but the temperatures weren’t much warmer (boo). Our first stop was Sevilla, but like Barcelona, I found the city a bit over-hyped. It seemed to be playing to the crowds of holiday tourists, which is all fine and well, but when I’m traveling, I prefer a more authentic experience.

I found just that in Córdoba— a city aware of its charm but with no need to flaunt it. Situated on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, Córdoba is home to La Mezquita. Known as the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, La Mezquita is a powerful symbol of the two cultures/religions that have shaped the region. Construction on the mosque began in 784 and continued until 987. When Christians reclaimed the city in 1236, it was converted into a church. Today, this extraordinary (and controversial) building is open to the public.

Take a walking tour: From the Romans to the Moors to the Christians, Córdoba has served as an important center of culture and learning for many different people. In order to get a clearer picture of this city’s rich history, I recommend taking a free* walking tour. After my family enjoyed our tour so much, we hired the guide to show us around the Jewish Quarter. Check out Córdoba A Pie, which offers a variety of tours in English, Spanish and French.

*If you’re a decent human being, tipping is not optional. Consider the cost of a full-priced walking tour, and pay what you can. Guides understand backpackers and budget travelers aren’t going to shell out big bucks, but it’s still important to pay them fairly for their service. It’s not charity!

Part mosque and part cathedral, no visit to Córdoba is complete without a tour of La Mezquita. Image Credit: Zoidberg

FOR ADVENTURE SEEKERS…TENERIFE

Even though five million tourists visit Tenerife every year, I’d never heard of it before moving to Spain. If I’m being completely honest, I had no idea the Canary Islands even existed! Of the seven Canary Islands, which are located in the Atlantic Ocean some-60 miles west of Morocco, Tenerife is the largest and most populous island. Among the most popular tourist destinations in Spain, two airports service Tenerife.

In the southern part of the island, which boasts a hotter and drier climate, you find beach-side resorts, golf courses and shopping centers. But, who really wants to relax on vacation?! Tenerife is home to Spain’s highest point: Mount Teide. At 3,718 m (12,198 ft) above sea level, it’s the third largest volcano in the world. When I visited Tenerife last year, I climbed to the top of Teide sans cable car. The path, called La Rambleta, is challenging. You’ll need hiking boots, water, sunscreen and at least five hours to reach the top. If the thin air and steep climb don’t take your breath away, the views from the top will.

Get your permit in advance: In order to regulate visitors and protect the site, Teide National Park issue permits for the summit. The permit can only be applied for through the “Bookings” tab on the park’s website. The permit is free, but you must choose a date and time. Only 200 permits are granted per day, and slots fill up fast. As soon as you decide to attempt Teide, apply for a permit.

All that volcanic rock makes for an intense landscape. Image Credit: Photo by Tristan Krass on Unsplash

Got a question about traveling to Spain? Leave it in the comments, or send me a DM on Instagram (@alexnotemily)!

Don’t forget to download the Ultimate Spanish Learner’s Resource Guide to brush up on your language skills before your big trip!