Tag: Travel

German boy racks up over €12,000 in roaming charges on cruise ship

German boy racks up over €12,000 in roaming charges on cruise ship

 

 

 

The 12-year-old had used his phone to unwind and watch a few videos while at sea between Germany’s northern city of Kiel and Oslo.

Shortly after he came home from vacation, a hefty bill from the family’s telecommunications provider arrived. It stated that about €12,500 was due for usage of just under 500 megabytes of data while at sea.

The boy apparently connected to the cruise ship’s own phone network which connects to the internet via satellite, said Dirk Hundertmark, managing director of Norwegian cruise operator Color Line.

The network is only really intended to be used by the ship’s crew to communicate with other vessels, even though anyone can join it. Similar to aircraft, high roaming charges apply when using such networks.

Cellular phone networks in Germany can charge as much as €30 per megabyte of data downloaded through a satellite connection. At sea, the EU’s abolition of roaming charges does not apply.

 

Color Line has said that it tries to inform passengers on its website about possible roaming costs. The cruise line operator also offers wifi packages on board for certain fees.

“This is really an extreme case that the family has experienced,” said Hundertmark.

It is very rare that passengers dial into the satellite network unnoticed, the managing director added, stating that they would be informed beforehand from their provider via SMS about possible costs.

As a gesture of goodwill, the phone network has agreed to reduce the family’s bill to €5,000, reported broadcaster NDR.

But the Berlin-based family has since employed a lawyer in an attempt to take action against a bill which they consider to be “immoral.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Secret Trick That Can Save Up to 40 Percent on Cruise Ships

a group of lawn chairs sitting on top of a sandy beach

Looking for terrific value on your next—or first—cruise? It’s a simple but seriously insider tip: choose an older ship that just received a total makeover. In the past, cruise linestypically gave older ships a periodic update, bringing them in every two or three years for routine maintenance and a light refresh. But recently, a spate of major industry players have launched big renovation plans for entire classes of ships that not only upgrade their interiors and amenities for guests, but offer travelers a chance at considerably lower fares, too (not exactly by design; but older ships don’t command the same price points that newer ships do).

For years, cruise lines would send their ships into dry dock—the company’s maintenance facility—at regular intervals for a tune up. “They would invest in soft goods like new carpets, new décor, and new furniture,” says Colleen McDaniel, editor in chief at Cruise Critic. But part of what’s new in this latest trend, she says, is that they’re “reinventing entire spaces” on the ships—on a far more extensive level.

“What we’re seeing now is a reflection of cruise lines really investing in their older ships, and this is a relatively new thing,” McDaniel says. “The ‘wow’ factors traditionally reserved for new ships are now also being added to these older ships.”

Consider the 18-year-old Celebrity Summit—a middle-aged gal by cruise-ship standards—which has never looked more gorgeous. She emerged in March of this year from a 38-day, stem-to-stern transformation that gutted and rebuilt her staterooms from scratch and gave them a timeless designer look. Her once-dated restaurants and lounges are now bright, sleek, and sophisticated. Top-deck hangouts feel like swanky Manhattan rooftop bars. And all the behind-the-scenes technology, from navigational controls to Wi-Fi connectivity, is now up to the minute. Pretty timely for vacationers looking for cushy summer vacations, as she’ll sail to the Bahamas and New England through the summer.

Deals ahoy! How to compare fares

New ships will always be the industry’s brightest, shiniest objects, because they typically bring a raft load of new features. But they also command higher fares. For value-minded travelers, choosing a recently renovated older ship can be a savvy and moneywise strategy. “Sailing on a brand new ship is probably going to cost you 30 percent more, depending on the time of year and the itinerary,” says Doug Parker, founder and host of Cruise Radio. “When an older ship emerges from a big makeover in dry dock, you get a newer experience for not-a-new-ship price point.”

You see this most clearly when you compare fares for a new ship with a refurbished ship in the same cruise line; for example, revamped Celebrity Summit and four-month-old Celebrity Edge, which was just recognized on Condé Nast Traveler’s 2019 Hot List for its ability to nab hot designer talent like Patricia Urquiola and Tom Wright. As you’d expect, Edge has more bells and whistles, including first-at-sea innovations like the multi-purpose Magic Carpet platform that slides up and down the outside of the ship (which Wright designed). But Summit suddenly feels like a new ship, and her staterooms and public areas now sport the same chic, timeless designer look inspired by Edge.

Notably for travelers, “While it is great to have an older vessel take on the look and feel of the newest fleet mates, it does not really increase prices,” says Tom Baker, president of the travel agency CruiseCenter. It’s impossible to do an exact apples-to-apples comparison on pricing, but we can look at itineraries to the same part of the world in the same month. On Edge, a 9-night Southern Caribbean cruise in November runs $1,357 per person, on average, which translates to about $151 per day. On Summit, a 7-night Southern Caribbean cruise in the same month costs just $633 per person, on average, or $90 per day.

In this case, Summit’s fares are roughly 41 percent less than Edge’s. On a 7-day cruise, that $61-per-day savings works out to $427 per person—or $854 per couple.

a large ship in a body of water: Carnival Sunshine© Danny Lehman/Courtesy Carnival Carnival Sunshine

A rising trend lifts all ships

Here’s a wider look at how major cruise lines are embracing this everything-old-is-new-again trend.

Carnival Cruise Line is creating an entirely new class of ship around older ships that have undergone total makeovers. In 2013, Carnival Destiny, then 17 years old, got a massive overhaul with all of the line’s latest upgrades. The ship was rechristened as Carnival Sunshine, the lead ship in the line’s new Sunshine class.

Now it’s time for Sunshine’s middle-aged sisters to get their own born-again makeovers. Carnival Triumph, launched in 1999, will undergo the knife and emerge as Carnival Sunriseat the end of this month. And next year, two-decades-old Carnival Victory will get rebooted as Carnival Radiance. “These two makeovers are perhaps the most extensive of any modern ships we have seen refurbished in recent years,” Baker says.

How’s this for a bargain: Upcoming 4-night Bahamian cruises on Carnival Sunrise, sailing out of Fort Lauderdale, start at just $229 per person.

Royal Caribbean is investing $1 billion in its “Royal Amplified” modernization program, which will update 10 ships over four years and introduce a wide range of new thrills and Royal Caribbean staple features. The line’s 17-year-old Navigator of the Seas just emerged from a $115-million dry-dock transformation that added new staterooms, new restaurants, a new pool deck and, for thrill seekers, two new water slides: The Blaster, the longest aqua coaster at sea, and Riptide, the industry’s only head-first mat racer slide. It also launched the world’s first blowout bar at sea, proving cruise lines are paying special attention to new amenities during renovations.

Beginning in May, Navigator will sail three- and four-night Bahamian itineraries out of Miami. Starting at $375 per person in an outside-view cabin, the four-night sailings give passengers the chance to check out Perfect Day at CocoCay, the cruise line’s private island, which just got a $250-million transformation of its own.

Celebrity Cruises is in the early states of a $500-million fleetwide “Celebrity Revolution” upgrade that will bring massive makeovers to all the line’s older ships. Since launching Edge, Celebrity has moved at full throttle, with two older ships—Millennium and Summit—already revamped and a third, Celebrity Equinox, scheduled to enter dry dock in May. Another half-dozen Celebrity ships are slated for modernization by 2023.

Oceania Cruises is giving substantial facelifts to its Regatta-class ships as part of its $100-million “OceaniaNext” revitalization project. Staterooms, restaurants, and public areas are getting upgrades, and Martinis lounge will trade its gentleman’s club vibe for an updated, modern look. Sirena will come out of dry dock in May, followed by Regatta in September; sister ship Nautica will get her turn next summer.

Where to find savings on the high seas

New to cruising? Dip your toes in the water with a three- or four-day sailing. “If first-time cruisers are not sure they want to commit to a full week, they can pick a shorter itinerary and get a taste of cruising,” McDaniel says.

Wondering where to start? Here’s a list of this year’s most notable ship refurbishments:

February 2019

Celebrity Millennium (1999)

Following a massive refurbishment, Millennium is currently sailing in Asia. In May, the ship moves to Vancouver and offers seven-night sailings to Alaska.

March 2019

Celebrity Summit (2001)

Fresh off its major makeover, Summit is now sailing out of San Juan on six- and seven-night Caribbean itineraries. In May, the ship moves to New York and offers seven-night sailings to Bermuda.

April 2019

Carnival Sunrise (1999)

After getting a $200-million makeover, the renamed Sunrise will hop around quite a bit, sailing out of Norfolk, New York, and Fort Lauderdale with a variety of four- to seven-night itineraries to destinations such as the Bahamas, Bermuda, Cuba, and various Caribbean ports of call.

May 2019

Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas (2002)

On the heels of a $115-million transformation, Navigator will sail out of Miami on three- and four-night itineraries in the Bahamas.

Celebrity Equinox (2009)

Following its own Edge-inspired revamp, 10-year-old Equinox will sail out of Fort Lauderdale and offer a variety of six- to eleven-night Caribbean itineraries.

Norwegian Joy (2017)

Though just two years old, Joy is getting around $50 million in upgrades to bring her up to par with her sister Norwegian Bliss. Beginning in May, Joy will offer seven-night Alaska cruises from Seattle this summer. At other times of the year, the ship will sail from Los Angeles to Mexico and Panama, and from Miami to the Western Caribbean.

Fall 2019

Royal Caribbean’s Voyager of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas, which launched in 1999 and 2009, respectively, are both slated for major renovations as part of the “Royal Amplified” program.

The Best Airbnbs in Barcelona

Slide 1 of 8: Barcelona has a complicated relationship with Airbnb. City officials require all Airbnb and short-term vacation rental hosts to register with the city and display their permit number online (it begins with HUTB, followed by six numbers). They've also had a moratorium on new licenses since 2014, according to Quartz. In fact, Barcelona is one of the biggest cities known for limiting Airbnb's growth—but that doesn't mean you can't stay in a top-notch rental, it just means you need to do so responsibly. We've rounded up the best Airbnbs in Barcelona so you can feel like a local and stay in the midst of it all without breaking any rules. All of the rentals below have their permit numbers listed in the description and are run by Airbnb Superhosts, who each have a rating of 4.8 or above, a record of zero cancellations, and at least a 90 percent response rate, meaning they'll get back to you ASAP. Even better, some of listings are Airbnb Plus homes, which means they've been inspected by an Airbnb rep and have all the basics: An ironing board, closet and drawer space for guests, a well-lit entry, easy check-in, comfortable mattresses, a coffee maker, a bathroom free of the host's personal items, and toiletries like shampoo and conditioner, making it ideal for a first-time Airbnb guest used to hotel amenities. Buena suerte! All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Barcelona has a complicated relationship with Airbnb. City officials require all Airbnb and short-term vacation rental hosts to register with the city and display their permit number online (it begins with HUTB, followed by six numbers). They’ve also had a moratorium on new licenses since 2014, according to Quartz. In fact, Barcelona is one of the biggest cities known for limiting Airbnb’s growth—but that doesn’t mean you can’t stay in a top-notch rental, it just means you need to do so responsibly.

We’ve rounded up the best Airbnbs in Barcelona9 so you can feel like a local and stay in the midst of it all without breaking any rules. All of the rentals below have their permit numbers listed in the description and are run by Airbnb Superhosts, who each have a rating of 4.8 or above, a record of zero cancellations, and at least a 90 percent response rate, meaning they’ll get back to you ASAP. Even better, some of listings are Airbnb Plus

homes, which means they’ve been inspected by an Airbnb rep and have all the basics: An ironing board, closet and drawer space for guests, a well-lit entry, easy check-in, comfortable mattresses, a coffee maker, a bathroom free of the host’s personal items, and toiletries like shampoo and conditioner, making it ideal for a first-time Airbnb guest used to hotel amenities. Buena suerte!

Slide 2 of 8: Studio apartments are perfect for solo travelers, especially when they're under $100 a night. This 430-square-foot Airbnb Plus is steps away from Las Ramblas, giving you easy, walkable access to most of Barcelona's major sites and a mainline into the Gothic Quarter. It offers secure keyless entry, a combined washer/dryer, reliable Wi-Fi, and the dining table can easily serve as desk space for Barcelona-bound business travelers. Yes, the bedroom and the kitchen are in the same room, but for one person, there's plenty of space to spread out. Book Now: $97 per night, airbnb.com

 

For the Solo Traveler

Studio apartments are perfect for solo travelers, especially when they’re under $100 a night. This 430-square-foot Airbnb Plus is steps away from Las Ramblas, giving you easy, walkable access to most of Barcelona’s major sites and a mainline into the Gothic Quarter. It offers secure keyless entry, a combined washer/dryer, reliable Wi-Fi, and the dining table can easily serve as desk space for Barcelona-bound business travelers. Yes, the bedroom and the kitchen are in the same room, but for one person, there’s plenty of space to spread out.

Slide 3 of 8: Filled with pops of neon—and we do mean neon—green, this apartment is incredibly photogenic (plus there are floor-to-ceiling mirrors for #OOTD). But beyond its looks, the two-bedroom space has all of the amenities you'd need, from a well-stocked kitchen, air-conditioning, items for families traveling with tots like pack 'n plays and high chairs, and Wi-Fi. There's also a narrow balcony, just big enough to enjoy morning coffee on. As for the location, it's just a 10-minute walk from Bogatell beach, and 25-minute walk from La Sagrada Familia. Don't want to walk? The Bogatell Metro station is steps away. Book Now: $118 per night, airbnb.com

For the Aspiring Instagram Influencer

Filled with pops of neon—and we do mean neon—green, this apartment is incredibly photogenic (plus there are floor-to-ceiling mirrors for #OOTD). But beyond its looks, the two-bedroom space has all of the amenities you’d need, from a well-stocked kitchen, air-conditioning, items for families traveling with tots like pack ‘n plays and high chairs, and Wi-Fi. There’s also a narrow balcony, just big enough to enjoy morning coffee on. As for the location, it’s just a 10-minute walk from Bogatell beach, and 25-minute walk from La Sagrada Familia. Don’t want to walk? The Bogatell Metro station is steps away.

Slide 4 of 8: This Airbnb Plus two blocks from La Sagrada Familia offers four beds spread across three rooms (two queens and two singles), perfect for a large group heading to the city. (Bonus, two bathrooms!) Filled with light pinks and neutral tones, the home is beautifully decorated and offers a full living room and kitchen for everyone to congregate in. (There's enough space in the apartment to break off on your own, too.) Note to overpackers and those with accessibility concerns: The apartment is on the second floor and there isn't an elevator. Book Now: $259 per night, airbnb.com

For Group Trips

This Airbnb Plus two blocks from La Sagrada Familia offers four beds spread across three rooms (two queens and two singles), perfect for a large group heading to the city. (Bonus, two bathrooms!) Filled with light pinks and neutral tones, the home is beautifully decorated and offers a full living room and kitchen for everyone to congregate in. (There’s enough space in the apartment to break off on your own, too.) Note to overpackers and those with accessibility concerns: The apartment is on the second floor and there isn’t an elevator.

Slide 5 of 8: This Airbnb is actually a serviced apartment, run by vacation rental company En Ville, so you can opt for daily housekeeping if you want the feeling of a hotel (with all the perks of a three-bedroom rental and 300-square-foot terrace). Located just outside the Gothic Quarter, near Las Ramblas and Barcelona's contemporary art museum, the penthouse also comes with optional bike rentals. It takes up the entire floor, so no need to worry about running into neighbors, either. Book Now: $190 per night, airbnb.com

For the Airbnb Rookie

This Airbnb is actually a serviced apartment, run by vacation rental company En Ville, so you can opt for daily housekeeping if you want the feeling of a hotel (with all the perks of a three-bedroom rental and 300-square-foot terrace). Located just outside the Gothic Quarter, near Las Ramblas and Barcelona’s contemporary art museum, the penthouse also comes with optional bike rentals. It takes up the entire floor, so no need to worry about running into  neighbors, either.

 

Slide 6 of 8: Can we just move in to this Airbnb, please? With three stunningly designed bedrooms, each with its own bath, this home is well worth its hefty price tag, especially when you divide it among the six guests who can stay here. It also has a balcony overlooking the Eixample neighborhood that previous guests rave about in the reviews, and a deep navy dining room for entertaining. An Airbnb Plus, the light-filled apartment comes with a washer/dryer, elevator for easy access, and bathroom essentials. Book Now: $616 per night, airbnb.com

For the Big Spender

Can we just move in to this Airbnb, please? With three stunningly designed bedrooms, each with its own bath, this home is well worth its hefty price tag, especially when you divide it among the six guests who can stay here. It also has a balcony overlooking the Eixample neighborhood that previous guests rave about in the reviews, and a deep navy dining room for entertaining. An Airbnb Plus, the light-filled apartment comes with a washer/dryer, elevator for easy access, and bathroom essentials.

Slide 7 of 8: Just a 15-minute walk from the leafy Ciutadella Park, this family-friendly penthouse is in a prime location for exploring the city's historical sites and letting off steam. Best suited for families with children (note that it doesn't have a bath, only a shower), it offers one bedroom for parents and another with two single beds for children. There's also a large, 800-square-foot rooftop terrace, with space for dining and playing outside. An Airbnb Plus, it also comes with a crib on request, washer/dryer, and coffee maker so you can maintain your family routine, even on vacation. Book Now: $224 per night, airbnb.com

For the Whole Family

Just a 15-minute walk from the leafy Ciutadella Park, this family-friendly penthouse is in a prime location for exploring the city’s historical sites and letting off steam. Best suited for families with children (note that it doesn’t have a bath, only a shower), it offers one bedroom for parents and another with two single beds for children. There’s also a large, 800-square-foot rooftop terrace, with space for dining and playing outside. An Airbnb Plus, it also comes with a crib on request, washer/dryer, and coffee maker so you can maintain your family routine, even on vacation.

Slide 8 of 8: This wood-filled, two-bedroom home is well-designed and colorful on the inside, and offers a full patio for morning coffee and evening wine. But the real perk here is its location in the Gracia neighborhood, a short walk from Park Güell and a quick Metro ride to the city center (less than 10 minutes). Perfectly situated for exploration—so much so that you won't need to spend much time inside. But, since it's an Airbnb Plus, you don't have to worry when you do come back in the evenings, as everything you need, from a hair dryer to Wi-Fi to a washer/dryer, is there. Book Now: $134 per night, airbnb.com

For the Location-Obsessed

This wood-filled, two-bedroom home is well-designed and colorful on the inside, and offers a full patio for morning coffee and evening wine. But the real perk here is its location in the Gracia neighborhood, a short walk from Park Güell and a quick Metro ride to the city center (less than 10 minutes). Perfectly situated for exploration—so much so that you won’t need to spend much time inside. But, since it’s an Airbnb Plus, you don’t have to worry when you do come back in the evenings, as everything you need, from a hair dryer to Wi-Fi to a washer/dryer, is there.

14 Incredible Places to Visit If You Need Peace and Relaxation

Slide 1 of 15: Halong Bay, Vietnam

Halong Bay, Vietnam

Slide 2 of 15: You can find dozens of beautiful beaches in Hawaii, but Lumahai is particularly special for travelers who want to get away from it all. This white sand beach is ideal for lounging in the sun, or for experienced surfers to catch some waves. It’s not recommended for swimming, however, due to the strong undertow.

Lumahai Beach, Kauai, Hawaii

You can find dozens of beautiful beaches in Hawaii, but Lumahai is particularly special for travelers who want to get away from it all. This white sand beach is ideal for lounging in the sun, or for experienced surfers to catch some waves. It’s not recommended for swimming, however, due to the strong undertow.

Slide 3 of 15: What could be more idyllic than strolling the cape, exploring lighthouses? This town is the home of the Cape Elizabeth Light (or Two Lights lighthouse) that has been active since 1874. Other than the interesting history and classic New England architecture, Cape Elizabeth is also one of the best places to get juicy lobster.

Cape Elizabeth, Maine

What could be more idyllic than strolling the cape, exploring lighthouses? This town is the home of the Cape Elizabeth Light (or Two Lights lighthouse) that has been active since 1874. Other than the interesting history and classic New England architecture, Cape Elizabeth is also one of the best places to get juicy lobster.

Slide 4 of 15: Banff National Park is chock full of amazing scenery and crystalline lakes, but Lake Louise might be best (and most relaxing) of them all. Campers and hikers alike can settle by its perfectly blue waters and gaze at mountain views that seem almost too pristine to be real — luckily, it is. And it’s quite possibly the perfect, relaxing vacation for lovers of the great outdoors.

Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada

Banff National Park is chock full of amazing scenery and crystalline lakes, but Lake Louise might be best (and most relaxing) of them all. Campers and hikers alike can settle by its perfectly blue waters and gaze at mountain views that seem almost too pristine to be real — luckily, it is. And it’s quite possibly the perfect, relaxing vacation for lovers of the great outdoors.

Slide 5 of 15: Located in Tenorio Volcano National Park, Rio Celeste is known for its vividly blue color, almost unlike any other waterfall in the world. The bright coloring is actually a reaction of the volcanic chemicals in the water, but against the tropical backdrop and rushing waves, it looks practically magical.

Rio Celeste Falls, Costa Rica

Located in Tenorio Volcano National Park, Rio Celeste is known for its vividly blue color, almost unlike any other waterfall in the world. The bright coloring is actually a reaction of the volcanic chemicals in the water, but against the tropical backdrop and rushing waves, it looks practically magical.

Slide 6 of 15: Anglophiles will find paradise in East Sussex. Rolling green hills and a close proximity to the English channel make Seven Sisters the quintessential English countryside that you’ve only ever read about in a Victorian novel. You’ll also find picturesque white chalk cliffs if you decide to take a stroll there.

Seven Sisters, East Sussex, England

Anglophiles will find paradise in East Sussex. Rolling green hills and a close proximity to the English channel make Seven Sisters the quintessential English countryside that you’ve only ever read about in a Victorian novel. You’ll also find picturesque white chalk cliffs if you decide to take a stroll there.

Slide 7 of 15: Nordfjord is one of the top destinations in Norway thanks to its breathtaking views. Visitors can take a long, slow pleasure cruise along the fjord and see a wide array of sights including glaciers, mountains, and the open sea — all in just a two hour trip. It’s a perfect place for anyone who wants to get back to nature.

Nordfjord, Norway

Nordfjord is one of the top destinations in Norway thanks to its breathtaking views. Visitors can take a long, slow pleasure cruise along the fjord and see a wide array of sights including glaciers, mountains, and the open sea — all in just a two hour trip. It’s a perfect place for anyone who wants to get back to nature.

Slide 8 of 15: Blue Lagoon is by far the most popular tourist destination that Iceland has to offer. This geothermal spa is located in a lava field and attached to a world-renowned resort, where you can soak in the warm waters even when the temperatures are freezing outside. On clear nights, during certain parts of the year, you can even see the Northern Lights as you soak.

 

Navagio Beach, Greece

Navagio means “shipwreck,” and it was once thought to be a hotspot for smugglers, but you won’t find a lot of wreckage these days. Instead, you’ll find crystal blue water and pristine sands. One of the largest of the Ionian Islands, its rugged but serene beaches are gorgeous enough to make anyone scrolling through your Instagram swoon with envy.

Slide 11 of 15: Whitehaven is known as one of Australia’s best beaches and it’s easy to see why. The pure white, silica sand and emerald waters make this place look almost too good to be true for travelers looking for some R&R. If you go north to Hill Inlet, you’ll see an mesmerizing swirl of white and blue, created by shifting sands and water.

Whitehaven Beach, Australia

Whitehaven is known as one of Australia’s best beaches and it’s easy to see why. The pure white, silica sand and emerald waters make this place look almost too good to be true for travelers looking for some R&R. If you go north to Hill Inlet, you’ll see an mesmerizing swirl of white and blue, created by shifting sands and water.

Slide 12 of 15: Wild animals may not be everyone’s idea of relaxation, but adventurers in need of some repose can journey to this remote safari camp that not only offers safaris, birdwatching, and views of natural wildlife, but also some luxurious accommodations, including a Wellbeing Space with a pool, spa, and dining areas.

13/15 SLIDES © jokoleo/Getty Images

Sanur, Bali, Indonesia

Get your Instagram followers ready, because they’re about to see a lot of sunset pictures if you go to this beautiful beach in Bali. Beyond enjoying the relaxed, coastal living that travelers have come to expect from a trip to Bali, capturing the colorful sunset (or sunrise) along the shallow waters of Sanur is a must.

Slide 14 of 15: Peace and quiet don’t begin to describe the beauty of Ise Jingu, a grand Shinto shrine dedicated to the Japanese goddess Amaterasu. Even though it’s a widely known tourist attraction, the shrine complex manages to maintain its tranquility. It is one of the holiest places in the Japan, and people often go there to revere its beautiful architecture, natural scenery, and historical significance.
 

Ise Jingu, Japan

Peace and quiet don’t begin to describe the beauty of Ise Jingu, a grand Shinto shrine dedicated to the Japanese goddess Amaterasu. Even though it’s a widely known tourist attraction, the shrine complex manages to maintain its tranquility. It is one of the holiest places in the Japan, and people often go there to revere its beautiful architecture, natural scenery, and historical significance.

Slide 15 of 15: If you’re looking for serene blue and green waters, look no further. Halong Bay is most popular with boat lovers who want to spend some days on the water, or perhaps exploring the limestone islands and rainforests. The area is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, since it’s home to dozens of species of plants and animals.

 

Halong Bay, Vietnam

If you’re looking for serene blue and green waters, look no further. Halong Bay is most popular with boat lovers who want to spend some days on the water, or perhaps exploring the limestone islands and rainforests. The area is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, since it’s home to dozens of species of plants and animals.

What to Wear in Europe to not Look like a Tourist

a person standing in a garden

For someone living in a New York City-sized apartment, I have an inordinate amount of luggage in my possession. I’m talking multiple carry-ons (soft and hard-shelled), small backpacks, large backpacks, backpacks that transform into duffles, duffles that transform into rollaboards, and plenty of overnighters that are arguably more chic than they will ever be functional. Overkill? Maybe. But the type of luggage you choose can make or break a trip—and this girl needs options. So when Away launched its new weekender bag last week, I was eager to test it out before the summer’s slew of long weekends arrive.

The Weekender is designed with a couple of nights away in mind, but could also be stretched across a five-day trip if you’re a strategic enough packer. Essentially a larger version of The Everywhere that came out last year, it comes with lots of thoughtful details: a detachable shoulder strap; two zippered exterior pockets that are perfect for stuffing in travel documents and other essentials; three interior pockets with a wipeable, spill-proof lining; and a separate, roomy shoe compartment at the base. So far, so good.

a piece of luggage: The Weekender comes in shades of olive (pictured), cream, and black.© Fabian Ohrn/Courtesy Away The Weekender comes in shades of olive (pictured), cream, and black.

But at 4.85 pounds before you’ve even started packing, this bag is surprisingly heavy—especially considering it’s made from lightweight canvas. (For comparison, Tecovas’ leather duffel weighs five pounds.) Once loaded up with a weekend’s worth of clothes, shoes, and toiletries, it was a strain on my shoulder, making carrying it around for any considerable chunk of time feel like a bit of a chore.

There is, however, the option to rest the bag on top of your hard-shell, rollaboard suitcase, secured via a suitcase-handle sleeve. If you’re a dedicated Away fan who already owns The Carry-On, then it looks super sleek, but pairing it with a suitcase means you’d have to check a bag. (The Weekender is carry-on size, not personal item size.) And while the bag does meet most airline carry-on requirements, you’d want to place it in the overhead bin rather than slip it under the seat in front of you: It just fits if you’re flying coach, leaving very little room for you to stretch your legs out.

As with all Away bags, there are multiple color options to choose from—this time with subtle leather details. I went for the “natural canvas” shade over olive or black, mostly because it allowed me to fantasize about booking some sort of glamorous safari trip. (I’m only half-joking: given that most safari camps are only accessible by tiny propeller planes with strict luggage restrictions, a duffel like The Weekender is actually the best way to go.) It’s a lovely shade of cream, but it’s likely to be marked or stained after a couple of uses, which would make me nervous about checking it after spending $245 for the pleasure of carrying it.

Will I be slinging this bag over my shoulder the next time I schlep to airport? Probably not. I’ve sprinted through far too many departure lounges to want to deal with a heavy shoulder bag. But it sure looks lovely tucked into the trunk of a car if you’re heading upstate. Or to the beach. Or on a game drive. Or, well, pretty much anywhere else for that matter.

Mexico and the Caribbean Are the Most Popular Destinations This Summer

a large body of water with a city in the background: Mexico, Jalisco, Puerto Vallarta, Old town, Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe and El Malecon boardwalk

This year, summer travel to Cancún is expected to drop by five percent — however, the stunning Mexican beachside city is still the number one most popular international summer destination for U.S. travelers in 2019, according to a new survey by Allianz Global Assistance.

Cancún took first place for the third straight year. It is joined on the top 10 list by two other Mexican destinations, San José del Cabo and Puerto Vallarta, which came in third and ninth, respectively. This year was the first that Europe favorites London and Paris were not in the top 10.

Allianz Global Assistance analyzed travel bookings planned from the end of May through beginning of September, and found that all of this year’s top international destinations are in Mexico and the Caribbean.

“Americans are staying closer to home this summer, with all top 10 international destinations in the Caribbean and Mexico for the first time,” Daniel Durazo, director of communications at Allianz Global Assistance USA, said in a statement.

Here are the top 10 international summer destinations:

  1. Cancún, Mexico
  2. Aruba Island, Aruba
  3. San José del Cabo, Mexico
  4. Nassau, Bahamas
  5. Higuey, Dominican Republic
  6. Montego Bay, Jamaica
  7. Providenciales, Turks and Caicos
  8. San Juan, Puerto Rico (including in Allianz survey as international, however it is part of the U.S.
  9. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
  10. Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Domestically, U.S. travelers are planning travel to Orlando and New York City, which took the number one and two domestic spots respectively. The top 10 domestic summer destinations were:

  1. Orlando
  2. New York City
  3. Seattle
  4. Las Vegas
  5. Boston
  6. Los Angeles
  7. Maui
  8. Honolulu
  9. San Francisco
  10. Portland

The 5 Best Travel-Friendly Phones for Road Warriors, Vacationers & Business Flyers

Whether it’s a short road trip or an 18-hour flight, our phones are now essential travel companions. No longer do we need a GPS unit, maps, cameras, camcorders, or even boarding passes. However, not all phones are created equal in this regard. Some are more suited for traveling, no matter the duration.

LG V40 ThinQ

While easily the most unpopular phone on our list, the LG V40 ThinQ has a lot to offer for travelers. Thanks to its deep integration with Google Assistant, including a dedicated Google Assistant button, you can easily translate a menu or figure out what someone is saying to you. With its IP68 rating and MIL-STD 810G certification, it has the highest chance of surviving any environment. And with its focus on videography, you can capture pro-quality video to edit on the plane ride back.

  • GSM frequencies (MHz): 850, 900, 1800, 1900
  • LTE bands: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 13, 14, 17, 20, 25, 26, 29, 30, 38, 39, 40, 41, 66, 71
Image by Marques Brownlee/YouTube

With the V40 ThinQ, the benefits start as soon as you leave. As you travel on your vacation or business trip, you can take advantage of the 6.4-inch QHD+ display. This is a POLED panel, but the second iteration and not plagued with the same burn-in issues as the Pixel 2 XL and LG V30. You can storage quite a bit of video for the trip as well thanks to its microSD support. With 1 TB memory cards now an option, you’ll never have to worry about running out of space for your favorite movies or TV shows.

 

With its 3.5 mm headphone jack, you won’t have to charge a Bluetooth headset. This is also an enhanced headphone jack, thanks to its Quad-DAC, which improves the listening experience as it can drive more powerful headphones. For those looking to watch videos, there is support for DTS:X Virtual Surround Sound, a feature which emulates the effects of a 5.1 surround system using your headphones.

When you reach your destination, Google Assistant is one button away. With one click, you can pull up Google Assistant for directions, information, translation, and much more. Prefer to use your voice? The LG V40 ThinQ includes Super Far-Field Voice Recognition, a technology which allows your phone to detect your voice even in noisy environments up to 16 feet away.

Machu Picchu Pueblo Becomes First City in Latin America to Be 100 Percent Sustainable

a canyon with a mountain in the background: The majestic Machu Picchu, Peru. (Photo via SL_Photography / iStock / Getty Images Plus)

Machu Picchu Pueblo has become the first city in Latin America to be 100 percent sustainable.

The achievement was announced by Inkaterra, a hotel group focused on sustainable tourism and hotel development. Working in partnership with beverage distribution company AJE Group, Inkaterra has succeeded in helping the pueblo manage 100 percent of its solid waste.

“Continuing their initiatives for the conservation and environmental care of Machu Picchu, AJE Group and Inkaterra presented the first organic waste treatment plant to the city,” according to a statement issued by Inkaterra.

“Through the process of pyrolysis, in which the waste is decomposed at high temperatures without oxygen, seven tons of trash is processed per day, generating bio-coal, a natural fertilizer that will be used to restore the Andean cloud forest and contribute to the agricultural productivity of Machu Picchu.”

In addition to the organic waste treatment plant, Inkaterra and the AJE Group previously delivered a plastic compactor plant, which will be used to recycle trash found along the Inca Trail, the most famous trekking route in South America.

The plant was donated in 2017 and helped ensure that the ruins of Machu Picchu were not added to UNESCO’s list of Heritage at Risk. The facility processes about 14 tons of polyester plastic each day.

What’s more, in 2018, a biodiesel and glycerin plant was brought online at Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel. By processing used vegetable oil from Machu Picchu’s homes, lodges, hotels and restaurants, 20 gallons of biodiesel are produced daily from nearly 6,000 liters of used oil each month.

The glycerin obtained as part of the process is also used by the municipality to clean stone floors, thus replacing chemical products.

This long list of efforts to turn Machu Picchu into a model of global sustainability is being applauded around the world. Already the work has received the Peruvian “Líderes + 1” prize and, in Germany, the prestigious “Die Goldene Palme” award in the category of Responsible Tourism.

“The strategic alliance between Inkaterra, the AJE Group and the Municipality of Machu Picchu aims to change the perception of our wonderful city into a sustainable destination and become an example of management for ecotourism worldwide,” said aJosé Joechlin, Inkaterra’s Founder and CEO. “We have managed to awaken the ecological conscience of the local community, which now segregates waste from homes and establishments.”

Scandinavian Airlines strike affects 72,000 travelers

People are seated after flights were cancelled by Scandinavian Airlines, at Oslo Airport in Gardermoen, Norway, Friday, April 26, 2019. Pilots for Scandinavian Airlines have launched an open-ended strike following the collapse of pay negotiations, forcing the company to cancel almost all its flights. (Ole Berg-Rusten/NTB Scanpix via AP)

COPENHAGEN, Denmark — Pilots for Scandinavian Airlines on Friday launched an open-ended strike following the collapse of pay negotiations, forcing the company to cancel virtually all its flights — 673 of them, affecting 72,000 passengers.

The Stockholm-based carrier said talks on a new collective bargaining agreement with the SAS Pilot Group, which represents 95% of the company’s pilots in Sweden, Denmark and Norway, collapsed early Friday.

In airports throughout the region, SAS staff in yellow vests were assisting stranded passengers to rebook or obtain refunds.

Mina Kvam Tveteraas and her friend Bettina Svendsen were stranded at Stavanger Airport in Norway after their flight to Copenhagen was canceled.

“We have booked a hotel for three nights and the rooms are not refunded,” Kvam Tveteraas told Norway’s TV2 channel. “I have no idea what to do and I’m mad.”

The pilots’ negotiations that started in March mainly centered on salary increases and working hours.

Details have not been released but the pan-Scandinavian union says it wants salaries to be in line with the market rate, while SAS negotiators have called the requests “unreasonable and extreme.” SAS spokeswoman Karin Nyman said the pilots’ demands “would have very negative consequences for the company.”

Wilhelm Tersmeden, chairman of the Swedish pilots association, said SAS employees are facing “deteriorated working conditions, unpredictability in planning work hours and insecurity for their own job.”

“Almost one in four SAS flights is flown by subcontractors and we want to know what our future looks like,” he told Sweden’s TT news agency.

Jacob Pedersen, an analyst with Denmark’s Sydbank, estimated the strike in average would cost between 60 million and 80 million Swedish kronor ($6.3-8.4 million) a day.

The strike “makes it clear that SAS is more vulnerable than we previously expected,” he said. “Competition is tough, and with a European economy moving at a slower pace, SAS may also fight harder for profits this year.”

The company said the strike doesn’t include flights operated by SAS partner airlines, making up approximately 30% of its departures, and is not expected to affect other airlines’ departures and arrivals.

This is the most beautiful country in the world, according to travelers

Slide 2 of 16: The largest island of the Inner Hebrides, the Isle of Skye has one of the most incredible landscapes in the world. Historic castles dot the island against a backdrop of mountain scenery, and famous sights include the Old Man of Storr — a rocky crag rising from grassy slopes — and the enchanting Fairytale Pools, made up of beautiful blue and green waterfalls and natural pools you can swim in.

Isle of Skye

The largest island of the Inner Hebrides, the Isle of Skye has one of the most incredible landscapes in the world. Historic castles dot the island against a backdrop of mountain scenery, and famous sights include the Old Man of Storr — a rocky crag rising from grassy slopes — and the enchanting Fairytale Pools, made up of beautiful blue and green waterfalls and natural pools you can swim in.

Slide 3 of 16: A stretch of 50 square miles of boggy moorland home to all sorts of interesting and unique wildlife, Rannoch Moor is at the midpoint of the cross-country hike that is the West Highland Way. Catch glimpses of beautiful deer and rolling hills in this expanse of wilderness that’s relatively isolated.
3/16 SLIDES © iStock

Rannoch Moor

A stretch of 50 square miles of boggy moorland home to all sorts of interesting and unique wildlife, Rannoch Moor is at the midpoint of the cross-country hike that is the West Highland Way. Catch glimpses of beautiful deer and rolling hills in this expanse of wilderness that’s relatively isolated.Slide 4 of 16: Located in the southern part of the country, Loch Lomond is Great Britain’s largest inland body of water. Both highlands and lowlands surround the freshwater lake — which lies right on the bounder between the two — and you’ll find serene scenery filled with oak trees and red deer, as well as footpaths and bike trails on the lake’s eastern side for you to explore.

 

Loch Lomond

Located in the southern part of the country, Loch Lomond is Great Britain’s largest inland body of water. Both highlands and lowlands surround the freshwater lake — which lies right on the bounder between the two — and you’ll find serene scenery filled with oak trees and red deer, as well as footpaths and bike trails on the lake’s eastern side for you to explore.

Slide 5 of 16: Along the country’s northeastern coast lies Dunnottar Castle, a ruined medieval fortress made up of remnants from the 15th and 16th centuries. It’s held quite a bit of significance in Scottish history due to its advantageous location, and it is believed that the site has been fortified in some form since the Early Middle Ages. Though the castle went into decline after playing a major role in the Jacobite rebellion of 1715, it saw a restoration in the 20th century and is open today to tourists who want to see this piece of history and the breathtaking scenery surrounding it.

 

Dunnottar Castle

Along the country’s northeastern coast lies Dunnottar Castle, a ruined medieval fortress made up of remnants from the 15th and 16th centuries. It’s held quite a bit of significance in Scottish history due to its advantageous location, and it is believed that the site has been fortified in some form since the Early Middle Ages. Though the castle went into decline after playing a major role in the Jacobite rebellion of 1715, it saw a restoration in the 20th century and is open today to tourists who want to see this piece of history and the breathtaking scenery surrounding it.

Slide 6 of 16: The Isle of Iona is one of the Inner Hebrides’ smaller islands, and a serene locale where many people go for spiritual retreats. Its quaint abbey is now a church but remains a feat of medieval architecture that’s of interest to visitors with interest in both history and religion.

 

Isle of Iona

The Isle of Iona is one of the Inner Hebrides’ smaller islands, and a serene locale where many people go for spiritual retreats. Its quaint abbey is now a church but remains a feat of medieval architecture that’s of interest to visitors with interest in both history and religion.

Slide 7 of 16: A village of less than 400 people in the Scottish Highlands, Glencoe is filled with gorgeously green scenery and mountainous landscapes. Located at the northwest end of the glen of Glen Coe, the village is situated along the River Coe where it enters Loch Leven. Get a breathtaking look at the whole area from the top of the Pap of Glencoe, a spot picturesque enough to propose at.

 

Glencoe

A village of less than 400 people in the Scottish Highlands, Glencoe is filled with gorgeously green scenery and mountainous landscapes. Located at the northwest end of the glen of Glen Coe, the village is situated along the River Coe where it enters Loch Leven. Get a breathtaking look at the whole area from the top of the Pap of Glencoe, a spot picturesque enough to propose at.

Slide 8 of 16: Connecting the towns of Applecross and Torridan, Bealach na Bà is a mountain pass that was built in 1822. It’s known for its hairpin bends, as well as for having the steepest incline of any road in the United Kingdom. Not for amateur drivers, it’s still a great experience for those looking to take an exhilarating and scenic drive.

 

Bealach na Bà

Connecting the towns of Applecross and Torridan, Bealach na Bà is a mountain pass that was built in 1822. It’s known for its hairpin bends, as well as for having the steepest incline of any road in the United Kingdom. Not for amateur drivers, it’s still a great experience for those looking to take an exhilarating and scenic drive.

Slide 9 of 16: A group of islands located off of Scotland’s northeastern coast, Orkney is home to majestic whales and a lot of ancient history. Neolithic sites can be found here, particularly a group of sites on its largest island that are over 5,000 years old, such as Maeshowe, a burial chamber with Viking carvings from the 1300s and Skara Brae, a preserved ancient village where you’ll find a reconstructed house from the era.

 

Orkney

A group of islands located off of Scotland’s northeastern coast, Orkney is home to majestic whales and a lot of ancient history. Neolithic sites can be found here, particularly a group of sites on its largest island that are over 5,000 years old, such as Maeshowe, a burial chamber with Viking carvings from the 1300s and Skara Brae, a preserved ancient village where you’ll find a reconstructed house from the era.

Slide 10 of 16: The picturesque parish of Crail on the western coast of Scotland is known for its architecture and scenic location. With many buildings that date from the 17th to early 19th centuries, many of which have been restored thanks to the National Trust of Scotland, the historic fishing village is perfect for a stroll down its cobbled streets.

 

Crail

The picturesque parish of Crail on the western coast of Scotland is known for its architecture and scenic location. With many buildings that date from the 17th to early 19th centuries, many of which have been restored thanks to the National Trust of Scotland, the historic fishing village is perfect for a stroll down its cobbled streets.

Slide 11 of 16: Finnich Glen is a 70-foot-deep glen located in Stirlingshire near Craighat Wood. A circular rock located in the glen is known as the “Devil’s Pulpit,” while a steep staircase, built in 1860, is known as the “Devil’s Steps.” Hidden away under a small stone bridge that people cross to enter the nearby village of Croftamie, the mysterious gorge is made of sandstone that sometimes makes the water look red, a striking contrast against the moss-covered walls.

 

Finnich Glen

Finnich Glen is a 70-foot-deep glen located in Stirlingshire near Craighat Wood. A circular rock located in the glen is known as the “Devil’s Pulpit,” while a steep staircase, built in 1860, is known as the “Devil’s Steps.” Hidden away under a small stone bridge that people cross to enter the nearby village of Croftamie, the mysterious gorge is made of sandstone that sometimes makes the water look red, a striking contrast against the moss-covered walls.

Slide 12 of 16: The Scottish capital is an interesting combination of tradition and modernity, with modern architecture standing alongside Gothic churches and medieval palaces. Both Edinburgh’s New and Old Towns are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with the latter being the home of the iconic Edinburgh Castle that looms over the city from one of its highest points.

Edinburgh

The Scottish capital is an interesting combination of tradition and modernity, with modern architecture standing alongside Gothic churches and medieval palaces. Both Edinburgh’s New and Old Towns are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with the latter being the home of the iconic Edinburgh Castle that looms over the city from one of its highest points.

Slide 13 of 16: The main attraction on the Isle of Mull is its capital, Tobermory, a waterfront town that’s home to the island’s only single malt Scotch whisky distillery as well as a main street filled with buildings painted bright colors and housing some great shops and restaurants. Mull also has some great beaches, beautiful hills and fascinating wildlife, and it’s where you’ll find the Gribun Cliffs, wonderful for a hike or drive by the water.

 

Isle of Mull

The main attraction on the Isle of Mull is its capital, Tobermory, a waterfront town that’s home to the island’s only single malt Scotch whisky distillery as well as a main street filled with buildings painted bright colors and housing some great shops and restaurants. Mull also has some great beaches, beautiful hills and fascinating wildlife, and it’s where you’ll find the Gribun Cliffs, wonderful for a hike or drive by the water.

Slide 14 of 16: You may not be able to spot the famous monster of Scottish legend, but a trip to Loch Ness is still one filled with mystery and wonder at the beauty of this large and deep freshwater lake, surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. Visit the ruins of the 13th-century Urquhart Castle, which overlooks Loch Ness on its western shore, to learn a bit about Scottish medieval history.

Loch Ness

You may not be able to spot the famous monster of Scottish legend, but a trip to Loch Ness is still one filled with mystery and wonder at the beauty of this large and deep freshwater lake, surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. Visit the ruins of the 13th-century Urquhart Castle, which overlooks Loch Ness on its western shore, to learn a bit about Scottish medieval history.

Slide 16 of 16: The Victorian vibe is very apparent in the town of Pitlochry, which lies right along the River Tummel. A tourist resort since Queen Victoria visited the area in 1842 and the construction of a railway in 1863, it’s known for both its historic architecture and for the surrounding hills and mountains, perfect for a gorgeous hike. More from The Active Times: The 76 Most Charming Hotels in America Savvy Tip and Tricks for Saving on Hotel Rooms 50 Travel Experiences That Will Change Your Life Visit These American Gems Before the Word Gets Out These 25 Destinations Are Only Worth Visiting in the Summer

Pitlochry

The Victorian vibe is very apparent in the town of Pitlochry, which lies right along the River Tummel. A tourist resort since Queen Victoria visited the area in 1842 and the construction of a railway in 1863, it’s known for both its historic architecture and for the surrounding hills and mountains, perfect for a gorgeous hike.

 

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