Tag Archives: Tips for Travel

Global Insecurity Heightens Need for Emergency Plan, Travel Insurance

March 8, 2026 krubin723

Visitors Happiness Desk, at the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, capital of the United Arab Emirates, in happier days. UAE, a major Mideast hub which is cultivating international tourism to drive economic growth, was dragged into the US-Israel conflict with Iran, and thousands of travelers stranded when it was forced to close its airport © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

Americans Stranded by Sudden Onset of Iran War

Hundreds of thousands of Americans found themselves stranded without immediate, clear evacuation plans after airspace closed and flights were cancelled in major hubs including Dubai, Doha, Amman and Tel Aviv. Some 500,000 to 1 million U.S. nationals were living in or visiting the Middle East when the US and Israel launched its attack on Iran on February 28 without warning and without preparation or planning for getting civilians out of harm’s way.

Travelers in a dozen countries were impacted: Israel, Bahrain, Cyprus, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates.

With many Mideast countries lacking a US ambassador, and many embassies closed, they had little support. As of March 7, just 27,000 Americans were able to return home. The U.S. State Department, which days later set up a telephone number for people to register for assistance, reported having “directly assisted” nearly 13,000 Americans with security guidance or charter evacuation flights.

*The Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi, capital of the United Arab Emirates. UAE, a major Mideast hub which is cultivating international tourism to drive economic growth © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Ongoing Situation: Thousands remain in the region under a “Depart Now” advisory, with many relying on private groups or commercial flights as they become available. Israel was providing bus transportation to Egypt and Jordan for Americans to connect to flights.

The U.S. Embassy in Iran continues to advise remaining citizens to shelter in place or depart by land if it is safe to do so (https://ir.usembassy.gov/security-alert-iran-march-7-2026/).

The State Department was advising U.S. citizens in Iran in need of help to call the State Department at +1-202-501-4444 to receive departure information and assistance, or contact the U.S. Embassy in Bern, Switzerland by email at BernACS@state.gov or phone +41-31-357-7011. Since the U.S. government does not have diplomatic or consular relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Swiss government, acting through its embassy in Tehran, is serving as the protecting power for U.S. interests in Iran.

Also, the State Department advised that the Armenian land border at Agarak/Norduz was open. U.S. citizens entering Armenia from Iran need a valid U.S. passport and may stay for up to 180 days visa-free. U.S. dual-nationals who plan to enter Armenia on an American, Iranian or Armenian passport do not require advance approval. Taxis are available from Agarak to surrounding cities and to Yerevan.

The Turkish land border crossings with Iran are open (Gürbulak/Bazargan, Kapıköy/Razi, and Esendere/Serow) for entry by Turkish and third country nationals.

Rising Global Travel Risks Drive Increase in Travelers’ Security Membership Purchases

Growing concerns about safety, instability and unpredictability in international travel are driving a significant increase in Global Rescue security memberships. From January 1 through March 5, security + travel membership purchases increased 29% compared to the same period in 2025.

The surge reflects a broader shift in traveler behavior as individuals seek professional security support and crisis response capabilities before traveling internationally. The purchasing trend aligns with findings from the Global Rescue Winter 2026 Traveler Sentiment and Safety Survey, which showed that most travelers expect international travel in 2026 to be more dangerous or increasingly unpredictable compared to pre-2020 conditions.

According to the survey, 38% of travelers say international travel danger in 2026 will be unpredictable and 36% believe it will be more dangerous. Only 1% believe international travel will be less dangerous.

“Travelers are clearly signaling that uncertainty and instability are influencing how they plan international trips,” said Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies and a member of the US Travel and Tourism Advisory Board at the US Department of Commerce. “More people want professional support behind them before they travel — access to intelligence, crisis response teams and the ability to get help quickly if conditions deteriorate.”

“These perceptions are shaping behavior,” Richards said. “Travelers are not necessarily staying home, but they are becoming more deliberate about preparation and risk management. Security memberships provide a safety net that gives travelers direct access to experienced security professionals when situations become volatile.”

Global Rescue’s Security Membership includes 24/7 access to teams of military special operations veterans and intelligence experts; real-time alerts and destination-specific security advisories’ and mergency response and extraction services during conflict, civil unrest and security crises.

“Travelers are seeing increasing headlines about conflict, political instability and security threats in multiple regions,” Richards said. “In that environment, having a professional crisis response capability is becoming an essential part of international travel planning.”

For more information, visit www.globalrescue.com.

Tips About Travel Insurance

*Travelers to Petra, the wondrous archeological site in Jordan, are involuntarily impacted by the US-Israel war on Iran © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

With nearly 14,000 flights canceled from large airports in 10 countries across the Middle East and hundreds of thousands of travelers stranded in the immediate aftermath of the US-Israel attacks on Iran on February 28, most coverage has focused on stranded passengers and airport shutdowns.

But travelers are learning the hard way that acts of war exclusions and timing of purchase are determining who gets reimbursed and who doesn’t with their travel insurance.

According to InsureMyTrip, an insurance comparison platform that helps travelers find the most appropriate travel insurance for their needs:

Many travelers assume any cancellation is automatically covered, but standard policies don’t work that way.
Travelers who bought insurance after the conflict escalated may not have coverage for cancellations tied directly to the event.
Airlines and government repatriation efforts are playing a major role in helping travelers get home, while insurance often supports with delay benefits, assistance services, and reimbursement when eligible.
Interest in Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) upgrades is increasing as travelers look for more flexibility in uncertain global situations.

“This moment is less about insurance failing, and more about travelers learning how coverage actually works during global disruptions,” the company said.

InsureMyTrip CEO Suzanne Morrow offered this guidance:

Travelers going to, from, or through Middle East hubs right now should stay flexible and informed. Check your flight status directly with the airline before heading to the airport, look for waivers or rebooking options, and enroll in the State Department’s STEP program for real-time updates. Conditions are changing quickly, so having a backup plan is important.

Timing of purchase matters because once an event is considered “foreseeable,” new travel insurance policies typically won’t cover losses tied directly to it. That’s why we always encourage travelers to buy coverage early, ideally right after making the first trip deposit, so they have the broadest protection and options like Cancel for Any Reason.

There’s also a difference between cancellation coverage and travel delay support. Cancellation coverage may reimburse prepaid, nonrefundable costs if you can’t take the trip for a covered reason. Travel delay benefits help if you’re stuck mid-trip, covering things like meals, hotels, or transportation while you wait. Both are helpful, but they apply in different situations.

To protect reimbursement options, travelers should review their policy now, keep receipts for any extra expenses, and document delays or cancellations. It’s also smart to check airline and hotel policies first, since many are offering flexibility that can solve the issue without filing a claim.

If you’re already traveling and a crisis happens, whether political unrest, war, terrorism, climate events, or a pandemic, safety comes first. Follow guidance from local authorities and your embassy and register for alerts if you haven’t already. Travel insurance doesn’t arrange government evacuations, but many plans include 24/7 emergency assistance services that can help you understand your options, coordinate care, and navigate next steps. Depending on the situation and the policy, some travelers may have trip interruption benefits if they need to cut a trip short, but coverage always depends on the specific policy and circumstances.

“The bottom line: know your destination, know your coverage, and give yourself flexibility whenever possible,” Morrow advises.

InsureMyTrip expects a surge in travel insurance claims as frustrated fliers try to recoup losses. While the company doesn’t handle claims directly, its experts are offering guidance to help travelers avoid common mistakes that could slow down, or sink, their reimbursement.

Here’s what travelers need to know:

Not everything’s covered: Travel insurance isn’t a “catch-all.” Always read the fine print to understand exclusions.
- Paperwork matters: Missing receipts, reports, or proof of expenses are top reasons for denial. Don’t delay: Waiting too long to file can make a claim ineligible. Save everything: Receipts, doctor’s notes, police reports, and unused tickets are key for a smooth process.
- File online: Digital submissions are often faster and easier to track.

Bonus tip: InsureMyTrip customers get free access to a claim advocate, a service that reviews denied claims, contacts the provider, and assists with appeals.

Cancel For Any Reason Insurance

Just three months into 2026, several global events have already upended travel plans and left many uncertain about their upcoming trips. From the ongoing government shutdown to the unrest in the Middle East, travelers are increasingly prioritizing flexibility when planning.

According to Squaremouth, a leading travel insurance comparison platform, interest in Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) coverage has surged roughly 27% since the start of March amid recent global events.

Despite its name, the add-on offers more flexibility than travelers may realize, extending well beyond impulsive cancellations. This benefit functions as an extension of standard cancellation coverage, allowing travelers to cancel for reasons standard policies typically exclude and still receive partial reimbursement for prepaid, non-refundable trip costs.

While exact exclusions vary by policy and provider, common scenarios where standard coverage may fall short, and CFAR can step in, include:

Unsafe travel conditions, but no official government closures or travel bans
Voluntary job changes or schedule conflicts
Traveling despite receiving a doctor’s orders to remain home
Events that were known and foreseen before the policy was purchased, such as winter storms, hurricanes, and government shutdowns
Government-mandated airspace closures due to military action
Visiting regions with level 4 travel advisories
Financial constraints that arise after a trip is booked
Simply changing your mind and deciding not to travel

“Travel insurance policies with the CFAR upgrade provide the most flexibility to cancel your trip,” shares Chrissy Valdez, Senior Director of Operations at Squaremouth. “This upgrade typically increases a policy’s cost by about 40% to 50%, but we’ve already seen how valuable that added flexibility can be for travelers affected by major events in 2026.”

Important Eligibility Requirements

“Travelers need to know that CFAR is not a standalone policy and is only available as an upgrade to a comprehensive plan,” Valdez continues. “In most cases, it must be purchased within 14 to 21 days of your initial trip deposit, depending on the provider.”

“That said, while this may be the only benefit that provides flexibility where standard coverage falls short, it does have limitations. CFAR typically reimburses between 50% and 75% of prepaid, non-refundable trip costs, requires travelers to insure 100% of their trip expenses, and generally requires cancellation at least two to three days before departure,” she adds.

As global events continue to impact travel in 2026, Squaremouth encourages travelers to consider adding CFAR to their coverage for greater flexibility and financial protection.

Learn more about the Best Cancel For Any Reason Insurance for 2026 here.

Claims for Medical Issues

*Purchasing travel insurance for the medical coverage is recommended on big international trips such as biking in Cambodia © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Travel insurance is an important investment for big-ticket trips like cruises, tours, safari, renting a home and for international travel. One of the most important reasons to purchase travel insurance is for the medical coverage – especially evacuation in the case of a medical emergency – since your health insurance policy including Medicare do not cover medical services when you travel abroad.

Squaremouth, a leading travel insurance comparison platform, wants travelers to understand how travel insurance can protect travelers if they fall ill and their trip is disrupted:

If You’re Too Sick to Travel: If you, your travel companion, or a non-traveling family member gets sick before your trip, you could cancel your trip and be covered by a comprehensive travel insurance plan under the Trip Cancellation benefit. This benefit can reimburse you for 100% of your prepaid and non-refundable trip costs, including flights, hotels, tours, excursions, and more.

If You’re Too Sick to Finish Your Trip: If you get sick while on your trip and need to go home early, the Trip Interruption benefit can reimburse you for unused trip expenses, plus the additional transportation costs you incur to get home. Typically, this benefit covers at least 100% of your unused, prepaid, non-refundable trip costs. However, some plans even cover between 125 – 200%.

If You Need Medical Treatment While Traveling: It’s important to understand that most domestic healthcare insurance plans will not cover you abroad. However, emergency medical insurance can cover the costs of medical treatment during your trip if you get sick or are injured, including hospital stays, doctor visits, and prescription medications.

More serious cases could require emergency evacuation to a suitable medical facility, especially if you’re traveling in a remote destination or on a cruise. Medical Evacuation coverage, which is included with most travel insurance plans, can pay for transportation to a hospital in the event of a medical emergency or even back to the U.S.

If You Change Your Mind About Traveling: While concerns about traveling for fear of getting sick or simply no longer wanting to travel during flu season are not covered reasons under standard travel insurance policies, travelers can purchase optional add-on benefits like Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) and Interruption For Any Reason (IFAR). These benefits provide the most flexibility, allowing travelers to cancel or shorten their trip for any reason and receive partial reimbursement, typically 50-75% of insured trip costs. It’s important to note that these benefits are time-sensitive and must be purchased within 14-21 days of your initial trip deposit date.

Because travel insurance provides coverage for unforeseen events, it’s crucial to buy a policy early to maximize your coverage. For coverage to apply to getting sick, such as with the flu, you must be healthy and able to travel at the time of purchasing your policy.

For a more in-depth overview, Squaremouth’s ‘Does Travel Insurance Cover the Flu?‘ article provides a deep dive into how travel insurance may apply to the flu, including coverage explanations and answers to frequently asked questions.

SOVENTURE Warns Travelers of Hidden Coverage Gaps in Popular Vacation Activities

*Snorkeling in Galapagos. Mishaps when snorkeling may not be covered unless specifically listed in your travel insurance policy © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Turning now to more mundane vacation travel planning, SOVENTURE is highlighting frequently overlooked gaps in travel insurance coverage that can affect families, cruisers, honeymooners, and other leisure travelers.

Popular vacation activities such as snorkeling, ziplining, hiking, parasailing, skiing, snowboarding, water skiing, and ATV or UTV excursions are often classified as “risky” by insurers, which can lead to coverage exclusions under many traditional travel insurance policies.

Some of the most common coverage gaps involve experiences that feel routine, family-friendly, or low-risk:

Cruise and Tour Excursions – Activities sold directly by cruise lines or resorts are often assumed to be automatically covered, but that is not always the case. Even widely booked excursions can fall outside standard policy coverage, depending on how an insurer classifies the activity.

Motorized Vehicles – Another common blind spot involves motorized vehicle rentals and guided excursions. Many travelers don’t consider a scooter ride, guided ATV tour, or Jet Ski rental risky, but insurers often do, especially when traveling outside the United States.

SOVENTURE policies explicitly includes a wide range of popular vacation activities; covers excursions sold by cruise lines or resorts; offers strong medical and emergency evacuation coverage; and clearly defines what is and isn’t covered.

More information at https://www.soventure.com/explore-plans/

Finding Best Travel Insurance to Meet Your Needs

InsureMyTrip.com is one of three platforms which travel guru Pauline Frommer recommends where you can put in the details of your trip and personal details (age is key), and get a bullet-list comparison of insurance policies. The others are SquareMouth.com and TravelInsurance.com (which I used to obtain a quote, comparison and link directly to the insurance company to complete the purchase)

“No one company is best for every trip,” she advised at the New York Travel & Adventure Show. “Usually the one in the middle that covers the most things is the best.”

Also, she warns, “Never buy insurance through the company you are traveling with.”

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Best in Travel, Tips for Travel

New York Travel Show: Pauline Frommer’s Tips for Where and How to Go in 2026

February 4, 2026 krubin723

Viti Levu, Fiji is getting travel expert Pauline Frommer’s recommendation this year because for the first time, there are direct flights to Fiji from the US, making it more affordable. Among the interesting sights: the largest Hindu temple in the Pacific because of immigration routes © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

Travel is always life-enhancing and can even be life-changing. Travel has the potential to build bonds, forge new understanding, bring personal enlightenment, and today, is a significant component of physical and mental wellness we crave. But no matter what bracket you are in, a trip demands significant financial resources. So, where we get our information in order to make the many decisions and choices that go into a travel plan –destination, flight, accommodation, tours, attractions and experiences to build in, and all the other aspects of what to see and do, and where to get the best rate, fares and deals – is key.

Among the forces shaping travel, none is having more impact than artificial intelligence. A.I. is in everything from locating flights, hotels, tours, to learning about a destination and deciding what to see and do, and yes, make bookings and handing over credit cards.

While A.I. has had its benefits, there are caveats, as well – caveat emptor, to be precise (“buyer beware.”).

“AI is shaping how we digest travel information, and doing it badly,” travel expert Pauline Frommer says during her talk, “The Secrets to Not Overpaying for Travel & Having Soul Stirring Vacation,” to an appreciative audience at this year’s New York Travel Show.

The “First Lady of Travel,” Pauline Frommer delivers her hugely popular “The Secrets to Not Overpaying for Travel & Having Soul Stirring Vacation” talk at this year’s New York Travel Show © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

There is false information – hallucinations – propagated through AI, and no way to correct and no one to complain to. “AI hallucinates too often and gets too much wrong.”

There are even travel guidebooks being created out of whole cloth by A.I. (and 5-star reviewed by bots) and sold on Amazon, filled with inaccuracies that a traveler might depend upon and then find their trip ruined.

Now AI is being used to generate airfares. One of the Frommer Researchers, which each year evaluates the various airline search engines, this year included Chat GPT and Grok. “They bombed – they never found the lowest price, and often came up with routes that didn’t exist.”

The best airfare search engines Frommer’s researcher found:

Momondo – found lowest prices most consistently. This search engine has been their top choice for many years in a row. Frommer said they particularly liked Momondo’s presentation, so you can see different prices by day, and it allows more filters than others (class, luggage rules, you can even filter by type of airplane). If you filter for luggage, it will show the airline list with the price of checked luggage included.

Skyscanner is also typically making their “best” list.

New to her list this year: Skiplagged, which tells you how to get a lower fare by booking a route where the connection airport or stopover is the destination you actually want, but offers a cheaper fare than if you go direct, so you get off the plane. Among the problems: the airline will likely then cancel your return (so if you do this, book one-way), but even ban you from flying them. “But it finds good prices.”

Online airline reservations systems are using AI for both dynamic and “surveillance” pricing where it bases its fare quote on who you are and where you live © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

AI is not only shaping how we digest travel, what we know, and helping make our choices and decisions, but is also shaping pricing, as companies – airlines and hotels, for example – begin to use AI for “surveillance pricing” and “dynamic pricing” (an even more refined “yield management” tool).

Perhaps you have noticed that if you search for a fare, leave it for hours when you return, the fare is higher. This is dynamic pricing – because the system has recognized that you are motivated to purchase the fare because you returned for it. AI helps calculate just how much you are willing to pay, based on your motivation.

Now AI is enabling these systems to go even further: “surveillance” pricing, in which AI calculates what you will pay based on where you live (the rent you pay), what travel you have purchased before, and other personal shopping data.

The Biden administration investigated and found that based on profiles (where you live, the rent you pay, what travel you have purchased before) it serves up different prices, so that if you search from New York City, you are quoted a higher fare than if you searched from Louisiana, or Uzbekistan.

How can you shield your identity to prevent such discrimination? Subscribe to a VPN ($15-20 /year) and when you do search, decide where to do it from. You can do the search from Kazakstan or Arkansas, with each place you will see a price difference and cheaper than if the system recognizes you live in New York.

Frommer cited Proton VPN which claimed to have found a 40% difference in hotel and air fares. “I’m not sure a 40% difference is true, but there is a big enough difference – I have VPN on my computer.”

Frommer’s tips for purchasing air fares: A study using AI to find patterns in 36 billion air fare transactions found it is best to:

Purchase your airfare on Sunday (6% cheaper for domestic flights, 17% cheaper for international)

Buy 1-3 months out for domestic travel (saving 25%); 18-29 days out for international (savings of 10%). “But I don’t think I would have the courage to wait 18-29 days out for an international flight.”

Fly red eye or early morning (best fare and less likely to be delayed or canceled)

Gateway Hopping – sometimes a different gateway airport can bring down the cost. For example, if you are headed from JFK to Berlin, a secondary airport, it may cost less to fly to Paris and take a cheap regional carrier to Berlin. That would involve two searches, maybe two different carriers. (If going to Florence, you might fly into Rome and take the train.)

Saving on Lodging

Pauline Frommer with a photo of her famous father, Arthur Frommer, who got the idea for his “Europe on $5 a Day” guidebook that became a travel guide empire, as a GI encouraging other GIs to explore. The Frommer guides continue to be geared to middle-market travelers © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Like air fares, these days, you can avoid surveillance pricing by setting your VPN’s “Where I am in the world” to the Republic of Ireland because unlike the USA (Trump repealed Joe Biden’s rule against junk fees), the European Union prohibits hidden fees (like resort fees you didn’t know you were expected to pay – because the hotel can offer a cheaper, more competitive rate, and not pay the local occupancy tax).

Frommer recommends searching for hotels on Google Travel, Trivago or Skyscanner.

“Get a reservation you can cancel and rebook closer to the travel date.” (I like hotels.com and booking.com for their flexibility in canceling or changing reservations, the information provided and the comments.)

In business travel destinations (like Johannesburg, South Africa), rates tend to drop sharply the week before travel, but if you are not inclined to cut it that close and possibly be closed out, get the reservation you can cancel earlier.

Vacation home rentals no longer necessarily save money because of the added fees and cancellation policies (unless you are multi-generational family or some couples traveling together, in which case the space and use of kitchen and other living amenities adds value).

“Check hotel prices, too, as they may be lower. Take reviews with a grain of salt – 10% of AirBnB reviews are AI-generated fakes.”

Frommer also recommends using VRBO, which posts the contact information for the management company, then booking directly with the management company for a better rate.

Where to go in 2026?

*Florence in May – shoulder season has become as popular as peak season, because the weather is better © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com.*

If you think that your bucket-list destinations will be more in reach, price-wise, in the off-season, you will find there is no such thing as an “off season” any more – these days, travel is ubiquitous throughout the year.

Seasonality is also going the way of the dodo. The peak travel season, summer, in places like Paris, Florence, Venice, the south of France, Spain, Portugal, Czech Republic have been hit with such ferocious heat waves, that people are going to what used to be called the “shoulder season”, April-May, September-October, which are getting as pricey and crowded as summer.

Frommer said she visited Naples in March. “I thought it was low season but it was jammed and charging top dollar, and two museums were sold out. Usually southern Italy would have been dead in early March. Rome, Paris, London no longer have an off season, so consider secondary destinations.”

*Instead of crowding the name-brand destinations, find new places to explore, like Camogli, close to Portofino, Italy © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

But, Frommer advises, consider secondary destinations that are not as high on people’s lists, but also help destinations free themselves from the blight of overtourism, while spreading the economic and cultural benefits that tourists bring.

Instead of Amsterdam, visit Utrecht, a beautiful little city just a half hour outside Amsterdam, with the same canals, even more beautiful, Frommer says, because there are 2 levels, lined with cafes, bars, and fairy lights at night.

Even in May, Amsterdam is so crowded it is difficult to get a reserved-time ticket to the Rijksmuseum on the same day, while the Anne Frank House is booked up weeks in advance. Pauline Frommer is recommending people seek out secondary destinations like Utrecht to discover © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

“Right now it is so important to consider secondary cities. Often Amsterdam is so damn crowded. But Utrecht has great museums – you can get a hotel for $65/night in November (half the cheapest available in Amsterdam). Often these “secondary cities” have the same types of attractions as the brand name destination, but fewer visitors and lower costs, Frommer advises.

Frommer offers a list of destinations and experiences “where you will find travel new all over again”, places that will have great celebrations, be affordable or accessible (see Frommers.com/BestPlaces2026)

Oulu, Finland: may well be best known for world air guitar championships, but Frommer is recommending Oulu this year because this little community 20 miles south of the Arctic Circle (incredible wilderness, the Northern Lights will be prominent this year, indigenous cultures), is designated the European Capital of Culture. Hundreds of artists of all sorts will descend on Oulu, creating site-specific performances.

Viti Levu, Fiji: because for the first time ever, there are many direct flights to Fiji from the US, making getting to Fiji finally affordable (and not because it’s the 50th season of “Survivor.”) Why go? Fiji is like Hawaii, with gorgeous beaches, but much less crowded and much cheaper on the ground than Hawaii, with lots of mom and pop resorts, and now, much cheaper to get there . It has traditional Pacific culture and the largest Hindu temple in the Pacific (because of immigration routes).

Jasper, Alberta, Canada: two years ago Jasper was afflicted with horrific wildfires. Frommer is recommending visiting now because you see how this community turned lemons to lemonade: “You can go and not realize what happened, but going specifically for fire ecology tours in burned areas, learn how to stop that from happening, how to regenerate and meet the people doing that – more important with climate change. [In fact, one of the Global Wellness top trends for 2026 is learning how to mitigate disasters.]. Also, Jasper is another place to experience the Northern Lights that are forecast to be spectacular this year. The Rocky Mountaineer train this year, because of FIFA World Cup, is not going to Vancouver-Banff-Jasper, but just back and forth between Banff and Jasper. “You see the highlights, the best stuff and pay less with great train experience.”

*Vienna, Austria is one of travel expert Pauline Frommer’s recommended destinations to visit in 2026 © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Vienna, Austria this year is celebrating the 250^th anniversary of the Berg Theater, which presents classical music. “Every major name in classical music is performing. Last year, the city celebrated the 250^th birthday of Johann Strauss, opening a new museum to him. In Vienna, you enjoy the famous Lipizaaner white stallions, beautiful markets, a beautiful, loveable city.”

Kruger National Park, South Africa, is for those who want to take an African Safari but don’t have a trust fund: The park, which is turning 100 this year and may change its name, allows you to do a self-drive safari (which is rare), into all kinds of different ecosystems and the Big 5 animals. You pay a $100 fee to get into the park, then go to areas where there are resorts ($80-90 per night) or camping is allowed (pay as little as $20/night. When you go into the reserve in the morning , park rangers tell you where to go. “It’s a safari for a fraction of the cost – it’s not unusual to pay thousands a day for a safari.”

Hot Springs Arkansas – has one of the only national parks where what’s indoors more interesting – a bathhouse where Al Capone vacationed, where you can take the waters. It’s the only national park with a brewery in it, incredible architectural sites, a racecourse, and one of ‘fun-est’ yearly events in the USA: the running of the bathtubs.

(Interestingly, Frommer did not mention America’s 250th celebrations taking place all across the country, including a spectacular event in New York City, Sail4th, on July 4th.)

Meeting the People and More Travel Tips

*My volunteer greeter, Reiko, takes me around Tokyo, teaching me first how to use the subway, and visiting Tokyo’s major monuments © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

InternationalGreeters.org – locals in 60 countries, 400 cities who love their hometown and welcoming visitors volunteer to escort visitors for free. They are vetted and trained. Frommer went around Chicago with an International Greeter, a retired lawyer, to tour public art in a way she never could have appreciated on her own. In Tokyo, greeters take you around for a day, teach you how to use the subway, and show you the restaurants on the top floor.

TravelingSpoon.com and EatWith.com are foodie tour companies who have on tap the best local cooks (not commercial restaurant chefs). Frommer experienced this program in Palermo, Italy, in the home of an Italian nonna in her 70s who spoke no English (her grandson translated) and for two hours, she cooked with her in her kitchen, then the whole family showed up for “a raucus dinner party, for the cost of a restaurant meal.”

Sources to find multi-day tours operated in the destination include: TravelStride.com and TourRadar.com

These are marketplace sites. You put in the parameters of what you want and they shoot back tours from all over the world – often locally owned tour operators – offering a better rate than the name-brand multinational companies. The platforms earn a commission from the companies.

Travel Insurance is a must have for big ticket trips like cruises, tours, safari, renting home but not for a flight. Platforms where you can input your personal details (age, date, destination) and get a list of policies, prices and bullet-list of what is covered or not – from different companies so you can compare include: SquareMouth.com; InsureMyTrip.com; and TravelInsurance.com.

“You see policies from a lot of companies – with bullet lists of what is covered or not, so you can compare. Usually the one in the middle covers the most things. There is no one company best for every trip.” Frommer also advises. “Never buy insurance through the company you are traveling with.”

More information at Frommers.com.

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International Travel, Tips for Travel

Planning to Travel Abroad in 2026? What to Know About Passports, Visas

January 14, 2026 krubin723

A safari in India’s Kahna Tiger Sanctuary. Antoinette Leon of ItsEasy.com cites India as a top international destination for 2026 for its “depth of culture, affordability, range of experiences, from Himalayan peaks to coastal backwaters, and efficient e-Tourist Visa system means you can craft an unforgettable escape on short notice.” *© Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

In our “Where to Go: International” column, Antoinette Leon, COO & SVP of ItsEasy.com Passport & Visa Services recommended five destinations (Saudi Arabia, Egypt, India, Vietnam and Brazil) to visit in 2026, which prompted these additional questions about the passport, visa process. If you are among the 50 percent of Americans who do not yet hold a passport, or among the millions who must renew after 10 years, here are valuable tips and information for anyone contemplating traveling abroad in 2026:

How hard is it to renew passports these days with all the issues of the Trump administration?

President Biden’s Executive Order enabled renewing qualifying passports online, now with limited availability, without the need to submit any documents through the mail. More recently, the Trump Administration issued a mandate for exactness and accuracy of the applicant’s identity and sex, based solely on official birth records, followed by required certified and registered official documents should there have been subsequent legal name change(s). All passport applicants must understand that routine or expedited applications can slow without much warning. Even small issues, such as a photo error, a name mismatch, or a tight timeline can become a bigger headache in a system under pressure.

How hard/easy is it to do the renewal using the online system, and what can go wrong?

*The iconic Ponte Vecchio, Florence, Italy. Only half the country has a passport, and millions have to renew © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Convenient? Yes. Foolproof? No. The online passport renewal system is a game-changer when it works but it doesn’t work for everyone. Name changes, lost or damaged passports, child passports are not eligible for OPR. Rejected photos and technical glitches can instantly disqualify you or stall your application. Payment processing errors and upload failures happen more often than you’d think. If you’re on a deadline and something goes sideways, a small mistake can snowball into a travel-canceling disaster.

ItsEasy.com offers a new “All Inclusive” OPR Concierge Service, where we examine each customer’s application to ensure it will be successfully renewed, and includes the required photos via the ItsEasy Passport Renewal & Photo App ($39.95).

How much in advance of the expiration date in passport do you recommend starting?

*Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia. Make sure you have enough time on your passport before expiration, and give yourself plenty of time to get the e-visa © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Since select countries require that a passport be valid for at least 3 to 6 months (depending upon the country) upon arrival back to the United States, it makes sense to start your passport renewal at least six months before it expires.

Many countries won’t let you in if your passport is less than 6 months away from its expiration date upon return to the US, regardless of whether your airline clears you for boarding (some countries require only 3 months).

Cut it too close and you’ll be watching your dream trip evaporate. Renewing early keeps your travel options wide open, your stress levels low, and avoids unnecessary government expedite fees.

Have any countries responded to Trump’s crackdown on issuing visas and raising fees, and country bans, with new restrictions on the US?

When the U.S. tightens visa restrictions, hikes fees, or adds new barriers, other nations often retaliate with their own requirements. This doesn’t always mean full-blown visa mandates, but you’ll see more digital registrations, entry fees, and enhanced screening for American travelers. These policy shifts can happen quickly and without much warning, so staying informed is critical before you book that flight.

What places don’t require Americans to get a visa? – like the UK, Europe?

*Cuzco, Peru. No visa is required for Americans to visit Peru for under 90 days © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Americans still enjoy visa-free access to popular spots like the UK, Europe’s Schengen Zone, Japan, and much of Latin America. But “visa-free” is evolving. Many of these destinations now require electronic travel authorizations, like the UK’s ETA or Europe’s ETIAS, before you arrive. It’s not a traditional visa, but it’s definitely not zero paperwork anymore. Even when you don’t need a visa, expect to register digitally in advance.

What are the advantages of getting the Global Entry, vs. TSA?

Colorful Hoi An. Vietnam makes it easy to get an e-visa (make sure you follow the format of day-month-year). Global Entry makes it easy for travelers to breeze through immigration on the return © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

TSA PreCheck gets you through U.S. airport security faster. But Global Entry is the power move for international travelers. It includes everything TSA PreCheck offers, plus you skip the brutal customs lines when you return home. Biometric kiosks let you breeze through immigration, shaving off what can be hours of waiting. If you travel abroad even once or twice a year, Global Entry pays for itself in time and sanity saved.

What is the difference in applying for TSA vs Global Entry besides the cost? What is the renewal process like? Can you still walk into a Staples?

You don’t have to go to Africa to enjoy a safari. Safari West in Sonoma, California is the next best thing. Breeze through domestic airports going and coming with TSA PreCheck © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

TSA PreCheck -Valid for 5 years, it’s a luxury which, in most cases, tends to aid the airport check-in process at ALL domestic airports regardless of Travel Destination. $75-$85.

While approval for TSA PreCheck could take up to 30 days, most often the applicant will be approved within 24-72 hours via email to which the applicant’s new Known Traveler Number (KTN) is sent. You enter this special number when purchasing an airline ticket.

Three companies have been approved to roll out the TSA PreCheck Program: Idemia; Telos, & Clear, which have partnered with Office Depot and Staples. ItsEasy.com also has partnered with Telos Corp and currently provides TSA PreCheck Enrollment Services at its Grand Central and Rockefeller Center locations.

*The line on the right is the entrance to security without TSA PreCheck at JFK. The empty lane on the left is the access to TSA PreCheck © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Global Entry – Valid for 5 years, it’s designed to aid and greatly expedite the reentry into the USA at almost all domestic Airports with a provision for International Arrivals.

The application process is deep and the final interview is often only done at select major US airports by a US Customs Entry Officer trained specifically for this most critical evaluation process.

The Global Entry application process begins online only at the Government’s specific website: ttp.dhs.gov. Be aware: many applicants get lured into fraudulent online sites with GOV in the website name, release private information, and then get charged double to fill out the same government questionnaire. ONLY a dhs site ending in dot gov (.gov) will be safe.

When is it advised to use a passport, visa agency such as yours? Are there some countries that are trickier? Examples?

*One of the famous “black boats,” which the oarsman powers by his feet, glides along East Lake. China is one of the trickier countries to get a visa. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

If your timeline is tight, the rules are dense, and a single missing detail could derail your plan, that’s when an agency like ItsEasy.com becomes essential. Countries such as China, Russia, Nigeria, Indonesia, and Kenya are known for layered visa requirements, frequent policy shifts, and strict documentation standards that can trip up even experienced travelers. Passport issues add another layer of complexity, urgent renewals, child passports, name-change corrections, or lost and damaged passports often involve rigid government rules and little margin for error. A professional agency navigates both the visa and passport compliance maze, flags issues early, and monitors changes in real time. When the stakes are high and the margin for error is razor-thin, professional guidance is worth the extra expense.

In the old days, you had to send away your passport for renewal, during which time you couldn’t travel abroad. Is that still the case? (I’m a travel writer and can’t be without my passport for any period of time).

*You may not need a visa to take Boat Bike Tours’ Islandhopping biking tour of Netherlands, but you need to renew your passport with enough time to travel © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

The policy is still the same. The only new option available to renew adult passports under “select guidelines” is the OPR – Online Passport Renewal Program. However, regardless of whether you send away your passport for Renewal Processing, or you qualify for, and make use of, the new government OPR Program, your passport is no longer valid for use. Despite the fact that you are still in physical possession of your passport when using the OPR System, your passport should be considered canceled and invalid the moment you press the program’s online SUBMIT button.

Oftentimes, executives, journalists, students, etc find themselves in a situation whereby they must travel while their current passport is being processed for renewal, or has been submitted pending a foreign visa. A second valid passport is a privilege granted to those applicants that can prove that they have travel conflicts that will require the issuance of a second valid passport.

Do you have any comments about how many Americans have a passport and whether interest and numbers have increased/decreased?

About half of all Americans now carry a valid passport, and that number keeps rising. Since 2022, there’s been a noticeable surge in applications, fueled by post-pandemic wanderlust, the rise of remote work, and a generation of younger travelers eager to explore beyond borders. First-time applicants are driving much of this growth. More Americans are thinking globally, and passport ownership is on a clear upward trajectory.

How were these 5 destinations selected?

*Ninh Binh, Vietnam. “Vietnam continues to deliver incredible bang for your buck, authentic experiences, electronic visa convenience, and landscapes that’ll fill your camera roll,” says* *Antoinette Leon of ItsEasy.com © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com.*

Right now, these five countries are hitting the sweet spot of accessibility, value, and adventure. Saudi Arabia and Egypt are rolling out the red carpet with digital visa systems and spectacular new cultural attractions that rival much of Europe. India and Vietnam continue to deliver incredible bang for your buck, authentic experiences, electronic visa convenience, and landscapes that’ll fill your camera roll. Brazil ties it all together with competitive pricing, excellent air connections from the U.S., and a resurgence in international appeal. From ancient wonders to tropical paradises, these destinations span the globe and welcome both spontaneous weekend travelers and meticulous planners alike.

What do you anticipate for Americans traveling abroad in 2026?

*Welcome to Camogli, Italy © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

If you’re traveling internationally in 2026, expect a lot more screens, scans, and verification steps. Europe’s Entry/Exit System (EES) and ETIAS authorization program will add new layers of digital checks. Airlines are leaning heavily on biometric systems and automated verification. Border agents everywhere are cracking down on overstays and incomplete documentation. The prepared traveler will breeze through; the unprepared one will get stuck in bottlenecks.

Any comments you would like to add?

With the new REAL ID requirement, for easy access to US airports, the US passport Card is a great option offered to the US consumer that deserves more attention. While it’s easy to apply for at any time, it is a $30 bargain as an additional item request when renewing your passport book.

Not only is it REAL ID compliant for US airport check-in, but it serves as the best daily Proof of ID as it does not display your home address, leaving the knowledge of where you live and how you live remaining private! Leave your Driver’s License securely in your wallet, and it will always be there when you need it.

ItsEasy.com Passport & Visa Services, founded in 1976, is a leading passport and visa expediting company that has processed over 2 million passport and visa applications on behalf of their customers. If there is a problem with an application, ItsEasy.com can interact with the U.S. Government or foreign agencies to resolve problems, for ItsEasy Passport & Photo App offers a safe and cost-effective way to renew a passport. For urgent passports needed within 14 days, ItsEasy.com offers rush services.

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Arts & Entertainment, Attractions, Family Travel, Summer Vacations, Tips for Travel, Uncategorized

Smart Tips to Save Money, Beat the Lines at Summer Attractions

May 26, 2025 krubin723

*Universal’s Epic Universe, Orlando, is opening May 22 (photo: Universal Orlando Resort).*

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

Families are gearing up for trips to attractions from world-famous theme parks to local treasures. With shifts in consumer confidence, economic factors, and the general climate for travel, here are tips for saving and getting the most for your time and money and discovering memorable experiences.

“Summer is the perfect time for families to explore a variety of attractions, from world-class theme parks to hidden gems. Plan ahead, take advantage of special promotions, and consider weekday visits for a more relaxed experience,” advises Jakob Wahl, CEO of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA). “Whether you’re seeking thrills, interactive museums, or refreshing water parks, there’s something for everyone this season.”

The outlook for attractions in 2025 is strong, headlined by the much-anticipated opening of Universal’s Epic Universe in Orlando and many other investments in attractions and parks around the country. While large-scale themed entertainment and immersive experiences continue to captivate audiences, there is also growing demand for more budget-friendly options. Family entertainment centers, science centers, aquariums, and museums are becoming increasingly popular as affordable alternatives for family summer fun. Additionally, we’re seeing a surge in interest for interactive attractions, seasonal events, and family-friendly entertainment, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy, he says.

*Memberships in regional and local attractions like the VIA Aquarium in Schenectady are seeing a surge in interest © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Among the trends is a strong interest in smaller, regional attractions. “With shifts in consumer confidence and economic factors, many families are looking for experiences closer to home that offer great value and immersive entertainment. Attractions such as family entertainment centers, aquariums, and science museums are capitalizing on this trend by introducing special pricing, seasonal events, and interactive exhibits that appeal to a broad audience. This growing focus on affordability and accessibility is helping drive attendance and engagement across the industry.”

Here are more of Wahl’s tips and recommendations:

Money-Saving Tips: Planning ahead is the best way to save money. Booking tickets online, taking advantage of bundled packages, and visiting during off-peak seasons can lead to significant savings. Many parks also offer discounted evening tickets or multi-day passes that provide better value. Guests should also explore dining plans and bring their own essentials, like water bottles and rain ponchos, to avoid extra expenses. Loyalty programs and annual passes can be a great investment for those who visit frequently.

[Here’s another tip: many local and regional attractions offer annual membership passes that pay for themselves with just two visits, and in some cases include free or discounted admission to other partner attractions. For example: The annual family membership to the Museum of Science and Technology (MiSci) in Schenectady, NY includes six guest passes plus free or reduced admission to 300 museums and science centers nationwide through the ASTC Passport Program and the Empire State Museums Reciprocal Program. An annual membership to the New York’s Wilderness Conservation Society provides admission (and many other benefits) to the Bronx Zoo, Central Park Zoo, Queens Zoo, Prospect Park Zoo, and New York Aquarium (wcs.org). Also some attractions let you return the next day on the same ticket, offer multi-day tickets or tickets that provide admission to multiple area attractions. Also consider the various multi-day city-passes that bundle attractions.]

The New York Historical is part of The Empire State Museums Reciprocal Program which brings together museums, art galleries, historic sites, and other great institutions from across New York State to share the benefits of membership. When you join one, your benefits extend to all. The New York Historical highlights the intersection of politics, art, and culture that shaped America’s Red Scare in Blacklisted: An American Story, on view June 13-October 19, 2025 (credit: Civil Rights Congress, America’s “Thought Police”: Record of the Un-American Activities Committee, 1947. Courtesy of the Unger Family)

Best Times to Visit: The best way to avoid crowds, enhance your experience and save money is to plan visits during off-peak times. Weekdays, especially Tuesdays through Thursdays, tend to be less busy than weekends. For seasonal attractions, early spring and late fall often offer fewer crowds and more pleasant weather. Arriving early in the day or later in the afternoon is also a way to enjoy popular rides with shorter wait times.

Smart Ticketing & Shorter Lines: Many theme parks now offer online reservations, mobile ticketing, and virtual queue systems, so you can secure your spots ahead of time. Purchase tickets in advance and take advantage of early entry programs when available. Express passes or skip-the-line options can be worth the added expense to maximize your day, particularly during peak seasons. Also, start your visit to the park from the back because most guests start getting on lines for the rides in the front of the park. Also, visit the most popular, busy rides during the peak lunch hour, when lines may be shorter.

*Make massively popular attractions like Le Louve in Paris accessible and affordable by purchasing a pass like the Paris Paris © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

[Another tip: When visiting destinations in the USA and abroad, check out whether there are city passes that provide admissions and entry to a score of attractions, experiences and tours. You can pre-purchase a city-sightseeing pass that provides admissions to the most popular attractions and experiences in cities like Prague (PragueCoolPass.com); Paris (parispass.com); Amsterdam (iamamsterdam.com); Berlin (citypasses.eu); Dresden (getyourguide.com). The added advantage is that the passes help organize the itinerary, provide info on hours, exhibits, save the time of waiting on line and the anxiety of being shut out and even save money over purchasing admissions individually. Go City sells passes in 25 destinations from major metropolises like Amsterdam, Barcelona, Madrid, Singapore, London and New York to oceanfront oases like Sydney and Oahu – 1,500 attractions, tours, and activities worldwide, saving money over purchasing individual tickets, connected on your smart phone (GoCity.com, 800 887 9103). CityPass (https://www.citypass.com/) has pass programs in numerous US cities and Toronto. like the Paris Pass, Prague Cool Pass.]

Maximizing the Experience: At themeparks, planning ahead is key. Prioritize must-visit attractions, download themepark apps for real-time updates, and take advantage of mobile ordering for food to save time. For families, incorporating a mix of thrill rides, entertainment, and downtime ensures everyone stays engaged and energized. Taking breaks in shaded or indoor areas and staying hydrated can also help extend the fun throughout the day.

Staying Safe & Comfortable: Staying hydrated and wearing comfortable clothing and shoes are essential for an enjoyable visit. Bring refillable water bottles, wear sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and dress in layers for changing weather conditions. Have a light, foldable rain poncho. Many parks now offer shaded rest areas, cooling stations, and even heat-tracking technology to help visitors stay comfortable. Additionally, being mindful of personal health and recognizing when to take breaks can make a significant difference in the overall experience.

Special Events & Milestones: This year is filled with exciting anniversaries and celebrations across the attractions industry. Dollywood is marking its 40th anniversary with special events and limited-time experiences, while Europa-Park in Rust, Germany, celebrates 50 years of innovation and growth as a family-run destination. Many parks are also expanding their seasonal offerings, from immersive Halloween and holiday celebrations to vibrant food festivals that highlight both local and international flavors.

Trends Shaping Visitor Experiences: Families are increasingly drawn to parks and experiences that bring beloved characters and stories to life. A great example is the expansion of Peppa Pig Theme Parks, which cater specifically to younger audiences by offering immersive, character-driven attractions beyond traditional theme park experiences. These parks create an emotional connection with guests, making visits more engaging and memorable for families.

Another key trend is the evolution of on-site accommodations. Parks are expanding beyond a day-trip experience by providing themed lodging that enhances the overall visit. Silver Dollar City’splans for the new Heartland Lodge & Campground is a prime example, giving guests the opportunity to stay immersed in the park’s special atmosphere while enjoying added convenience and exclusive experiences.

[Also, many major camping resorts are located near (even within) themeparks, national and state parks and attractions, and offer glamping, cabins and RV rentals. Visit campspot.com; koa.com; www.spaciousskiescampgrounds.com, glampinghub.com and www.jellystonepark.com.]

Exciting New Attractions

This season brings a wave of groundbreaking attractions, from next-generation roller coasters to immersive themed lands. Among the highlights: Universal Epic Universe in Orlando, new family areas for Kentucky Kingdom and Lagoon Amusement Park, new roller coasters for Lost Island Theme Park, Six Flags over Georgia, Six Flags Great Adventure, Six Flags New England, and Six Flags Great America and unique Tilt Coasters for Cedar Point and the new Cotaland Park. Water parks are also unveiling innovative slides and experiences, such as Columbus Zoo, the new Okana Resort in Oklahoma, the new Bavarian Blast Indoor Waterpark and new Great Wolf Lodges in Foxwood and in Florida, keeping up with the growing demand for year-round aquatic fun.

Here’s what’s happening at some of the most popular themepark attractions:

Universal

Universal Epic Universe, opening May 22, promises to be one of the most immersive and innovative theme parks ever created. With a total of more than 50 experiences that range from groundbreaking attractions to captivating entertainment to themed dining and shopping, guests explore five astounding worlds: Celestial Park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk and Dark Universe.

Universal Orlando Resort has launched a variety of products to help guests maximize their visit including theme park upgrades like Universal Express (to bypass lines), VIP Experiences, My Universal Photos, and bookings for Dark Universe’s Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience.

In addition to a 1-Day Universal Express Pass valid at Epic Universe, guests can also purchase a multi-day Universal Express Pass valid at Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida, and one-day at Epic Universe. (For information and to purchase upgrades, visit www.universalorlando.com/epicuniverse.

Additionally, Universal is enhancing seasonal events and themed experiences across its parks worldwide.

A major addition this year is Universal Horror Unleashed, a year-round horror-themed attraction set to open in Las Vegas in August 2025. This marks Universal’s first permanent horror experience, catering to the growing demand for horror-based attractions and expanding on the success of Halloween Horror Nights.

Universal Studios Hollywood is offering its Buy A Day, Get A 2^nd Day Free ticket online through August 13, 2025 which allows returning for a second day free on select dates, with all visits completed on or before December 17, 2025.

Disney

As part of its evolution, Disney is bringing new attractions and entertainment to its parks, including:

A reimagined Test Track at EPCOT, set to offer a fresh take on the classic attraction.
- A brand-new Little Mermaid musical at Hollywood Studios, bringing the beloved story to life in an engaging new format.
- An all-new parade in Walt Disney World, adding to the lineup of must-see entertainment.
- The Zootopia 4D movie experience, coming to Walt Disney World, immersing guests in the world of the hit animated film.

Walt Disney Company is undertaking a $30 billion, multi-year expansion of its theme parks and cruise line. This includes:

Disney’s expansion of its theme parks includes the largest-ever addition to Magic Kingdom, featuring new areas inspired by the movie “Cars.”
Disney currently has seven ships in development, doubling the capacity of its cruise line business.

“We have more [projects] being designed, developed, and built today than at any other point in the 70 years we’ve been in the theme park business,” CEO Bob Iger stated.

Six Flags

Six Flags has expanded food and beverage offerings, enhanced park theming, and cutting-edge ride experiences. Popular seasonal events like WinterFest and Holiday in the Park will also return,

Georgia Gold Rusher (Six Flags Over Georgia) – A spinning splash coaster that enhances the park’s storytelling and guest experience.
- Seven new roller coasters debuting in 2025, reinforcing Six Flags’ reputation for coaster innovation.
- All-Park Passport Add-On Launching in 2025, this pass allows unlimited access to all 42 amusement and water parks in the Six Flags portfolio, offering unmatched flexibility and value.
- Expanded dining & beverage options across all parks, featuring new signature menu items and upgraded facilities.

2025 Season Passes are now available at the lowest price of the year to lock in a full year of thrills, entertainment, and seasonal celebrations.

Busch Gardens

Renowned for its world-class coasters and immersive animal encounters, Busch Gardens continues to evolve with thrilling new attractions and captivating guest experiences including:

The Big Bad Wolf: The Wolf’s Revenge Busch Gardens Williamsburg (2025)

Busch Gardens’ all-new family-friendly inverted coaster.

Wild Oasis at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay (2025)

An all-new immersive experience coming to the park’s Jungala area, featuring:

Tree Top Drop – A 35-foot drop tower with dynamic multimedia jungle scenes.

The Habitat Hideaway – A playful retreat for guests to explore.

The Canopy Climb – An elevated adventure through lush treetops.

The Rainforest Quest – A thrilling journey through exotic landscapes.

The Enchanted Falls – A serene yet exhilarating water attraction.

Hershey Park

Hershey Park continues to expand its thrill ride lineup and immersive dining experiences while focusing on guest comfort and entertainment.

Coming Summer 2025: Twizzlers Twisted Gravity giant swing. The high-thrill pendulum attraction will be thetallest Screamin’ Swing in the world when it opens – a giant swing ride reaching 137 feet, with speeds of 68 MPH and zero-G moments that defy gravity and provide breathtaking views of the park.

Hersheypark offers aone-price admission with three sweet experiences featuring more than 70 rides and attractions, weather and maintenance permitting, including the most coasters in the Northeast with 15; The Boardwalk At Hersheypark water park (open Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend) with one million gallons of water among 16 water attractions; and ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park, an 11-acre walk-through zoo included with admission only by entering through the Hersheypark bridge during posted Park hours.

Save on tickets and Season Passes when purchasing them online. All tickets include the Preview Plan program (an incredible value unique to Hershey), which allows guests to enjoy two free hours of extra fun before closing on a night before their full-day visit if Hersheypark is open the preceding day. Hersheypark also offers ticket add-ons that allow guests to save on parking, dining and drinks and get to the thrills faster with the Fast Track program. Visit Hersheypark.com/tickets-and-passes to view the current offers.

Plenty of Amusement to be Found in New York State

*Iconic, historic Coney Island in Brooklyn was the site for a Bernie Sanders campaign event in 2016 © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

New York State is loaded with amusement parks – some historical and world renowned, like Coney Island in Brooklyn. The editors at ILoveNY.com blog (https://www.iloveny.com/things-to-do/amusements/amusement-parks/) zone in on these: Hudson Valley is home to the largest LEGOLAND theme park in the world, with seven lands to explore, 50 rides, shows, seasonal events, and attractions on 150 acres. Six Flags Darien Lake, outside of Buffalo, is a hot-spot for all forms of entertainment, offering thrills like the Blast Off tower that simulates a NASA launch, a waterfront boardwalk, light shows, and concerts.

Seabreeze Park is the fourth oldest amusement park in America with more than 70 attractions, including a full water park, near the breezy shores of Lake Ontario. By Chautauqua Lake, Midway State Park is a treasure trove of kid-friendly rides, games, and lakeside views. Sylvan Beach Amusement Park on Lake Oneida has all the favorites from bumper-cars to spinning teacups. Brave the pulse-pounding roller coasters and water rides at Six Flags Great Escape and Splashwater Kingdom near Lake George. While you’re in the Adirondacks, visit Santa’s Workshop Amusement Park where the magic of the North Pole lives year-round. Rye Playland in the Hudson Valley and Adventureland on Long Island reflect the charm and enchantment of classic theme parks.

(See more at https://www.iloveny.com/blog/post/the-top-amusement-and-water-parks-in-new-york-state/)

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© 2025 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com and travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/. Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com and moralcompasstravel.info. Visit instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near and instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/ Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com. Bluesky: @newsphotosfeatures.bsky.social X: @TravelFeatures Threads: @news_and_photo_features ‘Like’ us at facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Best in Travel, Budget Travel, Tips for Travel, Travel on a Budget, Travel Trends

New York Travel Show: Pauline Frommer’s Annual Tips for Travel Talk Pays Homage to Father

March 12, 2025 krubin723

Arthur Frommer and Pauline Frommer appear together giving their forecast and tips for travel at the New York Travel Show in 2015. Pauline has gone on to continue her father’s legacy; the travel icon who launched millions on journeys of discovery, passed away in November © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

This year’s travel talk by Pauline Frommer at the New York Travel Show was a homage to her father, the legendary Arthur Frommer who single-handedly inspired generations of travelers not born into family fortune to experience the world, with his guidebooks, then radio and TV shows, starting with the iconic “Europe on $5 a Day”. His philosophy, mission and love of travel that infuse the Frommer guides have remained. He passed away in November.

At her talk, titled “Travel Lessons I’ve Learned From My Father That Will Make Your Next Vacation Less Expensive and More Meaningful,” she said, “He believed money should be used smartly. He believed travel could be a life-changing activity.”

Quoting Arthur, she said, “We cannot permit ourselves to live stunted, stay- at-home lives. We need to travel if we are to enjoy the fullness of life… Contact with the new and the different is how we grow and develop. That may be possible in other ways than travel, but there is something about experiencing the world that cannot be duplicated… Nothing has the lasting impact of being there.”

*Arthur Frommer, with his baby daughter Pauline, made encouraging and enabling people to travel the mission of his life.*

Arthur Frommer devoted his life to guiding people how to travel inexpensively and how to have meaningful vacations, that shift who you are as a person in important

In 1957, when Arthur set out on his mission to inspire Americans to travel abroad, Americans – even middle class ones – were rich compared to rest of world – Europe was in rubble while Americans had dollars.

Arthur Frommer discovered the joys and benefits of international travel as a GI in Europe, and decided to encourage other GIs to travel as well, with the Gi’s Guide to Travelling in Europe. Soon after, he revolutionized travel with his guides, like “Europe on $5 a Day” to affordable, meaningful travel experiences.

“Now we are in the same position – currently the Euro is almost equal to the $1: $1.02 to 1e (in 2016 it was $1.36 to 1e. The Japanese yen has never been this weak, 156 yen to $1; the dollar is worth 1.44 Canadian and the Mexican peso is at 20.78. It has never been so good.”

On the other hand many travel companies are using AI to raise prices surgically, depending upon your prior buying habits – what Joe Biden’s Federal Trade Commission called “surveillance pricing.” (Biden’s FTC also went after airlines, others for junk fees, requiring rapid cash refunds, cybertheft and greedflation, during his pro-consumer administration.)

“Middle men watch what consumers are doing, creating profiles of the consumer so they can tell different industries how much to charge, individually.

Delta Airlines’ CEO, on an earnings call, boasted how the airline was profiling, using AI to float the maximum airfare passengers would pay.

Have you had the experience of searching for an airfare, finding one, but going off to think about it for awhile, only to return and find the fare $50 higher? “That’s because you are being watched; the amount of surveillance is insane.”

Frommer’s antidote? “When searching for travel goods and services, be private – hide your identity. For example, subscribe to a VPN (virtual private network) to hide who you are; clear your cache and cookies. Use a different computer.

*Travelers were excited to learn about destinations to visit at this year’s New York Travel Show at the Javits Center © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

The best search engines for airfares, she recommends, are Momondo.com (owned and managed by Kayak.com) and Skyscanner.com.

But, she adds, “Then you don’t buy on them. There are so many issues in air travel, if you buy from a third party like an OTA [an online travel agent], you are last in line if something goes wrong. Search on the website, then buy from the airline.”

(Travel expert Peter Greenberg, at his talk at the travel show, adds that the OTAs always say there are only one or two seats available at that great price, but that is because the airline has only released that number of seats. He also advises searching online then booking directly with the airline.)

There are also days that are best to purchase air fares: Frommer recommends purchasing an airfare on Sunday can yield 6% savings on domestic fare, 17% savings on international.

Also, “buy 1-3 months out for domestic travel (for a 25% savings), 18-29 days out for international (for a 10% savings). Last year, it was 4 months out, but she acknowledges, “it takes courage to book so close.”

You get the best fares if you start your trip on a Thursday or Saturday (16% savings over flying on a Sunday), she says. “Sunday is the most expensive day to start a trip.”

*Air passengers are reasonably concerned about what to expect flying this year Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Also, given the “chaos in the sky” with the doubling of cancellations in 2024, she recommends, “fly before 3 pm, or up the risk of being cancelled or delayed by 50%.” If you fly after 9 pm, your risk of being delayed or cancelled goes up by 57%. Fly after 9 pm and your risk of being delayed or cancelled goes up 57%

To get the best rate for a hotel, Frommer suggests booking three-plus months in advance for resorts, but just one week before in business-travel cities.

“Always get a reservation you can cancel.” (I have had great success finding hotels at hotels.com and booking.com, that provide great tools for location, amenities, nearby attractions, easy cancellation, and helpful reviews.)

Vacation home rentals, such as through airbnb.com may not be cheaper than hotels because of housekeeping fees and taxes (unless you are a family or couples traveling together), but typically afford more space, the convenience of kitchen and laundry, and are typically in neighborhoods so you get to connect with local people.

Looking for added value in accommodations? Consider hostels: “There are wonderful hostels all around the world, where you get private rooms, private bathrooms for much less than a hotel. There usually is a common area, a place where you can cook your own meal, do your laundry.”

*Staying in a hostel like the Green Tortoise in San Francisco is an experience in itself © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

“Typically there are also opportunities to meet and socialize with other travelers,” she said (as I found in Quito, Ecuador, where I was invited to a communal dinner). A good source for finding hostels is HostelWorld.com.

To find a tour, Frommer recommends: travelstride.com and tourradar.com, which are marketplace sites for tours. You put in dates and where you want to go and then can compare prices, highlights, what is offered. “Often the cheaper tours are by local tour operators that don’t have an international profile but go to same places, and often stay in the same hotels and restaurants.”

Travel insurance is recommended when you are taking a long-distance, expensive tour and want protection against cancellation (but read the fine print); but what you may well want when traveling abroad is medical insurance, covering evacuation if necessary. (Medicare isn’t applicable abroad.)

You can search for the policy that works best for your purpose at:

Squaremouth.com

insuremytrip.com

travelinsurance.com

“Put in details and it generates a list. Inevitably the best is not the most expensive, usually it is in the middle cost range. No travel insurance company is always the best.” Also, she advises, “Never buy insurance through the travel provider.”

If you are undertaking a trip like a bike tour in Cambodia and Vietnam, it is highly recommended to purchase travel medical insurance that includes medical evacuation. (Medicare doesn’t cover treatment abroad.) © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

(Recently, in preparation for Discovery Bicycle Tours’ trip to Cambodia and Vietnam, I did the search at travelinsurance.com and found the policy that best fit my needs for medical coverage was through Generali Global Assistance.)

Every year, the Frommers offer their recommendations for where to go in the coming year. The hallmarks of the list have become finding the less crowded destinations worth a visit. (See the full article frommers.com/bestplaces2025)

Crete in Greece: it is one of the least crowded of the Greek islands because it is the largest- twice size of Rhode Island, while most travelers go to Mykonos or Santorini. “Santorini got 3 million visitors in 2024 – it was so hairy on the roads, the government asked the Santorini citizens to stay off the roads at certain hours because of the traffic jams with tour buses.” But Crete is the land of “Zorba the Greek”. “It is the most Greek of Greek islands, once part of the Venetian Empire, it looks like Venice and has incredible ancient ruins from when it was the center of the Minoan civilization – think Minator and Labyrinth.”

Looking to do an African safari? A safari in Zambia, famous for Victoria Falls , one of tallest in world, is as much as 25% less costly than Tanzania or Kenya. “They have all the animals – giraffes, elephants, hippos, lions – and also have a progressive system where the rangers who stop poaching are women. It is also one of the safest countries in Africa. Support them.”

Greenland is top of mind lately. “Bizarrely, Greenland just expanded its airport, so for the first time, can accommodate large jets. For the first time, you can go to this ice-covered nation direct from New York in the time it takes to go to Iceland. 80% of Greenland is covered by ice – you can do heli-skiing, snowshoeing, glacier cruises, see polar bears.: Frommer is anticipating Greenland will be the next Iceland. “Go before it’s too crowded. It’s a great adventure destination.”

The Caribbean country of Barbuda (part of Antigua and Barbuda) is an undeveloped, beautiful, pristine island (because it never had a big airport) that made the news 40 years ago when Princess Diana visited, thinking she could escape the paparazzi. “During WWII, allied generals were worried Germans would use the Caribbean islands as bases to invade the US – so built airports on Jamaica, Aruba, Puerto Rico and several other islands; after the war, they drew tourists. Barbuda is finally getting an international airport and Robert De Niro is building a resort on Barbuda, she said. “See it while it is in its more pristine state.”

At her talk at the New York Travel Show, titled “Travel Lessons I’ve Learned From My Father That Will Make Your Next Vacation Less Expensive and More Meaningful,” Pauline Frommer said, “He believed money should be used smartly. He believed travel could be a life-changing activity.” *© Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Bath and Hampshire, England are “going crazy” this year over the 250^th birthday of novelist Jane Austin (“Pride and Prejudice”, “Sense & Sensibility”) – there are Empire-style costumes you can rent, special exhibits. Bath also has one of England’s most important Roman ruins.

Tucson, Arizona is turning 250 years old this year, as well, and mounting celebrations all year long. Also, Tucson is the only city in the United States that is part of the Dark Sky program. On the edge of the city, Saguaro National Park, there is a free observatory you can go at night to look at stars with astronomers. Tucson is also the place for foodies, with a 4000-year old culinary tradition. “The United Nations named it the only culinary UNESCO World Heritage site in the US. There are all the different influences in the food. There are all kinds of food celebrations for the 250^th.

“My father said, ‘Don’t just go to dead sites.’ If I had never traveled, I would never have understood that all people, no matter how exotic their appearance, have basically the same concerns, the same desires. Don’t just go to see things, but meet people.”

To meet people when you travel:

The International Greeter Association connects you to people who love their home communities and give free tours. You can go to Tokyo and find a greeter to take you around Tokyo for a day, teach you how to use subway, show you a neighborhood, free.” In Chicago, Frommer took a tour of downtown to discover public art. She toured a Hispanic neighborhood in the Bronx, visiting stores and apartment buildings, to “learn about another side of New York City.”

Touring Athens with a Native: architect Constantine Panagiotis introduces me to his favorite chef. Connect with these local volunteers who are eager to show you their community through the The International Greeter Association © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Find other free tours led by locals through the International Greeter Association, a worldwide nonprofit organization offering private free walks with locals through some 400 cities in 60 countries. https://internationalgreeter.org). Also, GetYourGuide.com.

(Athens, Greece has a program through the tourist office, “This is My Athens,” that sets you up with a local to show you around for free, https://www.thisisathens.org/withalocal/. We have also found free walking tour programs in most cities by googling, such as in Quito, freewalkingtourecuador,com, where you just tip the guide after. )

*A family discovered this Talaysay Tours indigenous walking tour of Stanley Park in Vancouver, Canada, through Airbnb’s Experiences © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Airbnb.com Experiences provides links to little companies with people with experiences to share. Frommer related taking her 15-year old daughter on a tour of Paris consignment stores with a fashion expert. “We have been to Paris many times but saw things never had.”

TravelingSpoon.com and EatWith.com link travelers to culinary experiences with local people, the best local cooks in different communities, home cooks. Frommer described such an experience with an “Italian nona,” whose grandson translated as she prepared the meal in her kitchen. “We all gathered for a meal. It cost as much as a high end restaurant, but it was our most memorable meal in Italy that time.”

Another way to have an extraordinary experience is to do short-term work in a foreign destination– something that is particularly appealing for young people taking a gap year – which do not require work visas. Opportunities can be found at:

workaway.com

helpstay.com

WWOOF.org (Willing Workers on Organic Farms)

volunteers.grupo

The heyday for digital nomads may be passed, but to find what remains, you might consult:

flexjobs.com

remotey.com

jobspresso.com

remoteOK.IO

Travelers are increasingly concerned about sustainability and traveling responsibly, so the benefits of their visit (providing economic foundation to sustain people living in their community, maintaining culture and heritage and sites) do not outweigh the negatives of overtourism.

Tour operators, like Intrepid Travel (intrepidtravel.com) are taking this into account in designing itineraries so they are more hub-and-spoke and less travel by bus or airline; several, like G Adventures (gadventures.com) are conscious to purchase local products and hire locals, as well as contribute a portion of the tour price to benefit the community; Seacology (seacology.org), takes you to places threatened by ocean rise then donate money back to community.

*Pauline Frommer is continuing the mission and legacy of her father, Arthur, to inspire and facilitate journeys of discovery.*

“At its best, travel should challenge our preconceptions and most cherished views, cause us to rethink our assumptions, shake us a bit, make us broader minded and more understanding,” Frommer said.

Her father, Arthur Frommer, “changed this industry in powerful ways, democratized travel. He was one of the first to say average people should travel, not just the wealthy, elite. Travel afforded the opportunity to expand your life, expand your mind, and do it in a way that pushes the cause of world peace. He truly believed that when we get to know other countries, wonder at the beauty of them, we won’t attack or invade, and our hearts will break when things go wrong there.”

__________________

© 2025 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com and travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/. Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com and moralcompasstravel.info. Visit instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near and instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/ Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com. Bluesky: @newsphotosfeatures.bsky.social X: @TravelFeatures Threads: @news_and_photo_features ‘Like’ us at facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Arts & Entertainment, Attractions, Cultural travel, European travel, International Travel, Museums and Exhibits, Tips for Travel

Visiting Paris This Year? Plan in Advance

February 19, 2024 krubin723

*If you have a hope of seeing the Mona Lisa at Le Louvre, book your timed ticket as soon as you book your travel to Paris © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

If you are planning to visit Paris his year, it is especially important to make plans really early, lock in reservations to visit the sites, attractions, restaurants, hotels, even train or bus transportation you most want to include if you are going outside Paris.

Paris (with 85,000 hotel rooms) is expecting about 15 million visitors as it hosts the Olympics (July 26-August 11) and Paralympics (August 28-Sept. 8. Other events to keep in mind: Tour de France, from June 29 to July 21; and Tour de France Femmes, from August 12 to 18.

The fact is, Paris is so popular (for good reason), there is no longer the “shoulder” season or “off season” (especially as more travelers seek the comparative comfort of cooler seasons, known as “coolcationing”). No matter when you travel, to get the most out of your visit, it is essential to do pre-planning. The days of just strolling into the major attractions are well gone, so advance purchase of timed- and capacity-controlled tickets will still be essential. Book online as soon as you know your dates of travel. In that way, you can avoid wasting valuable time and money waiting on line for tickets (followed by the line for security). Moreover, having a set time to visit the key attraction on your list will help you structure your day – while still allowing for serendipitous experiences and discoveries.

I must admit that my decision to spend four days in Paris at the end of my European Waterways canal boat cruise in the Alsace-Lorraine was a bit spontaneous and I didn’t have as much time as I would have liked to do the research and preparation which I am recommending here. (So I didn’t get to go up the Arc de Triomphe or the Eiffel Tower.) And planning out my visit for a city as big (and yet, as I found, not so big that I couldn’t walk everywhere), with as many highlights, was intimidating from a logistics point of view. So I began as I would hope other travelers do: I consulted what other travel writers have written about “four days” in Paris, and checked the various lists of “top attractions” like on tripadvisor.com.

Listen, while most travel writers will focus on the “off the beaten track” and “hidden gems” and “local favorites,” if, like me, you haven’t been to Paris in eons or ever, you want to experience what everyone else is talking about. They are the top attractions for a reason. But by preparing in advance in order to reduce wasting time waiting on lines, you will (I guarantee) have those serendipitous discoveries of “hidden gems” and “less known” that you can then boast discovering.

I had my list of top attractions, but how to organize in the best way?

Book your tickets to Musee D’Orsay in Paris in order to have more time to really enjoy the spectacular art collection, housed in this former Beaux Arts train station, in relative calm © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

I started with figuring out the priority attractions – Le Louvre, Musee D’Orsay – that would require advance, timed tickets, and made each of them the centerpiece of a day. Musee D’Orsay is closed on Monday; Le Louvre is closed on Tuesday. Then I looked to what was around, but much of how I spent my day after was pretty spontaneous.

The city was hopping with visitors this year – as tourism recovered globally after pandemic closures and it seems the world decided never to put off again their dream destinations. I visited in late August, a very busy time in any year, and the city is already preparing for the Olympics (I happened upon a city-wide practice run for security street closures.)

And most surprising to me, was how easy it is to get around Paris – especially walking and by bicycle (with loads of bicycle share stations), with its special biking lanes and traffic signals, and traffic signals and crossings that favor pedestrians. For those who prefer, the superb metro and bus system has multi-day tickets.

I walked everywhere – because it is the whole of Paris that is the attraction – the architecture, the people, the street activity, and the sheer beauty of the city, absolutely one of the most beautiful, enchanting in the world. And not just around the stunning sites of the Eiffel Tower, Le Louvre, Musee D’Orsay and Notre Dame (which you can see as it is restored), but neighborhoods that are so picturesque, interesting, and full of character. So I plot the walking time into my day.

*It is thrilling to watch the progress of the restoration project at Notre Dame © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

But walking around, is the best way to come upon those “hidden gems” that no one else knows about. You have a cascade of serendipitous experiences, compelling places and surprises around every corner. It’s like surrendering yourself to the universe, or in this case, the city, and let it find you. And sometimes, when you set out in search for something, all these other things emerge.

(GPS is only helpful when you already have internet, but you should plot your route and then download so you have the maps offline or at least download the Paris map, which I kept forgetting to do, so I often relied on actual maps and the kindness of wonderful strangers, even with my very limited French, to point me in the right direction.)

During my four days in Paris, I visited:

Arrival afternoon:

Arc de Triomphe

Stroll the quais along the Seine for the magnificent views of Eiffel Tower at sunset into the night

Day 1: (Sunday)

Musee D’Orsay

Isle de la Cite (to see the restoration of Notre Dame)

Sainte-Chappelle

Tuileries Gardens

Place de la Concorde

Stroll the quai along the Seine to the Eiffel Tower at night

Day 2 (Monday)

Le Louvre

Notre Dame (again)

Isle de France

Marais District/Holocaust Memorial

Day 3 (Tuesday)

Marais District/Holocaust memorials

Place des Vosges

Museum of Paris History (a highlight)

Musee d’Art D’Histoire du Judaism

Musee Picasso-Paris

Bastille monument

Place Royale

Day 4 (Wednesday)

Montmartre

Musee Montmartre

Dali Gallery

Sacre Coeur

(Not on my list: Versailles, which I visited many years ago but any first-timer should visit)

And here are my regrets at having missed out: Victor Hugo’s House (turns out I was right there but didn’t know to look); Petit Palais which has marvelous exhibits (couldn’t time it right); the Crype Archeologique de L’Ile de la Cite (right beside the Notre Dame, but I never time it right to visit); and Catacombs (intriguing!). And yes, I regret not climbing the stairs up the Eiffel Tower (didn’t realize you can get that ticket on the spot) and seeing the museum and climbing inside the Arc de Triomphe

Yes, these are the most popular sites, but they are popular for very good reason, and if you are not a frequent visitor to Paris, you would be doing yourself a disservice not to experience them yourself. But there are ways to make the experience your own. Your list of “highlights” might be different – like the bateaux mouches cruise on the Seine (included in the Paris attractions pass).

*Try to book your visit to Le Louvre either early in the morning or on one of the evenings the museum is open late © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

I highly recommend getting the Paris Museum Pass (https://www.parismuseumpass.fr/t-en, which provides admissions to 34 museums in Paris and 11 more in the region) or the Paris Pass (parispass.com) which not only makes attractions and experiences more affordable, but will absolutely add to what you see and do, and also provides such helpful information as hours, location, proximity to where you are. When booking, try to book the earliest available times or evening times, and midweek over weekend.

You are likely to arrive in Paris at the Charles de Gaulle Airport, which has easy train connection to downtown – purchase your metro ticket in advance at a wonderful visitor information office as you walk out, and even a multi-day ticket. This will cut down on wasted time waiting on line to buy a ticket and the confusion of knowing what zone you need. And it saves quite a lot of money. But the best part is you don’t think about how much you are spending – it all seems free.

*If you are traveling in France, remember to book your train or bus tickets in advance © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Coming from Strasbourg by train at the end of my six-day canal cruise of the Alsace Lorraine aboard European Waterways’ Panache, I arrived at Gard d’Est and made my way on the metro (after going in the wrong direction on the metro) to a stop just in front of the Arc de Triomphe. My hotel, the Hotel Napoleon Paris, a five-star boutique hotel which put me perfectly into the atmosphere of Napoleon’s Empire period, is not even a half-block away, and one boulevard over from the magnificent Champs Elysee. (Note: book train tickets in advance, www.raileurope.com)

It was afternoon, and I quickly checked in to this charming boutique hotel, dropped my bag, and went out to explore the Arc de Triomphe.

Arc de Triomphe

This iconic symbol of France is set in the middle of a roundabout (the Place D’Etoile, like a star”) where 12 busy boulevards converge, including the magnificent Champs Elysee which is aligned with its center. Don’t even think about trying to cross the roundabout – you must walk through underground passageways to get across the busy boulevards that encircle the monument (There’s a pedestrian tunnel at Place Charles de Gaulle on the north side of the Champs-Élysées that will take you down to the arch.)

*Don’t even think about trying to walk across the roundabout encircling the Arc de Triomphe. Use the underground walkways © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Building the Arc de Triomphe began in 1806 on Napoleon’s orders. Just a year earlier, in 1805, Napoleon’s forces won a decisive victory over Russian and Austrian troops at the Battle of Austerlitz. French architect Jean-François-Thérèse Chalgrin took his inspiration from the great arches of the world and designed Triomphe to be the largest in the world. The arch is 164 feet tall, and twice a year, the sun sets directly in the center. It took 30 years to complete the arch which was officially opened by King Louis-Phillipe on July 29, 1836.

*The Arc de Triomphe is a triumph of architecture and decoration © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

In the years since, soldiers have marched past the arch as a victory lap – France and its allies did in 1918, 1944 and 1945; Germany in 1871 and 1940. Every year, a ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, buried below the arch, marks the anniversary of the armistice signed on Nov. 11, 1918.

Today, the Arc de Triomphe is more of a symbol of peace and is very recognizable as the end point for the Tour de France cyclists. For the French, the Arc de Triomphe goes well beyond being commemorative, but is foundational in the French national psyche.

*Each day at the Arc de Triomphe, there is a ceremony to honor France’s fallen soldiers © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

In 1921 the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was incorporated into the monument, and today the tomb’s flame is rekindled every evening at 6.30 p.m. to show respect for All of France’s fallen.

One such event was just winding up as I arrived.

*The Arc de Triomphe is a symbol of the French people’s national pride © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

I was transfixed by the arch, the spectacular bas-reliefs of historic events that grace each pillar – The Entry of Napoleon, The Conquest of Alexandria and The Battle of Austerlitz. The most famous of them, The Departure of the Volunteers, also known as La Marseillaise, was created by the Romantic sculptor François Rude in 1792. The others were crafted by two other sculptors, Antoine Etex and Jean-Pierre Cortot Plaques list the names of hundreds of generals and battles.

*Stunning reliefs decorate the Arc de Triomphe, recalling France’s history © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Admittedly, I didn’t know that you could enter the monument and climb the 284 steps to to the terrace (an elevator is available for those who require it) for a view, or that there is a museum inside – The Permanent ‘Great Moments of French History’ exhibition which traces the story of the Arc de Triomphe and explains the architecture, friezes and sculptures. So I definitely did not book tickets in advance. But the line to purchase tickets was ridiculous so I happily contented myself to just study the stunning reliefs and be transfixed by the arch’s form. (Having a Paris Museum Pass would have provided free admission without the need to reserve a time.)

What I missed though was the dramatic view from the top: looking down the Champs-Élysées to the Louvre, out to La Defense, around to the Eiffel Tower. And you look straight down at one of the world’s largest round-abouts, where the 12 avenues come together.

You can purchase tickets in advance; the Arch is also included on the Paris Museum Pass http://en.parismuseumpass.com/

I continued my walk well into the evening, following the route the concierge at the Hotel Napoleon laid out for me: strolling down the Champs Elysee, turning onto the Avenue George V (and passed the famous Hotel George V), to the Seine.

Paris is truly magical, truly the City of Light and romance. Couples walk along the quai, attach a lock to just about any wrought iron they can find, pose for a selfie.

*That first view of the Eiffel Tower at night, reflected in the Seine, is breathtaking © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

That first view of the Eiffel tower from across the Seine, the bateaux mouches sailing by (I’m seeing Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant in “Charade”) as the sky takes on the rosy tones of sunset, fills you with a giddiness that can be described as joie de vivre. By the time I headed back along the quai, passing couples in amorous embraces, night has descended and the views of the lighted tower, bridges, and reflections on the river take your breath away.

Walking back to the Hotel Napoleon on a tony residential street just off the Champs Elysee, I felt more like I am going back to my swank Parisian apartment rather than a hotel. I get another view of the Arc de Triomphe as I turn the corner.

*Walking back to the Hotel Napoleon Paris at night, you get a view of the Arc de Triomphe © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Hôtel Napoléon Paris 5,40, av. de Friedland 75008 Paris, Direct phone +33156684480, www.hotelnapoleon.com, https://www.historichotels.org/hotels-resorts/hotel-napoleon-paris/, https://preferredhotels.com/hotels/france/hotel-napoleon-paris

More planning help from the Paris Tourist Office, https://parisjetaime.com/eng/. Online ticketing at https://parisjetaime.com/eng/tickets.

For Olympics planning (and where you can purchase tickets that become available), https://www.paris2024.org/en/

Next: Musee D’Orsay Highlights Day 2 in Paris

_______________________

© 2024 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com and travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/. Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com and moralcompasstravel.info. Visit instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near and instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/ Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com. Tweet @TravelFeatures. ‘Like’ us at facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Benefits of travel', Cultural travel, Day Trips, Heritage Travel, International Travel, Museums and Exhibits, Outdoors Adventures, Places of History, Sustainable Travel, Tips for Travel, Travel & Tourism Industry

Experts at NY Travel Show Offer Tips for Satisfying, Meaningful, Purposeful Travel

January 30, 2024 krubin723

A wedding couple in Hangzhou, China. Travel is how ideas, innovations and progress, improved living standards and quality of life are spread among peoples, as Marco Polo proved. Travel is humanity’s best hope for peace and cooperation as people from different places see and appreciate that we are more alike than different, and appreciate the differences. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com.

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

It’s like this: travel is humanity’s best invention to promote the advancement of civilization. Travel is how ideas, innovations and progress, improved living standards and quality of life are spread among peoples, as Marco Polo proved. Travel is humanity’s best hope for peace and cooperation instead of zero-sum annihilation, as people from different places see and appreciate that we are more alike than different, and appreciate the differences. Travel is a community’s best hope for providing the economic underpinnings that provide jobs, upward mobility and enable people to stay on ancestral lands, have the funds to preserve and protect the environment, culture and heritage, and yes, make the adaptations and mitigations to prevent the ravages of climate change. Indeed, just as the travel industry has led the way with e-commerce, yield management, and loyalty programs, the industry – the third largest in the world – is leading the way on climate solutions,

Tourism is what provides the economic underpinnings to support jobs and upkeep of such treasures as the Treasury at Petra, Jordan. To avoid crowds, stay overnight and enter the ancient city in the early morning © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Travel also is life-enhancing, enriching, potentially life-changing and among the best therapies against despair – providing a conduit for forging social connections, self-improvement, overcoming fear, anxiety and apprehension by fostering understanding and empathy, broadening perspectives. The experience of travel fosters resilience, self-confidence, self-reliance, adaptability, forges lasting bonds of family and friendship and broadens perspective and outlook.

That’s not just me saying it. It’s what travel experts with collective experience of decades (including myself), have seen and experienced firsthand.

“When we travel, experience the world, it changes us in a deep and profound way,” Pauline Frommer of frommer.com, told a standing room only audience at the most recent New York Travel & Adventure Show at Javits Center. “Right now we live in such a divided word – different facts inform our view but when we travel, we see the truth on the ground, that other countries have something to teach us, we can bring that back, and present an impression of America that is positive in places that may not have positive impression of America. Even with climate change, travel is one of the best tools in our ongoing search for creating world peace. So have wonderful, relaxing vacations, but your trips also can be meaningful and you can make a difference when you travel.”

“Consume news, but don’t let that make you a frightened person,” advises Rick Steves of ricksteves.com. “Be outward looking. If we want world to be peaceful, we have to build bridges. We can be challenged and stimulated by smart people who do things in smart ways. We can celebrate the Moroccan dream, the Bulgarian dream, just like the American dream – there is room for lots of dreams, As a traveler, we get to enjoy them all….[If we want a world of] peace and stability, the most powerful thing we can do as individual Americans is to travel and get to know people.”

Machu Picchu, Peru: travel has the potential to be life-enhancing, life-changing. But don’t put off your “bucket-list” experiences because you never know if there will be a pandemic, a political issue, a climate disaster. “Carpe diem,” says Patricia Schultz, author of “1000 Places to See Before You Die”

The COVID pandemic reinforced the value of travel – the three years of lockdowns and constrained travel upended local economies, while shutdowns that kept people from traveling underscored the human need for connection, for renewal, for new horizons to broaden perspectives.

“A life lesson we took away from COVID and postponed pleasure is that there is never a guarantee that we will be able to travel tomorrow or next year- our health, our need to care for people, political situation, climate disasters. Carpe diem,” says “1000 Places to See Before You Die” author Patricia Schultz. She reflects on the places that she had included but have had to drop off her list recently – Ukraine, Syria, Iran even Jerusalem. “The lesson from this image [of people at the Western Wall] is carpe diem – if some place is on your bucket list and you think, well, the Pyramids will always be there, guess what? Don’t take anything for granted.”

And so with the pandemic in the rearview mirror (at least for now), people are traveling with furor and we are back to worrying about being crowded out and the potential impacts – and actions to prevent – overtourism. COVID-generated technologies and policies for advance purchase, capacity control are here to stay.

The excitement for traveling to the four corners of the globe and in every style, from decompressing on a beach, to joining an expedition to see gorillas in Uganda, to standing up for Ukraine by showing up in Ukraine, was evident at the New York Travel & Adventure Show, where booths were crammed and talks by experts including Rick Steves, Peter Greenberg, Pauline Frommer, on traveling smart, well and meaningfully were standing room only.

But because there is a whole world out there, you can make choices of where and when to travel. Don’t like crowds? Try to visit a destination when less crowded (though there is less of an “off-season” or “shoulder” season these days); find the “hidden gems” that offer as much atmosphere, experience and character; visit attractions either very early or later in the day (to avoid the hoards of cruise passengers and daytrippers); overnight in those charming, historic cities and villages (preferably in or within walking distance of the historic district) so you are there in the early morning and the evenings to enjoy the stillness and light without the hoards of cruisers and daytrippers; and pre-purchase tickets, city/museum/attractions passes so you don’t waste valuable time and money standing in line to purchase tickets. Climate and weather also have become major issues that should factor into where and when you travel.

Their message: By all means, experience the highlights of a place, but go further afield to seek out local experiences, opportunities to visit or stay in neighborhoods. Be a mindful traveler, a purposeful traveler: enhance the experience by learning the background, the stories and back-stories, hire a local guide, take a “free” walking tour (you basically tip the guide), sign up for some volunteer opportunity to give back to the community; seek out those tour programs that provide immersive opportunities to engage with locals.

The Pont du Gard aqueduct, for example, is the most-visited ancient monument in France. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is one of the best-preserved Roman sites in the world. Most people see it as a pretty photo op and do not understand how innovative the engineering was – how the Romans brought water from 30 miles away – and what a difference it made in the lives of people who didn’t have to spend hours of their day in pursuit of water.

*Meet the people who live on Inle Lake, Myanmar © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

“For a lot of tour groups, it is just a pretty bridge, a potty break, a souvenir stand. [But learning the backstory], humanizes this site,” says Rick Steves says. “How to carbonate the travel experience is about how to connect with people..Too many tourists sit on folding chairs watching yodeling on stage, but not connecting, and back in the hotel, only interact with other Americans. It’s a vacation, to be sure, but what is missing is what it means to travel.

Steves urges travelers to “get out of their comfort zone, to see culture shock not as something to avoid, but as the growing pains of a broadening perspective.”

“Become a cultural chameleon – physically change from culture to culture because it’s different.” That means going to where the locals hang out in the evening, drinking Ouzo in Greece, whisky in Scotland, tea in England, red wine in Tuscany, beer in the Czech Republic.” Go three blocks off the main drag to find the restaurants popular with locals; for some meals (breakfast, lunch) go to local groceries and markets and picnic. Seek out the family owned two-star hotel, inn, lodge, hostel or AirBnB – that not only saves money but adds enrichment because of a more “authentic” experience.

Pre-planning is the way to mitigate wasting time and money in line or with crowds.

“There are two types of travelers: those who wait in lines and those who don’t. Think carefully of minimizing lines,” Steves notes.

Crowds in front of the “Mona Lisa” in Le Louvre in Paris. Travel experts at the New York Travel & Adventure Show offered tips on how to avoid crowds and the lines, especially in places like Paris, where advance purchase of tickets to major museums and attractions is essential. In Paris, purchase the “Museum Pass.” © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Before you go: get an idea of the attractions and sites you want to visit (I query “Three days in….” at TripAdvisor and other travel writers to get some idea). Then, go to the attractions’ websites to get all the visitor FAQs (can I take a water bottle into the Vatican; a backpack into Le Louvre – not likely after the latest incident of vandalism against the “Mona Lisa”). As soon as you have your travel dates (that is, your air fare), immediately reserve the tickets– if the attraction is a highlight for you it is a highlight for most others. Your priority places will set the framework for your itinerary, and the time saved by not waiting on line can go to those serendipitous experiences and discoveries. The same with restaurants you have your heart set on frequenting – book a reservation as soon as you settle your dates.

Take advantage of city passes, museum passes (a must for Paris) and attractions passes from companies like GoCity.com and CityPass.com, as well as the passes offered by the cities themselves, like the PragueCoolPass.com. They not only let you breeze through, but give extremely helpful information about current exhibitions, hours, directions, visitor information.

*The PragueCoolPass maximizes your enjoyment of this historic city, like visiting its famous Castle © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com.*

Try to book the earliest opening hour of the day in order to minimize the crowds, but in any case, book the earliest time available in order to have the most amount of time.

If you are visiting an outdoor site like the Acropolis in Athens, avoid mid-day when it is not only hot as blazes, but overrun with thousands of visitors who have come off cruise ships or day trippers. Come either as soon as the Acropolis opens in the morning, when it is cool and uncrowded, or at the end of the day (as I did), when the light is a gorgeous golden, the views of the city are amazing, it is cooler and the biggest crowds have left.

*Visit attractions like the Acropolis at the beginning or at the end of the day to avoid the crowds and the heat and enjoy the golden light © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com.*

This is also the advantage of overnighting in the most charming cities like Bruges, Strasbourg, Seville, Venice, Prague, Amsterdam, Fez and important sites like Petra – choose a hotel in the historic district that is walking distance to everything but you get to enjoy in the early morning and evening when the lights/lighting/colors are so amazing, the canals like mirrors, the city streets are quiet and empty, before the onslaught of cruisers and daytrippers.

Overnighting in the boutique Flanders Hotel in Bruges’ historic district means you get to have this impossibly picturesque city to yourself at night and in the quiet of the morning before the daytrippers overrun it © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com.

Take advantage of “free” walking tours in cities – local guides work for tips. These are great way to get an orientation. Search “free walking tours” and read the reviews.

Also, in major cities like Paris and London, you can buy mutli-day transit tickets for the train/bus (you can also do bikeshare), so that instead of paying the price of a taxi or Uber from airport into downtown, you can purchase the pass that includes the train or tram from the airport, and not have to wait on lines to purchase individual tickets from machines and deal with the confusion of zones and station names.

Searching muiti-day tour finders is a great way to get an idea of how to organize your time, what to see, what you should pay, and find tour programs that might best meet your needs. Frommer recommends Travelstride.com and Tourradar.com. These marketplace sites, she notes, can introduce you to local companies instead of the big-name tour operators.

Considerations for choosing the right tour company: price (per diem) is only one consideration, also consider what is inclusions (all meals aren’t necessarily a good thing, you might prefer to be able to go off and find those local favorites instead of a restaurant that caters to foreign groups); traveling companions (it is fun to travel with people from other countries, not just Americans); expertise of the guide; demographics of the tour company (often there are family itineraries; women-only; solo travelers; small groups (EF Tours, Audley Travel); price (luxury versus mass market) and age such as younger travelers (Contiki) versus older (Road Scholar) (visit www.frommers.com: How to pick the right tour company for you”).

Discovery Bicycle Tours stops at a winery at the end of the day’s ride in the Eastern Townships of Quebec. Bicycle tours are ideal for women and solo travelers © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

To find day tours, attractions, guides: Getyourguide.com; airbnb.com/experiences; tripadvisor.com. Foodies could look to TravelingSpoon and Eatwith. I like contexttravel.com.

Also be sure to pre-book rail (for example, raileurope.com) and bus transportation (flixbus.com is terrific) between cities. Find schedules at Rome2Rio.com.

*Taking the train from Paris to Strasbourg, France. Be sure to book your ticket in advance © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

To find the best airfares (always tricky), Frommer recommends searching Momondo.com/Kayak.com, Skyscanner.com, and CheapoAir.com. Momondo (and Kayak, which are owned by the same entity) tended to consistently find the lowest fares, and have filters that let’s you select for everything from the type of plane (if you wanted to avoid a Boeing 737 Max 9, or if you wanted to find the airlines with the cheapest fares with a checked bag.

But the experts also recommend that after searching for the best fares, you book directly with the airline, ”because if you book through a third party, you can’t rebook as easily as directly through the airlines” if there is some delay, cancellation or need to change. “Search but don’t book,” Frommer says.

Frommer also railed against “drip pricing” – the extra fees that airlines attach (even though Biden has waged a campaign against junk fees.) US airlines average $78 in added fees; European airlines average $58. So for United, the average is 122% of the base fare; for jetblue it’s 147%; but for Sun Country its 201% and for Frontier, its 376%, so the added fees can be higher than the fare.

When you search for an airline, Frommer consistently recommends you “Hide your identity” “Use a privacy setting on the browser, or use a different browser and different computer if you return to search fares” because the airline will track you, gauge your interest and post higher fares.

Also, there are optimum times to search and book:

Purchase airfare on Sundays (6% cheaper domestic travel, 13% cheaper international)
Book 28 days out (“the sweet spot”) for domestic travel (24% savings), 2-4 months out for international (10% savings)
Start your trip on a Thursday (16% savings over flying on a Sunday)
Fly before 3 pm (to avoid the 50% increased risk of being cancelled or delayed)

For best hotel rates, book 3-plus months in advance for resorts like Hawaii, Mexico, Caribbean, Florida but just one week before in business cities (New York, London, Paris, Denver). “It takes courage to wait to book one week before travel, so book a refundable room in advance, then search a week ahead of travel.”

“For first time in 20 years, I am having to research New Jersey hotels for people coming to New York City, because on September 18, the city got rid Airbnb, and all the cheap hotels are filled with migrants. Hotels were charging $900 in December compared to $129 in January for the same room.”

Welcome to Riad el Yacout, built in 1347 for Professor Laharchi, philosophy who taught at the famous Al Qaraouvine university, which stayed in the family until 2000, when it was converted to a 33-room guesthouse, Fez, Morocco, booked on hotels.com © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

To find “secret hotel discounts, Frommer is recommending seeking out travel clubs like RoomSteals, the new Travel & Leisure Club, professional associations’ travel clubs – some which have fees to join – and @Hotel on Instagram (no fee to belong).

How do clubs have “secret: rates? “Hotel companies have contracts with Expedia, Orbitz, Travelocity etc. and are not allowed to offer publicly deeper discounts (more than 5-10%) than they give to expedia, orbitz). But if they can’t fill their rooms, they turn to the clubs.” On the other hand, the clubs often do not show as much information as you need about services and the like.

Also, Frommer notes, Airbnb isn’t necessarily a bargain over hotel rates. “Now because so many extra fees, a recent study showed in 48 of 50 states you pay more at Airbnb than hotel (two exceptions are Nevada and Louisiana). But AirBnB is great for groups, families, if you need a kitchen (and want to save money cooking), but on average, you no longer save money on a rental vs. hotel.”

On the other hand, Frommer has always been a big booster for home exchanges – where you actually trade the use of your home for someone else’s – a way to save money but also really live like a local.

“You can go anywhere in the world – a Paris apartment, a houseboat in Sausalito.” Among the exchanges are HomeExchange.com.

Pauline Frommer cautions about getting too cautious – fearful – of traveling abroad,

Pointing to the recent US State Department’s worldwide travel advisory in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war, she notes that Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, Mexico, Uruguay, and Venezuela all have travel advisories against coming to the US because of the gun violence epidemic. “Venezuela thinks it is too dangerous to come here.” The State Department’s worldwide caution for Americans, is as if to say, “’Don’t travel anywhere, the world is too dangerous. That’s mind boggling. Yes, listen to the US State Department, read the cautions, but understand the rest of the world is terrified to come here.” There is a lot to listen to, though – such as where women of child-bearing age should be mindful of Zika, or where there is political instability or widespread crime, and urges travelers to enroll in the State Department’s “Smart Traveler” program.

The experts advise purchasing travel insurance and soon after you purchase your flights, so that you are covered if for some reason you have to cancel.

Pauline Frommer suggests looking for travel insurance that covers “Cancel for any Reason” (CFAR), includes medical evacuation and covers pandemics (policies do not necessarily cover “fear of travel” if there is a pandemic but a destination isn’t closed by authorities).

“Say the destination has a new strand of COVID but didn’t shut down, and you decide not to go – if you cancel with regular insurance, it won’t be covered – because ‘fear of travel’ is not included. A CFAR policy allows you to cancel for any reason – it’s more expensive, but will repay 75% of costs.

All the experts discourage purchasing travel insurance from the travel provider (tour operator, cruiseline), but to use apps that give you different policy recommendations based on your needs (date of travel, who traveling, age, destinations) such as Squaremouth.com, Insuremytrip.com and Travelinsurance.com.

“Inevitably the most expensive policy covers the least, but the best is usually in the middle,” Frommer advises. “Never ever buy from the travel company you are going with – if they go belly up, you’ve lost insurance too.”

Angel Castellanos (www.angelestravellounge.com) offered more tips on traveling smart with technology, like Google Fi (which makes its own SIM cards and has free international data roaming in most countries) and T-Mobile (which do not charge roaming fees for international calls; calls are 25c/minute; unfortunately, it is rare to get internet service with T-mobile abroad; you use the available WiFi) instead of having to pay for an international phone/data plan. Also, consider purchasing an international SIM card for $2.

For digital safety, he recommends installing a VPN (a virtual private network) on to mask your identity when you are on a public network, with digital thieves trying to steal passwords. He recommends ExpressVPN which works all over the world.

Flying, definitely register for TSA Precheck (costs $75, good for 5 years, and some credit cards rebate the charge), and CLEAR, which uses biometric data to verify your identify, and let’s you go directly from the kiosk to the front of the line “like a VIP. In certain airports that can make the difference in making the flight.” And several business credit cards like American Express Platinum rebate the cost of Clear.

*Denver International Airport. Use TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, MyTSA, to breeze through the airport © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

You can also install the MyTSA app on your device, a free app that gives real time information for what is happening at airport – how long the security line is taking, if one area of the airport is closed and you need to go through TSA in a different location.

Now, the Homeland Security department offers mobile passport control, even if you are not registered for Global Entry (which is similar). You can enroll by submitting passport information and responses to CBP (Customs & Border Patrol) – the free version requires you to enter passport information each time – answer the questions, then you get to whisk through a third line (the regular line, the Global Entry kiosk, and now the Mobile Passport control).

“Google is one of biggest game changers for international travel,” he notes. You can download maps in advance so they are available when you do not have access to WiFi.

The same is true for languages. “Language is no longer a barrier. You can program a phrase like ‘I’m allergic to peanuts,’ and it will show it written as well as speak. You can download the language in advance so it can translate even when offline. You can use the camera function to translate foreign languages into English.”

Of course this eliminates the delight and satisfaction of finding a local person who can either speak English or mime an answer to “I’m lost, Can you tell me how do I get to….?”

____________________________

Cultural travel, Ecotourism, Tips for Travel, Where to Go Next

NYT Travel Show: Greenberg Tells Intrepid Travelers to Exploit ‘Brave New World of Travel’

February 19, 2017 krubin723

*Biking in Albania.Go beyond your bucket list, Greenberg says. Pick a place and go there. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

According to travel expert Peter Greenberg, that dreaded four-letter word “fear” could actually work out to the benefit of Americans who want to explore the globe..

That, in combination with a strong dollar against just about every other currency, means that Americans have a buyers market in a “brave new world of travel” characterized by “disruption.”

*Travel expert Peter Greenberg gives tips on navigating the “Brave New World of Travel” at the 2017 New York Times Travel Show © Karen Rubin/ goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Americans who travel abroad, though, tend to be open minded, able to adapt to different situations, and open to adventure and the unknown.

As it turns out, only 37% of Americans have passports (and, Greenberg notes, only 42% of members of Congress and Senate – a revealing aspect at why some have such an insular, provincial view, or who hold so ardently to the myth of American Exceptionalism. It’s easy to imagine America to be exceptional when you don’t actually see anything else first hand.)

“How can you make global policy if you have never left Kansas?,” Greenberg, a best selling author and TV travel commentator, asks the standing-room crowd attending his seminar, “The Brave New World of Travel,” at the 2017 New York Times Travel Show at the Javits Center in New York.

The Travel Show took place just as Trump’s Muslim/Travel ban was causing havoc and bringing out thousands of protesters at international airports across the country, an anathema to the people attending the show who clearly valued international travel as a bridge between peoples, cultures and politics.

The “disruption” that is at the heart of the “Brave New World of Travel,” is that there are more international airlines, creating more competition, more services, and keeping fares from rising, more competition among hotels and cruiselines. Even the uncertainty (insecurity) around global affairs creates a buyers’ market for intrepid travelers who see more reward than risk.

Since 2006, he says, there have been 75 new routes from such carriers as Turkish Airlines. Condor Airlines used to be a charter carrier, now is a scheduled carrier. Norwegian Airlines has really rocked the market with low fares.

It’s a buyers market in the hotel industry also, though it is harder to see why, with mergers and acquisitions like Marriott & Starwood giving a single entity even more control of the marketplace. It could be because after making their deals to sell inventory through online travel agencies (OTAs) like Expedia, now the hotel companies are trying to incentivize customers to book direct. “Why click around? They will give free WiFi and a donut.”

A boom in building new cruise ships – there are 56 cruise lines – has resulted in excess capacity. Last year, there were 18 new river cruise ships, and this year 10 new cruise ships.

How can you benefit? Greenberg says don’t book the newest ships (they aren’t discounting their fares); rather, “book the 2-3-4 year old ships that are just as good but have excess capacity.” Norwegian for example has fares as low as $65/night. “You can’t wake up in Brooklyn for that.”

*Norwegian’s Breakaway in Bermuda. Greenberg advises that because of the onslaught of newer ships, look to cruiseships just 2-4 years old for better pricing. © Karen Rubin/ goingplacesfarandnear.com*

“Now you know you can go, the question is how do you go.” When he asks people to raise their hands if they make their reservations online and most people in the room do, he comes back, “You’re all losers,” with a smile.

“You’re operating on myth that all inventory is online. But only 52% of inventory is online because that all the inventory that travel providers want to make available online.

“I know why you book online –because you can do it at 3 am and you don’t have to talk to anyone. You’re very happy to hit a key and book. But now you have disenfranchised yourself with 40% of inventory.”

He derides the “lost art of conversation,” and says, “it’s okay to research online, but don’t book online.”

He notes (what Pauline Frommer had observed in an earlier seminar also), that when you search for an airline fare, and happen to wait and return an hour later, you will find the fare has increased, perhaps $100 more.

That’s because the computer remembers you, appreciates a supply/demand market and can pitch you a higher fare. “Clean up your cookies or use somebody else’s computer.”

“When you have a conversation with an airline rep or a cruise rep, you may think it is about getting the best rate – losers! –It’s not about the rate, it’s about the value. The internet does nothing creativity, thinks literally, it can’t answer the questions you should ask.

“You might get a good rate online, but when you have a conversation directly with a hotel, you can ask for the hotel to throw in free WiFi, get rid of dreaded resort free, get the kids to stay free, eat free.

With a cruiseline, “it’s not about the cost of cabin, it’s about onboard credits, which excursion should or should not take.” [In this respect, you are much better off booking through a travel agent, who can usually get free upgrades, free drinks, perhaps even a shore excursion thrown in.]

Where do You Want to Go?

“Where do you want to go?” he asks. “This is where you get into trouble – how many have bucket list? He asks, and a few people raise their hands. “Loser,” is his retort.

“Everyone wants Paris, Hawaii. There are 196 countries in the world. Pick one. There are only four I wouldn’t go to (my metric is ‘Who is in control.’ – There are four countries where nobody is in control.)

He says he wouldn’t say no to going to North Korea (I know who is in control), Iran [which is actually become a hot destination for Americans, up until Trump’s election and the travel ban]. I would even go to Northern Iraq, because it is under control of Kurds, every airline goes there and is safe.” [Which might have been true before the Trump travel ban which Iraq retaliated against in kind.]’

“‘Fear’ is a four-letter word. Don’t be motivated, don’t be driven. How many read US State Department travel advisories – you should read them but when people hear there is an advisory, they don’t go.”

The State Department’s travel advisory for Turkey advises travelers that Turkish drivers pass on the left and on the right. “Have they been on Southern State Parkway?” he jokes. “I was in Turkey 48 hours after the New Year’s Eve nightclub shooting. I did not feel threatened or afraid.

“The best time to go anywhere is after natural disaster, civil disturbance, terrorism.”

[Indeed, six countries have travel advisories against the United States because of the epidemic of gun violence.”

“Tourism creates jobs – these destinations that have been hurt by natural or manmade disasters are desperate to have you there. And who wants to stand on line? Go to a place that is happy to have you, a great deal, an amazing experience. And it sends a statement that we will not be beaten by that.

He notes that 707 Americans have been killed in acts of civil unrest of the past 28 years. “Put that in perspective: every week in this country 800 citizens are killed or injured in accidents in their bathtubs. People worry about shark attacks –after 1 person is attacked. More are killed in auto accidents abroad; the second greatest cause of death is by selfies – people fall off cliffs, are hit by trains – 100 people are killed by selfies. Put the numbers in perspective.”

“All these passport holders, you love to travel. Now you’ve got to use them – you are in the drivers seat – the most beneficial position.

*The New York Times Travel Show cultural performances introduce intrepid travelers to destinations to explore © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

“It’s not seasonal – there will be deals all year long because economies are taking longer to recover – Italy, France, Turkey – you can go anywhere – Brazil, Argentina. Then, there are the deals airlines are doing with stopovers, hotels, tours.

“Now think of what’s on your bucket list, burn it and figure a place where you can have great experience.”

Beating the Airlines at Their Own Frequent Flyer Game

Airlines have radically changed their Frequent Flyer programs. “If you didn’t pay a lot [for a fare] you don’t get much [in points]. It’s not just hard to earn miles but hard to redeem them.”

In fact, Greenberg notes that there are some 23 trillion unredeemed miles outstanding.

“Airlines, he notes, are free to constantly change rules for using frequent flyer miles to their advantage because there is no regulation by attorney general. They are protected by deregulation and can change the rules any time, which means every day, they have outstanding miles as a liability but they don’t want to displace revenue passengers.

“There is no such thing as a free ticket anymore; every plane is full.”

But miles are great to use to “figure a place you’ve never been, never wanted to go, and go there. Pick 330 days out and go.”

Still, you may just want to go to Hawaii and Paris and use your unredeemed miles to get there.

Greenberg proposes a rather adventurous way to beat the restrictions that make it almost impossible to use frequent flyer points,

“Let’s say you want to go to Hawaii a week from today and have enough miles based on eligibility– The carrier indicates you can’t have the fare at 12,000 points, but you can at 50,000 (extortion).

“You call up the airline to redeem miles. ‘When in my lifetime will there be a seat?’ The airline tells you after Thanksgiving. ‘I’ll take it.’

“Then pick an arbitrary day. But now you have a ticket that has the flight and the cities just not the date you want. So you hang up and call the regular reservations number. You tell them you want to purchase six seats on that flight. You just want to know there are 6 seats on the flight.

So you send your bags ahead by Fed Ex, he says.

“You know there are seats – every day you call, you pick the first flight of the day – go down on the day want to fly, NY-Hawaii – 5 am with ticket – fly standby, no bags. If there is a seat on the plane, they will let you on. Or if that is full, the next or the next (there are many flights during the day).

“If you ask if you can fly standby with a Frequent Flyer ticket, they will say no, but the counter agent will say yes.”

[I find myself thinking this is all well and good and wonderfully adventurous, but how would this work for the return flight?]

“The rule is – don’t hoard miles. There is no upside.” On the other hand, you are a full if you redeem your miles for a magazine subscription.

“54% of all miles earned is earned on the ground – that means that to get 25,000 – you spent $14,000, not counting the 11,000 miles you paid for when you flew.” If the magazine subscription wants 2500 miles, you spent $1200 to accumulate those miles, or for 6500 points, Delta will give you a $40 box of Godiva chocolates, but you spent $3800, or $190 each bite.”

“Don’t succumb to those offers. Instead, think 333 days out and beat the airlines at their own game playing by their rules.”

*At the New York Times Travel Show, travelers eager to learn about new destinations © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

With the US dollar so strong, it isn’t just that the dollar has more purchasing power abroad, but that travel to the US becomes more expensive for people to come here. That means that it will be harder for airlines to fill their seats coming here.

(Of course, this, combined with the travel ban means that US inbound travel, a key export that contributes to a favorable trade balance and supports millions of US jobs and economic activity, will also be depressed, perhaps for Americans to fill the vacuum with domestic travel.)

“In a world of disruption, you get to disrupt. You have the knowledge. You can always go to Paris or Hawaii, but the world is open and [destinations] are ready.”

____________________

© 2017 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com and travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/. Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com and moralcompasstravel.info. Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com. Tweet @TravelFeatures. ‘Like’ us at facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

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