The Best Live Kentucky Bluegrass Music Venues And Attractions

The nickname for Kentucky is the “Bluegrass State” You will notice in the horse farm area around Lexington in the springtime small buds in a field of Kentucky bluegrass have a bluish-purple color. This lush bluegrass grows in limestone-rich soil that also has phosphates and calcium which makes it ideal feed for the racehorses that are raised in the region. Bluegrass music has also become more popular in the country but the birthplace of that music can be found in Louisville and Lexington Kentucky. The birthplace was in Rosine, KY where Bill Monroe, the father of bluegrass was born and lived.

Local Artist Venues

Local artist venues are an excellent place to listen to authentic Bluegrass music. You can consider it the Kentucky version of experiencing traditional Fado in Lisbon Portugal. Want to go see some great local artists perform without breaking the bank? Go to Red Barn Radio on Wednesday nights and be part of the live studio audience for performances of Bluegrass and traditional music that is recorded live for radio broadcast. It is an intimate setting and you are right near the stage. Red Barn Radio can be found at the Performance Hall at Arts Place, 161 North Mill St in downtown Lexington. Tickets are only $10 for the evening.

www.redbarnradio.com

Southland Jamboree Bring a chair for free outdoor Bluegrass music concerts every Thursday in the summer starting in May. The location is at the Moondance Amphitheatre in Lexington.

www.southlandjamboree.org.  

Willie’s Locally Known is another good spot for local Bluegrass music. Check their website to see who is there when you want to go.  

www.willieslocallyknown.com. 

WoodSongs Old Time Radio Hour is a big time live event and is heard around the world. This show is taped in front of a live audience at the Lyric Theatre in downtown Lexington. When we were there it sure seemed to be full of locals who come very often. Nationally known Bluegrass acts combined with up and comers produce a spectacular show and well worth the experience. . The show starts at 7 pm on Mondays, but arrive early for a great seat in the auditorium. Everyone needs to be seated by 6:45 and admission is $ 10. Check out the upcoming performers at www.woodsongs.com. 

Broomwagon Coffee + Bikes. Monday night is the night for live local musicians., Go for the food, beer and bluegrass music. Call ahead to see what is planned. (859) 554-6938. 

Famous Bluegrass Festivals

While you are in town, you should try to experience some of the world-famous Bluegrass festivals whenever possible. None is more popular than the Festival of the Bluegrass, which is held annually in June. As one of the oldest music festivals in the Bluegrass region, the annual celebration has been held since 1974. Here, you can experience a full lineup of talented Bluegrass musicians from all over the nation.

Buying Tickets

Before you attend any live Bluegrass music local events, you may need to purchase tickets. As mentioned earlier, many Kentucky entertainment venues do not require the purchase of tickets beforehand. Avoid purchasing tickets on expensive websites in the case that they may not be required. Instead, look for venues with free music nights or affordable tickets sold at the door. Then, simply arrive early and you can guarantee a good spot in the crowd. If you do have to purchase tickets online for larger events, be sure to conduct thorough research in order to find the best deal possible. 

Drinks Nearby

Before and after Kentucky’s legendary Bluegrass music events, you need to identify the best spots to drink before and after the entertainment. Kentucky and Lexington in particular a major hub for delicious craft beers, amazing cocktails, and incredible Bourbons. One of Kentucky’s premier craft beer breweries since the 90’s is Against the Grain. At the same time, be sure to visit Kentucky’s Bluegrass Brewing Company, located right in the center of downtown. For some world famous Bourbons, be sure to try some delicious drinks from Bourbon Hall as well as the Bunghole Bourbon Bar & Lounge. 

Getting Around Kentucky

When you visit Bluegrass entertainment events in Kentucky, it is essential to plan your way of getting around the city. Of course, you can consider using a Kentucky travel guide. Even as a highly metropolitan area, getting around Lexington can be incredibly difficult without a car. However, when visiting Bluegrass music venues, it is often better to ditch the car to avoid parking costs. This way, you can fully enjoy all of your local craft beers and bourbons as well. There are only two major Amtrak rail lines servicing Kentucky, making the train a feasible option for long distance travel between cities like Louisville, Maysville, Fulton, South Shore, or Ashland. To easily get between cities, the most feasible option is likely by Greyhound Bus or taxi. At the same time, Lexington and Louisville already have their own public transportation system. Lexington offers to Lextran system whereas Louisville manages the TARC system. 

What Else To Do While Your In Town

Visiting Bluegrass music entertainment and live events will certainly fill up your evenings, however, you need to plan what to additionally do while your in town. Everybody talks about visiting Kentucky for the Kentucky Derby. However, if you are not visiting during racing season, there are dozens of other attractions to see. Be sure to checkout the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory, with the 120ft replica model of the Babe Ruth Louisville Slugger. If you are a fan of the outdoors, be sure to check out magnificent sites like Daniel Boone National Forest, Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky Horse Park, and the Cumberland Gap & Falls Historic Park. You should additionally visit major historical attractions like the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace Historic Park, Shaker Village, or the Muhammad Ali Center. If you are visiting Kentucky on a family vacation, you should additionally check out family-friendly sites like the Newport Aquarium. 

There are dozens of incredible local Bluegrass music and entertainment events to see on your visit to Kentucky. Whether you are visiting alone, with friends, or on a family vacation, there is plenty to do and see. When you visit, be sure to check out some venues where you can appreciate Kentucky’s local musical artists. Be sure to additionally research where you can get some drinks before and after the show. At the same time, familiarize yourself with the best way to get around Kentucky for your visit to the Bluegrass capital of the world. Finally, be sure to learn about what else to do in Kentucky as you plan for your visit. Consider the points mentioned above to learn about the best local live entertainment and Kentucky Bluegrass music for your Lexington trip.

Renfro Valley Entertainment Center

Of course, visit Renfro Valley Entertainment Center during your post covid travel. The entertainment center was built on the foothills of the Cumberland Mountains in Renfro Valley in 1939. In fact, Renfro Valley is known as “Kentucky’s Country Music Capital”. It is a must see attraction for all music lovers. This venue hosts the entertainment gamut, from country singers and bluegrass musicians to stand up comedy acts. Great local spot for all the music-lovers and comedy-lovers out there!

Ready to Experience the Best Kentucky Offers? 

There are dozens of cultural highlights and landmarks to experience in Kentucky. It’s a severely underrated state, and that’s because millions haven’t experienced in Kentucky what I’ve written in this guide. Take the time and overspending out of vacation planning. Sit back, relax, and let Grasshopper Greg hand you the information to avoid common travel mishaps.

Grasshopper Greg’s team’s advice is savvy, dependable, and thorough. They offer up-to-date, detail- and tip-rich commentary on Kentucky’s iconic sights, and will introduce you to restaurants, off-the-beaten-path attractions, nature spots, tours, bars, and shops that few tourists know to visit.

This guide will help you plan a trip out to Louisville, Lexington, the Bourbon Trail, Corbin, Versailles, Georgetown, Frankfort and more! 

Kentucky and the Derby is the perfect guidebook for those looking for insider tips to make the most out of their visit there and to its surroundings. Complete with detailed maps and concise descriptions, this travel guide will help you plan your trip with ease. Join Grasshopper Greg in exploring one of the best horse racing, Bourbon, Bluegrass, cultural, culinary, and lavish destinations in the world. You’ll learn how to get a 2020 Kentucky Derby ticket for a fraction of what others spend.

So whether you’re going to Churchill Downs for Derby, head to a museum or Distillery, party at a racetrack, see a Bluegrass show or take a side-trip to Corbin, Frankfort or Georgetown, this is the book for you. This is the most “to-the-point” but also, comprehensive guide to many parts of this extremely underrated state you’ll find.

How To Plan A Trip Around Food Allergies And Still Eat Well

**This is in no means medical advice. if you have questions about your diet please consult with your doctor.**

Written by Ciara Turner-Ewert, a wellness travel expert from Wellness Travel Diaries”
 

“Is this meal made with milk, cheese, or any type of dairy product?” I found myself asking this question to each waiter I came across in my hunt for dairy-free food in the city of Sofia, Bulgaria, which consequently is famous for fine Greek yogurts and dairy products. I’m allergic to all dairy products and gluten, so when I travel I have to be extra cautious that my food is made with extra TLC (tender love and care) so cross-contamination doesn’t happen.

After a free historical walking tour in this beautiful eastern European city, I decided to try a local restaurant that was suggested by the tour guide. the restaurant was known for its delectable deep dish cabbage pastry. I asked the waiter if it was vegan to avoid explaining what dairy-free meant, and they responded with a quick yes. at their assurance, I ordered it scooping out the interior to avoid any of the crust, only to feel my body reacting poorly to the foreign food I just ingested. it had small pieces of feta cheese entangled in the cabbage. This was one of my first cross-contamination experiences abroad. Guzzling down buckets of water, taking some allergy supplements, and sipping on mint tea, I managed to restore some of the balance to my body. By taking the time to plan a trip around food allergies, you can avoid these common travel mishaps and many more.

Be Prepared For Cross Contamination

As you prepare for your slow travel vacations, you need to be aware of cross contamination. Sometime cross-contamination can happen when you travel. There are language barriers to consider, and food can sometimes be prepared differently, but don’t let that stop you from traveling. There are always options for you, and if a mix up happens, you can be ready to fight it. Before your trip, try to set up a mini cross-contamination packet with all the tools, medicine and supplements that will help you feel better.

Here’s a short list of items I always include when traveling:

  • Allergy medicine (Benedryl, or whatever brand you use)
  • Re-usable water bottle filled with water
  • Kombucha
  • Inhaler
  • Epi-Pen (I don’t have one, but this should be something to add if you do)
  • Peppermint Oil or Ginger Oil

Do Your Research About The Local Cuisine

When you are traveling somewhere far away, like French Polynesia, it is pivotal to conduct research beforehand. Before you book your flight, research will be your best friend (and so will Google Translate) when planning a trip around food allergies. It helps prepare you for what food adventures lie ahead, and can give you insight in what to expect regarding allergy-friendly restaurants. Before I went to Barcelona, I’ll admit I was nervous about my food options, but because of the hours of research I felt more and more confident about finding gluten-free, dairy free restaurants.

While researching the local cuisine can boost your confidence about being able to find food suitable for your diet, it can also show you helpful phrases to use for your diet. “Sin gluten y sin láctosa “, this translates “without gluten and without dairy” in English, which became a common phrase during my time in Spain. Writing down your common food phrases, or learning to pronounce them can help you prepare for you food adventure should you have any questions or concerns about ingredients.

Know What Your Go-To Foods Are When Traveling

Whether you’re a gluten-free traveler, have a dairy allergy, or a peanut allergy, keeping a list of your go-to safe foods can make traveling easier, especially if you’re going abroad. If you want to try the best restaurants in New Orleans, Barcelona, or anywhere else, you need to know the go-to foods, and their potential allergies when traveling. While different countries have different local cuisines, you can typically count on some items to be the same regardless of the country. For example when I was traveling to Bulgaria, I needed a quick meal to keep me fueled while exploring the breathtaking city of Sofia. Salads were my go-to safe foods. It’s safe for both a gluten free diet and dairy free allergies. Just skip the croutons (if there were any) or cheese, and ask for the dressing on the side.

Other foods I found that were safe for any destination travel:

  • Any raw dishes
  • Vegetables
  • Fresh fruit
  • Grilled chicken
  • Fruit smoothies
  • Rice
  • Eggs
  • Most falafel

Always Pack Extra Snacks

While having a go-to food list really comes in clutch when your ordering at restaurants and you’re unsure what the menu says, packing healthy snacks with allergy needs in mind can help satisfy your hunger if you haven’t found a suitable restaurant yet. One thing that’s great about travel is, it’s an adventure full of unforgettable memories. Sometimes those adventures may take you places where your only options for foods aren’t very allergy-friendly. For instance, when I was on a tour in Chernobyl, Ukraine there was a vegetarian option loaded with cheese, or a regular option that contained gluten. Days before this day trip, I asked our tour guide in detail about the food being served, and decided packing heavy snacks and a meal would be the best solution. It worked out wonderfully! There were no worries about asking cooks what was in the food because the extra snack packed were filled with allergy-friendly.

Don’t Be Afraid To Ask Questions At Restaurants, Grocery Stores, Or Street Food Vendors

This will help you simplify the art of travel planning. Once you’ve nailed down a place to eat, always double check with the staff or cooks to confirm the food meets your dietary needs. Many restaurants at popular travel destinations will have allergy friendly food clearly marked, but if you’re unsure always ask. While it can be scary to ask, your health is most important. Restaurants, vendors and grocery store clerks want to help you because you’re their customer. If they are unable to met your dietary needs, ask for suggestions of places, dishes or other stores that you can visit. If I ever came across a restaurant I was unsure of in Barcelona, Spain the staff would normally point me to toward a option suitable for my diet. It’s actually how I found my favorite plant-based restaurant in Barcelona, Theresa Stairway.

Don’t be afraid to eat at an allergy-friendly restaurant several times If you find a perfect restaurant that fits your allergy needs, don’t worry about eating there multiple times. It’s your vacation, so enjoy it with foods that make you feel good, cause you deserve it. Secretly, during my visit in Barcelona I ate at Theresa Stairway at least 3 times. No shame! It was both a taste of local Spanish cuisine and convenient for a gluten and dairy allergy. If you want to try the best food in North Carolina, Barcelona, or anywhere else, you need to be upfront about asking questions when dining out.

 

Get A Place With A Kitchen

Another travel checklist item that makes traveling with food allergies easier, is to book an accommodation with a kitchen. I can’t tell you how many times having a kitchen has been a lifesaver for the sake of ease and trying new foods! Roaming the historic city of Sofia, Bulgaria I never once worried about what to eat for dinner because my husband and I made dinner in our AirBnB. Having a kitchen at your accommodation allows you to have more control over your diet, and takes away any worries about cross-contamination. You can experiment with the local cuisine by shopping at local grocery stores and trying new produce. Or you can cook familiar foods. Whatever you choose, having a kitchen allows you to fully embrace your food choice with ease.

Pack Strategically

Whenever you are traveling with food allergies, it is fundamental to pack strategically. Read about our travel packing hacks and tips to find out how. As mentioned earlier, you will always want to pack basic snacks like trail mix, popcorn, and pretzels. Of course, you should always carry medicine in case you do have a reaction. While different solutions work for everybody, it is often recommended to carry digestive enzymes, activated charcoal, probiotics, and anything else that can help you quickly recover. Other than these items, there are several other essentials to keep on you. At a minimum, you should bring hand wipes and sanitizer whenever you are visiting out. However, it may be beneficial to bring your own cutlery, plates, and cookware to ensure you are completely protected whenever eating.

Enjoy Your Trip And Know You’ve Done A Great Job Planning

Once you’ve arrived at your destination, remember to relax and enjoy your trip. Remember, even with a food allergy you can still enjoy travel. Trust your gut, and know that you’ve done a great job planning this exciting adventure.

Author Bio:

Ciara Turner-Ewert is a freelance wellness travel writer and content creator, with a degree in Psychology, who’s passionate about creating a life focused on growing the mind-body connection through travel, and personal development. You can find her at her blog https://wellnesstraveldiaries.com, Pinterest, @wellnesstraveldiaries, and on Instagram @wellnesstraveldiaries.

6 Eco-Friendly Sustainable Travel Products That Will Change Your Life

Whenever you book a vacation, there are several sustainable travel products to lower your carbon footprint. While an incredible rewarding experience, it is essential to prioritize sustainability whenever you vacation. Recent studies reported that the tourism sector is responsible for 8% of global greenhouse emissions annually. Even worse, irresponsible travel practices lead to the death of over one million marine animals every year, including sharks, sea turtles, birds, fish, and other mammals.

The issue has become so serious that roughly only 1 out of 1000 sea turtles survive until adulthood. Endangered sea turtles often mistake plastic bags, cups, and straws as prey, leading them to get caught up in unsustainable materials. Luckily, there are dozens of sustainable travel products to lower your carbon footprint whenever you take a trip. If you are interested in how to increase sustainability on your next solo-trip, group trip, or family vacation, read on to learn about the essential sustainable travel products to lower your carbon footprint.

Eco-Friendly Water Bottles

Eco-friendly, reusable water bottles are excellent sustainable travel products to help you lower your carbon footprint on vacation. Whenever you travel, you always need to stay hydrated, especially when traveling in warmer weather. Carry a reusable water bottle with you whenever you travel. These bottles are refillable, allowing you to help avoid the waste of thousands of plastic bottles every year. Water bottle companies like Nalgene make a wide range of BPA free reusable bottles and containers to suit your sustainability preferences. Other companies like Klean Kanteen prioritize measuring, offsetting, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions through sustainable water bottles. These containers are super affordable, fit right in your suitcase, and can always be carried with you. With these products, you can always have water on hand. This way, you never run into common travel mishaps due to lack of water. Purchase environmentally friendly water bottles in order to reduce your carbon footprint on your next vacation.

Reusable Utensils

Reusable utensils are one of the simplest and most sustainable way to reduce your vacationing carbon footprint. Since it is often recommended to bring your own utensils if you are planning a trip around food allergies, these products may be an excellent investment. In the United States alone, roughly 40 billion plastics utensils are disposed of every year. After a single use, disposable forks, knives, spoons, and their packaging often end up in a landfill. Even worse, many disposable utensils often end up in our waterways when improperly disposed, presenting the possibility to harm our sea life. Luckily, there are a number of sustainable travel utensils that you can keep with you at all times.

These materials are often made from bamboo or stainless steel to ensure that they can consistently be washed and reused. Before your next trip, be sure to purchase a set of reusable travel cutlery. These kits often come with spoons, forks, knives, straws, chopsticks, and a tool to clean your silverware. Bring your reusable silverware with you whenever you go out to eat at restaurants in New Orleans, Las Vegas, or any other cities you visit. Purchase reusable utensil kits in order to reduce your carbon footprint on your next vacation.

Safe Sunscreen

To ensure sustainable vacationing, you need to purchase safe sunscreen to lower your carbon footprint. Sunscreen is essential when you are traveling to warm, sunny, and beachy locations, like hidden California beach towns. Without high-quality sunscreen, you risk painful sunburn or even skin cancer. When you select a sunscreen brand, there are several things to look out for. Many sustainable sunscreen brands have branded themselves as zero waste, ocean and coral reef safe. These sustainable sunscreens have been proven and tested to prevent coral bleaching, coral death, and the pollution of ocean life. At the same time, you should look for sunscreen options that are free of zinc oxide and titanium oxide. Many safe sunscreen companies even ensure that the bottles, containers, and packaging for their products are 100% recyclable.

Sustainable Clothing

As sustainability continues to grow as a priority, modern travelers can even reduce their carbon footprint through the clothing they wear. In the United States every year, over 30 million pounds of textile waste are generated. Look for clothing brands and fashion designers that prioritize sustainability and environmentally friendly production. These businesses manufacture clothing with sustainable, natural fabrics, low-impact dyes, along with organic and recycled materials. Other clothing manufacturers prioritize carbon-neutral practices, recycling, and green production facilities. Be sure to pack your suitcase with sustainable brands and articles of clothing whenever possible. If you are visiting major fashion cities like London, Los Angeles, Paris, or Milan, be sure to check out some of the sustainable clothing brands right in the city.

Environmentally Friendly Coffee Cups

Reusable coffee cups are essential to reduce your traveling carbon footprint. For many travelers, you need a strong cup of coffee to successfully start your day. Unfortunately, the single use cups at businesses like Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts are incredibly wasteful. Every year, over three billion disposable coffee cups and lids are thrown into landfills. By purchasing a reusable, refillable, sustainable coffee cup you can easily help the environment and lower your carbon footprint. To ensure safety and sustainability, the best reusable coffee cups are 100% BPA, lead, and cadmium free. Purchase an environmentally friendly coffee cup in order to reduce your vacationing carbon footprint. Of course, these coffee cups are one of the best travel safety essentials for your next trip.

Solar Power Travel Products

Sustainable solar powered travel products are an excellent accessory to limit your carbon footprint on your upcoming slow travel vacation. If you are planning for an outdoor excursion, a bright solar lantern will certainly be an effective tool for your next camping or backpacking trip. Of course, a solar powered battery pack or charger is an excellent device to ensure your devices constantly have sufficient power. For music lowers, consider a portable solar powered Bluetooth speaker for your next getaway. These products are equally as effective, and an excellent way to limit your emissions and lower your carbon footprint.

There are several sustainable travel products to reduce your vacationing carbon footprint. Before you travel, you should consider purchasing reusable materials like coffee cups, water bottles, and utensils. Reusable water bottles are essential to keep you hydrated when you visit extremely warm place like New Orleans. At the same time, you need to heavily consider the ingredients in the sunscreen you rely on for vacationing. Even more, be sure to look for more sustainable clothing to wear whenever possible. Consider the points mentioned above to learn about the essential sustainable travel products to lower your carbon footprint.

The Complete Post-COVID Travel Guide: How To Safely Vacation With Family In 2021

Planning travel should be exciting and stress-free! Perhaps it is a little different now. Look at the 2020 COVID-19 version of the Kentucky Derby as an example. I am here to help you navigate the new world of travel.

Value travelers across the globe are worried about the implications of COVID-19 on their vacation plans. Do you make travel plans? Do you wait it out? Do you have plans and continue with it? Is it touch and go as news comes out about virus hotspots? This is a tough decision to make and it changes week to week.

Airline Cancellations

When it comes to airline cancellations, it can be a bit cloudy, in terms of each airline’s policy. Airlines are in no rush to cancel flights and return your funds. They want to hold on to your cash for as long as they can. You need to be aware to what your rights are and procedures to follow.

The definition of a cancelled flight is if it is removed from the schedule. An airline or two may consider it cancelled if they cannot get you to your destination another way, even if it means connecting flights that may take longer. The Department of Transportation’s (DOT) rules override anything your airline is telling you. If the DOT makes a change to their rulings, it is for bookings going forward. Not retroactive to when you purchased the airline ticket. Check the DOT information based on when you purchased the tickets.

How To Claim A Refund

Claims have increased dramatically. If you contact the airline and you are not satisfied, ask to speak to a supervisor. Not happy after that? Make a claim with the DOT if you believe you are correct. Just because you are not happy with the airline’s decision does not mean you are right. Read the Terms and conditions based on when you purchased.

Many travelers are worried about taking family vacations amidst the COVID pandemic. If you decide you are not comfortable continuing with your trip due to the current health conditions at a destination they will not give you a refund. Best case, they will give you a voucher for further travel with an expiration date. Keep in mind that, when you rebook, you do not get a refund for the unused dollar amount on your voucher if your flight went down in price.

Your best bet is to wait until you are closer to your travel date because the flight may be cancelled as the date gets closer. Some destinations may not allow travel into their location. Then you get your refund. If you cancel your trip, get a voucher, and then they cancel your flight, you do NOT get the refund. You keep the voucher so patience is vital. One way to get a feel if your flight will be cancelled is if you see they stop selling seats for your flight at some point. That is a good sign that a cancellation is probably coming.

Award booking cancellations are more flexible since it does not involve cash. They may charge you a redepositing fee when they return your miles to your account. When you are using an online travel agency (OTA) it may be harder to get a refund. Hotels.com, Orbitz, Travelocity, reward points from Citibank, AMEX and Chase are all examples of OTA’s. Why is it harder? It is a longer process and extra steps to go through. First, the airline has to approve it, then the OTA needs to approve it. Then you need to see what the points program has to say about it.

Hotel Cancellations

Hotel cancellations are much easier to navigate. You may even be able to do so without any hotel points and rewards. Each individual hotel has their own terms and conditions so read them before you book. There is no governing body you can turn to if you are not satisfied.

The future of travel with bookings? Hard to say. Do you use a travel agent, OTA or book direct? If you book with an OTA they have more leverage than you as an individual traveler. Just make sure you use an OTA that has strong financial health. They do much more business with the property than you do. When you book direct it is imperative you closely look at cancellation dates. You miss that date and you are out of luck.

Road Trip Travel

Road trips may become more popular because flights are out of the equation on that type of trip. If you are interested, there are several steps to help you prepare for post COVID travel on the road. Domestic travel will be next to come back and then international. Your lowest risk booking will be using miles.points, and hotels. You can cancel and redeposit for free (look closely at the terms and conditions before booking). The travel world is changing every day and the rules will be changing also. Most likely to benefit the provider so be aware.

Keep this all in mind when planning your New Mexico roadtrip travel itinerary.

The Future Of Airlines

With the health of the airline industry the way it is, will they start devaluing award points? Maybe reduce availability for award travel? It’s hard to say but it may be a good idea to book way out and lock in the trips you want to take in 2021 and beyond. Again, understand cancellation policies prior to booking. Don’t assume they will “work with you” when the time comes.

Airlines will have to get creative to build your confidence in purchasing a ticket. Researchers have already made several travel predictions post Coronavirus about how these changes will impact airlines. Have everyone wear masks. Not sell the middle seats. Give attractive targeted offers to loyalty members. Stop using carts with food and drinks on it. Eliminate in-flight pillows and blankets. Maybe board the back of the plane first to reduce contact on the plane. All good ideas to look at as the new normal.

Travel Documents & Programs

As you prepare for Post-COVID vacationing in 2020, consider the changes in travel documents and programs. Passport renewal services have recently resumed. However, there have been significant delays since its reopening. Since July, travelers in many states are eligible to enroll in the Global Entry Program again. Similarly, the deadline for the new federally approved Real ID identification, which will soon be needed for domestic travel, has additionally been extended.

Post-Travel Precautions

Of course, you still want to take precautions and be safe after you return from your post-COVID vacation. There is always a chance that you may have been exposed to the Coronavirus or other viruses during your travels. Certainly, this can be true even if you feel fine, and are not experiencing any symptoms. Therefore, you should self-monitor for symptoms, isolate yourself, and get tested once you return. Plus, follow all the recommendations from your state and local municipality for after traveling. Certainly, post travel precautions are important when planning your first family vacation with gamers in 2021.

Planning trips will definitely increase as time goes on. With the proper planning, you can even take your family to the post-COVID Disney theme park experience. Just follow the new rules closely and you will be fine.

Stop Paying Those Added Ancillary Travel Fees And Hidden Costs!

You have determined your budget. You have done some research on your destination and now you are ready to book your flight! The airfare looks like a steal and you want to jump on that low fare! Unfortunately, there are several ancillary travel fees you are required to pay. Airlines have traditionally enticed travelers with low airfares, only to heavily charge ancillary fees at a later date. When improperly managed, these ancillary costs can greatly add to the cost of your trip. Luckily, there are a number of travel hacking tips to lower your vacation costs.

Airfare Ancillary & Travel Bank Fees

The airlines are going to do everything in their power to keep you on the website to get more dollars from you. Remember, they need to make back all the money they are losing on that attractive fare. They need to make back all that lost revenue from 2020 and this strategy has increased their bottom line dramatically year after year since it took off in 2007.

What they are doing is selling you ancillaries. It is a term used to offer additional products after you purchase a core component (the base airfare). They want you to purchase some of the add-ons to your airfare. They load all of this on the back end of your sale. If you don’t purchase these options at this point, you may even get a follow up offer by E Mail a few weeks before your flight date where they try again!

Added Seat Costs

All that airfare purchase does is get you to walk on the plane. Now they want to have you select a seat. The majority of the seats cost extra. Front half of the plane, aisle or window cost more money. This can really add up, especially when you do it round trip or on connecting flights. If you find there are no “free” seats to select that you like, they have to give you one for free when you check-in online 24 hours before the flight.

If you are still not happy with the seat selection they give you, you can request a change at the boarding counter an hour before the flight. If they can, they will. If the flight is not full you may end up with those attractive choices anyway. It has happened to me many times where I received my aisle or window seat. If you cannot, for any reason, handle a middle seat because you are claustrophobic or a larger person, maybe this strategy is not for you.

If the flight is only a couple of hours it should not matter otherwise. If you MUST sit next to the person you are traveling with, this strategy may not work for you either. You will be with them the entire vacation. Bring a book, take a nap and sit alone for a few hours and save the money!

Additional Luggage Expenses

Airlines love to charge extra for luggage. When you are flying in large groups or on a family vacation, luggage can be a major expense. Don’t pay for bag check-in when you get to the airport. It costs more that way. When you check-in online the day before, pay at a discount. Even better, charge the flight on the airline credit card (if you have one). You will get no charges at all for the bags. That is a huge savings round trip. If you fly a particular airline often, get their credit card months in advance of your flight and save on baggage fees. Check the small print on annual fees. Sometimes they waive the first year.

If you can avoid paying for checked luggage all together it is best to do so. Pack light, and only bring essentials whenever possible. To maximize your space, purchase storage efficient carry-on luggage from reputable bag provider. Companies eBags offers high-quality carry on luggage options like value travel backpacks, duffel bags, hardside suitcases, spinner bags, and underseaters. These carry on options help you save space, maximize storage, and reduce your luggage expenses.

Overweight Baggage Costs

Overweight baggage costs are an incredibly bothersome hidden air travel fee you can easily avoid. Many domestic and foreign airlines impose overweight baggage fees on unsuspecting travelers. Commonly, baggage weight limits are 50 pounds. For bags weighing more than this, you could be charged more than $75 on a one-way ticket.

To avoid this happening, always keep some extra room in your carry-on bag. This way, if your bag is overweight, you can easily pull out items to meet the requirements. Even better, you can purchase a cheap luggage scale online beforehand to get an accurate estimate of your suitcase weight.

Even though these costs mainly apply to airlines, you will additionally see them on cruises and trains as well. Therefore, light packing may even serve as an excellent cruise travel hack to reduce expenses before you set sail.

Outrageous Priority Boarding Fees

They want to sell you priority boarding. Why would you want to get on a plane early just to sit there an extra 30 minutes waiting for everyone to board? Won’t you be sitting long enough? I try to be one of the last ones on so the flight leaves shortly after. Travelers are afraid their carry-on won’t have any spots left in the upper storage area. If there are no spots the airline will take the bag from you and check the bag for free at that point. Just take out what you need for the flight and you just saved more money.

Expensive Lounge Access

They may want to sell you lounge access. Unless you have MANY hours to wait in the airport for your flight that is a total waste. In fact, you should only pay for lounge access if you are able to find cheap flights to anywhere. They want to sell you food and drinks on the flight. Think ahead and bring some good snacks and drinks with you. The selection they offer on the flight is very limited.

If they can’t get you on the items above, they still have more chances! Before you book, make sure the date and the time of the flight work very well for you. There are several ways you can maximize your value travel savings. Changing the flight to a different time or day can be a very costly mistake. Same day changes can be less expensive but still pricey.

Ground Transportation Charges

When you are done booking the flight, they will offer you a rental car, choice of accommodations and possibly ground transportation from the airport. This is called the cross-sell bundle of products. If you are not renting a car for your trip, do your own homework and see if there is public transportation from the airport to the place you are staying.. I cannot tell you how many times I have found a bus or a train right near baggage claim for $ 2 instead of a taxi or UBER for $30-40.

As you prepare for post COVID travel, you need to learn how to mitigate the top hidden travel expenses. Remember, they want you to make emotional decisions. They want you to think “We don’t do this everyday”, “We are only here once”, and “It’s vacation”. Spontaneous buying behavior at it’s best. They make it convenient. A couple of clicks and you have it all. Ease of use.

Rental Car Fees

Plus, you need to be aware of outrageous, expensive rental car fees when traveling. Rental car companies make a lot of money from their hidden fee structure. For example, you can be charged a significant fine if you do not return the car with a full tank of gas. In addition, many rental agencies charge additional penalties when you pass through expensive tolls or cross over state lines. Being aware of these costs will help you save money at the Kentucky Derby or wherever else you may be traveling. Surely, rental car fees are a major ancillary cost to be aware of.

The # 1 revenue producer in extra fees for airlines in the US is seat selection. #1 in Europe are bag fees. Americans love their comfort!

Just when you thought you were home free. Do you want to pay for Wi-Fi at this hotel? Do you want a roof rack, GPS, satellite radio or a car seat in this car rental? Do you want to return the gas tank on empty? Anything left in the tank will not give you a refund for the gallons remaining.

All of these really add up and before you know it, your vacation has cost A LOT more than you thought. Let the tremendous savings pay for a night or two at your destination. Maybe 6 or 7 meals? Maybe a couple of nights at sporting events or concerts?

The good news is that you are in complete control. By remaining aware and avoiding these ancillary fees, you can successfully steer clear of some of the most common travel mishaps that all vacationers fall for. Be prepared and spend that money on your fantastic vacation!

How To Prepare For Post COVID Travel Credit Card Rewards

Many vacationers are worried about the impact of COVID-19 on the future of tourism. While the Coronavirus lockdown has limited travel for the time being, there are several post COVID travel deals to watch out for. Post COVID travel plans and trends suggest that the tourism industry has the ability to recover. Read on to learn more about the airline, hotel, and cruise travel predictions in a post Coronavirus world.

Are you Hesitant to commit to value travel plans in 2020? This is a great time to start gathering the tools that take some time to build up and store for future travel in 2021 and beyond!

It takes some time to build up points and miles (reward points) and now is a great time to assess what type of future travel is important to you. When you apply for a travel credit card it takes some time to get approved, receive your card, work on using it for your minimum spend, hit the minimum spend, and then receive for bonus points/miles approximately eight weeks later. That process from start to finish can be three to four months.

At no cost to you, we recommend you join all the loyalty programs out there that you may use. If you love Hilton or Hyatt hotels, join their programs. This is one of the best ways to maximize hotel points and rewards. Love to fly Delta or JetBlue? Sign up. When you join a loyalty program you get offers and additional perks throughout the year that may benefit you. Here are some fundamental terms to understand before you start.

Points & Miles

In plain terms they are currency with value. They are program-specific or bank issued. The COVID inflicted lockdown has greatly limited the potential uses of your travel miles for the moment. Luckily, there is no reason to stop saving. Continue optimizing your plan and earning additional points from home. Often, just using airline credit cards for eCommerce and daily purchases can earn you a significant number of points. Instead of accumulating points, ask your card issuer if they provide credits, free night certificates, and benefits that are redeemable post-Coronavirus.

Minimum Spend

It is the amount of money, once you are approved for your post covid credit card, that you have to spend on that particular credit card before you qualify for the bonus you are to receive. On most credit cards that period will be 90 days. The amount of time can vary, but that is currently the industry standard. The important thing to remember is that the clock is ticking once you are approved, not when you receive the card in the mail. You also do not want to cut it too close to day 90 because you may miss the cutoff so plan on only 80 days to play it safe. The amount you have to charge can range from $1000-5000 depending on the card offer. Also make sure you don’t make any returns on the card in that period because then the amount spent will be backed out of your total.

Sign Up Bonus

This is one of the easiest ways to save money on your next vacation. Consider using this strategy as a cruise travel hack to reduce expenses before you set sail. You receive this once you hit your minimum spend. It goes into your account approximately 60 days later. Sometimes it can be sooner. You cannot use them until you see them in your loyalty account.

Award Availability

This is when you start the process to use your points/miles on airlines and hotels. It can be challenging at times because there are only a certain amount of seats on a flight or hotel rooms allocated per night for this purpose. Avoiding high demand times of the year and certain days of the week (Fridays and Sundays) may help tremendously. Booking WAY in advance also gives you an edge. Some allow you to book a year in advance. This should be the first thing you do before making arrangements for the rest of your trip. Points/miles vary per redemption so look to use the lowest amount so you have more for future travel. Try to be flexible in where you want to go. Some destinations can be very costly and can wipe out your balances. To maximize your savings even further, be sure to pay close attention to added ancillary travel fees and consider how you can avoid them.

Repayment Habits

To maximize your travel credit card rewards, it is imperative to review your repayment habits. First off, you should always pay your travel credit card balance in full. Of course, you should always pay on time to avoid forfeiting your travel rewards. At the same time, avoid using your travel rewards card for inherently risky transactions like balance transfers or cash advances. Furthermore, constantly pay close attention to changes in your travel rewards program.

Award Redemption

That is what happens when you actually use your points/miles for post covid travel rewards. You are then ready to go! Your balance is then reduced in your account and hopefully you will have enough for future travel. Don’t be lured to upgrade your experience with a better class of service like Business Class or First Class. I would rather fly three times in Coach then once in Business Class.

But which type of credit card do you want? An airline card, hotel card, another type of card? Why a credit card versus using cash or a debit card? There are many reasons to go with the credit card. If you use it the right way, you earn reward points, you have built in protections on some of your purchases, some cards offer you airport lounge access, and many more perks. With so many cards to choose from, where do you start? There is no one perfect card for you. It all depends on your travel goals and spending habits. Some cards give generous bonuses when used for everyday dining, shopping and gas.

Some of the credit cards worth looking at currently are the following:

  • Chase Sapphire Preferred.
  • AMEX Everyday.
  • Capital One Venture.

These have good travel protection, good value on miles, low annual fees. Signing up for the best travel cards can help you greatly reduce costs on your next solo travel trip or family vacation.

If there is an airline you plan on using most of the time I would think about their card. If you live near a hub city of an airline like Atlanta for Delta, Delta Skymiles AMEX is a good choice. In most cases you and your family will be able to check your luggage free of charge and that alone will offset the annual fee you may have with that card. In order to receive the benefit you will need to charge the flight with that particular card. If your flight is free you will have some taxes to pay for, and use that card.

Additional Hubs To Consider:

Alaska Airlines: Seattle, Anchorage, Los Angeles, Portland, San Francisco, San Diego, and San Jose
American Airlines: Dallas, Charlotte, Los Angeles, Miami, NYC, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Washington, D.C.
Delta: Atlanta, Boston, Detroit, Los Angeles, Minneapolis/St Paul, NYC, Salt Lake City, Seattle/Tacoma, Austin, Cincinnati, Nashville, Raleigh/Durham, San Jose
United: Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Newark, San Francisco, Washington, D.C.
Frontier: Denver, Atlanta, Chicago, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Las Vegas, Orlando, Philadelphia, Raleigh/Durham, Trenton
JetBlue: Boston, Orlando, Ft Lauderdale, Long Beach, NY, San Juan
Spirit: Atlantic City, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, Ft Lauderdale, Las Vegas, Orlando

Each of these airlines have their own cards.

Before you start this process we recommend that you get your free credit report to review. You want to make sure that you will get approved for the credit cards of your choice and want no surprises. Once a year you can go to annualcreditreport.com or call 877-322-8228 to see if everything is fine in terms of your payment history. Address any issues you may uncover or have totally forgotten about. They pull your information from Equifax, Experian or TransUnion. It will be very hard to get approved for anything if you have a credit score of under 625. 700 or higher puts you in the driver’s seat. You will NOT get your credit score from these reports but you will have a great idea if you have any issues to address from this report. You may not know that you owe a company from the past with an outstanding balance of $50 that you never paid for some reason. This information can go back seven years. This exercise will also help you identify potential identity theft.

Once you get your first card, do not apply for additional post covid travel credit cards right away. We recommend spreading out each card by at least three or four months. Wait until you have achieved the minimum spend amount and are ready for the next one AND have the means to handle another concentrated period of 90 days with a minimum dollar amount. It will be a red flag for them if you cluster a few applications at the same time anyway. They can see where else you have applied. There is absolutely nothing wrong with working with one card! You do not want to spend more than you can afford in the end.

Another surprising statistic- Your credit score will go DOWN if you have multiple credit cards AND you close some of them. Available credit is a good thing for a credit score. Crazy! If you want to get rid of a card that has an annual fee, call them up and ask to be downgraded to one of their other cards that don’t have a fee. There is also a slight chance they will offer to waive your annual fee for another year. Nothing wrong with that! Be sure to consider all the available credit score travel hacking tips to lower your next vacation costs.

If you are the person who has many credit cards, look at Award Wallet as a way to organize it all. It will keep track of your balances, notify you when balances change and keep track of when you are approaching expiration on reward points. Do not let any expire! If you are getting close to an expiration date, call the program up and see how you extend it. Sometimes it is as easy as using your credit card if it has been left dormant and has not been used in awhile.

Solid credit rewards planning is crucial to have the ultimate value travel experience. If you follow these concepts there is no reason to pay for flights or hotel rooms. Don’t splurge and remember to use the reward points cautiously and they will last into multiple travel opportunities. All you are doing are using your credit cards to pay for things you normally spend on. Have large payments like car insurance or car payments? Buying a big screen TV or a computer anyway? Use your card and hit your minimum spend easily.

Why Should You Get A Travel Card?

Before you apply, you may be wondering why you should get a travel credit card. With these cards, you can earn extra miles or points on all your travel related purchases. Eventually, you can use all your accumulated points for free flights, hotel rooms, or other transportation expenses. In fact, you may also be able to enjoy premium lounge access and free baggage expenses. This way, you can save money on  the Las Vegas Strip, or wherever else you may be traveling. Surely, consider why you should get a travel rewards credit card.

DISCLAIMER: None of these strategies are good for people who cannot pay in full and on time each month. It defeats the purpose to pay finance charges which offsets any benefits you will be receiving. Late fees will kill you as well. Use credit responsibly and make it work for your post covid travel dreams!

Visit Albuquerque: The Hot Air Ballooning Capital Of The World

With clear blue skies, mild weather, and light winds, Albuquerque New Mexico has become coined the world’s hot air ballooning capital. The New Mexican capital offers immaculate flying conditions and spectacular birds eye views for balloon flights year-round. Any hot air balloon pilot will tell you that reasonable air temperature and wind are the two key components to successful flight. New Mexico’s immaculate conditions ensure that scenic, smooth balloon flights are always a feasible task. Peaceful, breathtaking, hot air ballooning in Albuquerque, New Mexico is one of the best ways to make the most of your slow travel vacation. Read on to learn more about bird’s eye views in Albuquerque New Mexico: the world’s hot air ballooning capital.

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

If you are looking to catch spectacular sights and bird’s eye views, be sure to visit Albuquerque during the International Balloon Fiesta. Every year, the International Balloon Fiesta takes place as a nine-day festival during the first full week of October. During this period of the year, the National Weather Service predicts that Albuquerque’s wind and temperature are at the most optimal conditions during October. The weekend morning mass ascensions is one of the fiesta’s most popular attractions. During this festivity, two waves of beautiful balloons are launched immediately following sunrise. Many years, there is over 500 balloons in the air. If you make it to Albuquerque early, you’ll find plenty of delicious Native American travel food in the area.

Visiting The International Balloon Fiesta

For the best bird’s eye views, you need to strategically plan your visit to the international balloon fiesta. The annual celebration is one of the best cultural attractions Albuquerque has to offer. Every year, the fiesta takes place in Balloon Fiesta Park. The park is conveniently located on the North Side of Albuquerque. Beware that there is often huge traffic jams leading up to the event. If you plan on driving, be sure to leave extra early.

Once you arrive, be prepared to pay for parking. Depending on congestion, parking is roughly $10 to $15. To save yourself the hassle, the fiesta additionally offers a park-and-ride. This way, you can save the fuel and time from driving your own car. Park-and-ride tickets are often $15 when purchased in advanced, or $22 if you pay when the bus arrives. Before you book your trip to the hot air ballooning capital of the world, be sure to plan your visit to the International Balloon Fiesta.

Be Prepared For Your Flight

To truly experience and witness spectacular bird’s eye views of Albuquerque New Mexico, you need to be prepared for your flight. A hot air balloon ride is like no other experience. Before you disembark, there are several things to keep in mind. First, many travelers are concerned about the cost of hot air balloon rides. While hot air balloon rides can be expensive, there are several factors that go into determining your price. The actual balloon and basket is very expensive, balloon pilots must be FAA certified, and there are an abundance of additional fuel costs you must budget for. Most balloon rides cost roughly $175 for adults, with slightly lower fares for kids. If you are able to set a reliable budget, an Albuquerque hot air balloon ride promises a spectacular experience and breathtaking bird’s eye views from start to finish. If you want to experience similarly incredible experiences, but are located on the East Coast, be sure to check out Louisville and Lexington Kentucky.

Albuquerque Balloon Rides

Some of the best hot air balloon rides in Albuquerque feature sights of the sunrise with views of the Rio Grande. These are unique views that can only be seen from the southwest destination of a New Mexico roadtrip. If you are traveling with friends and family, you can book a private balloon ride with an experienced pilot. Of course, you want to choose a company that has certified and experienced ballooning professionals. Additionally, you should consider the seasons for your balloon ride. In Albuquerque, one of the local favorites includes the seeing the fall colors and trees from a higher vantage point. These are all great rides to experience in New Mexico.

Dress Appropriately

Dressing appropriately for your Albuquerque hot air balloon adventure is imperative to avoid common travel mishaps. Many travelers make the inevitable mistake of not dressing warm enough. Without the proper clothing, you will be cold the entire flight, and unable to appreciate the breathtaking bird’s eye views. Many balloon pilots recommend dressing in multiple layers, even when the weather is wrong. Within your layers, be sure to select a pair of extremely warm gloves. At the same time, you will want to bring a hat and scarf to protect yourself from the wind at high altitudes. In preparation for your New Mexico vacation, be sure to dress appropriately.

More Hot Air Balloon Sightseeing Attractions

On your visit to Albuquerque, there are a number of additional hot air balloon sights to take in. One of the most popular is the Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum. The famous museum boasts culture, science, sport, history, are, and spectacle of hot air ballooning. Visit the International Balloon Museum to learn more about balloons in war, space, recreation, air sports, and around the world flights. The museum also has a number of specialized exhibits dedicated to the science and engineering that make hot air balloons fly. Once you have had your fill, check out some locations in New Mexico where you can experience American Indian culture and Native American travel food. Be sure to check out some more hot air balloon sightseeing attractions on your visit to Albuquerque.

Experienced Albuquerque Hot Air Balloon Inspired Cuisine

When you visit Albuquerque’s Hot Air Balloon Festival, you need to explore some balloon inspired cuisine. With New Mexico becoming a major hub for the local craft brewing scene, several breweries prepare special themed beers for the the balloon festival. When you visit, be sure to try local favorites like “True Horizon” at High & Dry, or “Mass Ascencion” at Ex Novo. These special edition drinks come served in a souvenir pint glass with hot air balloon logos. If you are a dessert lover, be sure to stop by Rude Boy Cookies for some of their special order hot air balloon themed cookies. Remember to plan ahead if you do have any allergies. One of the easiest ways to do so is to use a food allergy and dietary translation card for your upcoming trip.

What Else To Do In New Mexico

Before you leave the Land Of Enchantment, there is plenty of additional things to do and see in New Mexico. Some of the top attractions include Carlsbad Caverns and White Sands National Park. Plus, the Bandelier and Petroglyph National Monument are additionally great attractions to see. In addition, there’s plenty of incredible Santa Fe tours and museums to explore. Certainly, consider what else there is to do and see when you visit New Mexico.

There are several incredible, balloon themed attractions to see when you visit Albuquerque New Mexico. Because of the amount of balloon aviation culture and history in Albuquerque, the New Mexico capital is often referred to as the hot air balloon capital of the world. When you visit New Mexico, you need to visit the International Balloon Fiesta that occurs every October. Be sure to strategically plan you visit to the annual hot air balloon fiesta so you don’t pay any ancillary travel fees. Before you disembark, you need to prepare for your flight, and especially, dress appropriately. Finally, be sure to check out some more hot air balloon sightseeing attractions that Albuquerque has to offer. Consider the points mentioned above to learn more about bird’s eye views in Albuquerque New Mexico: the world’s hot air ballooning capital.

Ready To Experience New Mexico?

Ready to experience the best New Mexico offers? Take the time and overspending out of vacation planning. Sit back, relax, and let Grasshopper Greg bring you up to speed with the information.

Grasshopper Greg’s team’s advice is savvy, dependable, and thorough. Whether you are visiting New Mexico as a solo-traveler, with a loved one, or on a family vacation, they offer an up-to-date, detail- and tip-rich commentary on the breathtaking and iconic sights of Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Taos, Los Alamos and the terrific surrounding towns. They’ll introduce you to restaurants, off-the-beaten-path attractions, nature spots and tours that few tourists are aware of.

Grasshopper Greg’s Value Travel Guide to New Mexico is the perfect guidebook for those looking for insider tips to make the most out of their visit there and to its surroundings. Complete with detailed maps and concise descriptions, Value Travel Guide to New Mexico will help you plan your trip with ease.

So whether you’re going to see the world-class art exhibits, museums and hot-air balloon experiences in Albuquerque, heading to the 19 Pueblos in New Mexico, deciding whether to eat red or green chile, taking the amazing turquoise trail from Albuquerque to Santa Fe, enjoying unmissable experiences in Santa Fe tours, Taos or Los Alamos, visiting tribal communities or celebrating over 30 incredible festivals with them that locals participate in, this is the book for you. This is the most “to-the-point” but also, comprehensive guide to many parts of New Mexico you’ll find.

Value Travel Guide to New Mexico

Stuck In India During A Global Pandemic: A Blessing In Disguise

On occasion we will feature guest posts from other travelers. It is always good to get other perspectives in the world of slow travel! If you enjoy it, please subscribe to Karlie’s website to follow her future adventures!

What began as a journey of spirituality and self discovery while traveling abroad, suddenly had turned into a nightmare. Within 48 hours I went from happily exploring India, to being stranded in the midst of a global pandemic. Something I could have never imagined possible, and certainly was not prepared for. However, I am now in fact grateful for this experience. In this post I will highlight the situation of Covid-19 in India, how it is affecting people here, and my rollercoaster of a ride through it all. I will also discuss how even in the worst situations it is possible to find a positive outlook, and to create a sense of community with people who are much different than you.

I first arrived in India in January 2020. Since then, I completed my 200 hour yoga teacher training in Rishikesh for one month and was truly one of the most pivotal and liberating experiences of my life. Allowing me to not only deepen my physical practice, but to learn lessons in which I will carry with me always. Such as to understand the importance of discipline, how to become more aware/present in each moment, and how to lead a life fueled less by one’s ego.

After my yoga teacher training, my lovely friend Gina from Germany spontaneously decided to join me on an amazing three week adventure in India. During this time, we had the best time together as we traveled to various cities. Stopping in: Delhi, Agra, all throughout the state of Rajasthan, with our final stop being in Goa. From here, Gina would soon go back home to Germany.and I would continue traveling to Sri Lanka. Little did I know however, that this would soon all change very quickly.

Should I Stay Or Should I Go?

While Gina and I were having the times of our lives checking out cultural attractions and landmarks in Rajasthan, things started shifting. Coronavirus had spread across the globe. Progressing at a rapid pace, many countries began to close their borders. It was then, that India finally started to become aware of the severity of the situation. By March 18th, we flew from Udiapur to Goa as planned, shocked by how completely empty airports were. Informed two days later that India was closing its borders on March 22nd; followed shortly after by a nationwide lockdown. Leaving us with a mere 48 hours to plan our future. This news obliterated my future travel plans to Sri Lanka, and had to cancel my flight. Left with the decision if I should go back home to the US or try to wait things out in India. I was completely torn. I then received a notification from my travel insurance, stating that they would help cover the cost of return flights home for members under their political evacuation policy. Therefore, I decided to go home as it was the safest and most logical option for me at the time.

Change of Plans

On the contrary, I soon came to find that the universe had other plans in store for me. As my flight was cancelled the day of. Also, India’s borders were closing the following day, so I was out of time to book another flight home. I then came to the realization that I was in fact stuck in India in the midst of a global pandemic. Something I thought I would never say.
I tried to stay calm as I unpacked my bags and prepared for what lied ahead. I extended my stay at my hostel in Palolem, Goa from the 22nd of March until the April 1st. However, the next day, I was informed that my hostel was “forced” by the government to shut down. Requiring all guests to leave the following morning. Luckily, I was to book a cheap double room in Calangute with three other people.

24 Hours From Hell

The problem was that all public transportation was closed, and Calangute was a two hour car ride away. Out of desperation, we turned to Anoop. A man staying at our hostel for a ride as he had previously rented a car. Which was both a big help as well as a big headache, as this man was crazy. However as they say, “desperate times call for desperate measures”. So there we were: two indian men, a man from Germany, a Romainan woman, and myself stuffed into a tiny car. It was a long, bumpy, and scary ride. Encountering two police road blocks along the way, but we finally made it to Calangute 4 hours later.

Upon arriving, the people who owned the building took one look at our group seeing that there were three foreigners. Immediately declining us accomodation past 1 night as it was a risk. I then remembered I had previously spoken with a manager at a hostel in Calangute. He is a friend of a friend, and offered for me to stay if needed. It also happened to be right down the road, so my friend Vanket and I immediately set out to go talk to him in person . We were told that if we were able to get a medical clearance and got an ok from the police; then maybe we could all stay there.

Feeling hopeful Vanket and I were walking back to our temporary accommodation. We then realized we had not eaten all day. Vanket went into a restaurant to ask for food, but then was thrown out. Arguing with a man about entering private property during the lockdown. Things started getting physical, and then suddenly six other men immediately ran outside and all started ganging up on him. For the first time during all of my travels, it was this moment that I felt complete fear. As I stood there frozen in utter shock of what to do. Luckily, it only lasted a minute or so and Vanket was not severely hurt. We spent the rest of our night filing a report with the police. Obvious to us all that at this point we had hit rock bottom.

Safety At Last

The next morning however, things started to look up. We were soon able to find a hospital and get our medical clearances. The only thing left to do was to convince the hostel to let us all stay there. Although extremely hesitant, they finally allowed us to stay there as they saw how desperate we truly were. Finally after a stressful 24 hours, we were able to relax.
After the initial craziness of lockdown, things for me have been much better. I have everything I can ask for right now: good health, basic necessities, and a safe place to stay. These past six weeks during quarantine have given me much needed time to slow down, practice yoga, meditate, read, spend some time by the beach, and work on my blog. I have also created strong bonds with the other people staying at my hostel, who have become like a second family to me.

In addition, I am extremely fortunate to be located within a “green zone” in Goa, India where there are currently zero active cases of Covid-19. Therefore, Goa is now in a state of relaxation where business, public transportation, and travel within the state are open. This is truly a blessing, as things feel somewhat normal again.

Moving Forward

As for most people, it is still difficult to plan for the future at this time. The lockdown is currently still active and there is a high chance of extension. Countless individuals are facing a horrific reality as they have lost their jobs, are struggling to find food, and/or homeless. I will patiently wait in Goa until lockdown is over and from there make travel plans accordingly.
“Two things define you: Your patience when you have nothing and your attitude when you have everything.”

Never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined being in India during a global pandemic, however it has worked out for the best. The experience opened me up to tons of new cultural attractions. Everything we experience has a purpose behind it, and I truly believe that I am exactly where I need to be in this moment. Things in life will happen that are out of our control, but we always have a choice in how we let it affect us. Therefore, I have decided to keep a positive outlook on my situation, and focus on finding gratitude for the simple things in life. I am hopeful that things in the world will start to get better soon, and look forward to traveling again. Until then I will relish in living slowly, and use this time to focus within.

https://exploringeducator.com

Namaste! I’m Karlie- a certified educator and yoga instructor. In 2018 I left my hometown in the midwest USA to pursue my dream of exploring the world. Where I first spent a year in Saigon, Vietnam teaching kindergarten. Afterwards, I decided to shift my direction in order to continue traveling full time as I follow my passion for yoga and holistic health. I have created my blog- Exploring Educator to share my experiences while traveling. In addition to discussing topics related to holistic health, conservation, and education. My mission is to live/travel mindfully and to help empower others do the same!

Follow Karlie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karlieclark5/

6 Ways To Save Money On The Las Vegas Strip Downtown

There are several ways to economically experience the Las Vegas Strip. As one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, visiting Las Vegas can be incredibly expensive. Luckily, if you take the proper steps to appropriately plan, you can experience the best Las Vegas restaurants, shows, and famous nightclubs. Following the proper steps ensures you are still able to experience all that Las Vegas has to offer, only while saving money along the way. If you are interested in how to experience Vegas like a high-roller, read on to learn about how to save money on the Las Vegas Strip.

Getting To Las Vegas

When visiting Las Vegas, you need to find the most economical, yet comfortable way to get to the city. As a popular tourist destination, flight prices to Las Vegas can become incredibly expensive with changing demand. Before you book tickets, there are several factors to consider. Try never to fly into Las Vegas on a Friday, this is traditionally when the prices are the highest for leisure weekend travelers. Historically, the cheapest day to fly has been on Tuesdays. Flying to Vegas, the cheapest flights are generally those early in the morning or very late at night. If you live in an area surrounded by multiple airports, be sure to check fares flying out of each. At the same time, research flight prices and itineraries offered by several different airlines. Certainly, ensure that you avoid hidden air travel fees. To make the most out of your affordable Las Vegas travel, be sure to thoroughly consider the price of getting to the city.

Hotels & Resorts

Visiting Las Vegas on a value travel trip, you need to immediately consider your lodging options. While unfavorable for many, look to visit Las Vegas midweek if you can. Generally, Tuesday and Wednesday are the cheapest days to stay in Vegas. At the same time, you need to consider the time of year when you are visiting. Las Vegas is home to major business events, sporting games and music festivals that largely impact the price of lodging. Some of the largest annual conventions are the National Association of Broadcasters in April, the World of Concrete in February, and the Men’s Apparel Guild in February and August. Even more, you need to consider lodging accommodations that are slightly farther from the Strip. While the area is less central, nightly hotel rates are significantly cheaper. Many visitors even appreciate the quiet and reduced congestion after a long day in the city. 

Restaurants

To successfully experience Las Vegas affordably, it is essential to cut out unnecessary dining expenses when possible. Las Vegas restaurants can become incredibly expensive while traveling with a food allergy. Whenever possible, look to consistently research and take advantage of Las Vegas restaurant deals. Look up happy hour menus, pre-theater options, and reverse happy hour deals. Many large hotels and resorts operate affordable buffets and food courts. When you do eat out, look for restaurants that offer discounts for teachers, AAA members, local residents, students, or veterans. When you visit Las Vegas, be sure to cut out unnecessary dining expenses whenever possible. 

Casinos

When visiting Las Vegas, casinos are likely where you will spend the most money. Beware that it can be very easy to lose track of your money when visiting Las Vegas, especially in the casinos. Be sure to take a cautious approach when gambling and always monitor your finances. To encourage guests to keep playing, Vegas casinos are often filled with dozens of freebies. Before you sit down at any tables, be sure to walk around and check out what there is to offer. Checkout the Bellagio Conservatory, Caesars’ Fall of Atlantis Show, the Flamingo’s wildlife habitat, the painted Venetian ceilings, as well as the Mirage Aquarium and Atrium. Whenever possible, try not to spend money gambling. You can even find free Las Vegas casino lessons at various locations throughout the city. Remember that the house always wins. If you have leftover money, spend it at Las Vegas’s famous shows, restaurants, and alternate attractions. If you do insist on gambling, be sure to sign up for a player’s card to reduce possible expenses.

Shows

When visiting Las Vegas, the world-famous shows are a major component of your travel expenses. Reducing your entertainment expenses can have a significant impact on your Las Vegas travel costs. Luckily, most Vegas hotels and casinos offer some form of free entertainment. Be sure to check out the world-famous Bellagio Fountain Show as well as the Mirage’s Volcano Eruption Display. At the same time, check out coupon websites to find special deals for 2-for-1, 50% off, and more on Las Vegas shows with Tix4Tonight. Take the same approach to buying tickets at the WillCall club in NYC. Many hotels in the nearby area even provide you with local coupon books upon check in. When you visit Las Vegas, be sure to trim your expenses by cutting out unnecessary expenses on shows.

Tourist Attractions

While Las Vegas is widely known for its shows, gambling, and nightlife, there are dozens of additional tourist attractions to see. When you visit, you need to experience Fremont Street, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, the Neon Museum, and the Mob Museum. Other notable tourist attractions include the Adventuredome Indoor Theme Park, the Big Shot Ride, and SkyJump at the Stratosphere Hotel. Of course, you can include some black history entertainment travel attractions too. Seeing all of these attractions can become incredibly expensive. To save money on the Las Vegas strip, consider purchasing an Explorer Pass. Available in various packages, the Las Vegas Explorer Pass allows you to customize experiences from over 30 attractions. This program is an excellent way to see all Las Vegas has to offer for an affordable price.

Discounts

Almost all activities in Las Vegas provide discounts. Most casinos allow you to sign up for a players card to track spending within the hotel or resort you are in. With these cards you can receive discounted or comped rooms, parking opportunities or entertainment based on your gambling activity. Additionally, various hotel chains and resorts offer discounts for military, educators, first responders and AARP/AAA members. In fact, all Las Vegas resorts offer constant deals, discount codes and sales. Furthermore, there are stands throughout the Strip that provide discounted tickets for shows and attractions day of. Discovering coupons, codes or other money saving opportunities can definitely help you to experience Las Vegas at a discounted rate.

While an expensive city, there are several ways you can still experience Las Vegas very economically. First, you need to consider how to reduce costs getting to the city. Consider the price of restaurants and dining throughout Las Vegas. At the same time, be sure to create a specific plan for the famous Las Vegas casinos. Moreover, you need to consider the best, affordable lodging accommodations conveniently located in Las Vegas. Furthermore, consider how to reduce entertainment expenses at some of Las Vegas’s world-famous shows. Consider the points mentioned above to learn about how to save money on the Las Vegas Strip.

The Most Beautiful South Rim Grand Canyon Viewpoints On Your Map

The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is home to some of the most breathtaking, jaw dropping lookout viewpoints in the United States. The Grand Canyon South Rim is where most visitors enter. It is conveniently located from nearby Phoenix, Flagstaff, and Sedona, Arizona.

With its central location, you can additionally find some of the best travel experiences around the Grand Canyon. This includes food, restaurants, and lodging accommodations surrounding South Rim.

There are two major hikes you can take to reach the Grand Canyon South Rim. First is the Rim Trail, which goes right along the top. You can also take the Bright Angel Trail. A slightly longer option, the Angel trail descends roughly six miles into the canyon.

Once you have chosen the best hiking trail, you can access some of the most beautiful lookout points in the world. Many of these scenic South Rim viewpoints are 100% free, making them the ultimate stop for your value travel vacation. Read on to learn about the breathtaking scenic South Rim Grand Canyon viewpoints.

Zuni Point

Zuni Point is an incredible lookout destination to take in the scenic Grand Canyon views. Beware that there are no signposts or designated climbing trail, often making Zuni Point slightly harder to find. If you are a traveler with a chronic illness, make sure you have the correct equipment in case you get lost. The commonly taken route is right in between mile markers 257 and 258. Here, the rim is just a couple of yards from the side of the road.

Similar to popular vantage spots like Moran Point, Zuni boasts spectacular views of the Red Canyon. Be sure to check out Zuni Point for some of the most breathtaking scenic Grand Canyon views.

Lookout Studio

Before you get your smartphone travel-ready for your Grand Canyon vacation, you need learn about Lookout Studio. Lookout studio has been a historical, breathtaking South Rim viewpoint since opening in 1914. The studio was originally designed by Mary Coulter, and is conveniently located near the Bright Angel Lodge.

Lookout studio is strategically built right up to the edge of the Grand Canyon. With its mindful positioning, you can witness jaw dropping, panoramic views of the Grand Canyon. You can even find a bookstore in the studio, filled with local works, souvenirs, and more. Be sure to make the hike to Lookout Studio for some of the best South Rim Grand Canyon viewpoints.

Mather Point

Mather Point is one of the most popular, spectacular, and commonly visited South Rim Grand Canyon viewpoints. The point is named after Stephen Mather, who was the first superintendent of the park. Mather is located at approximately seven-thousand feet of elevation. At this elevation, you can easily see roughly a quarter of the entire Grand Canyon. Certainly remember different ways to prevent altitude sickness.

Directly below your lookout point, is the canyon’s base, the Phantom Ranch. If you are driving down Desert View Drive, Mather Point is a must-stop. When you visit, be sure to look for famous rock figures like the Temple of Zoroaster and the Vishnu Temple. In your search for the most spectacular South Rim viewpoints, be sure to visit beautiful Mather Point.

Yavapai Point

Yavapai Point is another incredibly popular, must-see Grand Canyon South Rim viewpoint. Similar to Mather Point, Yavapai is one of the most popular and scenic Canyon destinations. One clear advantage of Yavapai point however, it is easily accessible by shuttle. Simply take the orange shuttle bus route and Yavapai is an easy trek for all travelers.

When visiting, Yavapai offers breathtaking, panoramic views from Desert View to Havasupai Point. The point is one of the best, and most scenic locations to see deep into the inner Grand Canyon. Here, you can see famous landmarks like the Colorado and even Phantom Ranch. Whether you are visiting the Grand Canyon on a family vacation, with friends, or as a solo-traveler, Yavapai point is a must. When you plan your scenic Grand Canyon route, be sure to make a stop at beautiful Yavapai Point.

Grandview Point

Any experienced traveler will tell you the importance of visiting Grandview Point on your trip to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Grandview Point, at approximately 7,500 feet of elevation, is the highest viewpoint across the entire South Rim. The trail to the point is conveniently located right off the Desert View Drive.

Before you visit, beware that the hiking trail can be fairly narrow and steep. However, if you make the trek, the view is certainly worth it. When you make the hike, you can see famous landmarks like Horseshoe Mesa, Shiva Temple, as well as the Rama, Krishna, and Vishnu Shrines. When you plan your trip to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, be sure to check out the famous, Grandview Point.

Ooh Aah Point

Ooh Aah Point is another amazing, scenic viewpoint along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. The famous Ooh Aah point undoubtedly has the best name of any Grand Canyon viewpoint. Similar to other famous spots like Mather, Yavapi, or Yaki, Ooh Aah point is located near Grand Canyon Village. To visit this breathtaking South Rim viewpoint, first take the Orange Line, Kaibab Rim Route of the Grand Canyon Shuttle. Get off once you reach the South Kaibab trailhead. From here, it will be a roughly one-mile downhill hike to the scenic Grand Canyon viewpoint. If you are spending time in this area, there are several tremendous Santa Fe tours and museums to hit, which is about a six-hour drive East.

Shoshone Point

Shoshone Point is a special viewpoint as it is not always advertised on park maps. It is a beautiful rock outcropping with more than an 180 degree view of the Grand Canyon. To visit Shoshone Point, start at the gate on Desert View Drive, just west of mile marker 246. It’s a mile in length and only has an incline of 100 feet. Continue through the wooded area covered in ponderosa pine. At the mile mark, you will reach a turn around loop where there are grills, picnic tables and bathrooms. Additionally, there is a covered pavilion that can be rented out for events. However, you do not need a permit to visit the overlook.

There are several must-see South Rim viewpoints when you visit the Grand Canyon. The best viewpoints and lookouts ensure you get the most out of your slow travel vacation to the South Rim Grand Canyon. Once you decided on the best hike to take, there are several amazing viewpoints to stop at. Be sure to check out jaw dropping points like Zuni and Lookout Studio. At the same time, check out some of the canyons world-famous, popular lookout spots like Yavapai and Mather Point. To get one of the highest views available on South Rim, be sure to also check out Grandview Point on your visit. As you plan your spectacular getaway, consider the points mentioned above to learn about the breathtaking scenic South Rim Grand Canyon viewpoints.