Ever tried making sense of Venice’s tourist taxes and ended up feeling like you’re stuck in a labyrinth of gondolas? You’re not alone. The city’s got more than one kind of visitor fee these days, and the rules aren’t exactly posted on every bridge. Most travelers do have to pay the required tourist taxes, but if you know the loopholes, you can dodge paying extra—or worse, paying when you didn’t ev... »
Ever dreamt of curling up under a cozy down futon, gazing out at a tranquil Japanese garden, but felt a little daunted by the idea of booking a ryokan without knowing Japanese? Good news: you can absolutely book your dream ryokan online in English—even if you can’t say more than “arigato.” I’ve spent more time than I care to admit swapping emails and wrestling with translation apps, but these days... »
Dreaming of volunteering abroad, but those fees have you second-guessing? You can absolutely volunteer overseas for free and make a real impact—if you know where to look and how to spot the right opportunities. From my own backpacking days in South America, I’ve learned that a bit of creativity and a can-do attitude can open doors you never expected. »
Thinking about taking your furry friend from the UK to the EU? You can’t just grab a pet passport and hop on a train like you used to. Now, every border crossing means your pet needs an Animal Health Certificate from your vet—even if your pup’s practically got their own Eurostar points. It’s a bit of a hassle, but honestly, knowing the rules ahead of time saves you a world of trouble. »
Ever thought about exploring Spain at a slower, more rewarding pace? Spain by train lets you move gently, really soaking in the landscapes, and gives you time to feel each city and village you pass. Slow travel in Spain by train isn’t just about landmarks—it’s about stories, flavors, and memories that stick with you. »
When you’re planning a trip across Europe, weighing the bus against the train isn’t just about comfort or price—it’s really about your impact on the planet. Trains almost always leave a smaller carbon footprint than buses for the same journey in Europe. Most travelers don’t even think about this until they start plotting out routes—at least, that was true for me the first time I backpacked f... »
Hiking in Madeira isn’t just something to tick off your list—it’s a full-on sensory adventure. You’ll catch the scent of wildflowers, watch clouds race over green peaks, and stumble onto coastal views that honestly don’t look real. If you’re wondering when to visit, aim for late spring to early autumn—April through October is when the trails dry out and the weather stays mild, but not sweat-induci... »
Losing your passport in another country? That’s a gut-punch, isn’t it? I’ve felt that awful drop in my stomach before—once at a sleepy train station in Eastern Europe, and I’ll admit, panicking made everything ten times worse. If your passport disappears abroad, report it immediately and reach out to the nearest embassy or consulate—they’re your lifeline for a replacement. »
Ever found yourself daydreaming about working from a Caribbean island, with warm sand under your feet and turquoise water just a glance away? You’re definitely not the only one. Remote work visas in the Caribbean are making that dream a reality for so many, mixing work and paradise in ways that, honestly, I never thought would become so accessible. A bunch of Caribbean islands now roll out special... »
Thinking about traveling to Japan as a vegetarian? I still remember my first trip—hungry, a bit overwhelmed, and side-eyeing every sushi counter I walked past. You’ll absolutely eat well as a vegetarian in Japan if you come prepared and stay a little curious. From tucked-away vegan cafés in Tokyo to classic temple meals in Kyoto, there’s a surprising amount to discover—if you know where to poke ar... »