Solo Travel Tips

July 20, 2018 by

 

It’s back! That time of year where we all seem to get bitten by the “travel bug”. While group travel is fun, it isn’t always economically feasible for everyone. Hence why more people are opting to travel alone. If you are about to embark on a solo journey, here are a few things you need to know:

 

Preparation is key

As the saying goes, “by failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail”. Yes, the goal of travelling is to have a good time, but you also need to be ready and have a plan in plan in place in case things happen to go wrong. The three most common issues travelers face are illness, lost/stolen money, and cellphone roaming charges.

 

Getting sick

There are many reasons why you might fall ill while travelling but more often than not it will be food poisoning. The best way to avoid this is by researching the the places to eat first and reaching out to tour guides for tips on the best places to get your grub on.

 

If you’re truly worried about food poisoning while abroad, you can ask your physician to provide you with a prescription that can help to prevent or combat food-influenced illnesses.

 

Lost/stolen cash

This is quite possibly one of the worst things that can happen while traveling, especially if you are traveling solo! The best thing you can do in this situation is have your banking information memorized or written down in a safe place at the very least.

 

Cellphone charges

Remember, Wi-fi is your friend! Data charges can add up pretty quickly so, it would be best to ensure you can find a wi-fi connection. You should also download apps before you leave for your trip that will allow you to communicate with family and friends while abroad. The top apps for travel communication are:

 

  • Skype
  • WhatsApp
  • Facebook messenger

 

Lastly, remember to have fun! Regardless of of what happens during your trip you have to find the positive in every situation and allow yourself to have a good time.

 

Safe travels my friends!

Filed Under: Alexandra Arrivillaga, Travel Tagged With: , ,

Tips To Help You Rest Easy In Hotel Rooms

July 12, 2018 by

Traveling, whether the distances are long or short, may take a significant toll on travelers both emotionally and physically. And because of this, one of first joyful experiences of your trip might be the moment you are able to rest peacefully in your hotel room. Right? Not necessarily. Many travelers find it difficult to immediately achieve their desired level of rest and relaxation in a new environment. Here are a few tips that may help:  

Do Not Disturb
It would be most helpful to hang the Do Not Disturb tag provided by the hotel to as soon as your luggage is resting comfortably on your hotel room floor. Doing such will increase the chances of you being left alone by housekeeping and other hotel staff members.

Keep in mind, you will have to remove the Do not Disturb tag at some points during your stay. If housekeeping is unable to get into the room after sometime they will alert the front desk – just to make sure you are okay.  

Ever heard of an isolated room?
Call ahead and request to be placed in a room that is located away from potential noises and distractions such elevators, vending machines, ice machines, etc. These types of rooms are typically located at the end of a dead-end hallway.

It’s almost impossible to get your choice of room when booking through travel websites like Travelocity or Expedia – it would be best to book your room directly through the hotel’s website.

Get some air!
Most of the time the HVAC is off when you first enter the room. Do yourself a favor and turn it on. Matter of fact, don’t just turn it on be sure that it is not on “auto” mode to avoid the constant switching from off to on throughout the your day/night.

Ear plugs 
This may seem like a no brainer tip but every so often travelers neglect to utilize ear plugs to help them relax and/or sleep. Ear plugs are inexpensive, comfortable, and will help to block out any additional noises.

Give these tips a try and see if they work for you. Safe travels!

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Best Summer Travel Destinations

May 4, 2018 by

A summer vacation can be one of the best times of the year, however, it can also be one of the most expensive times to take a trip. Nonetheless, if you are able to save up the necessary funds to go on that dream trip this summer, it is sure to be a wonderful time, especially if you pick the right destination. No matter what you are interested in, whether it be woodsy mountains, beaches, and boardwalks, or even beautiful national parks, there’s a destination somewhere in the world just for you. So get your bags packed and get ready for this season with this list of some of the top summer travel destinations.

 

Paris, France

Also known as the City of Lights, Paris brings in millions of visitors every year due to its unforgettable ambiance. Plus, we can’t forget about its exquisite cuisine and vast art collections. From world-class museums to top-notch fashion and retail options, Paris boasts as a city of “many splendors” as described by Ernest Hemingway in his memoir, “A Moveable Feast.” Popular options include the famous Musee d’Orsay, shopping the biggest designers on the Champs Elysees, exploring the boutiques in Le Marais, or even taking in the breathtaking view from the top of the Eiffel Tower. Don’t forget to snack on some street crepes as you’re exploring either.

 

Santa Barbara, California

Just up north from Los Angeles, Santa Barbara hosts a much calmer and laid-back vibe with perfect temperatures all year round. Now, don’t let its calmer atmosphere fool you as there is more than plenty to do in the smaller California city. It is located at the base of the Santa Ynez Mountains and with its ocean breezes, downtown strolls, and various hiking opportunities, it proves to be an ideal summer destination. Santa Barbara is also home to a variety of beaches. Popular choices include One Thousand Steps Beach which despite its name includes fewer than one thousand steps, Butterfly Beach which is known to have one of the best sunsets in the area, and Arroyo Burro Beach County Park which is a great place to try out surfing.

 

Hamburg, Germany

Due to its critical role as a global trading port, Hamburg is recognized as “the Gateway to the Way.” However, most people would not realize this as they skip the northern German city to visit Berlin or Munich instead. Now, the city is looking to revitalize itself and get back on the map through their ambitious development projects to pay tribute to its past while also showcasing its forward-looking arts scenes. A key example of this is in the world’s new most exciting music venue, the Elbphilharmonie which is a wave-shaped, glass-covered building that sits on the banks of the River Elbe. This grandiose building also includes a 4.5-star hotel, 45 apartments, and a public deck that boasts 360-degree views of the city.

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Best Off-Leash Dog Parks in Boston

May 2, 2018 by

The city of Boston has a plethora of great paths for dog walkers, from the Fens to the Esplanade. However, most of them require the dog to have a leash. Now, sometimes, even a city pup needs a place where they can stretch their legs, sniff around and explore. As a dog owner, it is important to have a place where your dog can just roam free and enjoy themselves, so here are some dog parks in the Boston area that provide that opportunity for dogs to be off-leash.

 

Peters Park

In November of 2007, Mayor Menino hosted “The Grand Unleashing” at Peters Park which ushered in a new era of off-leash dog fun in the Boston area. Also known as the Joe Wex Dog Recreation Space, it is the city’s first sanctioned park where dogs are able to run, jump, and play around without the attachment of their owners. Located in the South End, it is also adjacent to gated tennis courts and playground for children.

 

South Boston Bark Park

Not only does the South Boston Bark Park offer a space for dogs to be off-leash, but they also boast a separate section for smaller dogs, so there is no need to worry about a smaller dog going up against a bigger dog. The park is also just off Carson Beach and offers plenty of shade for pets and their owners to enjoy even with the summer months approaching.

 

Fresh Pond Reservation Dog Park

Fresh Pond Reservation Dog Park allows you to take your pup for a nice and refreshing swim in one of their two on-site ponds. You have to be sure that your canine friend has a license from the City of Cambridge for them to participate. Once you receive that, there are endless opportunities for off-leash fun at the Reservation’s fenced-in area.

 

Danehy Park

The expansive, 50-acre Danehy Park was built on a former city landfill. This park is filled with active people like joggers, soccer players, and even roving performers during an annual carnival. In addition to that, the park offers a leash-free zone for dogs to run around and an on-site water spigot that will keep your canine cool and hydrated as they play.

 

Zero New Washington Dog Park

The Zero New Washington Dog Park was completed in 2010 and boasts all the bells and whistles a pup could need. The park includes tunnels, ramps, drinking fountains, agility walks and an abundance of spots where your dog can explore. There are also gazebos and benches on-site for owners to relax as their dogs play.

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5 Reasons to Travel Full Time

April 9, 2018 by

Traveling is an exciting way of spending time in different locations and learning more about the road. If you want to enhance your quality of life, traveling full-time can offer plenty of adventure. If you want to travel consistently throughout the year, there are a few reasons to take the step and start a new chapter in life.

1. Meet New People
You’ll get the chance to meet new people around the world while traveling full-time, which can allow you to network and make friends in different countries. Forming new friendships will allow you to learn more about other individuals and their lives in various cultures.

2. Fall in Love with the World
According to inspiringtravellers.com, it’s impossible to fall in love with the world as you explore different countries and have an adventure. You’ll desire to learn more about different countries that you haven’t yet explored and can break out of your shell as you have a greater appreciation for the world around you.

3. Learn the History
According to staheekum.com, you can only learn so much by reading textbooks but can absorb more information by visiting specific locations in person. You can ask questions and learn from tour guides and by conversing with the locals, which will allow you to have a memorable experience that makes it easy to share your wealth of knowledge with other people.

4. Face Your Fears
It can often be challenging to travel full-time due to your fear of being homesick or the unknown. Pushing yourself to explore different locations will allow you to face your fears and feel more comfortable with the world around you. You’ll become braver and will quickly learn how rewarding it is to try something new and get out of your comfort zone.

5. Learn About Wildlife
Whether you backpack through Europe or spend time camping in a national park, you can learn more about wildlife and can become more experienced with navigating the great outdoors. You’ll become an expert at starting a fire or learning how to ration your food to ensure that you can survive until reaching your destination. You can also learn about different animals that roam each setting and can see them in their natural habitat.

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The Top Three Business Schools In Boston

April 4, 2018 by

Thanks to its dozens of exceptional universities, Boston has earned the nickname “America’s College Town.” At least 250,000 college students from around the world call Boson home during the school season. Whether they’re looking for the arts, sciences, or business, prospective students are bound to find a perfect center of higher education in Bean Town. In this article, we’ll specifically look at a few of the best business schools Boston has to offer.

Harvard Business School
First off, let’s get the obvious choice out of the way. Harvard Business School is consistently ranked not only one of the best business schools in the USA, but also in the world. The roster successful graduates who’ve studied here is almost endless and includes the likes of Michael Bloomberg and Jamie Dimon. A few popular courses of study include e-commerce, leadership, and economics. Professors encourage their students to get real-world business experience with various hands-on seminars, small group work, and study abroad opportunities. Out of approximately 9,700 applicants every year, only about 900 gain acceptance into this prestigious school. An impressive 94 percent of HBS students are employed after graduation earning at least $135,000 per year.

Boston University Questrom School of Business
Boston University’s Questrom School of Business has a wide variety of specialized disciplines students can choose from. A few of the more popular study programs include statistics, international business, and marketing. Students enrolled in the MBA program are required to take core classes with a group of 50 students throughout their term. This is supposed to help students develop solid relationships and promote teamwork skills. Ambitious students can also sign up for a dual-degree program in other BU schools. Out of approximately 1,000 applicants, the Questrom School of Business accepts 400 full-time students each year. 65 percent of students find full-time employment after graduating from Questrom School of Business.

Boston College Carroll School of Management
Another excellent business school in Boston is Boston College’s Carroll School of Management. Key areas of study you can choose from at this school include finance, marketing, and portfolio management. Educators at the Carroll School of Management work hard to keep class sizes small and tailored to each students interests. BC also encourages its MBA candidates to get out of their ivory towers and volunteer in the community. Key areas BC’s business professors focus on include corporate finance, global management, and asset management. Out of about 650 applicants, 250 are admitted into BC every year and an impressive 73 percent of graduates find employment.

Filed Under: Alexandra Arrivillaga, Entrepreneurship, Teaching, Travel Tagged With: , ,

Tips to Planning a Valentine’s Day Getaway in Boston, Massachusetts

January 19, 2018 by

Boston, Massachusetts is a lovely New England metropolis that has a lot to offer residents and visitors. If you’re planning an intimate Valentine’s Day getaway in the Northeastern region of the United States, few destinations can rival Beantown in any way. There are so many terrific options available to couples who want to enjoy travel experiences that are full of romance.

Accomodations

If you’re looking for the quintessential romantic getaway, you need to make the right accommodations a priority. There are quite a few romantic lodging options in the city. There are historic bed and breakfasts that are chock-full of romantic appeal, first and foremost. There are also numerous high-end hotels that offer a lot in the way of romance. It doesn’t matter if you’re interested in quaint charm or in deluxe experiences. The city has no shortage of lodging options that are perfect for couples. Think about reserving a room at The Elliot Hotel or Taj Boston in the Back Bay. Clarenton Square Bed and Breakfast makes for another wonderfully romantic option.

Dining

Travel is all about checking out new sights and sounds. It’s all about exploring the best local cuisines as well. If you want your romantic getaway to be a success, you need to find all of the finest dining options available. If you want to relish a classic Italian meal as a twosome, you should think about planning a meal at Mamma Mia. This dining establishment is full of sophistication. It has a timeless Italian feel that can do wonders for your spirits as well.

Set the moosd
There are quite a few generally romantic settings in the city. Examples are the North End and the Charles River. If you want to spend quality time together, few things can top scenic Charles River walks. The Charles River makes a wondrous place for hand holding.
Pack your bags and use these tips to plan your romantic Valentine’s Day getaway and enjoy!
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Boston’s 5 Greatest Attractions

January 5, 2018 by
Boston, Massachusetts is known for its prestigious educational institutions, rich culture and history and friendly people in general. It also features a range of points of interest that all visitors need to check out.

1. Freedom Trail

Travel to this Northeastern United States city is nothing without some time on Freedom Trail. This downtown pathway takes people to 16 spots that are highly relevant to American history. It spans more than two miles total.

2. The Museum of Fine Arts

The Museum of Fine Arts is among the United States’ biggest museums. It’s actually home to 450,000 fascinating art pieces. If you’re enthusiastic about European and American masterpieces, you can’t say no to this Beantown tradition.

3. Copley Place

Do you want to blow off steam and unwind with a little bit of retail therapy in the city? Head to Copley Place in charming Back Bay as soon as possible. Copley Place is the name of a high-end shopping center. This mall consists of all types of boutiques, dining establishments and more.

4. The New England Aquarium

People who appreciate all forms of aquatic life won’t be able to turn away from the New England Aquarium. This popular destination has been around since the summer of 1969. People of all age groups are drawn to it. It’s a particularly beloved place among families with small and curious children. This aquarium can be a blast for people who want to learn all about turtles, penguins, rays, sharks and much more.

5. Fenway Park

Fenway Park, last but not least, is yet another essential local tourist attraction. This legendary baseball park has been a tradition in the metropolis for decades and decades. If you have a penchant for baseball and Americana, you can’t ignore Fenway Park during your Boston travel experience.

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3 Islands to Escape Winter

December 2, 2017 by
As the next blizzard blows in, and the roads in your locale ice over, you might be fantasizing about escaping to a tropical paradise until the snow melts. If white sandy beaches, palm trees gently blowing in the breeze, and brightly colored beverages are more your style than snow, you’re sure to love one of these beautiful island locations. Pack up your sunglasses and leave the parka in the closet, as you travel to one of these beautiful islands.

1) Key West, Florida
Rather than boarding a plane to travel to a distant land, you may just find yourself wintering on the Southern most island in The Florida Keys. Key West offers the ultimate collection of water sport adventure packages, all in the crystal clear water this area is known for. From swimming up close with dolphins to glass-bottom boat tours, you won’t run out of things to do during your stay in Key West, Florida.

2) Aruba
From extreme vacation adventures for those who need an adrenaline rush, to a romantic escape for two, Aruba has it all. The island’s population is made up of over 90 different nationalities, which makes it a favorite for the foodies who love exotic cuisine. Out of all the Caribbean islands, Aruba enjoys the most days of abundant sunshine, making it a top choice of those looking to enjoy the sunshine and beaches.

3) San Juan, Puerto Rico
Watching the sunset over the blue Caribbean water, with not a thought of snow in sight. is how you deserve to spend the winter. If you prefer a more exciting atmosphere, January can find you on a little street in Old San Juan, celebrating the San Sebastian Street Fiestas. Dancing, food and art can be enjoyed all night during this celebration, which draws together nearly 500,000 visitors and locals alike. Whichever type of vacation experience you prefer, spending the winter in 70 degree weather, beats shoveling snow, any day.

From the Florida Keys to the Caribbean, there is a perfect place for anyone who dreams of spending their winter on the beach soaking up the sun. The only problem is, which destination to visit this year!

Filed Under: Alexandra Arrivillaga, Travel Tagged With: ,

Packing Tips for Trips with Different Climates

November 22, 2017 by
Do you love to travel, but hate the packing part? Maybe it’s just the approach that messes up the ease of packing. It can be simple when you have tips to get you through the process in an organized and fun process.

Step One:

Determine the weather for the area where you are going. Choose pieces that are interchangeable. That allows you to pack light, but you will still have a variety of looks. Make sure you have layers of clothes. That way you can take off layers that you don’t need. Weather can change anywhere you go, so it’s best to be well prepared.

Step Two

You need plastic bags. These are the extra large ones. After washing and drying the clothes. Lay them flat on the plastic bag. Roll the plastic bag until you have a long roll. Carefully place this in your bag for your trip. It’s simple and your clothes will be fresh when you arrive.

Step Three

Use a travel suitcase or bag that is smaller than you would normally use. When things are packed tightly they are less likely to get wrinkled. You don’t want to overpack too tightly, but a good fit where there is no room to slide around should be the goal.

Step Four

Make sure that you have your toiletries with you. Call ahead to ask about which things you can pack and which ones you can’t. Take those with you in your carry-on. Be sure to take one pair of pajamas and one layer outfit in that carry-on. That way, you have packed well with any type of weather.

These tips will help you pack quickly and easily. That makes the whole process more fun. You might enjoy planning the wardrobe that you will wear to your new destination. That can take packing from dull to a fun process.

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