Eating 12 Grapes

In Spain, the last moments of each year are spent eating grapes—one for each chime of the clock during the countdown. These final seconds are often filled with laughter as Spaniards struggle to chew and swallow one grape after another, a task made even more difficult depending on how many drinks they’ve already celebrated with.

Make a Wish on Your Suitcase

Hopeful travelers can learn a lot from this tradition that occurs in many Latin American countries, most notably Ecuador, Colombia, and Mexico. Many believe that taking an empty suitcase for a walk around the block (or even leaving one by the door) will bring travel in the coming year. You might feel a little odd when your neighbors see you taking your suitcase for a walk, but they’ll be totally jealous when you’re on your way to the airport.

Baking a Coin into the Bread

In Greece, New Year’s Eve is celebrated by baking a traditional bread known as Vasilopita that comes with a special surprise: a “sweet coin” baked into the bread (or cake in some cultures). It’s a coin wrapped in tin foil and dropped randomly into the bread; whoever gets the lucky piece will have good luck for the next year. The tradition honors St. Basil, who came up with the idea to bake coins into bread when he knew the poor people of his church would be too proud to accept charity.

Throwing Stuff Out the Window

Heads up! If you plan to spend New Year’s Eve in Italy, you might want to find some cover because Italians like to ring in the new year by chucking dishware, appliances, and sometimes even furniture out the window. But it’s not just a lot of ruckus; the act symbolizes letting go of the past. By chucking their possessions out the window, Italians cast out the old troubles and welcome hope for a new year.

Wearing New Underwear

If you intend to welcome the new year in Brazil, you’ll have to follow a dress code. Brazilians traditionally wear white on New Year’s Eve, but that’s not all. They also believe you should wear brand new underwear and that the color of the underwear will represent what you wish to attract in the new year—yellow for money, green for health, and red for love.

Breaking Dishes

This tradition is best celebrated in its native countries, as it involves breaking plates against your neighbors’ doors. In countries like Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands, it’s popular to throw dishes against other people’s homes as a sign of good luck and camaraderie. In fact, the more pieces of broken glass you have on your door-step, the more well-liked you are!

Eating Seven Times

New Year’s Eve in Estonia never ends on an empty stomach. In this small Baltic country, they eat seven times to celebrate the new year. Eating so often is a wish for abundance and strength in the coming year, and seven is one of the country’s lucky numbers.

Dropping Ice Cream on the Floor

If your ice cream falls to the floor in Switzerland, there’s no need to be upset. In fact, the Swiss purposefully drop their ice cream on the floor on New Year’s Eve to bring on a year of abundance and (hopefully) more ice cream.

Ringing a Bell 108 Times

In Buddhism, it’s believed that there are a total of 108 earthly desires that cause suffering. At the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve in Japan, temple bells will toll 108 times—one for each desire. This ritual is called Joya-no-Kane, it’s all about purification and encouraging a fresh start for the new year.

Everything Is Round

In the Philippines, the new year is celebrated with roundness. Part of the fun of the day is coming up with 12 different round fruits—one for each month of the year. For Filipinos, roundness is a symbol of health and also signifies prosperity and wealth (because coins are also round). Women will often wear polka-dot dresses to add even more roundness to the big day.

Predicting the Future

On New Year’s Eve in Finland, people have a tradition of fortunetelling. They’ll melt small tin horseshoes in a pan and then pour the liquid metal into a bucket of cold water. The tin solidifies instantly when it hits the water, resulting in random shapes. The shapes are then interpreted to predict their future for the coming year.

Hitting the Walls with Bread

In Ireland, bad luck must be driven out of the house before midnight, and the quickest way to get bad spirits out of the house is apparently with a loaf of Christmas bread. The Irish will smack the walls and bang on the doors with bread to chase out the bad and welcome in the good spirits.

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Likewise, some holiday traditions that are celebrated in Europe may seem a little bizarre to outsiders. Here are some of the strangest holiday traditions from around Europe.

Krampus, Central Europe

In case the thought of a stranger (Santa) breaking into your house through your chimney weren’t creepy enough, Austria and other central European countries have given the mythological man a sinister friend—Krampus. Krampus tags along with St. Nicholas, and while St. Nicholas doles out candy to the good kids, Krampus’ job is to punish the naughty ones.

This demonic-looking character beats bad children with birch branches or kidnaps them in his sack and takes them away, never to be seen again.

If you want to experience the true terror of Krampus, watch this movie about him (after the kids are in bed).

Mari Lwyd, Wales

Knock, knock. “Who’s there?” A horse skull puppet, and it’s challenging you to a rap battle. This is the standard scene in Wales around the Christmas season, when groups accompany a person dressed up as a horse’s body with a (hopefully) fake skull on top and go door to door asking to come in via a rhyme. The people inside the house must come up with a better rhyme response in order to win. After the battle, the Mari Lwyd (which translates to “gray mare”) and group are allowed inside and given food and drink before they head off to the next door.

The Yule Cat, Iceland

I hope you’re not trying to roll up to your Christmas celebration in last year’s clothing. If you do, prepare to be eaten by the Yule Cat. Icelandic tradition says the Yule Cat (aka Jólakötturinn, if you’re on a first-name basis with the cat) will eat anyone who hasn’t obtained new clothing by Christmas. Imagining being nibbled at by an adorable kitten for your fashion crimes? Think again: The Yule Cat is a giant beast, one that’s large enough to see into the upper windows of your house (so he can check on your clothing).

Grýla, Iceland

In case the Yule Cat wasn’t terrifying enough, Icelanders also have to contend with Grýla, the Christmas witch. According to legends, Grýla lives up in the mountains, and her hobbies include taking advantage of the dark winter days to show up in villages and steal naughty children.

It’s not just children who should fear the Christmas witch—she allegedly also ate her husband when she got bored with him.

Grýla has been around since the 1300s, but according to Terry Gunnell, the head of the Folkloristics Department at the University of Iceland, she’s still out there living her best life in the mountains. Gunnell told the Iceland Monitor, “There’s a rumor concerning Grýla, that she’s dead and has stopped eating children. I think that’s nonsense, and that she’s living a great life in the mountains still eating her human sushi.”

Perchta, Germany and Austria

In America, if you’re bad, Santa brings you a lump of coal. In Germany and Austria, though, things get more punitive.  If you misbehave, Perchta, a two-faced witch, will put on her terrifying visage and slit open your stomach, stealing your organs and filling your belly with rocks and straw. If you’re good, she’ll put on her nice face and leave you a small silver coin and your organs intact.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2018. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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Don’t Assume That a Beach Is Clothing-Optional

Reading somewhere that a beach is clothing-optional does not mean that the beach is actually clothing-optional. Do your due diligence and ensure that the area is truly safe for your naked patronage. To get you started, the American Association for Nude Recreation supplies a short list of nude beaches in the U.S. (there aren’t many), while SmarterTravel has rounded up some of the world’s top nudist destinations.

And if you’re ever unsure as to whether a nude beach is a nude beach? Keep your clothes on. In many places, public nudity is a serious crime that could lead to a fine (or worse).

Don’t Forget to Research Naturist Resorts

Naturist resorts cater to completely clothing-free vacation seekers, so if you want to go all in (or off), consider these options rather than a one-time visit to a nude beach. From family-friendly campgrounds in the Poconos to luxe all-inclusives in the Caribbean, there’s likely a nudist resort option that suits your style and budget.

Rules at each of these resorts differ, and many are adults-only. As with any hotel stay, read the resort’s policies closely before you book.

At a Nude Beach? Don’t Stare

Once you’re on a nudist beach, don’t stare, gawk, point, or giggle. Obviously, you will be required to look at your fellow sunbathers at some point, whether greeting them or fetching their Frisbee from your beach towel. But play it cool: Most nude beach insiders insist that it’s easy, and that at a certain point, you simply stop noticing all the bare skin.

Can’t handle the realities of polite naked society? That’s okay, but stick to clothing-required beaches for the sake of everyone’s comfort.

Don’t Expect Too Much at Nude Beaches

Contrary to popular belief, most nude beaches are not sexy places ripped straight out of the pages of a Playboy Mansion memoir. Patrons come in all sizes, shapes, and states of physical fitness, and are far more likely to veer into dad bod territory than to look like Channing Tatum in the buff. So don’t expect models at a nude beach and then be disappointed when you see, well, normal humans in all their hirsute glory.

Don’t Take Pictures at a Nude Beach

A good rule of thumb: Never, ever take anyone’s photo without their permission. This goes for all tourist destinations—from nude beaches to theme parks to UNESCO World Heritage sites—but it’s especially true when the subject of your photo is naked. Always ask explicitly if you may take a photo and make sure photography is even allowed where you are. (Many nudist beaches prohibit it.)

Furthermore, even if you’re okay with someone snapping a pic of you, keep in mind that you have little control over where that photo ends up—from travel review sites to social media to less pleasant parts of the internet.

Don’t Go Naked in Certain Public Areas

Due to local regulations, many areas at nudist beaches or resorts may, in fact, require clothing, including parking lots, cafes, shops, and so on. Consult any posted signs regarding clothing-required venues and follow them closely. Pack a beach tote with readily accessible garments in case you need to suit up to use the facilities. Most nudist beaches and resorts require you use a towel to sit on public chairs as well.

Don’t Forget the Sunscreen

While this doesn’t fall squarely in the etiquette department, it’s still a critical piece of information to have at a nudist beach: Yes, those sensitive areas that are normally protected by swim trunks and bikinis will need a slather of sunscreen, preferably one that’s gentle on sensitive skin. Test it a few weeks before you hit a nude beach to ensure that you don’t end up with an unsightly rash somewhere that you definitely don’t want one.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2015. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

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Whenever you travel, you risk falling victim to travel scams. While such scams can affect anyone, knowing what to look for might help you avoid getting ripped off. You’re more susceptible to trickery in unfamiliar settings, after all, and scams usually have been perfected over years of trial and error.

The Most Bizarre Europe Travel Scams

Gelato in hand, you’re strolling down a street in Italy when suddenly, a woman starts loudly arguing with a street vendor. A crowd gathers as he accuses her of shoplifting. To prove her innocence, she starts to strip: Once she’s down to her underwear, the vendor apologizes, the woman leaves, and the onlookers disappear—but so have their wallets, thanks to a team of pickpockets who were working the show.

This is just one of the bizarrely inventive ways that European scam artists operate. The good news is that if you’re wise to their tricks, you can just marvel at their ingenuity. The sneakiest pickpockets look like well-dressed businessmen, generally with something official-looking in their hand. Lately many are posing as tourists with fanny packs, cameras, and even guidebooks.

No matter which country you’re in, assume beggars are pickpockets and any scuffle is simply a distraction by a team of thieves. If you stop for any commotion or show, put your hands in your pockets before someone else does (or, even better, wear a money belt).

Set-up scams are time-tested and popular. On the busy streets of Barcelona, Berlin, and Florence, you’ll find the shell game: Players pay to guess which of the moving shells hides the ball. It looks easy, but the winners are all ringers, and you can be sure that you’ll lose if you play.

The most rampant scams are more subtle, such as being overcharged by a taxi driver. Some cabbies will pretend to drop a large bill and pick up a hidden small one, then tell you that you didn’t pay enough. Others will select the pricier “night and weekend” rate on their meter, even on weekdays. To decrease your odds of getting ripped off, call for a taxi from a hotel or restaurant, or use your phone to order a rideshare instead. If you do hail a cab, choose one with a prominent taxi-company logo and telephone number. Either way, insist on using the meter, agree on a price up front, or know the going rate. If, for whatever reason, I’m charged a ridiculous price for a ride, I put a reasonable sum on the seat and say goodbye.

Whenever cash is involved, it pays to be alert. If someone offers to help you use a cash machine, politely refuse (the person wants your PIN code). If a cash machine eats your ATM card, check for a thin plastic insert with a little flap hanging out—crooks use tweezers to extract your card. Cashiers, and even bank tellers, thrive on the “slow count,” dealing out change with odd pauses in hopes that rushed tourists will gather up the money early and say “grazie.” Also, be careful when paying with large bills in restaurants and stores, and always inspect your change—in Italy, the now-worthless 500-lira coin looks like a two-euro coin.

Some thieves hang out at train-ticket machines, eager to assist you in buying tickets with a pile of your quickly disappearing foreign cash. And skip the helping hand from official-looking railroad attendants at the Rome train station. They’ll lead you to your seat, then demand a “tip.”

In Spain, women offer you sprigs of rosemary (as if in friendship) and then grab your hand, read your fortune, and demand payment. Don’t make eye contact, don’t accept a sprig, and say firmly but politely, “No, gracias.”

Just because someone looks official doesn’t mean they are. In Italy, “Tourist Police” may stop you on the street, flash bogus badges, and ask to check your wallet for counterfeit bills or “drug money.” You won’t even notice some bills are missing until after they leave.

Never open your door to “hotel inspectors.” One waits outside while the other comes in to take a look around. While you’re distracted, the first thief slips in and snags valuables off your dresser.

In Vienna, official-looking women decked out in long velvet capes roam famous sights, claiming to work for the opera house and offering to sell you tickets. The tickets are fakes, and the only seats you’ll be buying are the ones on the bus back to your hotel.

Common Travel Scams in Europe by Country

And there are still more travel scams to know about if you’re visiting Europe. Here are eight of the most common travel scams, organized by country where you’re more likely to encounter them. Study up so you don’t fall victim to “highway pirates” or bogus police officers on your next trip.

Italy, Puncturing Tires: Beware of “highway pirates” in Italy who will puncture your tires in a parking lot and follow you until you’re forced to stop. They will then pretend to help you while robbing you at the same time. If you do get a flat tire, be cautious about who offers to help you—especially around Naples—and never leave your valuables and luggage in your car.

France, False Petitions: Be wary of children who pretend to be disabled and claim to represent an accredited charity. They will ask for your signature—and then your money. Ignore them and report the scam to police. Organized scammers like this receive a 1 million euro fine in France.

Spain, Fake Entry Fees: Scam artists are posing with fake IDs at the Spanish border and asking for an “entry fee” into Gibraltar. There is no entry fee to pass through, so ignore anyone asking for money and keep your valuables out of sight.

Czech Republic, Impersonated Police Officers: In this grand scam, a group of “police offers” will appear and accuse you of committing a crime. They will ask to see your wallet and passport, which is against the law, so you should refuse and ask to be taken to the nearest police station instead. This will most likely make them go away. Be sure to report them to the local authorities after.

Hungary, Counterfeit Money: Taxi drivers and dingy currency exchange booths commonly pass on counterfeit bills to unsuspecting tourists. Make sure to exchange your money only at a bank or in the airport, and double check that the bills you receive are the correct currency.

Netherlands, Distraction Scams: Pay particular attention to this at restaurants in Central Amsterdam. Someone might come into the restaurant and either pretend to look for a friend or cause another distraction. Instead he or she will steal your bag right in front of you. Make sure you keep your possessions in your line of sight, and don’t leave bags or coats hanging on the back of your chair.

Croatia, Extortionate Bills: Some Croatian bars and restaurants—especially gentleman’s clubs—will add an unexplained surcharge to your bill, expecting you not to have enough cash. If you are short on funds, they’ll take you to an ATM and demand that you take out more money. It’s best to research restaurants, clubs, and bars before going, and ask your hotel (rather than taxi drivers, who may be in on the scam) for recommendations.

Poland, Phony Taxis: At airports and major tourist attractions in Poland, many unregulated drivers will pick up unsuspecting tourists and claim their meter is broken. Avoid this overcharge by only using official taxis; check for the name and number of the company on the car. Another way to check their legitimacy is by looking for a rate card.

We don’t mean to paint Europe as a dangerous place. In fact, it’s safer than America. Muggings in Europe are uncommon. Thieves want to separate you from your money painlessly. Europe travel scams are easy to avoid if you recognize them. But remember: Even the most vigilant traveler can get conned. If this happens, don’t let it ruin your trip. With the right attitude and lighter bags, you can still have a wonderful time.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It’s been updated to reflect the most current information. Rick Steves, Ashley Rossi, and Ed Perkins contributed to this story.

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Are you in agreement or are you misaligned with most of the traveling public? Travel site Kayak conducted a poll of the most hotly debated travel opinions to determine the Unspoken Rules of Air Travel.

Here’s what the survey found:

Cutting the Line Is Ok

About to miss your flight? According to Kayak’s survey, 57 percent of travelers will have sympathy for you (and will let you cut the line) if it’s the difference between making it to the gate in time or being left stranded.

Unattended Children Should Be Banned

Letting your kids run around the airport (or plane) freely in the hopes they’ll burn off some energy? 90 percent of respondents ask that you rein them in, voting that children shouldn’t be left unattended during travel.

Don’t Stand on the Moving Sidewalk

If your personal pet peeve is people who ride the moving sidewalks at the airport (rather than walking on it), you’re not alone—57 percent of travelers feel the same way. 

Just remember, moving sidewalks are a huge help to people with mobility issues—so try to extend some grace and patience when travelers aren’t walking on them. 

Clapping When the Plane Lands Is Annoying

Your fellow passengers ask you to hold your applause when the plane touches down. A close margin of 51 percent of flyers thinks this measure of appreciation is “pointless” because the pilots can’t hear you.

The Middle Seat Doesn’t Get Both Armrests

A surprising 57 percent of passengers have no sympathy for the person stuck in the middle seat, saying the armrests are up for anyone to grab. 

Reclining Your Seat is Acceptable

Go ahead and lean back (just please, do it the right way) next time you fly. A vast majority (88 percent) believe that the recline button is offered for a reason.

Leave Your Socks On

Fellow flyers don’t want to see (or smell) your bare feet. Seventy-six percent of passengers voted that people should keep their socks on during a flight.

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If this idea only makes the scenario better then these nine nudist destinations around the world are for you. They range from the hidden nudist villages to luxurious clothing-optional hotels—and they all offer the chance to strip away your worries… and your clothes.

Cap-d’Agde, France

Cap-d’Agde is the mecca of naturism. Described as the nudist capital of the world, this town doesn’t just have a nudist zone, it has an entire nudist village. Every single part of the Naturist Village is made for those who want to break free from the restrictions of clothing. Here, you can go about daily tasks like buying groceries and getting your hair done, all in the nude.

Because of the unique nature of the village, entrance is highly regulated, and visitors are required to fill in access forms to get permission for their desired length of stay. Once inside, it’s all about enjoying your natural self. But don’t think you’ll be able to share any part of your visit on social media: video and photography are quite restricted.

Where to stay: Stay at Natureva Spa to avoid having to leave the Naturist Village. It’s the perfect uninterrupted nudist vacation.

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Miami, Florida

Miami is a city for hedonism. Everything from the food to the nightclubs is meant to treat the senses—and the beach is no exception. Though there are many topless beaches in Miami, those who want to take it a step further can head over to Haulover Beach. This beautiful county park boasts one of the most popular public nude beaches in the U.S.

Joining in the fun is as simple as going into the fenced section and laying in the sand. If you visit in July, you can participate in the beach’s whimsical National Nude Recreation Week events.

Where to stay: The Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbor is about a mile from Haulover Beach, so you can cut down clothes-wearing time and get to beaching a la nude faster.

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Vera Playa, Spain

On the beautiful Coast de Almeria, Vera Playa has an entire naturist zone. This zone includes long strips of beaches, as well as numerous apartments and resorts, promenades, and restaurants. If you wish to, you can spend your whole vacation without putting on clothes— nudity in any part of the naturist zone is not just encouraged, but expected.

Where to stay: Vera Natura Apartments provides a nudist home away from home with beachfront access within the naturist zone.

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Little Beach, Maui, Hawaii

If you’re more about the experience than the amenities, this is the place for your nudist within. Little Beach in Mākena State Park does not offer many facilities, but provides the experience of connecting with nature. To get there, you must cross a rocky footpath leading to a splendorous ocean view. Swimming and wildlife watching are the preferred activities at this secluded clothing-optional beach.

Where to stay: Hotel Wailea provides a luxurious and relaxing stay in Maui. Car rental is available for guests who wish to drive around this beautiful island.

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Ontario, Canada

The eastern province of Ontario has a number of nudist resorts that offer lakes and forests instead of beaches. The secluded nature of these resorts means naturists can be themselves in comfort. In communal spaces, guests are encouraged to interact and connect with like-minded people.

Where to stay: Bare Oaks Naturist Family Park is all about embracing the freedom of nudity and the beauty of nature. Spend your days hiking in the woods, swimming in the lake, and paddling through streams, all au naturel. 

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Florianopolis, Brazil

Praia do Pinho is one of those destinations you have to work for. Cradled by mountains, this secluded beach on the coast of Brazil is protected from fame by its relative inaccessibility. You’ll probably need a car, but it’ll be worth it to be in on this naked secret.

Where to stay: Girassois da Lagoa Guesthouse offers a homey waterfront experience. It’s the perfect place to set up base when you’re not out looking for hidden beaches.

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Byron Bay, Australia

The Australian nudist community tends to flock to Byron Bay. The clothing-optional sections at Tyagarah Nature Reserve and Belongil Beach offer chill vibes and fun events like the annual Anzac Day Nude Cricket Match. Even if you can’t make it to the event, no worries—nudist volleyball games are as regular as sunny days here.

Where to stay: Wake up to the sound of the ocean at Bluewater on the Beach. Located right on Belongil Beach, naked fun in the sun is never far.

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Sylt, Germany

Spending your precious vacation time getting to the one nude beach that’s close to you can be pretty frustrating. Luckily, Germans don’t waste time, and don’t want you to, either. Perhaps this is why the island of Sylt has made every single one of its beaches clothing-optional. The freedom of having choices coupled with no naked time wasted make for a perfect vacation.

Where to stay: Enjoy comfort steps away from the beach at the Tui Blue Sylt.

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Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2018. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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Caobao Road Subway Station, Shanghai, China

Next stop: nightmares. If you’re ever taking the subway from Shanghai’s Caobao Road Station (nicknamed “Ghost Station” for a reason), keep an eye out for fellow passengers who might not be what they seem. Ever look around at your fellow morning commuters and think you’ve stumbled onto the set of The Walking Dead? You might not be so far off! At this station, which is located near a mortuary, witnesses have claimed to see an otherworldly spirit drag a waiting passenger off the platform and onto the tracks in front of an oncoming train. Other spooky reports have included the appearance of a girl in red and the sound of a woman laughing in a supposedly empty station.

St. Andrews Old Course, St. Andrews, Scotland

Missed your putt? At St. Andrews Old Course, you can blame it on a ghost. The Martyrs’ Monument, built in memorial of five Protestants who were burned at the stake, sits behind the course’s 18th hole, and is allegedly haunted. It’s also rumored that the ghost of golfer Tom Morris, who died after falling down a flight of stairs at the New Club, lingers around the course.

The White House, Washington, D.C

Former Presidents and White House staff have reported that 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue is haunted. Famous deceased souls such as Abraham Lincoln, Abigail Adams, Andrew Jackson, and Dolley Madison have all apparently been spotted hanging around the property. Even the formidable Winston Churchill reportedly refused to sleep in the Lincoln Bedroom out of fear that the former President would return to reclaim his room.

Port Boca Grande Lighthouse, Gasparilla Island, Florida

Stick to visiting the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse in the daylight, as workers have claimed to see ghosts here after dark. A young girl reportedly plays and laughs inside the lighthouse, while outside, the headless ghost of Josefa (a Spanish princess decapitated by a pirate) enjoys long romantic walks on the beach.

HMS Queen Mary, Long Beach, California

The HMS Queen Mary was launched in 1936 as a luxury liner, but she was commissioned into a troopship known as the Grey Ghost during World War II. After making more than 1,000 transatlantic crossings, the ship was retired in 1967. Unfortunately, it seems that some ghosts decided to buy only a one-way ticket for this cruise and refuse to disembark. Spirits in old-fashioned swimsuits are seen wandering the pool decks, leaving wet footprints from a pool that no longer holds water. Unexplained sounds are often reported as well. See for yourself, if you dare, on one of Queen Mary‘s paranormal tours.

Moon River Brewing Company, Savannah, Georgia

You’ll never drink alone at the Moon River Brewing Company—because there will always be a spirit there to share a spirit or two with you. This beer house’s building dates back to 1821. In its early days as a hotel, men were reportedly killed in bar fights (including a Yankee who was allegedly beaten to death by unsympathetic Southern locals), and their ghosts are still hanging around their favorite old haunt. Barflies (the most reliable story source) report seeing bottles fly through the air and being touched or even punched by apparitions. Keep an eye out for Toby the ghost, who hangs out in the billiard room waiting for a bar brawl.

Winchester Mystery House, San Jose, California

Sarah Winchester, heiress by marriage to a rifle fortune, lost her daughter and spouse to disease. With $20 million in the bank, Winchester poured her efforts into building a house that would become one of the creepiest in the world. Via nightly seance, Winchester enlisted the help of friendly ghosts to design the house and protect it from evil spirits. With no blueprints or building inspectors, the house became a twisted labyrinth of rooms and endless hallways. Winchester was never satisfied and had rooms torn down and remodeled for 38 years. Don’t wander off on a tour, or you could get lost in the house for hours. Visitors have claimed they temporarily went blind, felt icy breezes, and saw ghosts.

Bhangarh Fort, Rajasthan, India

Want to really get off the tourist track in India? Pay a visit to the Bhangarh Fort—after dark. It’s rumored that anyone who ventures out to the fort at nighttime never returns. Legends abound about this haunted place—including one that claims an evil sorcerer put a curse on the site’s former residents, dooming them to haunt the area for eternity.

Wreck of the Alkimos, Australia

Does a cursed ship’s bad luck sink with it when it capsizes? Apparently not, according to those who claim the wreck of the Alkimos is haunted. The boat had a run of bad luck even before it sank, including a murder-suicide, a crash on a reef, and allegations that unfortunate welders were accidentally sealed between hulls during the boat’s construction. Now the wreck (a popular diving site) is supposedly haunted, and believers blame the Alkimos for a plane crash that killed a wreck visitor, near-drownings close to the boat, unexplained engine failures on boats sailing by, and, of course, plain old ghost sightings.

Quarantine Station, Manly, Australia

Until 1984, The North Head Quarantine Station operated as a forced holding area for passengers arriving in Australia who were believed to harbor contagious diseases. Sound romantic? You can have your wedding here. Not in the mood? Spend the night in the former doctors’ and nurses’ rooms, which are hot spots for spirit activity. Tour the hospital, morgue, and shower block before bunking down to never sleep again.

Hoia-Baciu Forest, Romania

After a shepherd and his flock of 200 sheep supposedly disappeared here, the forest became the setting for many a spooky tale. Some locals are afraid to venture into the forest, fearing that they will never return. Other brave souls who have gone in claim to have returned with unexplained sicknesses and rashes. UFOs, glowing lights, and apparitions have all been reportedly seen inside the forest.

The Old Bailey, London, England

Judges, lawyers, and policeman have reported seeing a ghostly figure appear during important trials in London’s main criminal court. The figure wears a black cloak and is believed to be the spirit of a wrongly accused person who was executed on-site. It’s not surprising that this place would be haunted. The court was built on top of an old prison, which was the site of public beatings, mutilations, burnings, hangings, and deaths by crushing.

Eastern Air Lines Planes

Eastern Air Lines Flight 401 crashed into the Florida Everglades in 1972, killing 101 people. The airline salvaged parts from the broken plane and reused them on other planes—which could explain why employees then claimed to see the ghosts of the doomed flight’s crewmembers sitting onboard their flights. The rumors were so prevalent that airline management allegedly warned employees that they could be fired for repeating them. Eventually, Eastern Air Lines removed all the salvaged parts from operating planes, and the haunting claims stopped. You can still see parts from the original flight in a Miami museum.

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Check for Bedbugs

The very first thing you should do when you enter your hotel room is check for bedbugs. Put your luggage inside the bathroom (ideally in the bathtub), where bedbugs are the least likely to be hiding. Next, follow this easy guide to identifying signs of bedbugs. 

If your room does have bed bugs, you’ll want to know before you settle in, as these pests are extremely easy to pick up and carry with you to your new room—or worse, back home.

Check the Alarm Clock

In-room alarm clocks are being phased out of hotel rooms in favor of smartphone docking stations, but if your hotel room still has an old-school clock, make sure you check to see if the alarm is set. 

If the last guest set a daily alarm for 6 a.m. and never turned it off, you could be rudely awakened earlier than you wanted to. 

Better yet—unplug the clock entirely if possible, which will prevent any unexpected alarms and help you sleep better without the glowing light (unless the clock has a battery backup). 

Check Hiding Spots

Before letting your guard down in your locked hotel room, check these hiding spots to make sure you really are alone: under the bed, in the closet, and in the shower. An intruder could have slipped in before you and could be lying in wait—or something more gruesome. Snopes lists a number of actual incidents in which guests checked into a hotel, complained about a horrible odor in their room, and later discovered a human body hidden under the bed or mattress. They had literally been sleeping on top of a corpse. 

Study the Emergency Escape Route

Emergency escape maps are required by law to be posted on the back of the main door to every hotel room. Take a few minutes to orient yourself in the hotel, and to familiarize yourself with the fastest exits (as well as backup routes in case the closest path is blocked).

Hopefully, you’ll never need to use this information during your stay, but in the worst case scenario of a fire or other emergency where every second counts, these few minutes of preparation could save your life.  

Deadbolt the Door

Mistakes can be made, and it’s not uncommon for someone to be given an incorrect room assignment and the key to your room—meaning another guest could accidentally walk into your room, even if the door is locked. When you’re inside your hotel room, always activate the deadbolt or security chain to prevent intruders (or just unexpected visits from hotel staff). 

Sanitize

Your room may look clean, but that doesn’t mean it’s sanitary. Wipe down germ hotspots (like light switches and doorknobs) with an antibacterial wipe to stay healthy. And be sure to wipe down the television remote control (or better yet put it in a bag or shower cap) before using it, as it generally isn’t cleaned in between guests. 

Jettison Any Decorative Items From the Bed

It’s a mystery to us why hotels insist on putting decorative throw pillows on beds (that clearly can’t be washed). Make sure your sleeping surface stays clean by removing anything that isn’t obviously laundered when the room is cleaned—including throw pillows and bedspreads. 

Wash Your Hands

You’ve just come from a plane, public transportation, or road trip with rest stops—washing your hands as soon as you arrive in your own private bathroom is a smart move. 

The post 8 Things You Should Always Do When You Check Into a Hotel Room appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Recreational cannabis use first became legal in the U.S. in 2012, when voters in Colorado and Washington approved pro-cannabis ballot measures. (In Colorado, it’s actually a constitutional amendment!)

In the ten years since, sixteen states, Guam, and the District of Columbia have all followed suit (for those curious, the states are Alaska, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Vermont, and Virginia).

Cannabis Tourism 101

The legalization trend has opened the door for cannabis tourism. If you’ve never imbibed but always been curious, or have a hankering for a freshman-year throwback, there’s never been a better time to plan a totally legit, sky-high getaway. Here are some practical pointers for getting the most out of your trip.

You Don’t Have to Be a Local—But You Do Need ID

Your money’s good regardless of where you’re from, although in the past some states subtly discriminated against out-of-staters. In Colorado, for instance, locals could buy cannabis at a recreational dispensary an ounce at a time, but the state limited outsiders to a quarter of that. Now, however, out-of-staters and locals alike are subject to the same limits. Make sure you know the rules in the state you’re visiting before partaking. Also, remember you have to be 21 to buy or even enter a recreational dispensary, and you need to be prepared to show ID. It’s just like going to a bar.

Do It By the Book

In a sign of just how mainstream recreational cannabis is becoming, Moon Travel Guides and Fodor’s Travel, creators of trusted travel guides for decades, now feature substantial sections on cannabis tourism on their respective websites and in print. Stay tuned for similar updates elsewhere.

There’s an App to Show You the Way

Two, actually. Weedmaps and Leafly both offer downloadable apps to help you find local dispensaries. As an added bonus, they can also help you keep your weed strains straight, from Acapulco Gold to Zombie Kush.

Relax: You’re Going to Get Plenty High

Cannabis grown for dispensaries tends to be a lot stronger than what’s available on the black market, so be conservative and don’t overshoot. Colorado saw a dramatic increase in emergency room visits, hospitalizations, and “cannabis exposure” calls to poison centers after medical cannabis was legalized there in 2010.

And if you’re going for edibles, take it one step at time: It can take up to two hours for the high to fully kick in, and there’s no worse way to spend your vacation than doing the flat-on-your back spins.

Cash Is King

Thanks to stern federal banking regulations, most dispensaries have no way to take credit cards. While some shops may accept debit cards, it’s basically a cash-only business—so be prepared. Many shops do, however, have ATMs on-site.

Get a Room

In states where recreational cannabis use is legal, consumption in public places is not—so you’ll have to be prepared to retreat to weed-friendly accommodations or a friend’s home to smoke.

In 2016, voters in Denver approved a measure that will allow consumption at permitted businesses and special events in the city. As of 2020, Colorado began to permit consumption at what the state terms “hospitality businesses”, places like licensed cafes and tasting rooms.

The website potguide.com can help steer you toward cannabis-friendly lodging.

Looking for Swankier Digs? Check Out the Airbnb of Bud

The website budandbreakfast.com offers a huge selection of cannabis-friendly private accommodations in the U.S. and worldwide, and some hosts will leave a joint waiting on your pillow. Best of all, sites like these save you from having to ask your host that super-uncomfortable question: Is it OK to smoke up in your vacation rental?

Get in Touch with Your Feelings

The rise in recreational dispensaries has brought with it a wave of cannabis-enhanced self-improvement pursuits. Marijuasana yoga promises to “reduce noise and dissonance in our bodymind’s vibration,” while Puff, Pass & Paint claims to be “the ultimate” cannabis painting experience. Be aware, though, that all these are strictly bring-your-own-buds events.

What Happens in Denver Stays in Denver

States like Colorado may be expanding lots of people’s minds about cannabis use, but despite the recent buzz about the House passing a bill that would end federal prohibition of cannabis, the Feds still take a very dim view of the practice—and you definitely don’t want to fall into their clutches.

Rule #1: Don’t carry your buds across state lines. Fiona Apple, Snoop Dogg, Willie Nelson, and other hapless musical luminaries have all been jailed in Sierra Blanca, Texas, after being busted with cannabis at a U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint on Interstate 10.

And, contrary to the wisdom of the Internet, a medical cannabis card from another state will not keep you out of jail.

Beware of Smokey the Bear

You also don’t want to carry or use cannabis on federal lands, including national parks and forests and D.C.’s National Mall. Each year, thousands of people are arrested for cannabis possession on federal land, an offense that’s punishable by up to one year in jail and a minimum fine of $1,000. Don’t forget that most ski areas in the West operate on federal land–so don’t light your spliffs on the lift.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post Cannabis Tourism: 10 Things You Need to Know Before You Imbibe appeared first on SmarterTravel.

1. Impressive: Passports Are on the Rise

In 1996, the U.S. Department of State issued 5.5 million passports. That number has since been trending upward, reaching just under 21 million in 2019 (with a dip to around 11 million in 2020, likely due to the emergency halt of passport issuance in response to COVID-19). Even when you factor in the population increase, that’s a heartening jump in the number of people eager to get out and explore the world.

2. Surprising: Protect Your Passport with Tyvek?

Think you can use any old packaging and shipping method when you’re sending in your old passport for renewal? Think again. The Department of State recommends that applicants use a trackable shipping method, such as Priority Mail Express, to keep tabs on their application and know when it arrives safely at its destination. It is also strongly recommended that applicants mail their documents in a sturdy envelope such as a Tyvek envelope, which will protect against the rough and tumble world of postal transit

3. Vital: You May Need to Renew Sooner Than You Think

Don’t take your passport’s expiration date at face value. Some countries have a six-month or three-month passport validity rule that requires your passport to be valid for a certain amount of time after your date of entry.

4. Impressive: Your Passport Has Identity Theft Deterrents

If your passport was issued after August 2007, you’ve got an e-passport with a small integrated chip in the back cover that stores your passport information and a biometric identifier based on your photograph. To protect passport holders from unknowingly falling victim to high-tech identity theft, there are metallic elements in the cover of the passport, making it impossible for the passport to be digitally “read” until it’s physically open.

5. Surprising: If You’ve Gained or Lost Weight, You May Need a New Passport

If your appearance has changed significantly, you’ll need to apply for a new passport. That means if you’ve lost (or gained) a lot of weight, so much so that you look different than you do in your passport photo, you’ll need a new one. The same is true if you’ve undergone “significant facial surgery or trauma,” or if you’ve added or removed large facial tattoos or piercings.

6. Vital: You Must Obey Photo Restrictions

You may not realize it, but nowhere are the fashion stakes as high as in your passport photo. That’s because the photo may be rejected—thus throwing your application into a delayed spiral—if it doesn’t meet certain criteria. The photo must have been taken within six months of your application date, and needs to reflect your current appearance. You must directly face the camera and your expression should be neutral. According to the Bureau of Consular Affairs, “Photos with exaggerated expressions and squinting will not be accepted.” And uniforms and “clothing that looks like a uniform” are forbidden as well.

7. Surprising: Passports Can Have Different Lengths

A standard-issue passport is 28 pages long. However, when you’re applying or renewing, you can request a longer, 52-page passport at no additional cost. Unfortunately, if you fill up all 52 (impressive!) or need more pages in your existing passport, you’ll have to apply for a new passport even if your old one is not yet expired.

8. Surprising: Damage Can Render Your Passport Invalid

Normal wear and tear is forgivable, but if your passport has been significantly damaged, it’s time for a new one. Water damage, significant tearing (especially on the book cover or the page with your personal data and photo), unofficial marking on the data page (keep kids with crayons well clear), and torn out visa pages are among the types of damage that will likely mean you’ll need to apply for a replacement.

9. Vital: You May Need More Blank Pages

If you’re planning a trip and are running low on blank pages in your passport, it behooves you to take a look at the country information for your destination, since a few countries require you to have up to three blank pages in your passport for visa and immigration stamps. Most countries want you to have at least one blank page for stamps, so if you’re traveling to multiple countries on the same trip, make sure you’re prepared.

Bonus: How to Take Your Own Passport Photo at Home

You can skip the long lines at your local CVS by taking your own passport photo at home. Follow these guidelines to learn how to get a picture perfect at-home passport photo.

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