Mexico is a vast country, with heaps of beautiful and interesting places to see, and some 28 million Americans safely travel there each year. To help you plan your own trip, I’ve gathered some of the safest places to visit in Mexico, complete with information on why you should go and where to stay.

The Safest Places in Mexico

Keep in mind that incidents can happen even in the safest places in Mexico, and destinations that don’t appear on this list could still be great spots for a vacation. No matter where you go while traveling abroad, you’ll want to follow common-sense rules such as drinking only in moderation, getting a cab instead of wandering around after dark, and leaving your valuables at home.

Mexico City

Despite a longstanding reputation as a dangerous city to visit, Mexico City only has an advisory to exercise increased caution, and for good reason; the downtown core in particular is considered quite safe, and the city has numerous attractions for visitors—including street art, colorful markets, and more than 150 museums.

Where to Stay: The small, beautifully decorated Nima Local House Hotel is one of the best luxury hotel options in the city. For a more affordable option, consider the Chillout Flat Bed & Breakfast, which earns plaudits for friendly service and homemade granola.

Nima Local House

Chillout Flat B&B

Tulum

As Playa del Carmen has been the site of some troubling violence in the past, the coastal town of Tulum to the south may be a safer alternative. It is also less touristy than other resort towns on the Yucatan Peninsula, offering well-preserved ruins of the former Mayan city walls and other historic structures right in town. The State Department has explicitly stated there are no restrictions on travel to Tulum or to Chichen Itza, the magnificent archaeological site just an hour up the road.

Where to Stay: Guests appreciate the clean, comfortable rooms and fast Wi-Fi at the centrally located Posada Luna del Sur.

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Huatulco

A beach town located in Oaxaca to the southwest of Puerto Escondido, Huatulco offers tons of water activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving, some nearby surf spots, and tours of coffee farms to boot. Huatulco is considered one of the safest places in Mexico.

Where to Stay: For an indulgent resort experience you can’t do much better than Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa, where amenities include multiple swimming pools and tennis courts, yoga classes, watersports, and nine restaurants.

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Merida and Valladolid

Gerardo Tanaka Pacheco, Senior Account Executive for MSL Group, the public relations firm for VisitMexico.com, recommends these two towns as great alternatives to other nearby tourist hot spots. “A lot of people go to Playa del Carmen and Tulum, but on the Yucatan Peninsula there are these two beautiful colonial cities that are so welcoming, colorful, and full of traditions that travelers won’t regret visiting them,” he says.

Merida is a walking-friendly town that is connected to Chichen Itza by a toll road, which is considered the safest way to travel in Mexico if you are driving. The Mayan influence remains strong here, and the area has its own style of cuisine that diverges considerably from what you will find in other parts of Mexico.

Midway between Merida and Cancun is Valladolid, a colorful and friendly city that’s within easy driving distance of several beautiful cenotes.

Where to Stay: In Merida, consider snagging a poolside room at the Luz En Yucatan. In Valladolid, you can’t go wrong at the centrally located Hotel Posada San Juan.

Luz En Yucatan

Hotel Posada San Juan

Bacalar

Pacheco says that Bacalar, also on the Yucatan Peninsula, is “an amazing place, kind of unknown and definitely uncrowded. This is one of my favorite secrets spots in Mexico; the lagoon there is unbelievable.”

Called the Lake of Seven Colors, the lagoon stretches for 42 kilometers and is fed by underground rivers. Like Todos Santos mentioned below, Bacalar holds the official designation as a “Pueblo Magico,” or Magical Town, due in large part to the lagoon. In addition to being one of the safest places in Mexico, Bacalar is also very affordable.

Where to Stay: At the Bacalar Lagoon Resort, you can get a view of the lake right from your cabana.

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Campeche

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the western coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, Campeche is a walled Spanish colonial city that has been superbly restored. The walled center is somewhat of a museum piece, but the life of the town surrounding it might even be the main attraction. There are also significant Mayan ruins in the state of Campeche, of which the city is the capital; these aren’t as well known as the famous ruins to the east, and as such they’re less crowded.

Where to Stay: Try for a balcony room or suite at the modestly priced Hotel Socaire.

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Queretaro

Queretaro’s streets are a wondrous mix of old and very old, as grid-like Spanish streets connect to the pre-Hispanic winding lanes from the time of the Otomi. From rock climbing and art galleries to architecture sightseeing, there is a ton to do in this central Mexican city.

Where to Stay: La Casa del Atrio, across from the Museo de Arte, is both popular and affordable.

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Todos Santos

This surf town in Baja California Sur features world-class waves and lots of natural beauty—and it’s just far enough north of touristy Cabo San Lucas to offer respite from the crowds. Todos Santos is slowly becoming more popular, but its stone streets and uncrowded beaches have earned it the official Pueblo Magico designation.

Where to Stay: La Poza Boutique Hotel & Spa has a fantastic oceanfront location at very reasonable rates.

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Mandarin Oriental Boston

Awarded both the prestigious Forbes Five-Stars and AAA Five-Diamonds ratings, the Mandarin Oriental is the epitome of luxury. The hotel’s Boylston Street location will put you firmly in the heart of Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood—and it’s directly connected to the Prudential Center, so you can shop and dine without having to set foot outside. 

Rooms at the Mandarin Oriental are surprisingly spacious for an urban hotel, starting at 410 square feet, and outfitted in a chic Art Deco style. 

Make sure to schedule a treatment at the hotel’s famous 16,000 square-foot spa for the ultimate in pampering before you go.

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The Liberty Hotel 

Ever spent the night in prison? You can say you have after sleeping at The Liberty Hotel. Of course, accommodations in this former historic prison turned luxury hotel are a million times more comfortable than a jail cell (but you’ll still find playful nods to its past in the decor throughout). 

The hotel’s aptly named restaurants and bars (Clink, Alibi, and The Yard) attract a vibrant mix of locals and tourists practically every night of the week. The Catwalk (located on the jail’s original Catwalk) is a guest-only bar that offers an unbeatable perch for people-watching.

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The Newbury Boston  

Opened in 1927 as one of the first Ritz-Carlton hotels in the US, this historic property was transformed in 2018 to reopen as the revamped and rebranded The Newbury Boston. Nestled on the edge of the Boston Public Garden, many rooms here offer stunning park views. In the winter, book a Classic Fireplace Suite which features a romantic wood-burning fireplace. 

Make a reservation at the hotel’s Contessa restaurant when you book your stay—seatings for this highly-acclaimed Italian eatery fill up a month in advance.

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The Colonnade Hotel Boston 

Hotels with pools are scarce in Boston (which makes sense, as swimming season is a few short months here.) However, if you’re visiting in the summer, you’ll want to book The Colonnade Hotel as its crown jewel is the property’s gorgeous outdoor rooftop pool. The pool is surrounded by private cabanas and offers a summer experience that’s impossible to find anywhere else in the city. 

When you’re done sunning and swimming, the hotel’s central Back Bay location is primed for exploring.  

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W Boston 

Catching a show in Boston? The W Hotel is the best hotel in the Theater District. The hotel recently underwent a $10 million renovation, and the property looks brand-new. Rooms at the hotel were “inspired by notorious Boston disruptors, from Aerosmith to Edgar Allan Poe,” says the W.

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Boston Marriott Long Wharf 

The Boston Marriott Long Wharf holds an iconic spot directly on Boston Harbor. Take advantage of the location by booking one of the luxury waterfront suites that feature a balcony with stunning harbor views. 

Can’t swing a suite? Treat yourself to a meal at the hotel’s Waterline restaurant, which offers equally amazing scenery. 

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Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport 

With 1,054 guest rooms and suites, the Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport is one of the biggest in Boston. The Omni Seaport is another rare Boston hotel with an outdoor pool—this one is located on the fifth-floor rooftop and offers gorgeous views of the city skyline. The open-air Lifted Pool Bar & Grill serves up cocktails and a food menu from 11 am – 9 pm daily. 

The Omni Seaport puts a priority on wellness. Maintain your workout routine in the 3,000 square foot gym that’s stocked with Peloton Bikes, TRX stations, and more. Or, focus on self-care with a trip to the full-service Breve Spa.

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Cambria Hotel Boston

The Cambria Hotel is a popular destination for locals in the warm weather who flock to the hotel’s rooftop for a buzzy nightlife scene, creative cocktails, and epic city views. Book a room here to be close to both the rooftop action and the lively South Boston neighborhood next door. 

The Cambria is located right across the street from a T station, so you’ll be able to easily hop on the red line to explore the city.

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Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street 

One Dalton Street, a 61-story skyscraper that opened in 2019, was the tallest building to be built in Boston since the John Hancock Tower went up in 1976. The tower houses the Four Seasons Hotel and the brand’s luxury residential apartments. 

Rooms are as luxurious as you would expect from the Four Seasons, starting at 397 square feet. The suites really shine here, featuring large soaking tubs set in front of floor-to-ceiling windows and private outdoor decks overlooking Boston.

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Boston Park Plaza 

Stay in a piece of Boston’s history (but with modern amenities) at the Boston Park Plaza. The property opened in 1927 as The Statler Hotel and hosted dignitaries and celebrities including Winston Churchill and Judy Garland. When the Park Plaza opened, rooms cost as little as $3.50 a night—today, you can find rooms for as low as $114 per night in the off-season. 

The Boston Park Plaza underwent a $100 million renovation in 2016 that updated and modernized the property while still retaining the historic touches it’s so famous for. 

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Battery Wharf Hotel Boston Waterfront

Set on the Boston Harbor just outside the city’s famous North End neighborhood, the Battery Wharf Hotel boasts one of the best locations in Boston. A stay here will put you near the North End’s Italian restaurants, touristy Faneuil Hall, and the TD Garden. 

Many rooms offer waterfront views, and all rooms have windows that can open so you can enjoy the fresh sea breeze—a rarity for hotels. 

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The Ritz Carlton Boston 

Just steps from the Boston Common, newly renovated rooms at The Ritz-Carlton offer park or city views along with large marble soaking tubs, Bose radios, and Frette linens. An in-house Bath Butler can draw a selection of relaxing baths upon demand for total relaxation. 

Continue the relaxation with The Ritz-Carlton’s spa (run in conjunction with Equinox Sports Club) which offers a range of facials, massages, and treatments. 

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The Verb Hotel

If you’re catching a game or concert at Fenway Park, you can’t stay any closer than The Verb Hotel, which overlooks the storied ballpark. Originally a motor inn, The Verb has been completely redone into a stylish musically-themed boutique hotel. 

Music-lovers will find more than 1,700 vinyl records in the lobby library, Audio-Technica Record Turntables in the rooms, and rock n’ roll art throughout. 

Party like a rockstar and then sleep in late the next day—rooms at The Verb feature blackout blinds and the lobby is stocked with nitro-brewed coffee 24/7.

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Moxy Boston Downtown

Looking for a kid-free Boston vacation? The Moxy Boston Downtown bills itself as “Boston’s first adult playground,” and guests are greeted with a complimentary signature cocktail upon check-in. You’ll have to be 21 or over to stay at this party-focused hotel that’s for adults only. 

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The Row Hotel 

Formerly a Ford Motor Assembly Plant and now a thoroughly modern hotel, The Row Hotel offers affordable rates just outside of Boston. Located in Somerville’s Assembly Square neighborhood, a new outdoor shopping mall set on the banks of the Mystic River, the hotel is within easy walking distance to a huge number of shops and eateries. If you want to venture into Boston, the nearby T stop makes it easy.

With its location near Legoland and an indoor pool, The Row Hotel is a great pick for family trips to Boston.

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The post The 15 Best Hotels in Boston appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Best International Spring Break Destinations

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Another destination perfect for college students who want to party is Punta Cana. Gorgeous beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and poolside bars make for an unforgettable week away.  It’s location in the caribbean makes it more appealing to those located on the east coast, as most east coast cities offer nonstop flights to Punta Cana. Flights booked a month in advance from major cities average $344 with stops and $723 for nonstops.

There are loads of hotels to choose from, with some of the most popular for spring break being Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort All Inclusive, Dreams Flora Resort & Spa and Breathless Punta Cana. 

Montreal, Canada

Perhaps a lesser thought of spring break destination, Montreal is a great option for those who aren’t looking for time in the sun, but are just looking to get away and have fun. The drinking age is 18 in Quebec, and Montreal is within a reasonable driving distance from many college towns. Nonstop flights from major cities average $288 booking a month in advance. L’Axe du Mal (Axis of Evil) is a grouping of four venues in the Saint-Denis Street and Mont-Royal Avenue area, perfect for a night of bar hopping.

Top hotels include Le Nouvel Hotel, Le Saint-Sulpice Hotel Montreal, and Novotel Montreal Centre.  

Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

Perhaps a lesser thought of spot for a warm destination, Rio- in particular Copacabana Beach, is a party town perfect for an epic spring break. While on the pricier side as far as flights go (average cost from major cities booking a month in advance for spring break is $673 with stops, with few nonstop flights available), the extra cost is worth it for a spectacular time. 

Recommended hotels include: Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana, Copacabana Mar Hotel, and Miramar by Windsor Copacabana Hotel

Best Spring Break Locations in the U.S.

Staying within the US has one huge advantage: flights are typically a lot cheaper than flying internationally. The good news is that most spring break hot spots in the U.S. are super affordable to fly to. Here are the top spots in the US. 

Miami, Florida 

Miami takes the cake for quintessential U.S. spring break spot. Thanks to many discount airlines flying to Miami from major cities, the average price for a nonstop flight is only $126 when you book a month in advance. College students flock to Miami, so if you don’t like crowds, you may want to look elsewhere. But if a mass of partying people in their early 20s is for you, you’ve found your mecca.

Some of the best party hotels are: Fontainebleau Miami Beach, Nautilus by Arlo, and Riviera Suites South Beach. 

Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

Just north of Miami is Ft. Lauderdale, another Florida spring break hotspot. The average price for a nonstop flight is only $100 from major US cities, making it one of the cheapest spots for spring breakers throughout the country. Top spots like Elbo Room and America’s Backyard offer open bars with cover fees for all-night parties, and the beaches are filled with college students living the high life.

Area hotels include Pelican Grand Beach Resort,  B Ocean Resort Costa, and Costa Hollywood Beach Resort. 

Puerto Rico

Travel to the caribbean without your passport by heading to Puerto Rico.  While not as wild as some of the other beach locations mentioned, Puerto Rico’s resorts and beaches still promise a fantastic time. Spots that are hopping during the month of March include Club Brava, Ultra Lounge, Condado Beach and Sandy Beach. Airfare averages about $311 nonstop from major U.S. cities booked a month in advance.

Top hotels include: San Juan Water & Beach Club Hotel, Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico Golf & Beach Resort, and Margaritaville Vacation Club At Wyndham Rio Mar. 

New Orleans, Louisiana 

One of the liveliest spots in the U.S. any time of the year, New Orleans is no different for spring break. Festivals like the Danny Barker Banjo & Guitar Festival, NOLA on Tap, and a big St. Patrick’s Day parade add to the usual spirited atmosphere the city offers. Nonstop flights from major US cities average $262 booking a month in advance.

Top hotels include:  Hotel Monteleone, Bienville House, and Le Pavillon Hotel. 

Las Vegas, Nevada

What better place to spend spring break than “Sin City” (though some parents may disagree). All night venues like Hakkasan, Omnia or the rooftop deck at Chateau at Paris Las Vegas ensure an amazing time. It will seem like there is fun around every corner, and in most cases, you won’t even have to leave the confines of your hotel! Nonstop flights booked a month in advance average $98 roundtrip.

Recommended hotels include The Cosmopolitan, The Venetian, and the Golden Nugget. 

Average Airfare by Destination

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Book Off Peak Travel Dates

This year is seeing higher than usual prices for spring break travel. To avoid overspending on airfare, book flights on off peak dates. According to Expedia, the most expensive times to fly are late March to early April, so booking a trip at the beginning or tail end of spring break season could save you some cash. They also recommend avoiding travel on Saturdays, particularly March 25th and April 1st. As always, traveling on a weekday will get you cheaper fares than arriving or departing on a weekend.

Be Flexible With Your Destination

If you don’t have a destination in mind, do some comparative research. Use the Explore feature on Google Flights or the Search Everywhere function on Skyscanner to see where flights are cheapest. If you are open-minded about your destination and even your travel dates, you can book the trip of a lifetime at a fraction of the price.

Take Advantage of Your Credit Card

If you already have a travel rewards credit card, chances are you know that taking advantage of your miles can save you big on flights. For others, however, you still may be able to use your card to lower the cost of your travels. Using cash back to pay for part of your flight or purchases at your destination can offset travel costs. Credit card company Capital One offers Capital One Shopping, a browser extension that automatically applies discounts codes at checkout for everything from concert tickets to flights, free of charge to everyone regardless of whether they have a Capital One card.

Opt for Opaque Rates to Rent a Car

Renting a car is a great option for those who prefer driving to flying or families who don’t want to corral young children on public transportation, but it can get expensive. Luckily, many of the best car rental booking sites, including big names like Priceline and Hotwire, offer something called opaque deals. Opaque deals require customers to book without knowing the rental company or the exact type of car they’re committing to, but these deals often offer cheaper rates than standard booking options.

*Rental car companies differ in the minimum age requirement to rent and drive a rental car. Make sure you meet these requirements before booking.

Get a Groupon

Don’t underestimate the power of the Groupon. With categories like sightseeing and tours, tickets and events, and nightlife, you’ll be able to find discounts for any activity you’ve been planning and maybe even some itinerary inspiration! For families, check out their kids activities sections.

Take a Free Walking Tour

Get outside and see the sights on foot! Many destinations offer free walking tours of major landmarks, history, or local legends. A quick google of your destination’s name plus “free walking tour” will turn up dozens of options, but Free Tours by Foot is a good place to start.  Traveler reviews on Yelp and Tripadvisor can also help travelers vet different tour experiences.

Research Student Discounts

Your student ID holds more power than just swiping you into the dining hall. Qualifying students can get discounts on:

Flights

Many airlines, including United, American Airlines, Delta, and Virgin Atlantic, have been known to offer discounted flights to students. Flight search engine Kayak partners with FLYLA, ScholarTrip, and StudentUniverse to provide cheaper rates for qualifying students.

Train Tickets

If you’re planning a European adventure this spring, train travel will be your best friend. Eurorail offers a Youth Pass for passengers between 12 and 27 years old.

Rental Cars

Booking through Hertz Students can save you 15% to 20% on rental cars. Car rental company Sixt offers up to 5% off their premium fleet for students.

*Rental car companies differ in the minimum age requirement to rent and drive a rental car. Make sure you meet these requirements before booking.

Events

Many events offer student discounts through Ticketmaster, just check the dropdown menu of ticket types. Frequently, venues will offer discounts to students who contact them directly, so check in with the box office if there is no student ticket option online.

Make sure to ask around at your destination as well. Local businesses and events may offer student discounts you won’t find online.

Purchase a GoCity Pass

GoCity Pass is the traveler’s one-stop shop for major attractions in cities around the world. Rather than pay individual admission prices, which can add up over the course of a trip, GoCity pass holders can visit multiple attractions in a city for just the price of their chosen pass.

The All-Inclusive Pass is priced daily ($99/day for adults and $76/day for children) for unlimited access to attractions across the city while the Explorer’s Pass is priced per attraction ($83-$163 for adults or $73-$119 for children) and is good for 60 days from purchase. GoCity offers passes for popular spring break destinations like Los Angeles, Miami, Orlando, and Cancún.

Go All-Inclusive

All-Inclusive resorts sound like the height of luxury, but they can actually be one of the more affordable ways to experience a destination. Many packages include a number of prepaid meals, free airport transfers, and access to resort amenities and activities along with your room rate, so you know exactly how much you’re spending when you book.

Book with the Right Hotel Site

Whether you’re planning on relaxing at an all-inclusive or just using your hotel as a place to crash at the end of the day, where you stay can make or break your trip (and your budget). SmarterTravel’s sister site, SmarterTravel Hotels, offers wholesale deals you won’t find anywhere else. And February 8th through March 15th, save even more during their Spring Break Sale. With thousands of discounted properties, you’re sure to find your perfect stay.

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Uncomfortable Shoes

This one seems obvious. Still, I’ve yet to board a plane without spotting at least one flyer tottering down the aisle in pumps. A good pair of comfortable shoes will make it easier for you to hoof it around the airport and sprint to the gate if you need to make a connection. Furthermore, wearing your bulkier shoes instead of stashing them in your suitcase while donning sandals or stilettos will free up some room—and some weight—in your checked or carry-on bag.

Complicated Shoes

Lace-up boots, strappy heels, sandals with more buckles than you can count – they’re the nightmare of every in-a-rush business traveler who must stand behind you as you undo myriad straps and laces. Wear simple slip-on shoes or sneakers when flying, as you’ll have to take them off in the airport security line.

Fabrics That Don’t Breathe

Shun any fabrics that lack breathability, such as nylon or leatherette. Add your rubber raincoat or waterproof jacket to this list as well. (Note, however, that some high-quality waterproof jackets, like outerwear made from Gore-Tex, are quite breathable. It all depends on what it’s made of.) Less breathable fabrics hold sweat on the skin when it’s hot as well as prevent air circulation. You won’t feel very fashionable sweating in too-tight, synthetic clothes as your plane rests on the tarmac under the hot sun.

A foolproof way to find breathable clothes for the plane: Stick with moisture-wicking activewear (I recommend Prana) or clothes sold from travel suppliers like Magellan’s, which are designed specifically for travel.

Tight Clothing

Have you heard of deep vein thrombosis? Also known as DVT, this condition occurs when dangerous blood clots form in veins. Those blood clots can lead to a pulmonary embolism, which is potentially fatal. According to the University of Washington Medical Center, sitting for long periods of time can increase the risk for DVT, and so can constrictive clothing: “Avoid tight clothing, nylons, or socks (especially the type that are too tight at the top and/or leave marks on your skin) that might restrict blood flow through veins.” Compression stockings are a good choice for travelers interested in taking further steps to reduce the likelihood of DVT.

Complicated Clothing

Aircraft lavatories are tiny contrivances, about the size of a small closet or a very large Manhattan apartment. So maneuvering in and out of your pants can be, well, tricky. (That’s why someone invented Claspies.) Lest you drop your wallet in the toilet or fall and smash through the bathroom door, wear something that isn’t likely to cause difficulties in the plane bathroom. Avoid bodysuits or complicated wrap shirts or dresses, as well as long pants or skirts that may graze the unsanitary (and often disturbingly wet) lavatory ground.

Contact Lenses

According to Frommer’s, “The air in plane cabins is so dry (usually 10 percent to 20 percent humidity, sometimes as little as 1 percent, compared to the Sahara desert’s 20 percent to 25 percent humidity) that your health is challenged every time you fly.” Contacts can become uncomfortable to wear if your eyes dry out in the arid cabin, so either avoid them altogether or bring a pair of glasses to change into.

Perfume

Avoid this one for the good of your fellow passengers. Strong-smelling perfumes, colognes, body sprays, and so on shouldn’t be worn in flight. Some passengers may find your CK One offensive; others might suffer allergic reactions to synthetic fragrances. If you really must smell of the finest department-store brands upon arrival in your destination, pack a sample size and apply it once you land.

Warm-Weather Clothing

The key here is layers. It’s fine to wear lightweight fabrics on a plane. It may even be a smart strategy if you’re flying to or from a sweltering climate. But planes are often very cold—and blankets aren’t exactly freely distributed on many flights these days. So fight the air-conditioned chill by layering up.

Getting warm? Remove a few layers, bundle them, and then use them as a pillow.

Bonus: The more layers you can pile on your body, the less clothes you need to pack in your suitcase.

Offensive or Inappropriate Clothing

Carriers typically leave it up to flight attendants to judge whether a passenger’s garb is inappropriate for wear in the air. So how do you know if your outfit is appropriate? Learn from the past: Passengers have been removed from planes for wearing everything from low-cut dresses to baggy pants to T-shirts splashed with expletives. If you can’t wear it to church or dinner with your mother-in-law, you probably shouldn’t wear it on a flight.

A Mask with Vents or Valves

As anyone flying in 2022 knows, masks are an absolute must. However, some types of masks may not be allowed on your flight. Airlines are increasingly banning masks with ventilation valves aboard their aircraft, with carriers such as American Airlines, Alaska, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, Spirit, and United implementing policies to that effect. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), these valves “may allow your respiratory droplets to escape and reach others.” Be respectful of your in-flight neighbors and help keep everyone safe by wearing the proper face covering for the duration of your flight. You can find further mask recommendations from the CDC here.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2012. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post 10 Things Not to Wear on a Plane appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Editor’s Note: All prices were correct at time of publication and are subject to change. Some services and amenities listed below may be altered/halted due to the pandemic.

Intrepid Travel

Contrary to popular belief, small-group tours are one of the best ways to see far-off destinations, and are affordable with seasoned millennial travel providers like Intrepid Travel. The key word here is “small”—avoid tour providers that will plop you on a giant bus with dozens of strangers. Large groups stick out in most destinations, and are unlikely to get off the beaten path for any local experiences or hidden gems.

Previously Gecko Adventures, Intrepid Travel’s 18 to 29s Adventures Tours serves travelers under 30 and packs plenty of value into trips like South America treks and Southeast Asia island adventures. Intrepid’s local guides provide indispensable insight and connect visitors with locals for unique experiences—and a safari in the Serengeti or road trip from New York to New Orleans is going to be a lot more enjoyable with people your age. Plus, as part of their “travel for good” ethos, Intrepid will plant 50 trees in Kenya for every 18 to 29s Adventures Tour booked as part of their Eden Reforestation Project. With nightly accommodations and day-to-day transportation included, you can spend less time thinking about your travel plans and more time dreaming about what adventure is waiting the next day.

ViaHero

Not sold on spending your money on a tour? Use ViaHero to get expert insight without being chained to a guided experience. For $40 per day, ViaHero connects travelers in destinations across North and South America, Central America, Europe, and Asia with seasoned locals to craft an itinerary full of hidden gems. The app offers an offline mode for when you don’t have Wi-Fi or data, and matches you up with a trip planner based on your specified interests.

Your personally assigned local “hero” will recommend an itinerary for your trip, and will tailor it upon request if you have suggestions or concerns. ViaHero says 70 percent of proceeds go directly to the locals they employ, and the company is hoping to expand soon to other destinations. The local help and low price point make it the perfect millennial travel option.

REI Adventures Weekend Getaways

Want a quick, all-inclusive outdoor getaway? Millennial travelers can join hikers, mountain bikers, and backpackers of all ages for REI Adventures Weekend Getaways. Dozens are available across North America, and start at around $799 including accommodation and activities.

REI also offers women-only packages designed to connect women through the outdoors, such as Women’s Backcountry Navigation and Women’s Introduction to Mountain Biking. Find one within driving distance to skip airfare costs. You’ll meet like-minded female travelers for day trips or long weekends, little to no vacation time required.

Tentrr

Camping is a great way to unplug, but as a millennial traveler, I can confidently say that many of us don’t know how (or don’t want) to purchase, pack, and set up all the campsite necessities. If you’re more of a glamping person, try Tentrr—the Airbnb of camping.

Land owners list campsites on Tentrr, which provides the equipment when you rent the space. Forget lugging grills, chairs, or water. Upgrade to a campsite with a toilet and giant tents, which are included in the nightly price of about $120—a steal if you’re splitting among friends. The service is currently offered in limited U.S. locations.

For the Love of Travel

Looking to befriend some fellow young professionals with a passion for jet setting? A millennial travel service called For the Love of Travel caters to those between the ages of 24 and 34, and provides both weekend and longer international trips for like-minded travelers. Groups are tailor-made to complement your interests based on your personal profile, and a roster of your group will be provided before departure.

For the Love of Travel tells me most participants are under 30. The service’s more affordable trips include simpler weekenders like a weekend on a Colorado ranch from $799, or niche options like Mexico City Foodie Trip for $1,099—but the itineraries extend far beyond North America. The company also recently launched Sojrn, a program that gives young professionals the “study abroad” experience of their dreams by sending them to live and work in a new country for a month alongside a like-minded Sojrn community.

G Adventures

If “shoestring budget” sums up your millennial travel needs and Southeast Asia tops your list, it’s still possible to get a guide-led tour. G Adventures offers travelers age 18 to 30-something an array of affordable no-frills tours, some for less than $1,000.

Destinations include Vietnam, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and many more. Skip the hassle of researching and booking hotels and transportation—these tours include both (but not airfare) plus a local guide to lead you through it all. When you don’t speak the language or understand the day-to-day customs, the help of a local is invaluable.

EF Ultimate Break

With a focus on 18- to 28-year-olds, EF Ultimate Break is perfect for anyone looking to travel before settling into a day job. Trips can be paid in monthly installments, many starting well under $200 per month, and EF College Break prices out excursions separately so you’ll only pay for what you want to do.

Trips include experiences rather than cookie-cutter vacations, like a 14 day itinerary around Japan or a 57 day, 5 continent trip across the world’s major cities. Whether it’s the study abroad adventure you never had or a chance to abandon your day-to-day work schedule for a while, EF Ultimate Break is a versatile millennial travel option.

Sandeman’s New Europe

Backpacking or hostel-hopping around Europe means counting your nickels and dimes, so walking tours, while insightful and educational, usually won’t make the budget. In some cities, however, you can get a walking tour for free—Sandeman’s New Europe tour guides work for tips, and therefore draw millennial travel addicts happy to capitalize off of anything labeled “free.” Next time you’re in a European hub wondering where to begin, see if Sandeman’s guides can tell you about the local history and culture, and maybe recommend a restaurant or two. Locations include London, Brussels, Paris, Prague, Munich, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Lisbon, Liverpool, and many more. Tip what you can.

Topdeck Travel

Deal-hunting millennial travelers can find affordable vacation packages at Topdeck Travel, which offers sales of as much as 20 percent off. Think island-hopping around Bali from $644, or seeing the Sphinx up close on a 9 day Egypt Express itinerary from $964. Topdeck’s unique packages are available across the globe, and pack value if they’re not already surprisingly affordable. Once you purchase, there’s no need for planning: most meals, lodging, activities, and a guide are included. Unique add-ons like yoga classes and guided tours make it a customizable experience.

International Volunteer HQ

Want a volunteer opportunity worth traveling for, but not sure where to start? International Volunteer HQ can set you up with a vetted and affordable volunteer program in more than 50 destinations, from Brazil to Romania to Vietnam. Thousands of under-35 travelers have used International Volunteer HQ to start their voluntourism, with program fees starting at $180 per week. In exchange for your time, you’ll get transportation from the airport, a place to stay, meals, an orientation session, and pre-departure as well as on-site support services. Weekends are yours to travel as you’d like, and you’re likely to find yourself surrounded by like-minded volunteer travelers making lasting memories.

Associate Editor Shannon McMahon writes about all things travel. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram.

The post 10 Trips Millennial Travelers Will Love appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Editor’s note: Save these ideas for when it’s safe to travel again, and always follow all COVID-19 restrictions, rules and safety regulations both at your destination and upon returning home.

The Las Vegas Strip Isn’t Actually in Las Vegas

The Las Vegas Strip is a paradise for many. In actuality, the Las Vegas Strip is in Paradise.

Most of the 4.2-mile Las Vegas Strip (a drag that includes popular Las Vegas hotels like MGM Grand, Caesars Palace, and Wynn Las Vegas) is actually in the neighboring town of Paradise.

Sex Work is Illegal in Las Vegas

Despite the many signs promoting the sex industry in Las Vegas, sex work is in fact prohibited in Sin City and the rest of Clark County.

It isn’t only illegal in Las Vegas, it’s also banned in Nevada’s other major city, Reno. Cities in other Nevada counties, however, permit sex work.

Las Vegas Hotels – 150,000 of Them!

There are 147,238 Las Vegas hotel rooms, according to figures supplied by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. The average nightly room rate is currently $129.

With those figures and without inflation, it’ll take a Las Vegas aficionado nearly 404 years and $19 million to stay in every Las Vegas hotel room.

Las Vegas Casinos Swap Competing Casino Chips

For those feeling a hot streak coming on while at Caesars Palace but who have only a pocketful of MGM Grand chips, fret not–it’s likely the house will take your “foreign chips” just the same.

While most Las Vegas casino hotels will swap out competitors’ casino chips, this privilege is only honored in Nevada.

Las Vegas: Bright Lights, Big City

An icon on the Las Vegas Strip, the Luxor Light Beam at the Luxor Las Vegas is now operating at only half-strength from what it illuminated in its 1993 debut. Not that this distinction is visible to the naked eye.

Arguably the brightest light beam on Earth, it’s said that the beacon is visible from as far as 100 miles away.

The House Wins; Powerball Players, Not So Much

You’ll catch nary a sight of a Powerball or scratch ticket in the self-proclaimed Gambling Capital of the World. Why? Despite legalizing casino gaming in 1931, the sale of lottery tickets is still prohibited in the state of Nevada.

You Can Get Married Pretty Much Anywhere in Las Vegas

A stack of flapjacks and a quickie wedding may both sound like great ideas after a night of partying in Las Vegas. Luckily, the breakfast food chain diner Denny’s offers spontaneous couples a side of nuptials with their Grand Slams.

At $199, the wedding package includes a wedding officiant, use of the diner’s chapel, a pancake wedding cake, a Champagne toast, and two breakfasts.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 7 Best Las Vegas Day Trips
• What to Wear in Las Vegas
• 10 Things That Need to Be On Your Las Vegas Packing List

The post 7 Crazy Las Vegas Facts That Will Surprise You appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The World’s Most Whimsical Spring Flower Blooms

Here’s where to look for a breathtaking dose of color in spring, and which ones offer livestreams.

Editor’s note: Due to COVID-19 concerns, the U.S. State Department is encouraging potential visitors to reconsider all travel. Read more here for updates on the situation and information on when it might be safe to travel again to destinations like the ones below.

Mount Fuji, Japan

Every April and May, pink-hued flowers blanket the meadows at the base of Mount Fuji. The Shibazakura Festival marks the occasion, drawing crowds who stroll through the electric-pink fields and snack at the many local food stalls that set up to offer Japanese buns, ramen, soups, and more. During the peak spring flower bloom this is one of the most photogenic places in the world. You can livestream the blooms here.

Death Valley, Southern California

Southern California’s parks are home to many different types of spring flower blooms, and they come to life earlier than most thanks to the region’s warm climate. Death Valley National Park and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park are popular for yellow and purple desert flowers that peek through the cracked desert floor as early as March. The Antelope Valley’s California Poppy Reserve becomes a sea of yellow, orange, and red poppies around April—and can look like a scene straight out of the Wizard of Oz. The small orange variation of poppy happens to be the state flower of California.

The California Parks Department offers a poppy live-stream here.

Keukenhof, Netherlands

If rainbow palettes of tulips don’t come to mind when you think of the Netherlands, it’s time to venture beyond Amsterdam. Spring is a great time to head into the countryside to discover windmill-dotted fields of bright tulips, which often bloom as late as May. The Flower Bulb Region is home to vast tulip farms as well as public gardens like Keukenhof—one of the largest botanical gardens in the world, and home to seven million flowers. You can virtually tour the gardens here.

Western Australia (September)

Take your pick of Western Australia’s incredible array of wildflower trails in September—the southern hemisphere’s spring. Guided or self-driven spring flower bloom tours are available in wildflower-blanketed Perth, along the Coral Coast, and as far north as Pilbara. Options include the Esperance Wildflower Trail, wild orchids south of Perth, and rainbow desert blooms in Broome to the north.

Valley of Flowers National Park, India

India’s Valley of Flowers is both a National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to its six miles of alpine flowers and rare, protected wildlife. Nestled between the Himalayas and the sacred Ganges River in Uttarakhand, the valley has 1,000 different species of flowers, including daisies, poppies, rhododendrons, lavender, and more. Hike along its waterways and through pastures blanketed in spring flower blooms—just keep an eye out for Himalayan black bears.

Monet’s House and Gardens, France

Claude Monet’s mesmerizing flowers don’t only exist in paintings. See the lavender and lily pad-filled settings that inspired his works in Giverny, France, where you can visit the Impressionist artist’s house and gardens. The grounds are separated into two main gardens: one around the house that includes an orchard and bulb flowers like daffodils, and an enchanting Japanese water garden across the street.

Texas Hill Country, U.S.

Combine wildflowers with wineries in Texas Hill Country, west of bustling Houston. Spring flower blooms come early to the Lone Star State, so you can get a jump start on summer by heading to Fredericksburg or Brenham to see the region’s famed bluebonnets—which the nearby Bluebonnet Wine Trail is named for. Stop at wineries and spot classic Texan ranches along the way.

Kew Gardens, London, England

Spring flower blooms don’t have to require a trek from the city, especially if you’re in London. The U.K. capital has an abundance of gardens that come to life every spring, and Kew Royal Botanic Gardens is London’s largest UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its 300 acres house 27,000 colorful plants, and are thick with tulips, poppies, peonies, and cherry blossoms each spring. The gardens even offer online educational horticulture courses so you can learn to identify species of plants.

Tidal Basin, Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C.’s Tidal Basin is famously popular in spring for the thousands of cherry trees gifted to the park by the mayor of Tokyo, Japan, over a century ago. The pink and white buds explode into peak bloom all at once in a matter of just a few days, typically in March or April. The National Mall’s live webcam is here.

Share Your Virtual Vacation or Travel Inspiration with Us:

Are you itching to travel? So are we … that’s why we started the #GoLater campaign on social media. We want to see which destinations YOU are dreaming of. Head over to our Instagram channel (@smartertravel) to learn more. 

More from SmarterTravel:

• 21 Sites Offering Virtual Tours and Live Streams for Travelers Stuck at Home
• The World’s 11 Best Hot Air Balloon Rides
• 12 Popular Podcasts to Discover Right Now

SmarterTravel’s Shannon McMahon writes about all things travel. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram.

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

The post 9 Whimsical Spring Flower Blooms We're Dreaming About appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The Best Places to Go in Florida

From the coolest cities in Florida, like Miami and Ft. Lauderdale, to top theme parks like Busch Gardens and Disney World, these must-see attractions top our list of the best places to go in Florida.

Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, Florida

It’s no exaggeration to suggest that Walt Disney should have named his Orlando theme park Disney Universe—or even Disney Galaxy. The Walt Disney World Resort is so large, in fact, that it’s difficult to narrow down which of the four main theme parks and two water parks to make time for, let alone whether to stay at a hotel within the resort confines or conserve costs with a nearby off-resort stay. Even selecting your preferred theme-park entry ticket can be daunting.

Here is some helpful Walt Disney World Resort information to get you started at this must-see Florida attraction:

Disney World ticketing options include single-day, single-park passes for Epcot, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and the Magic Kingdom. You can extend your Disney World family vacation with multi-day passes, which reduce the per-day rate significantly. For example, you can purchase two-day passes, three-day passes, seven-day passes, and 10-day passes. All tickets must be used within 14 days of your initial visit.

With multiday passes, you don’t have to limit yourself to just one Disney theme park. Tack on the Park Hopper option (with access to all four parks) to increase your ticket’s flexibility: Admission to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios is included.

For some Florida visitors, it’s not a vacation without wild water play or tee time. Disney knows how to round out the visit with two water parks (Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and Disney’s Blizzard Beach), a nine-hole golf course, two mini-golf courses, the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, and DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive Theme Park. Access to these extras is included in the Water Park Fun & More pass. You can also combine both the Park Hopper and Water Park Fun & More options for an additional fee.

Budget-minded travelers will easily find an array of accommodations options, with thousands of hotel rooms from “budget” to “luxury” within driving distance of Disney World. Consider a stay at a Disney Resort such as the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin if you want to take advantage of early-morning and late-night access to select theme parks. Guests of Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista also have an added hour of play before the general public is allowed in and three hours after the parks close for the evening.

With so many parades and shows, peruse the Disney calendar to find scheduled events, plan your itinerary, and work around park closings. No matter what, you’ll find there’s plenty to do in Orlando—one of the coolest cities in Florida.

South Beach, Miami, Florida

Lovingly dubbed SoBe, South Beach’s reputation as a gregarious scene for the fun-loving is well deserved among young and old visitors alike. From laid-back lounges to racy dance clubs, South Beach is world-renowned for its hot nightlife (many clubs operate until dawn). And while the robust club and dining scene is too caliente to sleep through every night, SoBe also knows how to play “grown-up” during the day.

Actually the southernmost tip of Miami Beach, South Beach is one of the best places to go in Miami Beach and home to many enriching cultural offerings, including Miami City Ballet, New World Symphony, Holocaust Memorial of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation, and Miami Beach Botanical Garden. And you’d be remiss to pass up a stroll along South Beach’s world-famous Art Deco District. This historical part of South Beach is easy to meander along—not only because of its vintage beauty, which is alive with more than 800 candy-colored art deco-style structures, but also because of its concentrated size: a single square mile. Learn about South Beach’s celebrated history by going on a guided art deco walking tour led by the Miami Design Preservation League.

On South Beach, both locals and tourists know how to share the sun, sand, and the occasional pickup volleyball game. Expedite a speedy hangover recovery with yoga lessons from 3rd Street Beach Yoga. Generous instructors facilitate donation-based “yoga from the heart” near the beach’s lifeguard hut.

Always a popular tourist destination, South Beach experiences its biggest influx of visitors in March (spring break), April (Pride festivities), and over Memorial Day Weekend (Urban Beach Week).

Everglades National Park, Florida

A visit to Everglades National Park isn’t just a must-see Florida attraction or one of the top things to do in Florida—it’s an adventure traveler’s dream. The Everglades offers canoe and hiking trails, airboat and tram tours, bird-watching expeditions, and camping.

Also a mecca for those seeking out wildlife sightings, the Florida Everglades’ ecosystem is one of the top attractions in Florida because it’s like no other in the world. Alligators, crocodiles, falcons, turtles, and even panthers are but a few of the many animals you can spot in the Everglades.

Not to be missed, Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge lies on the western edge of the Everglades. This 35,000-acre national refuge comprised of mangroves and islands provides refuge to endangered wildlife, among them West Indian manatees, bald eagles, and Kemp’s ridley sea turtles. There’s some debate about how many islands are actually in the Ten Thousand Islands area. Conservative estimates have it in the hundreds, while more robust assessments estimate at least 17,000 islands during low tide. The Everglades National Park as a whole spans about 1.5 million acres.

Fort Lauderdale

Ft. Lauderdale is known by many nicknames, among them the “Venice of America” (for its vast system of canals) and the “Yachting Capital of the World” (because locals collectively own 50,000 private yachts). Regardless of what you call it, there’s no disputing that this Florida must-see is a dream destination for boaters. For more than 50 years, Ft. Lauderdale has hosted the Ft. Lauderdale International Boat Show—the largest such event in the world.

But boaters aren’t the only ones docking in this local scene. Countless spring breakers flock to the city for hedonistic fun each March, beach bums bask on Ft. Lauderdale’s 23 miles of beaches, and snorkelers and divers seek out underwater adventures among the 75-plus artificial reefs.

Key West, Florida Keys, Florida

The final stop on the Eastern Seaboard’s 2,369-mile Route 1, Key West really is the be-all and end-all. Geographically, Key West sits at the southernmost point within the continental U.S. and is closer to Havana than it is to Miami. In spite of its tropical climate (Key West boasts an annual average temperature of 77 degrees) and its low-lying land, Key West is hit by hurricanes less than other coastal regions.

While Key West is enthralling in and of itself, be sure to make it out to sea when in the area. Just a few miles off the coast is the third-largest coral-reef system in the world, the Great Florida Reef. Snorkeling, diving, and deep-sea fishing are popular area adventures. Man-made reefs offer wreck diving just a few miles offshore, too.

Key West was once home to Ernest Hemingway and Tennessee Williams, among other celebrities of yesteryear. These days, its most famous residents come in a more natural variety: iguanas, feral chickens and roosters, and a clutter of cats, the latter of the excessive-toe variety, nestled in Hemingway’s former home.

Universal Studios, Orlando, Florida

Just like Walt Disney World Resort on the other side of town, Orlando’s Universal Studios can hang with the big boys. And planning a visit in advance yields major savings.

Multiday tickets purchased online offer as much as $20 off gate rates. For single-park, single-day passes, you can choose between Universal’s Islands of Adventure or Universal Studios Florida. Single-park, multiday tickets are available two days, three days, and four days. Multipark, single-day passes are also available. Multipark, multiday options are available for two days, three days, and four days.

You can skip the lines while at the Universal Studios parks with the Universal Express Pass. A multipark, single-day Universal Express Pass option is also available; as are multiday and even annual pass options (with select blackout dates). Season passes are available that offer “red-carpet treatment.”

With so many theme parks, resorts, and other top attractions to choose from all in one place, it’s easy to see why Orlando is one of the coolest cities in Florida—not to mention one of the best places to go in the entire Sunshine State.

Sanibel Island, Florida

The beaches of Sanibel Island are revered around the world as one of the best places to go in Florida by conchologists (shell collectors). The practice of shell collecting is so popular on Sanibel Island’s shores that locals have nicknamed the act of bending down for a shell “the Sanibel Stoop.”

Sanibel Islanders celebrate the seashell with an annual three-day exhibit and festival that typically runs in March. Shell enthusiasts can also learn about shells and mollusks by visiting The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum. The biggest prize on the beach is the junonia shell, which can land you in the local newspaper.

While shelling is serious business on the island, so is conservation. More than half of Sanibel Island is part of a designated wildlife refuge.

St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine isn’t nicknamed “Ancient City” for nothing. Juan Ponce de Leon first explored the area in 1513 and claimed it for Spain. It was later turned over to Britain, then back to Spain, and finally ceded (with the rest of the Florida Territory) to the United States in 1819. Today it’s one of the coolest cities in Florida.

You can see much of its rich history infused into St. Augustine’s architecture in places like Ft. Matanzas National Monument, Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, the oldest wooden schoolhouse in the country, the Hotel Ponce de Leon (once a regal hotel, now part of Flagler College and also a designated National Historic Landmark), and, of course, the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. (Folklore says that Ponce de Leon was searching for the elixir of life when he stumbled upon St. Augustine.)

St. Augustine is also home to the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park. The park opened its doors in 1893 and now houses more than 20 species of crocodile as well as other reptiles, a bird collection, and many mammals.

Busch Gardens, Tampa, Florida

For those seeking an up-close look at safari wildlife without the high price of an airfare ticket to Africa, Busch Gardens is one of the best places to go in Florida. Among the 2,700 animals that call the 335-acre zoological-themed park home are elephants, cheetahs, hyenas, hippos, kangaroos, meerkats, and lemurs.

Busch Gardens Tampa also features an adjoining water park, Adventure Island. Seek out some water-filled fun on the twisting Aruba Tuba, the 55-foot-drop Riptide, and the 700-foot-long Key West Rapids. Adventure Island closes from November through February and reopens in March; see the current calendar for more information.

All theme-park tickets provide complimentary round-trip shuttle transportation from several Orlando pickup/drop-off points.

Amelia Island, Florida

Among the southernmost of the Sea Islands, Amelia Island is an easy drive from Jacksonville and only about five hours from Atlanta. Two bridges connect the island to the mainland.

Amelia Island’s seashore provides plenty of adventures for all. Scallop digging, snorkeling, and horseback riding are all quintessential Amelia Island activities. Watch for the shoreline’s playful dolphins and (if you’re lucky) perhaps even a right-whale sighting.

Amelia Island offers upscale resorts, spas, championship golf courses, a variety of festivals, and of course beaches. Amelia is routinely recognized among the top 10 U.S. islands in Conde Nast Readers’ Choice Awards.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 10 Best Beach Towns in Florida
• 10 Best Florida Beach Resorts
• 10 Secret Beaches in Florida

Editor’s note: This story was originally published on March 1, 2013. It has been updated to reflect the most current information about the top attractions and best places to go in Florida. 

The post 10 Best Places to Go in Florida appeared first on SmarterTravel.

There are pretty much zero rules when it comes to travel, and that’s how it should be. Everyone plans and attacks an itinerary differently: city vs. outdoors, spontaneity vs. advance planning, budget vs. luxury. That said, one travel trend has taken on a life of its own in recent years, becoming a kind of mantra across traveler types—one that makes me cringe every time it’s brought up. It’s a line that I wish people would stop echoing in their vacation planning: How/where can I stay, eat, explore, etc.—if I want to “travel like a local”?

Maybe the phrase makes me squirm because I know first-hand how badly that thinking can derail a once-in-a-lifetime experience: I still regret several times I let locals and/or friends talk me out of visiting certain sites in Europe because of crowds and cost (we were broke students, after all).

Or maybe it’s because, as a resident of a highly visited North American city, I don’t want too many tourists in my favorite local joints. But most importantly, I know visitors are doing themselves a disservice by focusing on those places rather than going all in on the most significant sights a city has to offer. There are the obvious tourist traps like wax museums and hotel casinos to skip—but then there are true greatest-hits sites worth touristing-out over, which you should never write off in the name of being more “like a local.”

The Case Against “Travel Like a Local”

If you’re in London, you go to Westminster Abbey; when in Rome, you hit the Colosseum; in Agra, you wake up early for a glimpse of the Taj Mahal—crowds be damned. Locals don’t do that. “Travel like a local” is an oxymoron, even if you want to get off the tourist track. Hidden gems? Sure. Off the beaten path? Absolutely—weave in the hidden restaurants, shops, and cozy neighborhoods you want to blend into for a few hours. But do you really want to stay in a residential area and have to commute to all the best historic sites? Should you prioritize a dive-y local watering hole over the historic-yet-crowded pubs not found anywhere else? Probably not.

Bottom line: Time and again, the answer to “Where do the locals go?” is “Not where you, a tourist, should.”

But here’s the main problem I have with the idea that you need to travel like a local: It seems created more by fear of judgment rather than by any actual virtue. The trend toward traveling like a local seems like it was borne from the ethos that travelers are ignorant, talk too loudly, dress badly, and cause problems like overtourism. While all of those things can be true, it’s also possible to be a cultured, humble, stylish, and sustainability-focused traveler—and there seem to be more of them today than ever before. Likewise, staying in a local’s apartment or sticking only to local-approved spots won’t make you any more of a local, or any less of the tourist that you are. So you might as well embrace it.

Sure, you can come to Boston and, for fear of looking like a tourist, leave out the centuries-old sites that I’ve rarely, if ever, been to outside of a grade-school field trip. The same sites that make Boston one of America’s most storied cities: the Freedom Trail, Fenway Park, Paul Revere’s House, the Bunker Hill Monument. But you might leave feeling like you missed out on something pretty unique. There’s a balance to strike, and that balance isn’t only prioritizing what locals do, or what’s “authentic”—another cringe-worthy word travelers so often use.

An architectural feat and cultural icon, the Eiffel Tower was once so hated by Parisians that it was almost demolished. Created for the World’s Fair and serving no real purpose, it’s by no means “authentic” or local. But hindsight is 20/20, and smart travelers now know that you’d be crazy not to experience the behemoth lattice-work beauty, even if only for the view from the top, because you’re in Paris and there’s nothing else in the world like it.

Planning your trip solely around where you’ll find locals (hint: there are none at the Eiffel Tower) is a ridiculous premise that will have you missing all the tourist-frequented sites that make a destination unique. Those places are tourist-frequented for a reason. So let the locals be your compass, not your roadmap.

And go ahead and wear the embarrassing audio guide headset: Life’s too short not to.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 11 Important Taj Mahal Facts to Know Before You Go
• 18 Things to Know Before Visiting the Eiffel Tower
• The 12 Best Places to Go in 2020

SmarterTravel’s Shannon McMahon writes about all things travel. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram.

The post Why You Should Stop Trying to Travel ‘Like a Local’ appeared first on SmarterTravel.