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Plan It Travel Want to see the world? Let's go! Join us on one of our small group tours. First stop, Edinburgh 2024.

How to be a traveler instead of a tourist?1. Stay in one town/city for multiple days 2. Eat and drink things you have ne...
14/08/2024

How to be a traveler instead of a tourist?
1. Stay in one town/city for multiple days
2. Eat and drink things you have never tried.
3. Don't eat off a menu that is in English if traveling abroad (especially in Italy)
4. Talk to a local and ask questions
5. Don't have a jam packed itinerary. Travel slow. Wander the streets with no plan
6. Take local transportation

Don’t drink at your hotel. Find out where the people who work at your hotel do their drinking.Don’t be afraid. If it’s a...
13/08/2024

Don’t drink at your hotel. Find out where the people who work at your hotel do their drinking.

Don’t be afraid. If it’s appropriate to drink alcohol, drink heavily. Be smart, but be open to the world.”

–Anthony Bourdain

Family trip planning can be overwhelming, stressful, and frustrating. We are here to help take that burden off of you. W...
11/08/2024

Family trip planning can be overwhelming, stressful, and frustrating. We are here to help take that burden off of you. We're here to help plan epic family adventures from weekend trips to weeks away from home.

Hello August...check out our newsletter.
01/08/2024

Hello August...check out our newsletter.

Company Update Welcome to August! This summer has certainly been busy. I took a trip to Puerto Rico to visit friends and check out 'things to do' on the island that I had never done before. We visited a Coffee Farm and natural caves in Adjunctas in the central mountains of the island. Hopefully, soo...

23/07/2024

Have you ever wondered about the history of Spain's famous Flamenco Dance? Here you go. You can witness this special dance with us on our trip to Seville, Spain in March.

Learn more: https://planittravel.wetravel.com/trips/secrets-of-seville-plan-it-travel-35108857

Flamenco is a deeply passionate and expressive art form that encompasses singing (cante), guitar playing (toque), dance (baile), and handclaps (palmas). Originating in the Andalusian region of Spain, flamenco has a rich history influenced by various cultures and historical events. Here's an overview of the history of flamenco dancing:

Origins and Early History
Moorish Influence (8th-15th centuries):

The roots of flamenco can be traced back to the cultural melting pot of Andalusia, which was heavily influenced by the Moors who ruled Spain for nearly 800 years.
Moorish musical traditions, along with those of the Jews and the Gypsies (Roma), contributed to the development of flamenco.
Gypsy (Roma) Influence (15th century onward):

The Roma people, who migrated to Spain from northern India via Persia and Europe, brought with them their unique musical and dance traditions.They settled in Andalusia and played a crucial role in shaping flamenco.

18th and 19th Centuries: The Birth of Flamenco
Café Cantantes (mid-19th century):

Flamenco began to gain popularity in the cafés cantantes, where performances became more structured and professional.
These venues were pivotal in bringing flamenco to a wider audience and solidifying its various styles and forms.

Formalization of Flamenco Dance:

The dance aspect of flamenco became more codified, with distinct styles (palos) emerging, each with its own rhythm and mood.Dancers began to incorporate intricate footwork (zapateado) and expressive movements to convey deep emotions.

20th Century: International Recognition and Evolution
Golden Age of Flamenco (1910s-1950s):

This period saw the rise of legendary flamenco artists who contributed to the art form's development and global popularity.
Flamenco began to be performed in theaters and on international stages, reaching audiences worldwide.

Post-Franco Era (1970s onward):

After the end of Francisco Franco's dictatorship, Spain experienced a cultural renaissance, and flamenco benefited from this newfound freedom.
Modern flamenco artists started experimenting with fusion, blending traditional elements with other musical genres such as jazz and rock.

Contemporary Flamenco
Innovation and Preservation:

Today, flamenco continues to evolve, with contemporary dancers and musicians pushing the boundaries while respecting its deep traditions. Festivals, competitions, and academies around the world celebrate and preserve flamenco, ensuring its legacy for future generations.

Global Influence:

Flamenco has transcended its Spanish origins, inspiring and being incorporated into various art forms globally.
International artists and enthusiasts contribute to its ongoing evolution and preservation.
Key Elements of Flamenco Dance
Expression and Emotion:

Flamenco is known for its emotional intensity and expressive movements, conveying a wide range of feelings, from joy to sorrow.

Footwork (Zapateado):

Intricate and rhythmic footwork is a hallmark of flamenco dance, requiring precision and skill.

Hand and Arm Movements:

Graceful and often dramatic hand and arm movements add to the visual beauty of the dance.
Costumes:

Traditional flamenco costumes are vibrant and elaborate, with women often wearing dresses with ruffles and men in fitted pants and vests.

Improvisation:

While certain aspects of the dance are choreographed, improvisation plays a key role, allowing dancers to express their individuality. Flamenco dancing, with its profound history and cultural significance, remains a powerful and evolving art form that continues to captivate audiences around the world.

Being a traveler instead of a tourist means embracing the world with open arms and an insatiable curiosity. It's about d...
19/07/2024

Being a traveler instead of a tourist means embracing the world with open arms and an insatiable curiosity. It's about diving deep into the local culture, tasting the street food, and sipping coffee at a roadside cafe where no one speaks your language. It's about getting lost in a new city, striking up conversations with strangers, and experiencing life as the locals do.

Tourists stick to the beaten path, snap a few photos, and head home with souvenirs. Travelers, on the other hand, seek authenticity and adventure. They understand that the true essence of a place lies beyond the guidebooks and Instagram spots. It's in the small moments, the unexpected encounters, and the stories shared over a meal.

Being a traveler means you’re not just seeing the world but truly experiencing it. You’re challenging your assumptions, expanding your horizons, and growing in ways you never imagined. So, be a traveler. Take the road less traveled, savor every moment, and let the world change you.

We are so excited to be a part of this adventure. If you are part of the University of South Carolina Upstate Family, jo...
17/07/2024

We are so excited to be a part of this adventure. If you are part of the University of South Carolina Upstate Family, join us in LONDON!

✈️ Who’s ready for an unforgettable adventure?

Grab your friends and join us for a fully tailored trip to London this fall! 🇬🇧 This exciting journey is specially designed just for you, our USC Upstate Alumni, and we invite your friends, faculty, family, and staff to come along too!

📅 Mark your calendars and get ready to explore iconic sights, enjoy amazing experiences, and reconnect with fellow alumni. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity!

👥 Tag your travel buddies and let’s make memories together! ✈️💚

🇬🇧☕️💂🏰👑

Link to learn more or to book the trip: https://uscupstate.edu/campus-events/usc-upstate-alumni-travel/

"I hate all those weathermen who tell you that rain is bad weather. There's no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong...
17/07/2024

"I hate all those weathermen who tell you that rain is bad weather. There's no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothing, so get yourself a sexy raincoat and live a little"
- Billy Connolly

To that time we hiked the Old Man of Storr in April. We are thinking about going back this coming April. Would you be interested? Let us know in the comments.

Seville -> Ronda, Spain...a day trip.Ronda, located in the province of Málaga in southern Spain, is a city known for its...
12/07/2024

Seville -> Ronda, Spain...a day trip.

Ronda, located in the province of Málaga in southern Spain, is a city known for its dramatic scenery and rich history. Perched atop the El Tajo gorge, which plunges to a depth of 120 meters, Ronda offers breathtaking views and a sense of awe-inspiring natural beauty.

The city is famously divided by the Guadalevín River, spanned by the iconic Puente Nuevo, a stone bridge completed in the 18th century that connects Ronda's old town, La Ciudad, with the newer part, El Mercadillo. Ronda's historical significance is evident in its well-preserved architecture, such as the ancient Arab baths, the Mondragón Palace, and the Plaza de Toros, one of Spain's oldest bullrings.

With its narrow, winding streets, white-washed buildings, and picturesque squares, Ronda embodies the quintessential Andalusian charm. It has also been a source of inspiration for numerous writers and artists, including Ernest Hemingway and Orson Welles, who were captivated by its beauty and cultural heritage.

Learn more: https://planittravel.wetravel.com/trips/secrets-of-seville-plan-it-travel-35108857

Woot updated website! We recieved feedback from friends regarding our website...friends never lie. So, We made some chan...
11/07/2024

Woot updated website! We recieved feedback from friends regarding our website...friends never lie. So, We made some changes. More to come.

Do you want to experience the world? Then, join us on a trip. If you are a solo traveler planning your journey, let us help you build your itinerary.

FREE STUFF! We like free stuff. For all new newsletter sign-ups we will provide you with a free travel itinerary. Head t...
08/07/2024

FREE STUFF! We like free stuff. For all new newsletter sign-ups we will provide you with a free travel itinerary. Head to the website -> scroll to the bottom -> drop your email. In a few days we will send you a surprise destination itinerary.

Do you want to experience the world? Then, join us on a trip. If you are a solo traveler planning your journey, let us help you build your itinerary.

Are you wanting to experience the sights and sounds of Seville, Spain? We have an early bird special for you! But hurry,...
07/07/2024

Are you wanting to experience the sights and sounds of Seville, Spain? We have an early bird special for you! But hurry, because it ends August 1st.

Let Seville show you her secrets! This trip is dedicated to the history buff, solo explorer, and culinary connoisseur. We have activities planned for you each day, but we will also give you time to explore the magic of Seville. Our historic city hotel will allow you to stroll the alleyways, find uni...

Our July Newsletter is out!
01/07/2024

Our July Newsletter is out!

Company Update Welcome to the July edition of Plan It Travel's Newsletter. Spilling the tea since 1773...Happy 4th of July! We hope you are having a nice summer. We are currently in Puerto Rico, a place we have loved for many years. This week we are going on adventures that will be new to us. Finger...

We are in Puerto Rico this week. The island is one of our favorite desitations and we hope to run a few trips here in th...
01/07/2024

We are in Puerto Rico this week. The island is one of our favorite desitations and we hope to run a few trips here in the coming years. They have everything from amazing food, nature, and adventure. Keep your eyes peeled for updates on this destination.

We feel seen. Adventures await!
26/06/2024

We feel seen. Adventures await!

16/06/2024

See you in Seville?

Traveling to Seville, Spain, is an enriching experience for numerous reasons. Here are some compelling reasons to visit this vibrant city:

Historical Landmarks: Seville boasts numerous historical sites, such as the Seville Cathedral (one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world), the Giralda Tower, and the Alcázar of Seville (a stunning example of Mudéjar architecture).
Flamenco: Seville is considered the heart of flamenco dancing. You can experience authentic flamenco performances in various venues throughout the city.

Beautiful Architecture:
Plaza de España: This iconic square, built for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929, features a mix of Renaissance and Moorish revival styles.
Metropol Parasol: Known locally as "Las Setas" (The Mushrooms), this modern structure offers panoramic views of the city.

Gastronomy:
Tapas: Seville is famous for its tapas culture. Enjoy a wide variety of small dishes, from traditional Spanish ham and cheese to innovative modern creations.
Local Cuisine: Try local specialties like gazpacho, salmorejo, and jamón ibérico.
Charming Neighborhoods:

Santa Cruz: The historic Jewish quarter with narrow, winding streets, picturesque plazas, and beautiful courtyards.
Triana: Known for its vibrant flamenco culture, pottery, and stunning views across the Guadalquivir River.
Pleasant Climate:

Seville enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it a great destination year-round.
Friendly Atmosphere:

The Sevillanos (residents of Seville) are known for their hospitality and friendliness, making visitors feel welcome.

https://www.wetravel.com/trips/secrets-of-seville-plan-it-travel-35108857

Scotland is on our minds for 2025. We are thinking about putting together an all female tour: Highlands, Hiking, and Hig...
15/06/2024

Scotland is on our minds for 2025. We are thinking about putting together an all female tour: Highlands, Hiking, and Hightea. This would be a small group tour. No more than 10 ladies. Are you interested? If so, send us a DM or email [email protected]

We have been spending a lot of time in the home of Country Music lately. Nashville has become a popular destination for ...
14/06/2024

We have been spending a lot of time in the home of Country Music lately. Nashville has become a popular destination for bachlorette parties, music lovers, and group travel. There is music at every turn day and night. And if you come here you must try Hot Chicken, it will light you senses up.

Summer is here and we are working hard for you.
06/06/2024

Summer is here and we are working hard for you.

Company Update Welcome to the June edition of Plan It Travel's Newsletter. We are grateful for your continued interest in all things travel and tourism-related. We strive to keep it relevant, engaging, and a little weird at times, just for you. Here we are in the full swing of summer! I am coming to...

We are beating the heat by thinking about Christmas in Prague! Christmas markets are beloved for various reasons, offeri...
06/06/2024

We are beating the heat by thinking about Christmas in Prague!

Christmas markets are beloved for various reasons, offering a unique and festive experience that goes beyond regular shopping.

Here are some compelling reasons to visit a Christmas market:

Festive Atmosphere: Christmas markets are brimming with holiday cheer, featuring twinkling lights, beautifully decorated stalls, and often live music or carolers. The atmosphere alone can get you into the holiday spirit.

Unique Gifts and Crafts: Vendors often sell handmade crafts, ornaments, and unique gifts that you won't find in regular stores. These one-of-a-kind items make for thoughtful and special presents.

Delicious Food and Drink: Christmas markets are famous for their seasonal treats, such as gingerbread, roasted chestnuts, mulled wine (Glühwein), hot chocolate, and a variety of savory foods. Trying these festive foods is a highlight for many visitors.

Cultural Experience: Many Christmas markets have a long history and are steeped in local traditions. Visiting one can provide insights into local customs and heritage, making it a cultural as well as a festive experience.

Family-Friendly Activities: Many markets offer activities for children, such as rides, games, and visits with Santa Claus. This makes them a great outing for families looking to enjoy the holiday season together.

Support Local Artisans and Businesses: By shopping at a Christmas market, you are often supporting local artisans and small businesses, which is particularly meaningful during the holiday season.

Photo Opportunities: The beautifully decorated stalls and festive ambiance provide countless opportunities for memorable photos, perfect for capturing the holiday season.

Community Spirit: Christmas markets are a gathering place for the community, fostering a sense of togetherness and goodwill. It's a chance to connect with others and share in the holiday joy.

Visiting a Christmas market is a delightful way to celebrate the season, enjoy festive foods, find unique gifts, and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit.

Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is a stunning and historic destination known for its rich cultural heritage, picturesque architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. Christmas Market combines all of this plus the magic of the session to great an incredible winter wander land. Here are some....

Have you ever wondered about the history of Memorial Day? Memorial Day, a federal holiday in the United States, honors a...
27/05/2024

Have you ever wondered about the history of Memorial Day?

Memorial Day, a federal holiday in the United States, honors and remembers the military personnel who have died in the service of their country. The history of Memorial Day is rich and evolving, reflecting the nation's changes and its relationship with the military.

Origins and Early Observances

Decoration Day:
Memorial Day originated after the Civil War and was initially known as Decoration Day. The name came from the tradition of decorating soldiers' graves with flowers, flags, and wreaths. The practice of decorating graves to honor the dead had been part of many cultures for centuries, but the Civil War, with its immense loss of life, prompted a more formalized and widespread observance in the United States.

First Official Observances:
One of the earliest recorded instances of a community honoring fallen soldiers occurred in Charleston, South Carolina, in 1865. Freed slaves and other residents organized a ceremony to honor Union soldiers who had died in a Confederate prison camp. They cleaned and landscaped a burial ground, held a parade, and sang hymns, marking what many consider the first Memorial Day.

General John A. Logan's Proclamation:
The official establishment of Decoration Day is attributed to General John A. Logan, the national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, a Union veterans' organization. On May 5, 1868, Logan issued General Order No. 11, designating May 30 as a day to decorate the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the Civil War. This date was chosen because it was not the anniversary of any specific battle.

Evolution into a National Holiday
Post-Civil War to World War I:
Initially, Decoration Day was primarily a Northern tradition, as Southern states had their own days to honor Confederate dead. However, after World War I, the observance expanded to include American military personnel who died in all wars, not just the Civil War. This shift helped unify the observance across the entire country.

Adoption by Southern States:
Over time, Southern states adopted Memorial Day, and it gradually became a nationwide event. Each state and locality developed its own traditions, but the central theme of honoring fallen soldiers remained constant.

Federal Recognition and Modern Observance
Uniform Monday Holiday Act:
In 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which moved Memorial Day from its traditional May 30 date to the last Monday in May, creating a three-day weekend for federal employees. This change, effective from 1971, aimed to provide a more convenient time for the observance and to encourage travel and family gatherings.

National Moment of Remembrance:
In December 2000, Congress established the National Moment of Remembrance, encouraging Americans to pause for one minute at 3:00 PM local time on Memorial Day to remember and honor those who have died in service to the nation. This act reinforced the day's significance and promoted its observance in a meaningful way.

Traditions and Practices
Grave Decoration:
The tradition of decorating graves continues to this day, with many communities holding parades, memorial services, and visiting cemeteries to place flowers and flags on the graves of fallen soldiers.

Flags and Parades:
American flags are flown at half-staff until noon and then raised to full-staff for the remainder of the day. Parades, featuring veterans' groups, military personnel, and patriotic music, are common across the country.

Community Activities:
Many people observe Memorial Day by attending local events, visiting memorials, and participating in community activities that honor the memory of those who served. It is also a time for family gatherings, barbecues, and the unofficial start of summer.

Memorial Day serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel and remains a cornerstone of American patriotism and national memory.

The ball is rolling with travel! Have you heard about Taylor Tourism? Apparently, Taylor Swifts concerts in Europe are c...
24/05/2024

The ball is rolling with travel! Have you heard about Taylor Tourism? Apparently, Taylor Swifts concerts in Europe are causing an economical push worth billions of dollars for the cities she is playing in. Americans are flocking to places like Lisbon and Edinburgh to see her. It cost less to fly to the EU stay for 3 days, and see the concert then just a concert ticket in the USA.

Before we heard about this we started something! 3 day itineraries for destinations around the world. Because we are getting asked WEEKLY about visiting the places that we love. Currently we have New Orleans, London, and Seville.

In the coming weeks we will be putting up more desitinations! Hop over to Patreon and check out our shop. It's FREE to join.

Check out Plan It Travel’s products on Patreon

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