Travel Tips,Trips, and Reviews

31/10/2024

🎄 Experience the Magic of the Festival of Lights in St. Augustine! 🎄

29/10/2024

🌴✨ Girls' Getaway: Sun, Fun, and Adventure! 🌊👯‍♀️

Join us on an unforgettable girls' trip as we escape to paradise! From soaking up the sun on pristine beaches to exploring vibrant local cultures, this adventure is all about creating memories that last a lifetime. Whether it's sipping cocktails by the ocean, indulging in local cuisine, or embarking on thrilling outdoor activities, we've got it all covered.

Get ready for laughter, bonding, and a whole lot of fun with the best travel companions!

📍 Destinations: Bahamas, Saint Martin, and Puerto Rico
🛳️ Cruising with: Carnival Cruise Line and Celebrity Cruises
🎥 Highlights: Beach days, local markets, water sports, and nightlife adventures

Hit that subscribe button and join us for more travel inspiration and tips!

27/10/2024

Know before you go…. "Safety Travel Tips: "
Designing Secure Journeys for Adventurous Souls'"

23/10/2024

*7 Best Travel Apps to Enhance Your Adventure**

In today's digital age, travel apps have become essential companions for globetrotters, simplifying everything from planning and packing to navigating and communicating. Here’s a detailed look at seven indispensable travel apps that can elevate your travel experience:

1. **Skyscanner**
Skyscanner is a must-have for any traveler looking to find the best flight deals. This app is renowned for its comprehensive search engine that compares prices across airlines and travel agents. It offers flexible search options, allowing users to explore destinations based on budget and preferred travel dates. For adventure seekers and budget-conscious travelers, Skyscanner’s ability to alert users about price changes ensures they never miss a great deal.

2. **Citymapper**
Navigating a new city can be daunting, but Citymapper simplifies urban transportation. This app provides real-time updates on public transit options, including buses, trains, and subways, across major cities worldwide. It also offers walking and cycling routes, making it ideal for those who love exploring cities up close. Citymapper is perfect for culture and history buffs who want to maximize their sightseeing time without getting lost.

3. **Splitwise**
Traveling with friends or family? Splitwise is the go-to app for managing shared expenses. It allows users to track who owes what, ensuring that everyone pays their fair share without awkward conversations. This app is particularly useful for group trips, where expenses can quickly add up. With Splitwise, travelers can focus on enjoying their journey rather than worrying about money matters.

4. **PackPoint**
Packing can be one of the most stressful parts of travel, but PackPoint makes it a breeze. This app creates customized packing lists based on the destination, length of stay, and planned activities. It even considers the weather forecast, ensuring travelers pack appropriately. For families and seniors, PackPoint’s tailored lists help ensure nothing essential is forgotten, making for a smooth start to any adventure.

5. **Google Translate**
Language barriers can be a challenge when traveling abroad, but Google Translate bridges the gap. With support for over 100 languages, this app offers text, voice, and camera translation, making communication easier than ever. Whether you're ordering food, asking for directions, or exploring local culture, Google Translate is an invaluable tool for seamless interactions with locals.

6. **WhatsApp**
Staying connected with loved ones is crucial during travel, and WhatsApp offers a reliable solution. This app provides free messaging and calling over Wi-Fi, allowing travelers to keep in touch without racking up roaming charges. With features like group chats and media sharing, WhatsApp is perfect for coordinating with travel companions and sharing memorable moments in real-time.

7. **Local Ride-Sharing App**
When exploring a new city, local ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft offer convenient and affordable transportation options. These apps provide reliable rides at the tap of a button, eliminating the hassle of navigating public transit or hailing a taxi. For RV-ers and those venturing into new territories, ride-sharing apps offer a flexible way to explore without the need for a personal vehicle.

Incorporating these apps into your travel routine can transform your journey, making it more efficient, enjoyable, and stress-free. As your dedicated travel agent, I’m here to ensure that your adventures are supported by the best tools and resources available, paving the way for unforgettable experiences.

01/10/2024

Where to spend the Winter Solstice
The Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year, has been a significant event in various cultures throughout history, marking the moment when the sun reaches its lowest point in the sky before beginning its gradual return. Occuring in December in the Northern Hemisphere, the Winter Solstice brings with it traditions, celebrations, and a sense of wonder. Around the world, various locations host unique observances and festivities that attract people seeking to experience the solstice in a special way.

https://startingpointatravel.com/travel-story/where-to-spend-the-winter-solstice/

01/10/2024

https://fb.watch/uXyxfaHUHe/?

08/09/2024

The US National Park System
On March 1, 1872, Congress established Yellowstone National Park in the Territories of Montana and Wyoming, marking it as a public area for the enjoyment of the people and placing it under the exclusive control of the Secretary of the Interior. In the years that followed, the United States continued to authorize additional national parks and monuments administered by the Department of the Interior. Here are just a few of these national treasures. How Many have you visited ? https://startingpointatravel.com/travel-story/the-us-national-park-system/

05/09/2024

Travel Safety Tips: Ensuring a Secure and Enjoyable Journey

Traveling is such an amazing way to explore new cultures, try different foods, and see breathtaking landscapes. But to make sure your trip is as enjoyable as possible, it's essential to prioritize safety. Here are five practical tips to help you stay safe while you’re out exploring the world:

1. **Research the Country’s Laws and Customs**

Before you embark on your adventure, spend some time researching the laws and customs of your destination. Every country has its unique set of rules and cultural norms, and being aware of them can save you from potential trouble.

**Why it matters:** For example, in Singapore, chewing gum is banned, and bringing it into the country can lead to hefty fines. Knowing this ahead of time can help you avoid an unexpected and costly mistake. Plus, understanding local customs shows respect for the culture and can make your experience much more enriching.

Another example is in Mexico it is illegal to wear camouflage clothing
Camouflage is only for members of the military. Wearing camouflage as a tourist could get you in trouble, possibly preventing you from leaving your hotel , cruise ship or resort property,. It could even getting you into legal trouble.
Mexico also recently passed a no smoking in public law. That includes beaches. So if you are planning on spending some time at the beach and you are a smoker remember not to light up. The penalty for being caught for smoking is unclear, but there is a cash penalty of anywhere from $300 to $500, and if one fails to comply, they could end up in jail for 36 hours.

2. **Avoid Wearing Expensive Jewelry**

As tempting as it might be to wear your favorite jewelry, it’s usually best to leave it at home. Flashy accessories can attract unwanted attention and make you a target for theft.

**Why it matters:** Imagine wandering through the bustling Grand Bazaar in Istanbul. Pickpockets are always on the lookout for easy targets, and wearing expensive jewelry can make you stand out, increasing the risk of theft. Keeping your valuables out of sight can help you blend in and stay safe.

3. **Keep Copies of Important Documents**

Always have copies of your essential travel documents, like your passport, visa, travel insurance, and itinerary. Store digital copies on your phone and email them to yourself, and keep physical copies in a separate location from the originals.

**Why it matters:** If you lose your passport while exploring the historic streets of Rome, having a copy can expedite the process of getting a replacement at your country’s embassy. It’s a small step that can save you a lot of stress and hassle.

4. **Stay Aware of Your Surroundings**

Being vigilant is key when you're traveling, especially in unfamiliar places. Always pay attention to what's happening around you, avoid isolated areas, and trust your instincts if something feels off.

**Why it matters:** Whether you’re hiking in the remote areas of Alaska or strolling through a busy market in Puerto Rico, staying aware of your surroundings can help you avoid potential dangers, from wildlife encounters to pickpockets. Your instincts are your best guide.

5. **Use Reputable Transportation Services**

Whether you’re taking a taxi, using a ride-sharing app, or hopping on public transportation, always opt for reputable services. Do a bit of research beforehand to identify the safest options and avoid unlicensed or unofficial vehicles.

**Why it matters:** In the Caribbean, for instance, using licensed taxi services or pre-arranged transportation can help you avoid scams and ensure a safer journey to your resort or cruise port. It’s all about making informed choices to keep your travel experience smooth and enjoyable.

By following these tips, you can enhance your travel safety and focus on enjoying the incredible experiences that await you. Safe travels!

19/08/2024

Getaway Mountain Campground in Ascutney, Vermont

Nestled in the heart of Ascutney, Vermont, Getaway Mountain Campground is a quant little place to get away from it all.

Getaway Mountain Campground in Ascutney, VermontNestled in the heart of Ascutney, Vermont, Getaway Mountain Campground is a hidden gem, with oak lined walkin...

14/07/2024

Traveling with Kids: Tips for a Smooth(er) Journey
By Adam Parks

Children. They are our bundles of joy until they start making a scene on a plane or squabble in the car during a journey. Some portion of our childhood memories are fondly remembered family vacations. But you probably also remember those threats from the front seat when you and your siblings distracted yourself by picking on each other. It is possible to be strategic in your family trip planning. How do you ensure a peaceful trip with the young ones?
Here are a few strategies to keep in mind before you think of reaching for stress-relief solutions:
https://startingpointatravel.com/travel-story/traveling-with-kids-tips-for-a-smoother-journey/

09/06/2024

RVing is an amazing experience.

If you’re new to RVing, it’s a good idea to seek out tips and tricks that will make the experience go more smoothly and allow you to learn from other people’s mistakes. Trust me, we all have and will make them. Even after 20 years and 3 RVs we are still learning new tips and tricks.

https://startingpointatravel.com/rving-things-that-you-dont-want-to-learn-the-hard-way/

12/05/2024

How (Not) to Visit America’s National Parks in the Summer
By Kat Richter

The best way to see the National Parks during the busy summer tourist season is simply not to do it. Stay home. Come back in the fall, when there are fewer visitors and lower temperatures. But if summer travel is your only option, as it was for my husband and me, follow these tips to beat the crowds— and the heat.

https://startingpointatravel.com/travel-story/how-not-to-visit-americas-national-parks-in-the-summer/

04/05/2024

Winter park Scenic boat tour

Winter Park, Florida – Adventuresome for the first time visitors seeking flora and fauna or savvy Orlando travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path vacation experience won’t be disappointed when they discover the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour.

VENETIAN BOAT TOUR IN WINTER PARK FL

25/04/2024

For those that don't like getting off the ship in Nassau....

Royal is breaking ground for a private island for its passengers when they port in Nassau. Soon you should be able to walk off the boat to the island

07/04/2024

The Newest National Park: New River George
By Travelhoppers Staff

The National Park Service designated New River Gorge in the Appalachian Mountains of West Virginia as the United State’s newest national park in December 2020. This addition to the National Park System marks a significant recognition of the area’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Spanning over 70,000 acres, the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, along with a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.

The New River Gorge encompasses a 53-mile stretch of the New River, one of North America’s oldest rivers and one of the rivers that flow north. Contrary to its name, the New River is geologically ancient, with estimates of its age ranging from 3 to 320 million years, carving a deep and intricate canyon through the Appalachian Mountains. The region is steeped in a rich history, of Native American tribes, early settlers, and the coal mining boom that once thrived in these mountains.

The New River Gorge has a varied ecosystem ranging from riverine to forested landscapes. The park is home to an array of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, river otters, and a variety of bird species like the peregrine falcon and the bald eagle. The diverse habitats support a rich floral diversity, from the rhododendron thickets to the hardwood forests.

The New River Gorge is a premier destination for outdoor recreation, offering a wide range of activities that cater to all ages and skill levels. The rugged terrain and the flowing waters create a perfect backdrop for various adventures.

Rock Climbing:
The gorge is renowned for its rock climbing, with over 1,400 established rock climbs. The sandstone cliffs, ranging from 30 to 120 feet, offer routes for both beginners and seasoned climbers.

Whitewater Rafting:
The New River provides excellent whitewater rafting experiences. The upper section offers a milder ride, suitable for families and beginners, while the lower section presents challenging Class IV and V rapids.

Hiking and Biking:
With over 100 miles of trails, the park hosts hikers and bikers of all levels. The trails wind through scenic forests and historical sites.

Fishing and Hunting:
The river and its tributaries are popular for fishing, offering bass, perch, catfish, and trout. The park also has designated areas for hunting.

Camping and Picnicking:
the park offers numerous camping sites and picnic areas.

The New River Gorge Bridge stretches across the New River at a staggering height of 876 feet and extending 3,030 feet in length, standing as one of the longest steel arch bridges in the world. Completed in 1977, the bridge dramatically reduced the travel time across the gorge from 45 minutes to under a minute. The bridge not only serves as a vital artery for transportation but has also become a cultural and recreational landmark, hosting the annual Bridge Day festival where thousands gather to celebrate and partake in BASE jumping and rappelling. The New River Gorge Bridge is very likely the most photographed place in West Virginia. The U.S. Mint chose the bridge to represent West Virginia on the state commemorative quarter. In 2013, the National Park Service listed the New River Gorge Bridge in the National Register of Historic Places.

07/04/2024

5 Chocolate Lovers’ Destinations
By Nadia Ali

Nothing says love more than chocolate – well, at least for most people. Why not plan a getaway to a destination known for chocolate? Go to a far flung part of the world where the heavenly creation of sweetened food made from cocoa beans excites your taste buds. What could be better….

https://startingpointatravel.com/travel-story/5-chocolate-lovers-destinations/

04/04/2024

Eye Safety During a Total Solar Eclipse

On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will cross North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. A total solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the Sun. The sky will darken as if it were dawn or dusk.
Safety is the number one priority when viewing a total solar eclipse. Be sure you're familiar with when you need to wear specialized eye protection designed for solar viewing by reviewing.

it is not safe to look directly at the Sun without specialized eye protection for solar viewing.

When watching the partial phases of the solar eclipse directly with your eyes, which happens before and after totality, you must look through safe solar viewing glasses (“eclipse glasses”) or a safe handheld solar viewer at all times.

Eclipse glasses are NOT regular sunglasses; regular sunglasses, no matter how dark they, are not safe for viewing the Sun. Solar viewers are thousands of times darker and ought to comply with the ISO 12312-2 International standard.

Looking directly at the sun can damage the retina, the part of the eyes that sends images to the brain, which can cause temporary or permanent damage, The injury is sometimes known as "eclipse blindness."

The effects of eye damage can show up hours to days after the viewing, according to Prevent Blindness, a organization that advocates for eye health and safety. Symptoms include loss of central vision, distorted vision and altered color vision.

Also viewing the eclipse through a camera lens, binoculars, or a telescope without a special-purpose solar filter secured over the front of the optics will instantly cause severe eye injury.

People who hurt their eyes during the solar eclipse should see a local eye doctor as soon as possible..

Enjoy the solar eclipse and stay safe.


If you need ISO 12312-2 International standard compliant Solar viewer glasses you can find them on Amazon. ….

https://amzn.to/3xv04kE

19/03/2024

While we were in old San Juan we visited the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of Saint John the Baptist.

Located in Old San Juan, it is the oldest cathedral in the United States, and is the second-oldest cathedral in the Americas.

The original cathedral in what was the city of Puerto Rico (changed to San Juan Bautista in 1521) was constructed from wood in 1521. It was destroyed by a hurricane and the current church construction began in 1535, being practically completed in 1802, later in 1905 an upper portion to the facade was added.

The cathedral contains the tomb of the Spanish explorer and settlement founder Juan Ponce de León. It also has a shrine to the Blessed Carlos Manuel Rodríguez Santiago, the first Puerto Rican and first Caribbean-born layperson in history to be beatified.

If you would like to see this magnificent cathedral is a very easy walk from The Port of San Juan and open to the public. 

17/03/2024

Best Locations for Nighttime Star Gazing in the U.S.

Urban sprawl and artificial lighting dominate to much of the nighttime sky.
Fortunately, the United States has taken significant steps to preserve the pristine beauty of the night sky.
Today, over 60 designated International Dark Sky Reserves offer sanctuaries of darkness where the cosmos can be admired in full splendor. Check out these National Parks and Reserves to see the night sky in all its glory…

https://startingpointatravel.com/travel-story/best-locations-for-nighttime-star-gazing-in-the-u-s/

Have you been to any of these national parks or reserves? If you have we would love to see your pictures. 

14/03/2024

Planning a spring break getaway? Don’t let scammers clip your wings
When you’re planning a trip — whether it’s a last-minute spring break vacation or another trip — you might be tempted to jump on an offer for a great deal. Unfortunately, scammers sometimes hide behind those offers. Their goal? To try to steal your money. Here’s how it could play out.……
https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2024/03/planning-spring-break-getaway-dont-let-scammers-clip-your-wings

08/03/2024

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, today revealed new and expanded offerings aboard Norwegian Joy, including a new Thermal Suite in the Mandara Spa and Salon, redesigned Three-Bedroom The Haven Premier Owner’s Suites, an expanded Vibe Beach Club and 24 new balcony ...

11/02/2024

Is A Cashless Trip the New Travel Normal?
By Aimee Cebulski

Imagine an overseas trip without spending a single Euro, Pound, Yuan, Yen, or Peso – at least not in the literal sense.

I recently returned from a 3+ week trip to Stockholm and several Baltic nations, including Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, along with a quick stop in Poland. The entire time, not a single coin or bill passed from my hands to a restaurant or store owner.

OK, fair disclosure — I did spend one 5 Euro note in Estonia to climb a church tower where cash was the only payment accepted. Everywhere else, no matter how small, preferred digital or card payment, sometimes running completely cashless with no traditional register or way even to accept currency.

I have to admit it was unsettling not to dig in my wallet attempting to distinguish between unfamiliar shapes and colors to find the right denominations. However, it was extremely freeing to not worry about making change, finding ATMs or flashing bundles of cash. In many locations, it was actually a hassle to find an ATM. While I took out $100 worth of both Swedish Krona and Euro to have just in case, if I needed a larger amount of cash it would have been a bit of a challenge.

After three-plus weeks of living cash-free, a few clear pros and cons emerged:

Digital currency makes international travel easier than ever — Some travelers find themselves intimidated by the idea of managing a foreign currency and finding banks during a trip. Using entirely digital transactions (whether credit card or QR-enabled technology such as Venmo or Zelle) removes a perceived barrier of entry for some travelers. As an added bonus, no need to figure out what to do with leftover currency when departing a country; you only use the money you actually spend.

You can worry less about carrying cash around — While it is true a thief can make off with your phone or wallet at any time, it is a greater loss when you lose physical cash, as that is instantly gone and cannot be frozen from future transactions like digital payment methods can be.



In a post-pandemic world, touchless transactions have a real benefit — Although several business owners adapted to a touchless or hands-free model to avoid spreading COVID-19 specifically, the idea of limiting the number of people handling credit cards and menus is also helpful to mitigate the spread of things like common cold and flu all year long.

Handing a credit card to a store clerk

Less cash can equal quicker transactions — Being able to tap or swipe and go has led to faster customer transactions, and many business owners I asked that had even gone completely cash-free said they had no desire ever to have to deal with a cash register and making change, along with daily till reconciliation, ever again.

A cashless society creates exclusions for some customers — While it seems like everyone has a cell phone and credit card, in reality, there are segments of the population that either do not use the technology of a cell phone nor do they have access to a credit or debit card for any number of reasons. In a cash-free economy, these consumers are completely shut out.

A reliance on technology can be limiting — One obvious concern for a cashless business is the inability to complete any transactions if the power and/or internet and cell connection has gone out. Even if you plan on going completely cash-free on a trip, it remains a good idea to have a small amount of currency on hand if such a situation arises.

Not having to count your cash can lead to overspending — When every single transaction, from a hotel room stay to a simple bottle of water, is a tap away, it can become easy to overspend on your trip. If you traditionally would take out a set amount of money for a vacation and you knew you had to allocate it each day, it becomes harder to do so when you don’t have that visual representation of fewer bills in your wallet. To avoid overspending, be sure to log into your credit card or payment apps regularly and tabulate money spent to ensure a smooth and successful trip!

11/02/2024

How to Survive Long-Haul Flights.

Long-haul flights can be daunting, often involving hours of travel across multiple time zones. Fear not. With the right preparation, long-haul journeys can be more comfortable and even enjoyable. Here are a few salient tips for the next long-hour flight on which you find yourself.

Choose Your Seat…..

https://startingpointatravel.com/travel-story/how-to-survive-long-haul-flights/