Looking for a fun day in downtown Denver? Love Art? Do you enjoy a quieter and slower pace with less crowds? This post is for you!
Denver is my home town. I’m actually one of the rare natives. Summer is when I believe Colorado is at its best and when I like to put my travel on pause and become a tourist or in some cases a tour guide in my own town.
I got the opportunity to do that this month with my friend visiting from Connecticut. Here are my suggestions for a day in Downtown Denver for Art lovers.
Attend an Art Festival
What can you do in a day in Downtown Denver? The Denver Chalk Art Festival is one of my favorite summertime activities.
Artists travel from all around the country to create their masterpieces in chalk on the streets of Denver, Colorado. It happens the first weekend of June every year.
I recommend going on Sunday morning as there will be less crowds and the artists will be further along in their creations. Plus, street parking is free on Sundays!
Summers can get hot in Downtown Denver, so mornings will also be a little cooler. Don’t forget some sunscreen on those shoulders! There isn’t always a lot of shade. A hat or an umbrella also helps.
The Denver Chalk Art Festival is located in The Golden Triangle Creative District on 12th and Bannock. It’s just two blocks South of Civic Center Park and a great jumping off point for other fun places to spend a day in downtown Denver.
The Chalk Art Festival runs the first weekend of June every year and is open from 10am to 8pm both Saturday and Sunday. Don’t forget to vote for your favorite artist while you are there!
Missed it this year? Swap it out for the Cherry Creek Arts Festival just East of Downtown which runs July 5-7, 2024.
Lunch at Pints Pub
Photo by Kate Bocash
Next, take a break for lunch nearby and explore the art of beer making. A day in downtown Denver wouldn’t be complete without visiting one of its many breweries like my favorite, Pints Pub.
It really feels like a warm and homey British pub complete with not one, but two British red telephone booths and a British bobby (policeman) to greet you at the door.
They brew traditional cask conditioned or live ales and have the largest selection of single malts outside of Britain! They also have several local hard ciders which are a particular favorite of mine.
Photos by Kate Bocash
Ambiance
The layout is broken up nicely into four rooms which makes the atmosphere feel more intimate and relaxed than a lot of restaurants.
Cozy up in one of their nice booths, pull up to a table for two with their comfy leather chairs or choose a high top table near the bar with a group of friends and a view of their cask cellar through a window in the floor.
Pints Pub also has two nice upstairs rooms to accommodate larger groups. Soak up a taste of Britain without the long plane ride or expensive ticket!
Photo by Kate Bocash
Food
Pints Pub serves traditional British Pub fare and also has a large burger selection. I love that they always bring a caddy of additional toppings for your burger like, thinly sliced red onions, dill and butter pickles, and even jalapeños and banana peppers if you want something a little spicy.
As a vegetarian I always get the Queen’s Own Burger. A Garden Burger, but it’s jazzed up with a tasty bun and served with avocado, lettuce and tomato.
I also suggest adding the British Cheddar or Dill Havarti cheese to your burger. Delish! Save some room for dessert though.
Pint’s Pub has an excellent Chocolate Lover’s Torte from nearby Gateaux’s bakery which has been voted the best bakery in Denver many times by Denver’s 5280 Magazine and has also been featured on The Food Network. It’s served with a drizzle of raspberry couli and is a chocolate lovers delight!
Check out a Museum
After lunch check out one of Denver’s cool art museums. There is the large Denver Art Museum conveniently located down the street from Pint’s Pub.
There are also smaller or more intimate museums you may want to check out like the Kirkland Museum for fine and decorative art or the Clyfford Still Museum for abstract art.
Photo of Kirkland’s Original Studio
On this particular day I chose to visit the Kirkland Museum which I noticed had an exhibit on Art Deco, called Vanity and Vice, as I was roaming the chalk art festival .
I love Art Deco and the decorative arts, so my friend and I popped in to explore after lunch. The Vanity and Vice exhibit runs until January 12, 2025.
This museum has been open since 2003 and moved to the Golden Triangle Creative District in 2016, but I had never visited before.
I was pleasantly surprised at how much this museum had to offer. Not only does it have a vast supply of works by prolific artist Vance Kirkland who called Colorado home, but I also found art objects from Frank Lloyd Wright, Andy Warhol and Salvador Dali.
I was very impressed by the versatility of Kirkland’s work as well, from realism to surrealism to abstract. During my visit to the museum I learned that Kirkland suspended himself from the ceiling in his studio to create his dot paintings. That is dedication to your craft!
Photo of the Ropes Kirkland Use to Suspend Himself
Dinner and Dessert at D Bar
A day in downtown Denver wouldn’t be complete without savoring another artistry. That of the dessert. D Bar is a fun place to linger over a delicious dessert and offers the unique opportunity to actually watch them make them right in front of you. Sit at the bar and watch these skilled pastry artists in action!
Desserts
My favorite dessert at D Bar is the famous Cake and Shake, the Madagascar chocolate frosted, 3 layer cake served with a mini-hand spun milkshake. Get your choice of vanilla, chocolate or raspberry shake. I chose the raspberry and it paired quite nicely.
Want to relive the simplicity of childhood? Try the tasty freshly baked cookies served with a cold refreshing glass of milk. Umm…just like grandma’s house!
D Bar is the brain child of Food Network Celebrity Chef, Keegan Gerhard and his lovely wife and fellow chef, Lisa Bailey. The “D” in D Bar stands for Drinks, Dining and Desserts.
I’ve been coming here since it was a tiny store front on 17th Street and could only seat a few people. I’m so happy that they have expanded and even have a D Bar coming soon to the Denver International Airport. I can’t wait to check that out on an upcoming trip!!
Don’t Forget Dinner
I’m all about the desserts, but this place doesn’t just have great desserts they have excellent food and drinks as well!
Try the heavenly pizza salad sandwich with a glass of Spanish Los Dos wine. It may sound strange, but it is the perfect combination of smooth and creamy goat cheese, crunchy pine nuts on a thin crust pizza with the heavenly liquid gold that is basil pesto. So amazing!
Prefer some good old comfort food? Try the Bacon Mac and Cheese with a 4 cheese sauce, applewood smoked bacon and a crispy, crunchy Cheez-it and panko crust that ends with a sigh of satisfaction.
I hope you enjoyed my recommended day in Downtown Denver for Art Lovers. If you enjoyed this post check out these posts next: Best Restaurant in Long Island, NY, Things to do in Salt Lake City, and Best Restaurants in Salt Lake City with Something for Everyone. Get there using my hack for finding cheap flights and don’t forget to travel light. Please subscribe and be the first to find out about other hidden gems!
I love traveling overseas, but what I dread are the long flights from the US and back. It’s seriously torture for me as a highly sensitive person.
Sometimes I feel like I’m crawling out of my skin or want to scream and jump out of my seat from being so uncomfortable and overstimulated. Can you relate? Here are 9 tips for Long Flights and how to survive as an HSP.
I developed this list based on my lifetime of experience as an HSP and my last 20 years of experience flying overseas.
1. Don’t Overpack
It all starts with how you pack. Don’t get exhausted and overstimulated before you even make it on the flight.
I suggest only taking one carry on bag and one small personal item like a tote bag, small duffel or backpack. I also carry a cross body purse that I tuck into my secondary bag just before boarding my flight.
Need packing light tips? Here is a post on the bags I use and other essentials for keeping things organized.
I like the security and flexibility of always having my things with me in case I need something. It also reduces anxiety for me that my luggage will be lost and my trip will be ruined. Plus, it saves time and money. I don’t have to wait in a crowded and overstimulating baggage claim or pay extra fees to check my bag.
Packing light also makes getting into taxis, ride shares and trains much easier as well as having less things to keep track of at hotels. Don’t worry, you can still fit all the essentials to stay comfortable and happy.
2. Wear the Right Clothes
Wearing the right clothes for a long flight can make all the difference in how you feel the entire day. If you are an HSP I don’t have to tell you that.
I always want to look glamorous strolling through the airport, but it is just not worth the misery of painful feet from wearing anything with a high heal or the uncomfortableness from wearing tight, constricting clothing.
Start with comfortable walking shoes. My favorite shoes right now are my Hoka Clifton 9’s. These shoes are like walking on clouds.
I always walk more than I think I will in airports and these shoes keep my feet happy all day. Bring some nice fuzzy socks too, so you can remove your shoes once onboard your flight, as feet can tend to swell.
Next wear pants with a stretchy waistband. Air pressure changes cause the gasses in your gut to expand. Dehydration can also cause water retention which increases bloating.
It’s so easy to get dehydrated on long flights, especially if you are trying to avoid too many trips to the tiny airplane lavatory.
I found this great pair of bootcut leggings that I plan on wearing on my flight to Paris this Fall. They look like dress pants, but feel like my favorite sweats. They are also more flattering for curvy women like me than traditional leggings.
If you wear a bra I suggest wearing a sports bra. There is nothing like underwire digging into you mid-flight to make you miserable.
I also suggest wearing breathable fabrics like linen or cotton and bringing a sweater. The temperature varies a lot from take off to landing and those flights over the ocean can get a bit chilly.
3. Get TSA Pre-check or Global Entry
I know it costs some extra cash, but it is so worth it to me to have TSA Pre-Check or Global Entry. I can minimize the time I have to spend waiting in line or stressing about removing my shoes, liquids and electronics or worrying that I forgot to grab them all and repack them after security.
Since we are so easily overwhelmed having less time in crowds waiting in line, more time to get through the airport and less things to worry unpacking and repacking is a game changer. It’s all about making sure you control the overstimulation and stress before boarding long flights.
I’m a world traveler, so I opted for Global Entry. The great thing about that is now that I have Global Entry they grant me TSA pre-check on my domestic flights!
I completed an easy application on-line and then did my global entry interview on the way back from one of my international trips. It did take an extra 15 minutes or so, but once you have the card it is good for 5 years. That saves a lot of time and energy on future travels.
You can also set up a global entry interview separately from a trip. Global Entry cost is $100. TSA precheck cost is $78. My credit card even reimburses the application fee for either Global Entry or TSA pre-check! Why wouldn’t you get it?!
4. Consider Lounge Access
Last year I tried my first Airport Lounge and what an amazing difference! I had upgraded my Aer Lingus flight from New York to Dublin to business class and received free lounge access. I felt like I was in a whole other world!
The Aer Lingus lounge at JFK was so quiet and serene. The bathrooms were not crowded and offered nice bath products. There were comfortable soft chairs and couches to sit on and unlimited free drinks and snacks. It was an HSP’s delight!
They make brief announcements when the flights are boarding and I strolled onto the plane first! Even if you are not flying business class some credit cards offer free lounge access too.
Many lounges also allow you to buy a day pass. If you have a long layover and airports stress you out it might be worth the extra $50 or so to buy a lounge pass.
Before I discovered airport lounges I often would sit in an adjoining area to my gate that was practically empty to minimize my time with crowds.
Just make sure to watch your phone closely in case there are any last minute gate changes as you won’t hear the announcements.
5. Choose the Right Seat
I think you are either a window or an aisle person. Does anyone enjoy sitting in the middle seat unless they are traveling with friends or family?
Personally I enjoy an aisle seat. I love looking out the window, but I feel too claustrophobic about not being able to get up when I need to.
Aisle seats can be a little overstimulating as people are constantly walking up and down the aisle and bumping into you, but to me it is worth it for the extra room on one side and the freedom to get up when I want.
The window seat can be great to look out the window and observe nature. All that blue sky and those puffy white cloud are so relaxing. It is also good for sleeping as you can rest your head on the bulkhead during long flights.
Choose the right seat for what is most important to you. I recently started flying business class and discovered I can have a window and aisle seat in one!
Most business class sections have a 1-2-1 configuration. The single row of seats in business class is great when I’m traveling by myself.
Make sure you choose a seat that is not too close to the lavatories. Even when I have my earplugs in it always sounds to me like I’m at a cocktail party. Everyone is standing around, stretching their legs and chatting during long flights. Not good if you are trying to sleep.
I get quite detailed about my international travel and review all my aircrafts on Seatguru. Sites like this will tell you which seats to avoid and which seats are the most coveted with extra legroom. So important on long flights!
Traveling business class? Try to get one of the elusive “throne seats” which some airlines have with no one in front or beside you.
6. Control the Noise
Invest in a good pair of noise canceling headphones if the noise on airplanes is too overstimulating for you or get a good pair of earplugs.
You can also put in your earbuds and listen to some relaxing music to calm down your nervous system. Close your eyes and feel the music take you to a soothing and tranquil place.
I also find if I can immerse myself in a good book I can distract myself from all the noise going on around me on long flights. My life is so busy I often don’t find the time to actually sit down and read a book these days, so it’s such a luxury to me when I can.
Audiobooks are my life at home while I’m driving or getting ready for work in the morning, but can be nice while on long flights too. Again, close your eyes and focus your mind on the story.
My favorite vacation reads are the Janet Evanovich, Stephanie Plum Series. They are so lighthearted and fun. A little mystery, a little romance and a ton of laughs. Laughter is a good stress reliever too if you find flying overstimulating.
Movies or TV shows are also a good way of tuning out the noise on long flights. Sometimes reading requires more concentration than I have, so zoning out and watching a movie can be a good distraction from everything going on during long flights. Especially if it’s a favorite movie I have already seen.
7. Keep Personal Care Items Handy
Most of the information we take in comes through our eyes. If you can close your eyes you can avoid a lot of overstimulation.
I like having a good eye mask when I travel on an overnight flight as it blocks out all the light and I’m less tempted to open my eyes when things are going on around me.
I have a silky eye mask with lavender aromatherapy beads in it that I have used for years. Using aromatherapy on a flight also helps calm down any stress or anxiety I feel.
Lavender also promotes sleep. Just make sure any scents you use aren’t too strong. We don’t want to bother other passengers or give ourselves a headache. Here is a similar one to the one I use. Bring pain relievers just in case, as HSP’s are more sensitive to pain too.
Also, don’t forget to bring lip balm and lotion on long flights. All that recirculated air really dries out your skin. After a long flight sometimes my skin feels like it’s on fire.
My favorite lip balm is Burt’s Bees (I’m addicted to the tingling peppermint!) and my favorite lotion is Bath & Body Works Orange Ginger Body Cream. They both provide some aromatherapy too!
8. Bring a Reusable Water Bottle
I also always bring a reusable water bottle with me on long flights, so I can make sure I keep myself hydrated. That way I don’t have to wait until they bring out the drinks cart if I’m thirsty . It’s also good for moisturizing my skin and keeping water retention down.
It’s also nice to have a reusable water bottle with me once I get to my destination. I started adding stickers from all my travels to mine and it’s a fun reminder of my trips when I get back home.
9. Don’t Forget Snacks
I always bring snacks with me for long flights. HSP’s get hangry very easily and it’s always good to have some high protein snacks with you for when you feel hunger coming on. Again, I don’t like having to wait for the meal service or snack basket to make the rounds.
Unsalted nuts are my go to snack. It’s easy to pack a little bag with me wherever I go and I don’t need too many to stave off my hunger. The unsalted kind also reduce water retention.
It’s all about making ourselves as comfortable as possibly and creating a pleasing state for all our senses. This will not only help us survive long flights, but can actually make them enjoyable. What are your favorite tips for long flights?
The highly sensitive person’s traits often make travel a struggle if not downright misery sometimes. As a highly sensitive person myself I’ve learned a lot of things over the years to keep me a happy traveler. In fact it is my favorite thing to do! Here are 8 tips to make travel less stressful and dare I say it, great fun!
1. Get a Great Guidebook
One highly sensitive person trait is the propensity towards overwhelm. This is where planning is crucial to having a great trip. The more you know and can prepare for a trip the better. Knowing what to expect and having a good plan always decreases the overwhelm and anxiety I feel.
Having a guidebook also gives me all the information I need to know about a location in one place. It reduces overwhelm because I don’t have to figure out all the different sources I need to research. Airport, Hotel, Transportation and Site Information are all in one place.
Check out a few guidebooks and find one that speaks to your interests. My favorite travel guide for Europe is Rick Steves. I like how he focuses on authentic cultural experiences which speaks to the Highly Sensitive Person’s soul.
Highlight sites you want to make sure you don’t miss and other sites that would be fun if you have time. Make time to familiarize yourself with all the practicalities of visiting a new place such as the language, money and local customs.
2. Pick the Right Flights
Another highly sensitive person trait is feeling stressed with time pressure. If I book a flight that is later in the morning I have more time to get the rest I need the night before. This is also imperative because another highly sensitive person trait is we get more tired than other people.
I want to make sure that I start my day on a full tank. Plus, if my flight is a little later I don’t feel that I have to rush as much in the morning to get to the airport. Highly sensitive people hate to feel rushed.
I also make sure my flight doesn’t get in too late. I like to have time to check into my hotel and get my belongings situated. Getting to a grocery store is also important to me, so I can stock up on drinks, snacks and possibly some breakfast items.
Especially when I’m on vacation I like to take my time in the morning, savor a cup of coffee and perhaps a pastry. That way I don’t have to rush out of the hotel in the morning to go find food. The highly sensitive person is more prone to getting hangry than other people.
How to Find the Right Flights
I always start my trip planning by choosing my flights as the cost can change drastically by adjusting my schedule by even just one day. Hotels are not as volatile in their pricing. I do check out the hotel rates before booking my flights though just to be sure.
I use Orbitz to research all my flights because I can easily search all airlines and filter by time blocks (morning, afternoon or evening).
Plus I can filter my options to include seat choice and carry on bag requirements, so I get a true cost of a flight without any surprises. Not to mention I can also filter by number of stops.
Direct flights are less stressful and have less room for unexpected delays. The simpler I can make travel the more overstimulation I can avoid.
Also, there is no rule that you have to use the same carrier to and from your destination. Orbitz is great for finding just the right timing of flights to meet your schedule.
I often do this by booking two different carriers. I can purchase both tickets on the same website and add in my frequent flyer numbers, so I don’t miss out on miles, as well as manage all my flights from one app. It’s perfect!
One word of caution though. If you are not taking a direct flight to or from your destination try not to mix carriers. If the flight is delayed for some reason the second airline will not get you on another flight if you miss it the way they would if you booked both flights on the same reservation.
3. Choose a Central Hotel
I always choose a hotel that is central to the things I want to do. Sometimes this can be in a busier or more chaotic area. However, what I love about a central hotel is that I have a convenient home base to come back and take a break if needed. This helps with the highly sensitive person trait of getting tired more easily due to our depth of processing.
If my hotel is convenient I can do an activity and come back to take a nap or get in some quiet time afterward. This recharges me, so I have the energy to go do something else later. It’s especially important if I’m visiting a big city which is full over overstimulation, another highly sensitive person trait.
Pick a hotel recommended in your guidebook. This will cut down on the number of hotels to research. I pick the area where I want to stay and review the recommended hotels in my guidebook. Then I pick the hotel with the vibe I like.
My favorite hotels when traveling abroad are boutique hotels that remind me I’m some place new. However, if this is too overstimulating then choose a chain hotel. This will provide a familiar and comfortable atmosphere when you return from a long day.
4. Assess Transportation
Personally I love taking vacations where I can take a break from driving. My trips to big cities or to Europe are perfect for this. They have such efficient and low cost public transportation. Sometimes it’s nice to have someone else take care of getting me where I need to go for a change.
Renting my own car can be nice too. This can be essential if I’m traveling within the United States. I like being able to leave a place when I’ve had too much stimulation, am hungry or tired.
5. Plan Only One Thing per Day
Don’t try to do too much in a day, running around ragged to see everything. As Rick Steve’s says, “Assume you will return”. I usually pick one big thing to do per day and maybe one smaller, low key thing for later after I’ve taken a break.
If I am going to a museum where there will be lot of crowds and I will be walking around for hours then I plan a break for lunch afterwards and then maybe a walk through a park or to sit by some water. Water is very calming for me. Time is nature, water in particular is restorative and soothing for the highly sensitive person.
6. Timing of Activities
Crowds can cause a lot of overstimulation for the highly sensitive person, so plan and book your activities for early or late in the day when crowds are lighter.
Now that I’m a little older I’ve become more of a morning person. Anything that I need or want to get done needs to get done in the morning or it just doesn’t happen. It’s great because I can get into museums and other attractions when they first open before the throngs of people rush in.
More of a night person? That works too! As the crowds are heading out to prepare for their dinner reservations, stroll in and see everything when things are more relaxed and less busy. Make sure you take some water and snacks with you, so you don’t get cranky. Another highly sensitive person trait is to be more sensitive to hunger.
7. Plan in Buffer Days
Don’t plan to do too much the first day in a new place. Take time to get acclimated to your new surroundings. There will be a lot of new information to take in which may cause some overstimulation. I am also usually tired from the entire travel process as well.
Get oriented to the new destination. Go for a walk around your new area or a take a bus tour of the city to get the lay of the land. I always feel much more relaxed when I know where things are and how to easily get to what I need (rest, food, nature, etc.).
Plan a buffer day when you get home too. There is nothing worse than getting home and then having to head to work the very next day.
The highly sensitive person is very attuned to their physical needs. Travel is wonderful and exciting, but since we take in so much information due to our depth of processing it can also be very overstimulating. Overstimulation can lead to exhaustion.
Make time to go to bed early and take care of other practical concerns like getting groceries and doing laundry before heading back to work.
8. Pack Right
I suggest only taking one carry on bag when traveling and resisting the urge to overpack. Another highly sensitive person trait is attention to detail. It may be tempting to prepare for every eventuality, but it’s not really necessary. If you forget something it’s usually easy enough to purchase it.
Having too many things to keep track of can be overwhelming and it can make the difference between everything going as planned or disaster if you need to change flights or if your bags don’t make it to your destination.
Need packing tips? Check out my post on my three essential bags when I travel and my packing must haves to keep everything organized.
If you enjoyed this post try reading my post on things to know before a first trip to Europe next.
Interested in knowing more about how to deal with highly sensitive traits in other areas of your life? Check out my favorite blog for the highly sensitive, Highly Sensitive Refuge.
Don’t forget to subscribe below to be the first to get more travel tips and suggested itineraries for Highly Sensitive People.
I’ve been doing this blog for just over a year now. A lot of people check out my “About Me” section, so I thought I would take a deep dive and share a more personal and authentic side of myself. In doing so I hope that I can connect with and help others out there like me. Here’s the true confession. I am a highly sensitive person.
What is a Highly Sensitive Person?
What on earth is a highly sensitive person you may ask? Well, it’s someone with sensory processing sensitivity. Basically someone who has a more sensitive nervous system, takes in more information through their senses and whose brain processes those things more deeply than the majority of people.
As a result we may get more easily overwhelmed, tired or annoyed by things in our environment than others.
How my Life Changed
My life changed a lot just a few short years ago when I discovered through a random Ted Talk I found that I am a Highly Sensitive Person.
Now I of course have always known that I was more sensitive than other people. What I didn’t know was it was a full blown “thing” for lack of a better word.
I was shocked to find out that 15-20% of the population is actually highly sensitive and even more interesting that the same percentages of the animal world is as well.
I’m pretty sure my dog Daisy is highly sensitive too. I recognized her highly sensitive traits and found a kindred spirit in her. This ultimately led me to adopt her. Plus, who could resist that face? 💕
The Research
The term highly sensitive person was first coined by psychologist, Dr. Elaine Aron. In her book, “The Highly Sensitive Person: How to Thrive When the World Overwhelms You”
In her book she talks about the highly sensitive person’s traits such as:
- High empathy
- Strong appreciation for art, music and nature
- Conscientiousness & attention to detail
- Noticing things that others might miss
- Being easily overwhelmed in chaotic situations
- Feeling frazzled when there is a lot to do in a short period of time
- Bothered by loud noises, strong smells, bright lights or scratchy fabrics
Do any of these things resonate? You might be a highly sensitive person too. Take Dr. Elaine Aron’s free test to find out!
You Are Not Alone!
It was so amazing to actually know that I was not alone in this world and also explained why I often had problems with things that other people didn’t.
Maybe this is what happens when you get towards the middle of your life? I’m now beginning to understand myself so much better.
It’s so wonderful because now I can stop beating myself up and being confused by why I don’t experience things the same way as other people.
I’ve often been labeled by people who don’t know me well as “shy”, “quiet”, “reserved” and even “stuck up” a few times. Things that are not valued by most societies.
As you can imagine this didn’t make me feel too great about myself. It actually hurt me deeply and felt like the stab of a knife each time someone would say these things to me. Can you relate?
Knowledge is Power
This knowledge about the highly sensitive person started to change my mindset. I felt better about myself. I could finally look at the strengths of my personality instead of its weaknesses.
In fact this knowledge changed my whole life! I take care of my body differently, work differently and make time to express my creativity. I also realized I travel differently than other people.
This is why I want to start sharing more about the highly sensitive person and their traits.
If you are highly sensitive I want to help you feel better about yourself too and offer a way to lean into sensitivity and experience life and the world in a more meaningful, fulfilling and amazing way.
Highly sensitive people experience the joys in life more deeply, as well as the sorrows. This explains why I am so moved, even sometimes to tears by hearing heartfelt music, seeing beautiful artwork or experiencing an awe inspiring sunrise or sunset.
I live my life so intensely through my senses. I’m now sorry to learn that everyone doesn’t experience life this way.
I love the feelings of excitement bubbling up like a geyser coming up through my chest when I get to travel to see new places, hear my favorite song come on the radio or spend time with the people that I care about.
Downsides of Being Highly Sensitive
Being highly sensitive has its downsides too. Things seem to bother me that really don’t seem to bother other people. These things don’t even cross their mind.
I feel intense sadness and anger when I see suffering and injustice in this world. I’m moved to tears often when I see people or especially animals experiencing pain. I’ve never understood how some people can just shrug these things off and go about their daily lives.
I guess that’s life though. The yin and the yang, the positive and negative, the ups and the downs. Those things are universal whether you are highly sensitive or not.
Aren’t we are all striving to make the best of things? Live our best lives? Minimize the negative and maximize the positive? Play to our strengths instead of our weaknesses?
A New Direction
So one year later I want to take this blog in a new direction. I noticed that while there is some information out there about highly sensitive people, there is not a lot about travel curated to the Highly Sensitive Person.
Travel can be quite difficult for the highly sensitive person. We don’t thrive traveling the way other people do, BUT if we do it in the way that works for us it can be thrilling, enriching and even life changing.
This occurred to me after talking with my best friend Rene who also discovered that she is a highly sensitive person. I knew we best friends for a reason! We found each other in this crazy, chaotic world and instantly connected because we see the world and experience it in a similar way. Love you friend!! ❤️
Rene invited me on a trip this Fall with her family and friends to go to Paris! We were discussing how we like to travel in a certain way such as not doing too many big activities in a day or taking time throughout our trip to rest and recharge.
It got me thinking that my other highly sensitive friends out there might benefit from the things I’ve learned through trial and error over the last few decades.
Travel for the Highly Sensitive Person
Travel can be sometimes scary, overwhelming and tiring for the highly sensitive person.
It also can bring so much joy, excitement and meaning because we experience the world so intensely. So this year I am going to work on providing tips and travel itineraries catered to my other sensitive souls out there.
Even if you are not a highly sensitive person, my guess is that you know someone out there who is.
I hope this helps you understand that friend, family member or co-worker a little better. Please share this post with them!
I believe everyone can benefit from savoring life through their senses and it will help everyone travel better too!
Here we go! I can’t wait to connect with all my new highly sensitive friends out there!! Please reach out. I would love to hear from you!
The Am Ex Gold Card is my latest credit card and the best card for foodies and luxury seekers! Not to mention those that love to travel like me.
I feel so fancy when I lay down my new, metal, rose gold, Am Ex Card at restaurants! Plus, a pink credit card? Who else has one of those?! (Not into pink? Stick to classic gold.)
Though this card has a little higher fee than my other cards, I will share the perks that make back the annual fee and then some.
1. Rewards Points
The main reason I got this card is because the Am Ex Gold offers 4 points per dollar spent at restaurants worldwide. This also includes take out and delivery in the US.
I definitely consider myself a foodie, so I spend a lot on restaurants every month. Connecting with friends and family over a wonderful meal is one of the greatest joys in life! Don’t you think?
I also earn 4 points per dollar at U.S grocery stores (up to a limit of $25,000.) Note that this does not include retail stores like Walmart and Target. I use this card at those stores to maximize my points.
The Am Ex Gold also gives 3 points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines or through Am Ex Travel. Compare the cost of flights though.
I usually book directly with the airlines to double dip on points. That way I earn Am Ex Gold points as well as airline miles.
I only earn 1 point per dollar for all other expenses, so I use my this card for all my other purchases.
2. Monthly Statement Credits
Am Ex Gold also gives a $10 credit each month for dining at certain restaurants. One of which is The Cheesecake Factory, which is a favorite of mine.
I can also get the credit at Grubhub, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and certain Shake Shake locations.
You do have to register for the statement credits once you receive the card. It is not automatic, but only takes a couple minutes.
Ever take Uber or use Uber Eats? This card also gives $10 a month in Uber Cash when you add your Am Ex Gold Card to your account.
To avoid delivery fees I just order my favorite takeout through the Uber Eats App and then select it for pickup instead of delivery. It’s a great way to use the credit without spending extra!
Be aware that both of these credits do not accumulate, so if you don’t use it that month the credits are gone.
3. Am Ex Gold Offers
Another great way to save money or earn more points is to check for Am Ex Gold Offers. They have great discounts on travel, dining, shopping, entertainment and more.
I scored a $100 credit on a recent trip to Santa Fe after spending $250 on my Marriott Hotel for the weekend.
I always check my Am Ex Gold Offers when I need to book a hotel because it offers the most savings. They have good offers on cruises as well.
I’ve also gotten discounts for charging everyday things like my cell phone bill, car insurance or streaming service.
The offers do have to be manually added to your card, but it only takes a few minutes. I get an email when new offers are available and I usually add them to my card while I’m hanging out at home watching TV.
4. The Am Ex Gold’s Hotel Collection
Dreaming of even more luxury? The Am Ex Gold offers a $100 experience credit when staying two nights or more at a Hotel Collection hotel when booked through Am Ex Travel.
I checked out one of The Hotel Collections beautiful and historic hotels above, The Hacienda del Sol on my recent trip to Tucson, Arizona.
They have several inner courtyards filled with fruit trees like this one above that are the perfect place to relax and read, have a chat or enjoy a glass of wine while you listen to the bubbling fountain. So peaceful!
Use the credit for dining, spa treatments or other experiences. Plus get a free room upgrade!
5. Other Perks
There are no foreign transaction fees when using the Am Ex Gold, which is very important to me.
Plus when I travel more than 100 miles from home I can use Am Ex Gold’s Global Assist Hotline for any medical and legal referrals should I experience any trouble while traveling. I can also get help with emergency wire transfers should I need it.
There is also baggage insurance and car rental loss and damage insurance when I book using my card. While I don’t usually check a bag I do rent cars and this saves a ton on skipping the insurance and also offers me peace of mind should something happen.
The Am Ex Gold also offers premium experiences and preferred access to premium seats for select cultural and sporting events too. Get first access to culinary events, concerts and new musicals. Fancy attending New York Fashion Week? The US Open for Tennis? VIP Access to the Grand Prix in Monaco? You can!
6. Am Ex Gold Bonus
Last, but very much not least, the Am Ex Gold is currently offering 60,000 Membership Rewards Points after spending $6,000 in the first 6 months.
I automate most of my bills to my credit cards, so it was very easy to make this requirement. It took me about 3 months.
That’s a pretty quick way to 66,000 points. That’s almost enough for a round trip business class flight from the East Coast to Spain. Iberia Airlines has them off peak for 37,000 points one way. They are one of Am Ex Gold’s many airline transfer parters.
I used my bonus miles to book a business class flight home from Paris this Fall on Air France’s website. I used left over miles from another card for my business class flight to Paris. Air France and KLM are Am Ex Gold transfer parters too. They often have business class flight sales for only 50,000 points each way.
That Paris flight home was a $4,200 flight if I had booked with cash! I only paid $384 for the taxes. It would have been less, but I’m flying back through London Heathrow which notoriously charges higher taxes and fees. Avoid flying through there if you are not traveling to England. It’s a crazy busy airport too. One of the busiest in the world.
It met my schedule requirements best though, so I was happy to pay a little more. It was still less than the cost of an economy ticket. I’d much rather fly in style! Wouldn’t you?
Is the Am Ex Gold Card fee worth it?
The annual fee for the Am Ex Gold card is $250. I think it is well worth it since I take advantage of the monthly dining and Uber credits each month, which add up to $240 per year. The additional offers that Am Ex Gold offers like the $100 I got off my Santa Fe Hotel put it over the top for me.
What I also love about this card is the flexibility in the amount of transfer parters it has. It has 13 air and 3 hotel transfer partners. Plus I’m never sure where my next adventure will be, so I have the flexibility to travel to many different places on a variety of airlines.
This is invaluable to me now that I found a consistent way to use miles to book business class flights from the US to Europe. No more being cramped in economy for me! I hope you give Am Ex Gold a try.
Ready to sign up?
Here is my personal referral link. If you apply using my link and get approved by 5/22/24 there is an extra bonus gift for you!
You will receive an additional 20% back in statement credits on restaurant purchases worldwide during the first 3 months of Card Membership! (After meeting your bonus spend. $50 maximum credit).
Please note I will also receive 10,000 points for my referral at no cost to you. A win, win I think. 😉
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First trip to Europe? I will be traveling to Paris, France in September with one of my best friends who has never been to Europe before.
It got me thinking of my first trip to Europe (which was also to Paris) almost two decades ago. As an American on a first trip to Europe, here are my top 10 things to know before you go.
I think being prepared for things in advance can help manage expectations, which always makes for a better travel experience.
Be free to enjoy all the spectacular experiences that a first trip to Europe has to offer, without getting annoyed that things are a little different from back home. After all, the whole point of travel is to see and experience new and different things!
1. Passport/Visas
The European Union doesn’t require a Visa for Americans yet. That will change come mid-2025.
Passports need to be valid for at least 6 months after the last day of the trip. Some airlines won’t even let you on the plane if the passport has less than 6 months until it expires.
Passports most likely won’t be a problem on a first trip to Europe because they will be new, but as your love of travel and adventure grows keep this in mind.
2. Money
Notify credit card companies of travel dates if they require that, especially if this is your first trip to Europe. Declined cards could be disastrous.
Also, make sure the credit card has no foreign transaction fees. Otherwise there could be a lot of extra charges waiting once at you get home.
My favorite card right now is the Capital One Venture Card . It has no foreign transaction fees, no pre-travel notification and offers a full reimbursement for Global Entry or TSA Pre-Check.
Plus, I get 2 points for every dollar I spend. I can use those points not only for future hotels or flights, but I can also cancel out travel expenses with points when I get back.
Bring a debit card and go to a local bank to obtain Euros or British Pounds. This will provide the best exchange rate.
I take enough out to last my whole trip. This way I minimize ATM fees and save time. It’s good to have some cash when I’m at a local market or buying street food.
3. Flights
Flights from the US to Europe are all overnight flights on the way there and morning or early afternoon flights on the way back.
First long haul flight? Here are a few tips. Dress comfortably. Flights are 7-10 hours long and what you wear can make all the difference between a relaxing journey and hours of misery.
Clothing
I wear leggings or joggers, a tank or t-shirt and a sweater or sweatshirt. Sometimes I wear a nice scarf with it to look more polished and put together.No jeans or shorts!
Shorts don’t protect your legs enough from dirty airplane seats or people bumping themselves or luggage into you.
I also don’t recommend anything with a tight waistband like jeans. Stomachs expand when flying due to the altitude and this can make things quite uncomfortable.
Flights also get cold over the Atlantic, so a soft and warm sweater or sweatshirt is great to keep me warm. It can also double as a blanket!
What do put in my personal item? I pack all the things in my carryon I think I will need to keep me occupied for hours, as well as keep me comfortable.
Electronics
I always make sure I have wired headphones. I can’t always connect to the airplane entertainment system with my earbuds and don’t want to buy them onboard. My tablet and ear buds are a necessity for reading or watching movies on my own device.
Personal Items
Personal items to keep me comfortable are a necessity. I bring hand wipes instead of hand sanitizer. I not only can clean my hands, but also clean the plane armrests and tray table to keep myself healthy while traveling.
Planes also dry me out, so I need lotion and lip care. I also bring an eye mask and earplugs for sleeping.
Want the ultimate way to fly on your first trip to Europe? Fly First or Business class! I haven’t hacked a First class flight yet, but check out this post on how you can fly business class to Europe for less with this card.
Be careful! I am now spoiled to fly any other way. They also will provide noise cancelling headphones and all the personal care items I previously mentioned. No need to pack those!
Airlines also provide a nice pillow and warm duvet when I’m ready to go to sleep in my lie-flat seat. 😄
4. Checking into the hotel
The front desk will ask for your passport when checking in. They will keep it for a day or so to provide travel information to the local government. Don’t be alarmed. You will get it back.
I take a photo copy of my passport, driver’s license and credit cards and keep it in my suitcase in case anything is lost or stolen. This saves a lot of headache should something happen.
5. Hotels
Hotel rooms in Europe are much smaller than in America. Rooms in Paris for example are the smallest I’ve ever encountered in Europe, with not much more room then to walk around the bed(s).
Rooms usually have one double bed or two of what I refer to as “Euro twin” beds separated by a tiny nightstand. These twin beds are narrower than the twin beds you may be used to in the US.
Use your room only to sleep and shower and then get out there and start exploring and making memories!
6. Electricity in your room
Some hotels will have a key card slot on the wall. Insert your key card to turn on the electricity to the room. Ever been on a cruise? You will be a pro at this already.
Other hotels have very old skeleton keys with a key tag with that has the room number on it. Don’t worry about carrying the keys around, for security purposes you will be expected to leave the key with the front desk when leaving. Just retrieve it upon returning to the hotel.
No need for thieves to know my hotel and room number if my bag is stolen.
Voltage is also different in Europe. America runs on 110 volts and Europe is 220 volts. Take an adaptor and a voltage convertor for plugging in electronics and hair styling tools.
My advice is always to travel light and leave the hair styling tools at home. Hotel rooms usually have a blow dryer, although it may be different than what you are used to. It looks to me more like a vacuum cleaner hose attached to the wall, but it gets the job done. 😂
Don’t be that person shorting out the whole electrical system for the hotel because you plugged in your curling iron or hair straightener from home without a converter.
Take a vacation from normal hair styling routines and go au natural. You are on vacation after all.
Can’t live without your curling iron or hair straightener? Consider buying one in Europe. No doubt you will love Europe so much you will be coming back again and again!
7. Hotel Bathrooms
Not all hotel rooms in Europe come with an attached bathroom. Make sure to check in the room description or find yourself going down the hall. However, the majority of hotels have tiny bathrooms worked into the room.
Bathrooms usually have a very small corner shower, no bathtub, free standing sink, toilet and perhaps a bidet at a fancier hotel. I lucked out and my bathroom in Galway below actually did have a tub, but don’t expect one.
There is usually not a lot of counter space either. Take a break from your elaborate morning makeup routine and relax. Try using less products.
I would also suggest investing in a hanging toiletry case. I like having more room to put things. Check out my post on my other packing essentials.
8. Public Restrooms
You will not find the abundance of public restrooms like you do in the America and most public restrooms require money to use. I jokingly refer to this as “pay to pee”. 😂
Either there will be a turnstile at the entrance to the restroom or a dish near the sink with an attendant to tip for keeping the restroom clean and tidy.
I suggest saving all the coins received as change, as there is nothing worse then having to use the restroom urgently and not having the right change.
On my first trip to London I desperately needed to use the restroom at the train station and the change machine outside the restroom was broken.
Thankfully a nice young women had pity on me and gave me the 10 pence I needed to get through the turnstile. Thank you kind lady wherever you are!
Take advantage of any attraction, museum or restaurant visited and use the restroom, even if you don’t think you have to go. I refer to this as “the preemptive pee”. 😂
Due to the age of buildings, look for the restroom in the basement. Most buildings were built before the invention of indoor plumbing.
Also, when using the restroom in a restaurant or cafe the expectation will be to make a purchase first.
Order a drink at the counter and then ask, “toilet?” which is a more universal term. Traveling to England? Look for the sign that says, W. C. (water closet).
When using a public restroom, the toilet will not always have a toilet seat. Practice your squats before you leave!
Also, there is not always toilet paper. I keep a small pack of tissues in my bag just in case.
Another thing on toilet paper. In Europe most plumbing is very old and sensitive. There will be a small trash can next to the toilet in which to wipe and then throw away the used tissue.
This does take awhile to get used to, but I don’t want to be the person who experiences the overflowing toilet. Embarrassing!
9. Air Conditioning
Most places in Europe do not have air conditioning due to the age of the buildings, including hotels. Keep this in mind when booking if it is important to you.
Also, even if the hotel says it has air conditioning due to Europe’s more strict energy conversation laws they may only be allowed to have it on for certain months of the year.
I suggest avoiding Summer in Europe all together. The heat can be sweltering, there will be a lot of crowds and you will pay a lot more.
Travel in shoulder season instead, or if visiting a big city consider travel in Winter. November or January – March can be great when the Christmas markets are over and will also save you some cash.
10. Restaurants
If you ask for water you will need to be specific and ask for “tap water” and be prepared for some funny looks.
Europeans drink bottled water and the restaurant will serve and charge for bottled water. Water comes in either still or sparkling (gas or no gas).
Drinks in Europe also do not come with ice and are usually not that cold. If you are a soda drinker be prepared for some lukewarm soda as I learned when I ordered my first Diet Coke in Paris. Hot and desperate for an ice cold beverage? Try looking for a McDonalds.
I once had to do that on a particularly steamy day in Rome. Soda is also very expensive in Europe. I suggest having a nice glass of wine for the same price. The house wine in restaurants is very affordable and delicious!
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Looking for more adventurous Spring break ideas? Cruise to the Southern Caribbean and visit the exotic islands of Aruba and Curacao off the coast of South America! Only have one day to visit Curacao island? No problem! Here’s where to start.
First, no visit would be complete without an experiencing the Curacao Liqueur Distillery and sampling a blue curaçao cocktail.
Known mainly for their blue Curacao, it actually comes in a variety of flavors like chocolate, coffee, rum raisin and tamarind. Who knew?!
Curacao Island Stop #1 – Curacao Liqueur Distillery
Bon Bini! That means “Welcome” in Curacao’s language, Papiamento.
When I entered the distillery in the historic mansion there was a large room with information about the history of the distillery and how curaçao is made.
Curacao is made from the dried peel of the bitter laraha orange. This distillery was actually started and owned by a woman. Go female entrepreneurs!!
Then I moved through to see the window of the factory workers filling the distinctive curaçao bottles. They look about as excited as I am when I’m at work! I guess they don’t get the free samples.
After that I got to taste the different flavors of Curacao. My favorite was of course the chocolate!
Once I got my free samples I ended up in a large bar area where you can order your favorite curaçao cocktails.
The bar area was of course busy. I was here for a brief visit, so I didn’t have time to stop and order a curaçao cocktail.
Last stop was the gift shop. As with all tourist destinations all roads lead to the gift shop!
The gift shop was absolutely insane with people. If you don’t want to or have enough time to wait in line don’t worry. You can purchase many of the same products along the pier, often for about the same price.
I did a brief tour through the crowds and then got out of there. I’m not a person for crowds.
I bought a little bottle of chocolate curaçao at one of the shops near the port for $8. About two and a half shots.
They also have lovely gift packs with several different flavors if you are looking for great gifts for your friends back home.
Me not wanting to check a bag on the way home only bought one small bottle that fit in my 1 quart bag of liquids.
My friends were probably disappointed I didn’t bring any home to share. Ah, c’est la vie. Next time!
Curacao Island Stop #2 – Aloe Farm
Second, if you are looking for other unique and fun things to do in Curacao island in a day check out one of the Aloe Farms.
Aloe is a large export for Curacao and I loved getting to see one of the plantations. I gathered with my tour group in a large thatched roof palapa for an informational talk about aloe and its many uses.
In addition to its wonderful use as an aid to sunburn, people actually eat it to treat illness. I was able to try a piece which tasted to me a little like cucumber. In my opinion aloe is better as a sunburn aid then a snack. 😂
I made the terrible mistake of going out without sunscreen the first day at port and got a fiery, peeling sunburn to show for it. The aloe samples were a welcome treat to sooth my burning arms and chest. As a kid I remember my grandma always had a plant she used for cuts and burns too.
As much as I’ve traveled I still make the occasional mistake, so don’t beat yourself up when that happens to you.
Here’s a tip from your best friend. Buy a solid sunscreen stick to keep in your toiletry bag. This way you always have it handy and it doesn’t have to count as part of your liquids in your one quart bag for the plane.
I usually buy a can of sunscreen spray when I get to my destination, but didn’t have the opportunity before boarding the cruise this time
The aloe farm also has a nice gift shop with all kinds of potions and lotions you can try.
There is also a chance to try aloe juice. Be adventurous and give it a try! Not the best tasting, but definitely an opportunity that you don’t have often.
I love to try new experiences! Sometimes you will have a lovely new habit as a souvenir you can incorporate into your life back home. Other times you just have a bragging rights or a great story to tell your friends. If you have the opportunity go for it!!
I perused the shop and headed outside to their wraparound deck to check out the flora and fauna.
It’s was such a luxury to be somewhere warm and sunny while it’s cold and gray back home in March in Colorado. Plus, I was treated to seeing these beautiful yellow birds taking a welcome respite from the hot Curacao island sun under the shady palms!
How many birds can you spot? When I took the photo it was pretty bright out and I only saw one.
When reviewing and editing my photos I was thrilled to find there are actually four! Can you find the last one?
# 3 – Serena’s Art Factory
Lastly, if you are looking for more unique things to do in Curacao island check out some fun art at Serena’s Art Factory. They make Chichi sculptures.
A Chichi in Curacao is the oldest sister who doesn’t marry and takes care of her younger siblings and aging parents. They are much loved in Curacao.
This interesting artist enclave makes colorful sculptures of these voluptuous ladies like the one below.
Serena’s Art Factory has a pretty garden surrounding the workshop and gift shop that displays some of their sculptures. I liked this hanging coconut bird. Although not sure it was for sale.
In the workshop I watched the artists molding and painting the Chichis.
Being an animal lover my favorite sculptures in the gift shop were of course the little Pushis (cats) and Chochis (dog) below.
I love how colorful they are and they are the perfect size to bring home in your carry on bag.
I explored Curacao island as an excursion on a Holland America cruise. The above excursion takes about 2 hours, quick, but fun. Plus it leaves time for a blue curaçao cocktail and time to explore Curacao island a little on your own!
Here’s another tip from your best friend. Make sure your book your Holland America excursions at least a month before your cruise leaves. They fill up quick and you don’t want to miss out! These cruisers are planners.
I enjoy having the cruise ship take care of all the logistics once in awhile. Plus if there are any changes to your itinerary due to weather or mechanical issues they will rebook for you.
After the excursion take some extra time in Curacao to stroll along the port and check out all the vendor stalls. You can buy the authentic Curacao liqueur to make your curaçao cocktails, colorful Caribbean shirts and sarongs, hand painted signs as well as all the usual kitschy souvenirs.
There is a also a great cocktail hut right off the cruise ship with inexpensive frozen cocktails. Much cheaper than you will find on your cruise ship.
Keeping walking along the port and check out the cool fort below or wander further to explore more shops and restaurants.
My favorite store was the Heinen Delffts Blauw pottery store in the courtyard just past the fort. I bought a beautiful and colorful little ceramic replica of a Curacao island home to remember my trip.
I visited Curacao island on Holland America’s Southern Caribbean cruise in March on the Nieuw Statendam.
Read my reviews of Holland America’s Nieuw Statendam. Check out my other posts on their accommodations, food, drinks and entertainment, plus my stop in Aruba.
Bon Bini to Curacao island! Don’t forget to have a a blue curaçao cocktail when you visit!
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Have you ever dreamed of flying business class to Europe? Are you tired of being cramped on an overnight flight and trying to sit up for 7+ hours trying to sleep? Do you wish you could be pampered with champagne, gourmet meals and a lie flat seat? I have!! Now I finally figured out how to do it without spending thousands of dollars. Here’s how to upgrade to Business Class for Under $100!
Last November I took my first Business class fight! I flew from New York to Dublin, Ireland in Aer Lingus Business Class. I upgraded my ticket for less than $100. Here is how I did it. First, I bought a Smart Economy ticket on Aer Lingus for $515 dollars. Then I upgraded to Aer Lingus business class with points. I earned the points for less than $100 by getting the Aer Lingus Credit Card and meeting the initial spend requirement. The annual fee for this card was $95.
I also scored my connecting roundtrip flight from Denver to New York for less than $12. I used leftover points from an older JetBlue card bonus! You can also take advantage of other low-cost carriers on positioning flights that help you get to a destination where you can take advantage of great international flights. I discuss more about this in this post.
With time, a little patience and the right credit cards you can do this too and for even less money. I’ve been playing the points and miles game for almost two decades, but I just cracked the code and took my game to the next level. I’m so excited to share what I’ve learned with you!
Since I leveraged my credit card to do this I will start with a disclaimer because one of my other passions is personal finance. Do not, I repeat do not do this if you cannot commit to paying off your credit balance each month in full. The interest you pay on the credit card will cancel out any savings you get from upgrading to business class.
If you can’t pay your credit card balance in full every month try getting a zero interest card and book an economy flight instead of business class one.
When I was younger and had less income I once financed a trip to Italy on a zero interest card, but only because I knew I would be able to pay it off before the zero interest expired. Also, if you are paid bi-weekly then twice a year you get an extra check in the month. It’s a great way to add travel to your budget!
There are a ton of different ways you could upgrade to business class and the route you take will depend on where you want to go. Have a specific trip in mind and are not sure how to upgrade to business class? Reach out to me and I will tell you how to make it happen!
I will tell you my story. In 2023 out of the blue my friend asked me if I wanted to go to Ireland in November. She knew it had been on my bucket list for a long time. I of course jumped at the chance!! She had found a good deal on airfare, but I yearned to make one of my life long goals come true. I wanted to fly business class in a lie flight seat to Europe!
How to Upgrade to Business Class: The Magic of Avios
If you have never heard of Avios it is the rewards program of Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia and Qatar Airways. I already had several thousand Avios points left over from a trip through London a few years ago where I used a British Airways credit card bonus. I was excited to learn that I could transfer my British Airways Avios miles to Aer Lingus for my upcoming trip to Ireland. British Airways is also a great rewards value for flights within Europe.
Avios miles can also be transferred to Iberia and Qatar Airways. If you are transferring your Avios to Iberia keep in mind you will need to set up your Iberia account and have it open for at least three months before you can transfer Avios miles from the other rewards programs I mentioned into it.
If you are headed to Spain you can snag a business class seat from the East coast to Madrid or Barcelona for only 34,000 points each way! That’s less than then I spend to visit family in New York from Denver.
What I think is so unique about the Avios program is these four airlines all share the Avios program. Not only can you transfer miles between the programs, you can also transfer them back to another Avios program if you end up not using them all . That is unheard of in the points and miles world!
Sadly I checked award availability for Aer Lingus Business Class and there was nothing available, as is so often the case with rewards flights. What’s a girl to do? When I really want something I do not give up easily. You can bid for an upgrade and see if it is accepted. Who knows what that would cost? OR you can use the secret trick I discovered below:
Upgrade Request
- Join Aer Lingus’ Aer Club. Here is a tip from your best friend. Go to http://Avios.com and click “Join Avios Now”. Scroll down to “Join AerClub” the loyalty program for Aer Lingus. While you’re there sign up for the other Avios programs too.
- Book a Smart ticket with cash directly with Aer Lingus to increase your chance of an upgrade. Upgrades are not available with Avios miles if you book through a third party or use miles for your ticket. Make sure to include your Aer Club account number when booking. Upgrade miles will depend on if your travel dates are on or off peak. Off Peak flights like mine were 37,000 Avios Miles. Peak flights are 44,750 Avios miles. Check Aer Lingus’ 2024 schedule here to see if your dates are on or off peak.
- Email [email protected]. Request an upgrade to business class. Include the Aer Club Account Number, Booking Number, Passenger Name and Flight Number. You can also try calling them at 1-800-237-2747.
- If there is award availability for an upgrade Aer Lingus will confirm your request and send a new booking confirmation with a seat assignment. Due to the time difference this process can take a day or two if you do this through email. Once confirmed the Avios miles will be deducted from your account. Try booking a ticket without purchasing at the end on Aer Lingus’ site to see if there are still business class seats available. If there are there is a chance Aer Lingus will upgrade your ticket.
- That’s it! It’s really that easy.
If you’ve dreamed of exploring the Emerald Isle too, but don’t have any Avios miles yet here is the simplest step by step instructions of how to get them:
- Apply for an Aer Lingus credit card The card has an annual fee of $95.
- Spend $5,000 in the first three months of getting the card. I know this sounds like a lot, but do yourself another favor and automate all your monthly bills. Set them all up for autopay using your new Aer Lingus credit card. I automate everything, utilities, car insurance, streaming service, EVERYTHING. Do you have a big purchase coming up? Need a new appliance? Have expensive car maintenance or repair coming up? Need a new phone or computer? Time it after opening the new card.
- Once you complete your $5,000 spending Aer Lingus will credit your account with 75,000 Avios miles.
- Then go to Avios.com to look for award availability or if there is none try my trick above to upgrade a cash ticket with miles. As of March 2024 Aer Lingus was in the process of updating their website to be able to search award space directly from the Aer Lingus site, but it was not available quite yet.
My first business class overseas flight was so amazing, relaxing and luxurious! I also had a fabulous time in Ireland exploring the land of my ancestors. Thinking of heading to the Emerald Island? Check out this post on the highlight of my trip, Dingle, Ireland! If you live in the Denver area, Aer Lingus will be offering direct flights from Denver to Dublin starting May 17, 2024!!
If you use any of my tips leave me a comment and let me know how you are living the glamorous life flying business class for less. Cheers or as they say in Ireland, Sláinte!
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It’s March 2024 and cruise season is in full swing. You may be wondering what are Holland America cruises like?
Think that this cruise line is only for the senior citizen crowd? Nope! There are some great things about Holland America cruises for adult travelers of all ages, especially if you are looking for a little more luxury on a budget.
Here are 5 Reasons to Love the State Rooms on Holland America.
Holland America Cruises – # 1 Beds
The most important thing about your stateroom is really the bed. When it is time to head off to dream land is the time when this wanderluster usually misses home the most.
Exhausted from exploring all day, all I really want is my comfy bed back home, cuddled up next to my Daisy doodle. Who wouldn’t miss that sweet face?! ❤️
The beds on cruise ships really are more like cots, but I have to say the Mariner’s Dream beds on Holland America’s Nieuw Statendam were the comfiest I’ve slept on during any cruise.
I usually have two twin beds in my room because I’m traveling with my cruising bestie, Kate. However, you can easily have the room steward convert them into one full size bed.
Ask your room steward to bring you some extra pillows. Holland America’s convenient Navigator App allows you to make service requests right from your phone!
I ordered an extra pillow one afternoon and it was there when I got back to my room. The bed also has a fluffy and soft duvet to snuggle up in.
Each bed also has their own tiny bedside table and drawer, so you can keep your book, glasses and medicine handy.
Need to wind down before you go to bed? There is a nice reading lamp on your headboard, so you don’t have to disturb your traveling companion too much.
Holland America Cruises – # 2 Bathroom
I stayed in a verandah stateroom which usually has a slightly bigger bathroom. Who wouldn’t appreciate that?
I seem to always bump my elbows in the shower the first morning of every cruise and either end up with a bruise, knocking the shampoo dispenser off the wall or both! I did that on my very first cruise. Oops! Don’t worry, I was able to put it back up.
However, my shower on the Nieuw Statendam was the biggest shower I’ve seen so far. It was laid out along the right wall instead of tucked in a corner like they usually are on cruise ships. I had plenty of room and no bruised elbows!
It also had a lovely massaging shower head, pumps with shampoo and body wash and a clothes line in case I need to dry my wet swimsuits or wash some delicates. (Personally, I found laying my wet swimsuit on my deck chair was the fastest way to dry it. Just be careful it’s not too windy, so it doesn’t blow away!)
The bathroom has plenty of shelves to store all your toiletries. Here’s a tip from your best friend. Get a hanging toiletry case. They are great for cruising! You can hang it on the bathroom hook and all your toiletries are at eye level when you are getting ready. Your travel buddy will be happy to have their pick of the extra shelves.
A hanging toiletry case is one of my favorite travel accessories! They save so much space and keep everything neat and organized.
Here’s a picture of the one I use below. If you’d like to read about my other essential travel gear check out my post on my three essential travel bags and packing light must haves to avoid baggage fees.
# 3 Towel Animals!
Most cruise lines will make you towel animals each night, but what made Holland America Cruises special with the tasty signature chocolates they used for the eyes.
During my cruise last year nightly turndown service was only available by request due to COVID-19 precautions.
Take advantage of this classy experience! They will also refresh your ice bucket, tidy up your room and make you your very own artful towel animal equipped with Holland America’s signature chocolates.
I had such fun looking forward to what animal I would have each night as well as my tasty treat. Aren’t we all really kids at heart?
# 4 Organization
My state room on Holland America’s Nieuw Statendam was sleek and elegant looking. There were closets and drawers tucked neatly against the wall.
Every cruise line and ship seems to configure things a bit differently. I liked that Holland America Cruises had the closets and drawers right across from the bathroom. It was so easy to get dressed in the morning!
Other cruise lines often have the closet next to the bed. If your traveling companion likes to sleep in this is less than ideal. You’re feeling around in the dark trying to find your clothes.
Whenever I see my room for the first time I’m always a little shocked at how much smaller it is then I remember. If you are new to cruising you may have this experience as well.
Holland America’s Nieuw Statendam room was no different for me at first. However, don’t be fooled. They are so well designed that you will find room for everything.
There is so much hidden storage you can easily keep your room tidy and organized. If you’re a slob though you may struggle, but your best friend will help you out. 😄 I have a touch of OCD, so it’s not problem for me. Okay, maybe more than a touch…
Here’s a tip from your best friend. When I’m staying somewhere for a little longer I unpack everything and put it away on day one. My clothes have a chance to smooth out their wrinkles and I can easily see what I have to wear.
Then each night, I take the clothes I’m done with and pack them away in my packing cube or suitcase. It only takes a few minutes, but by the end of the trip I’m almost done packing.
No late night cram session trying to get everything back in my suitcase! I can relax and savor my last night of vacation.
# 5 Balcony/Verandah
Now that I’m classier (at least I think so 😂), I prefer to get a balcony stateroom. Holland America Cruises calls theirs a Veranda. You get a bit more room and your own quiet spot to relax and watch the waves go by.
It’s the perfect place to relax with your glass of wine or Pina Colada and read that juicy novel you’ve been meaning to get to.
There is also a nice couch where you can read, lounge or watch TV. Inside and Ocean view state rooms don’t have a sitting area or balcony.
I’ve stayed in inside and ocean view rooms in the past. If you are on a tight budget an inside stateroom is perfectly fine. The cabin is a lot smaller, but you don’t have to spend much time in your room with so many fun things to do on the ship. Go check out Holland America’s entertainment instead.
I always got a great night’s sleep in an inside room because my room was nice and dark. Just be sure to set an alarm in the morning as you can easily sleep the day away without the sun to wake you up!
An ocean view room can be a nice compromise if the veranda is too pricey. You can watch the sun rise and set and it definitely helps with your sleep cycle. I’m all about my circadian rhythms these days!
I highly recommend upgrading to a balcony/verandah room though. You won’t be disappointed! Your stateroom comes equipped with room darkening shades, so you will get a great nights sleep and have your own private space to relax away from the crowds.
If you’d like to learn more about Holland America’s, Nieuw Statendam click here. If you’d like to read more about my Nieuw Statendam experience check out my other posts on their amazing food and beverages. Happy cruising!
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Are you searching for the best restaurants in Long Island, New York? Are you bored with eating at chain restaurants when you travel? Do you enjoy venturing out, eating local foods and taking advantage of experiences you can’t have at home? Do you want incredible food without spending a lot of money? I’ve got some hidden gems for you to try!
I’ve been traveling to Long Island almost annually since I was a born. I will leave out exactly how many years that’s been. 😂 I’ve tried so many different places over the years and here are my top picks for off the beaten path places on Long Island.
Best Restaurants in Long Island, New York for Breakfast
One of the best restaurants in Long Island, New York for breakfast is Calvert Manor Bagels in Seaford, NY. No visit to New York would be complete without some amazing bagels. These bagels are the best because they have a thin, hard and crunchy outer layer and are soft and chewy on the inside.
Some places make bagels that are just too chewy and tough to eat. Not this place! I’ve been going to this place for years and it never disappoints.
Another reason this is my favorite breakfast spot is they are the only place I’ve found anywhere that sells rye bagels. I just love rye bread and rye bagels are even better!
You can get bagels with butter, plain cream cheese, 18 different kinds of specialty cream cheese or made into a delectable sandwich.
I always choose the vegetable cream cheese to go with my rye bagel. However, low fat vegetable is also available if you are trying to save a few calories and tastes almost as good.
They put the cream cheese on with a cake icing spatula and spread it on thick. No disappointing thin layers of cream cheese you can barely taste on these bagels.
My family all have their favorites. My mom’s is the Asiago bagel with vegetable cream cheese. She tried the Egg Asiago below this time and said it was tasty.
My uncle’s is either the sesame bagel with strawberry cream cheese or his new favorite the “Healthy man” sandwich with 3 egg whites, turkey and Alpine lace swiss on your choice of bagel. Divine even if you are not trying to eat healthy!
Calvert Manor Bagels also has an amazing raspberry coffee cake. They have chocolate and apple, but the raspberry is the best in my opinion. That’s really saying something because chocolate is always my first choice!
Buy a whole cake to share with your traveling companions for breakfast. This way you can skip the sad hotel buffet breakfast and have breakfast in your PJs. Calvert Manor Bagels also sells it by the slice. The slices are big! Share with a friend. 😉
There is a whole wall of cold drink options as well as coffee and tea at the counter. When in New York I go for the Snapple which started in New York (many more varieties then I can find at home in Denver) or a hot cup of coffee.
Calvert Manor Bagels also offers a variety of other grab and go items. I like to grab a snack for later while I’m there. Try the New York brand, Hal’s kettle potato chips or choose a healthier salad or yogurt parfait.
Grab what you want, order your bagels and pay at the counter. Here’s a tip from your best friend. Pay with cash. Most small places on Long Island charge a fee for using a credit card, about 3-4%.
This place moves quick, so be ready! Sunday mornings have a line out the door, but it moves fast. Sit inside, outside or take your bagels to go for an impromptu picnic.
Skip the bakery goods, besides the coffee cake. I’ve got the best bakery on Long Island coming up!
Best Restaurants in Long Island, New York for Lunch
Next let’s move on to lunch. One of the best restaurants in Long Island, New York for lunch is the Hidden Oak Cafe at the Bayard Cutting Arboretum. This is truly a unique and classy experience if you want to live for a day like Long Island’s former gold coast elite. Fan of the HBO Show, The Gilded Age? The Bayard Cutting Arboretum was one of their filming locations!
Dine inside the manor house or on a nice day sit on the covered veranda at the back of the house, overlooking the great lawn and the Connetquot River. I always choose the veranda if the weather is decent. Absolutely blissful!
I’ve been coming to Bayard Cutting Arboretum since I was a kid to stroll the beautiful grounds. Recently they have refurbished the manor house and now offer tours on select days. Call and make reservations in advance.
As I got older my family and I would stop for a spot of tea and a sweet treat at the Hidden Oak Cafe. Peruse the bakery counter as you walk in.
The Hidden Oak Cafe also has a high tea, which they call the Victorian Tea, and requires 24 hours advance notice, but you can get a 2 cup pot of tea with no reservations like I did above.
There are a wide variety of teas to choose from. However, I usually go with the peach apricot and order a scone with Devonshire cream to go with my tea. The English Breakfast is also a good choice if you need a caffeine boost.
This restaurant is also a great place for soups, salads, sandwiches and quiche. Usually the food at attractions is mediocre at best, but The Hidden Oak Cafe uses high quality ingredients and makes delicious food.
I highly recommend the vegetable soup or the grilled cheese. I asked to have my grilled cheese with Swiss and it was gooey, crunchy and delicious!
After lunch, stroll the peaceful trail along the river and watch the swans, geese and ducks go by or sit in an adirondack chair and listen to the wind and the birds.
Admire the stunning homes on the other side of the river and watch the boats and kayakers float by. Very relaxing!
Bayard Cutting Arboretum is also home to a family of Ospreys which have a nest way atop one of the red brick chimneys above the veranda. Watch them swish and swoop into the river to catch fish. A birdwatchers delight!
Lastly after lunch head to one of my favorite beaches nearby, Fire Island National Seashore and the adjacent Robert Moses State Park. It makes for a very fun and relaxing day. Climb the lighthouse at Fire Island if you aren’t afraid of heights.
Best Restaurants for Dinner
My recommendation for the best restaurant in Long Island, New York for dinner is Frantoni’s Pizzeria in East Meadow, NY. You will find the best pizza outside of Italy in this spot!
Get a whole fresh grandma’s pizza. Trust me, you won’t regret it. I had never had grandma’s pizza before my uncle discovered this place and introduced me to it. Not in New York City or even in Italy itself. (If you are ordering pizza it’s always best to get a fresh pizza pie or look for a pizza pie that’s fresh out of the oven. Otherwise they can be burnt and dry when they are reheated.)
It’s a thin Sicilian (square) pizza. Most Sicilian pizzas are thick. It has a buttery crust and an amazing chunky tomato sauce that sits in delicious dollops on top of the pizza instead of underneath the cheese.
My uncle once described that you could just picture the old grandma in the back stirring the cauldron of amazing sauce with an oar.
The cheese is of high quality and is baked to the point of absolute perfection where the cheese turns from hot and gooey to bubbly and golden brown with just the right amount of chewiness. Then it’s topped with shreds of fresh basil. It’s almost orgasmic! Even the cold leftovers are delicious.
Be patient and let it cool a little. Remember this is sea level and things have to boil at a higher temperature than at a higher altitude like my home back in Denver. I always get too excited, don’t wait and burn my mouth the first day. Never fun.
Frantoni’s is also the classiest pizza joint I have ever been in. It’s light and bright with modern light fixtures, sparkly white quartz table tops and subtle damask wallpaper.
The walls are lined with dark wood, lighted mirrors and old-timey sepia prints of Italy. One even has the gentleman with a thought bubble dreaming that he wished he was at Frantoni’s…wait isn’t he already there? 😂
There is a large area in the front with booths, tables and chairs where you order your pizza and pay at the counter or a lovely back restaurant area where you can order a sit down meal and be served.
They also have a full bar which you can order from whether you dine in the casual front or more formal back. I get my pizza with a nice chianti or cabernet, but they also have beer, and a variety of fountain and bottled drinks.
I can tell this is a local place. You see everything from kids sports teams coming in for a celebratory pizza or the girls catching up after work with a glass of wine and a slice in the front, to the old white haired married couple sitting side by side in the back booth for their weekly date night in the restaurant.
If you opt for a sit down dinner in the back try a big salad or the baked ziti. It comes with the most amazing crescent rolls served with soft creamy butter. Heavenly!
Best Restaurant in Long Island, New York for Dessert
While technically not a restaurant, Dortoni’s Bakery is my favorite place for dessert on Long Island and possibly the world.
I have never seen so many intricately made cookies, pastries and cakes all in one place. They must have a small army of people working all night to prepare these decadent desserts.
While Dortoni’s has several locations I visit the one in Levittown, NY in the town of Hempstead. Fun fact about Levittown. It was the first American suburb and was built for veterans returning home from World War II.
This bakery which started in 1976 has been in business longer than I’ve been alive and it shows. They make every bakery item under the sun. Everything from fresh breads, cookies, pastries and even wedding cakes. If I lived in New York I would be here every week and probably weigh 300 pounds.
Are you overwhelmed with sugary deliciousness? Don’t fret. Below are some of my favorites to start with.
One of my all time favorites is the magnificent Almond Horn cookie. It has a soft and chewy inside of almond cakey marzipan with a crunchy outside of slivered almonds and is dipped in chocolate. Scrumptious!
I also love this cookie because it travels so well. I always try to take a box home when I return to Denver. If fits perfectly in my carry on bag and they are great to take along on picnics since they don’t melt too much.
The Cannoli of course! I like the chocolate dipped shell with either the traditional or the chocolate filling. The ricotta is smooth and creamy with little bursts of mini chocolate chips.
If you are looking for something extra decadent try this chocolate mousse pastry. It has layers of chocolate cake, chocolate mouse and a chocolate ganache frosting. I’m thinking I may have a chocolate addiction. Is there a rehab for that?
I hope you’ve enjoyed my post about the best restaurants in Long Island, New York. If you liked this post and want other recommendations of places to go and food to try check out this post.
Want to find the best flights to New York? Read this post. A free hotel to go with it? Check out this credit card.
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Are you looking for essential travel bags that can make any trip smooth and easy?
I’ve got you covered! Here are my top 3 essential travel bags that I’ve put to the test on countless trips.
Essential Travel Bags # 1 – Suitcase
The first essential travel bag is the right suitcase. You need a suitcase that is versatile for all different types of trips. One that will meet all your needs for the new and fabulous travel lifestyle you will be creating!
My personal favorite is the Olympia Denmark 21”. This bag works great for all types of travel.
Versatile
It’s 21 x 14 x 9 and meets the carry on requirements for even European carriers, which are minute by American standards. Everything is smaller in Europe.
I also love that this bag is hard sided. It works perfect for taking cruises. Cruise lines pile all the luggage on top of each other when taking it to your state room . If you have a soft-sided suitcase things can get damaged. That was the reason I first bought this bag.
Plus, it only weighs 5 pounds! I take it for short weekend trips too because it’s so light. This suitcase keeps you light on your feet while you are traipsing through airports, onto trains and into taxis and ride shares.
It’s so lightweight it can be easily lifted yourself into the overhead bin of a plane or train. Hey, if there is a cute guy nearby ask him for help anyway. I won’t tell! 😉
Features
This bag also expands by two inches so, there’s plenty of room to bring home all those fun souvenirs on the way home.
It also has a cool hidden pocket in the expansion section where you can hide your laptop and other valuables.
I also love that this bag has a snap in waterproof toiletry case. It works great for bringing home wet swimsuits or other items that might leak.
It is also surprising how much can fit in the Olympia Denmark 21” if I keep things organized in packing cubes. Packing cubes are another favorite of mine which I discussed in this post. I have easily fit clothes for up to 10 days in this bag if I pack thoughtfully.
Plus I never have to worry if my bag will make it to my destination since I never have to check it.
On a recent trip to Europe my traveling companion’s luggage failed to arrive in Barcelona where we were scheduled to embark on a cruise the following day.
The stress and anxiety of not knowing if her things would make it in time for the cruise was terrible. Not to mention being without basic things like socks and underwear.
Don’t put yourself in this situation. Always carry on! You can do it! I promise and your best friend will show you how.
The Olympia Denmark 21” also has four spinning wheels which makes it a breeze to maneuver. It has 3 handles, which makes it easy to get in and out of overhead bins or in and out of vehicles.
Colors
The Olympia Denmark 21” comes in fun colors too that are not your standard black, which I love. My favorite and the one I bought was the Teal.
It makes it much easier to find your suitcase if you choose or are forced to check your bag. However, if you prefer a more classic color like black or silver those are also available.
Saves Money & Time
This bag will also save money and time since there won’t be fees to check your bag and you won’t have to wait endlessly at the baggage claim to collect your bag.
The price is also reasonable compared to a lot of bags. At the time of this post (updated January 2024) it was listed on the Olympia website for $240, but I found it for $65 on Amazon!
I love the Olympia Denmark 21” so much I have forsaken all others. 😂 Once I got used to traveling smoothly, with ease and without lugging a heavy bag, I started using it for all my travel.
My other suitcases are gathering dust in my closet now. It is my go to essential travel bag!
Essential Travel Bags # 2 – Tote or Small Duffel
The next essential travel bags are a nice tote or small duffel. This way I can keep all the things I need handy to amuse myself when I’m on the plane, train or long taxi/ride share ride.
I use it to put my small purse in when I board the plane since everyone can only have one carry on and one personal item. Always take a bag with a zipper so things don’t spill out mid-flight.
I also put my tablet or laptop, snacks, toiletries and gifts or souvenirs in it. Depending on the bag I can also put in a change of clothes.
This is helpful in the event that the overhead bin space is full and I’m forced to check my bag.
Since all my essentials and valuables are already in my personal item I won’t have to worry about moving things around on the jetway at the last minute should that happen. Embarrassing!
If it does happen, don’t worry, a lot of the time you can collect your bag on the jetway rather than taking more time to go to baggage claim.
Spring and Summer Totes
I take different totes depending on the destination and time of year. If I’m headed to the beach or browsing around a public market, a classic straw tote or boat bag is great.
I love the the L.L. Bean Boat and Tote Zip Top or their Every Day Lightweight Tote.
L.L. Bean is such a classic East Coast brand. I can just picture myself strolling in the Hamptons, smelling the sea salty air ,listening to the sea gulls croon, the crashing of the waves and toting my boat and tote to the sandy beach for a day full of fun. Can’t you just feel it?
I brought a version of the Medium Every Day Lightweight Tote below on my Southern Caribbean cruise.
In the summer L.L. bean comes out with fun patterns too like the one in my cover photo.
They are cute, lightweight and this one matches my Olympia Denmark Teal 21” Spinner perfectly. Got to look cute and stylish when I travel!
Fall and Winter Totes
If you are headed out on a city adventure, I suggest something a bit more traditional and classy like a leather tote or a recent gift to myself for my birthday was a Longchamp Paris, Le Pliage Tote.
I’ve long envied the classy looking and stylish ladies I’ve seen on my many travels with this bag. I was thrilled to finally have one of my own!
I took my Longchamp Paris, Le Pliage Tote to New York recently. It’s great how it’s so lightweight and versatile.
Fold it up and it’s as small as a paperback book when it snaps closed (remember those things we used to read before tablets? 😂).
It’s also perfect to put in your luggage as an extra bag to bring home all your fabulous souvenirs from your travels.
The Longchamp Paris, Le Pliage Tote is also wonderful for day trips at home and abroad to store all my essentials for the day.
It also zips closed, so your things don’t fall out all over in the plane or car and it’s water resistant which came in handy for those New York showers.
It also has 2 small pockets inside for smaller items. Need more organization for the bag? Try this insert.
I chose the Le Pliage Original, Size Large in Navy. Black is also another classic color. Navy and black are what I have seen most in my travels. Want a pop of color? They have those too!
Once I arrive at my destination I use my tote as a handy day bag with all my essentials for the day.
Duffel Bag
Traveling somewhere where you will be doing some side trips? A small duffel makes a great second bag/personal item.
Along with fitting all my essentials while I’m traveling, I can also fit a few changes of clothes in it.
This way I am not taking a wheeled bag with me on those cobblestone streets in Europe which can be a bit jarring 😂.
I can stow my suitcase at my main hotel and then take my duffel with me for those side trips. Hop on and off those trains with ease!
I am a big fan of Kipling bags because they are also very lightweight and water resistant.
My black Kipling duffel went with me when I took a train trip through Italy and it worked perfectly.
I also took a Kipling backpack with me on my first international trip 20 years ago touring through Egypt. Love these bags!
Plus I like the little gorilla keychain that comes with it. 😄 Don’t pack this bag full though, otherwise it won’t fit under the plane seat.
3. Essential Travel Bags # 3 – Cross body bag
My last essential travel bag is a cross body bag. I love these bags for travel! They are so freeing.
It’s great to be able to have your hands free when you are traveling. Whether you’re loading your carry on into the overhead bin on a plane or train, strolling through the streets of Paris shopping or checking into your hotel, your purse will always be safe and secure at your side.
Unfortunately the down side of traveling and being outside of your normal routine is thieves can take advantage of you.
Put your purse down for a second to look at your phone, sip your latte or glass of wine and admire the view and someone can snatch your bag and ruin your vacation.
If your purse is at your side the whole time you will be more likely to notice if someone is tugging on your bag.
I’ve been using cross body bags since my first international trip 20 years ago and wonder what I ever did before then.
I choose different ones based on my destination and the time of year. In the Spring and Summer I like something with a pop of color that will contrast with my outfits nicely.
In the Fall and Winter I tend to stick with something more neutral like black, navy or brown.
The bag I took on my last Caribbean cruise is the Sakroots Basic Crossbody Eco Twill.
I bought mine a year or so ago, so they don’t have the exact pattern I have anymore, but I love the Royal Blue Seascape. I think it would be the perfect bag for a Caribbean cruise.
I’m going to sound like a broken record, but again this bag is lightweight, water resistant and zips close.
It has tons of pockets where you can store your travel documents, passport, lipstick and phone.
I actually even bought the small matching wallet below which has a clip I can clip to the inside zipper pocket in the main compartment of my cross body bag.
This way I can get my wallet out easily without it falling out onto the floor or counter. It also makes it harder for thieves to slip out of your bag.
These bags come in a variety of colorful and whimsical patterns that I just think are really fun! They come with a pretty keychain too. Choose the one that is uniquely you. 😀
Not to sound like Julie Andrews in The Sound of Music, but these are a few of my favorite things!
I hope you get these three essential travel bags and start traveling smoothly and with ease!
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This post may contain affiliate links where I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. I do not recommend products that I have not personally used and loved.
Dingle, Ireland is a glorious green paradise to explore. There are rolling hills on one side dotted with sheep, a beautiful inlet of shimmering water on the other side and a babbling, mossy stream running through it all.
The town is just as cute as can be. It’s a wonderful place to shop, try the local cuisine, listen to some traditional music (what they call trad for short), and explore the surrounding Dingle peninsula. Dingle was the highlight of my first Ireland adventure!
Where to Stay in Dingle, Ireland
I stayed at the fabulous Greenmount House in Dingle, Ireland. It’s a lovely hotel at the top of the hill on the perimeter of Dingle Town. This award winning boutique B & B has breathtaking views of the bay, Dingle town and the rolling green hills.
Above is a selfie taken from the second floor of the hotel on my own private balcony overlooking the bay. Ah heaven! I felt like I had discovered paradise. It was definitely worth the splurge to get a Sea View Room and be able to watch the sunrise and set over the water.
Staying at this hotel was an experience in and of itself. Balcony rooms are huge, but homey and relaxing.
The room has a state of the art bathroom complete with rain shower, soaking tub and a skylight where you can see the rain drops falling and hear their soft pitter patter while you enjoy the bubbles from your hot bath after a long day of sightseeing.
I could have stayed at these place for a whole week. It would be a great place to relax, unplug and find yourself.
Even Julia Roberts escaped here after her breakup with Kiefer Sutherland way back in the day, so you know it must be good! It was also ranked as one of the top small hotels in all of Europe.
What to do in Dingle, Ireland
First take a few hours to explore old Dingle Town once you settle in at your hotel. The old Dingle town is easily walkable and you can walk the whole town in 2-3 hours.
It would be easy to extend your visit longer if you take time to explore all the cool shops and restaurants or listen to some traditional (trad) music at The Dingle Pub
The town is just so homey and friendly it like being wrapped up in a warm hug. I could have easily spent my whole week here relaxing, decompressing and savoring life.
This was my first trip to Ireland, so I only planned two nights in Dingle as I wanted to explore Dublin and Galway as well.
Next time I come back to Ireland I will plan more time in Dingle and go a little earlier in the season when more things are open and the sea is calmer for boat trips.
I would also love to explore more of the area, like The Great Blasket Islands and Sleah Head.
Visiting in early November some of the restaurants in Dingle Town were closed a few days midweek, as the tourist season had ended. I still found some great options though which I will talk about later.
There were many advantages to visiting Dingle, Ireland off season though. I scored a great price for my Junior Suite at Greenmount House. Traveling in the off season is a great way to stay classy on a budget.
Dingle town was quieter and less busy than I imagine it is in the Summertime, which I really prefer.
I also got some great deals shopping in town as they were slimming down their inventory after tourist season. As you’re exploring the town take some time to do some shopping.
Where to shop
Dingle, Ireland is a shoppers delight for local crafts. I found wonderful souvenirs to bring back home for myself, family and friends. Everything from gorgeous traditional wool sweaters, silver clauddagh rings, crystal, stunning paintings of the surrounding area and local handmade crafts.
Wool
No trip to Ireland would be complete without purchasing an Irish wool sweater, scarves or gloves. Why not buy all 3!
One thing you will see a lot as you explore the countryside are lots and lots of sheep.
I’m not normally a fan of wool as I find it too itchy, but I found that items made of super soft Merino wool were soft, luxurious, not at all itchy and oh so warm.
I purchased this gorgeous sweater in a beautiful shade of Mulberry from The Dingle Woollen Company.
This place has operated in Dingle since 1606!! Since I was there in early November at the end of the tourist season I snagged my sweater for over 60% off. It will be perfect for those cold, snowy days back at home in Colorado.
I also bought a beautiful pair of handmade mittens with a design that looks to me like little sheep. What do you think?
Check out their online store. They even have free shipping to the US and Canada if you spend over 100 Euros!
Get a little taste of Ireland even before you visit. 😄
Jewelry
Looking for a traditional Cladaugh ring? Check out The Dolphin Shop. They have a huge selection of Irish rings and other jewelry, plus Irish leather goods, scarves and wall hangings.
Arts and Crafts
I also love a good craft market! They are so great for finding unique gifts and souvenirs. I found a little gem on Main Street called, An Gailearai Beag which showcases handmade, local items from the West Kerry Craft Guild.
That’s where I fell in love with the work of Dingle Artist, Andrea Power who paints gorgeous paintings of the Wild Atlantic Way.
I bought an extremely affordable signed print of “Crazy Storm Colours: Coumeenole”, that I can’t wait to get framed and hang up in my home!
I love buying a little piece of art when I travel, so I can be reminded of my wonderful memories every time I walk by. It helps get me through until I can take my next adventure!
Continue strolling the town and admire the creative window displays.
Take some time to stop and pet the roaming kitties and old sheep dogs guarding their properties.
Slow down and have a coffee and just savor the peace and simplicity of this town. When you get a little hungry stop into one of the great restaurants in Dingle, Ireland.
Where to Eat
Breakfast
If you are staying at the Greenmount House take advantage of their included breakfast. There is no sad dried out buffet here.
The hotel has an amazing breakfast area surrounded by windows, so you can enjoy spectacular views of the bay while you savor your choice of breakfast.
They have a plethora of options starting with your choice of juice served in champagne flutes, coffee or tea and your choice of a number of breakfast entrees.
I tried the light and fluffy French toast as well as the cheese and herb omelette and both were delicious.
There is also a buffet of greek yogurt with a myriad of topping options as well as small pastry items to enjoy.
Coffee and pastries
Bean in Dingle
As your exploring town stop in at one of the local coffee shops. I loved the Bean in Dingle.
It’s a bright, cheery spot to rest your feet and get a nice shot of caffeine and a delicious pastry. Listen to the lively music, people watch and sip an artfully crafted chai latte.
Lunch or Dinner
Paul Geaney’s Bar and Restaurant
When you get hungry for something a little more substantial stop in at Paul Geaney’s Bar and Restaurant on Main Street for lunch or dinner.
It was a great pub option for a vegetarian like me. Irish food is not the most vegetarian friendly. Let’s just say I ate a lot of veggie burgers and chips (French fries) while I was traveling. It was nice to take a break from those and have some delicious pizza.
If you’ve read any of my other posts, you know I’m obsessed with pizza and a bit of a snob about it. I tried the veggie pizza and a pesto one. Both were made with fresh, quality ingredients and tasted amazing.
Wash it down with a pint of beer or the not too sweet or dry Rockshore hard apple cider!
Dessert
Murphy’s Ice Cream
When you are in the mood for something sweet you must stop by Murphy’s Ice Cream.
It’s the creamiest handmade ice cream and offers some unique flavors like Irish Brown Bread, Dingle Sea Salt, Dingle Gin and Irish Cream. The Chocolate Whisky and the Honeycomb Carmel were my favorites.
Getting There
If you’d like to visit Dingle too, it’s about a 3.5 – 4 hour drive from Dublin. Take care if you rent a car as the roads are twisty and very narrow. Not to mention you will be driving on the other side of the road if you are from outside the UK.
Don’t have a car? Take the train from Dublin to Tralee and then a bus from Tralee into Dingle which takes about 6 hours.
Want to fly to Dublin from the US in luxury? Check out my post on how to upgrade to business class for under $100!
If you have trouble finding availability for award travel try taking a positioning flight to another airport that has more availability. Better yet try out a new credit card and get your flights for free!
Dingle, Ireland is definitely worth the effort to visit. It’s such a wonderful town with so many great things to see and experience. I’m so glad I was able to visit and I can’t wait to go back and take all my friends.
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Red Butte Gardens
Are you are looking for things to do in Salt Lake City? Red Butte Gardens is a wonderful arboretum and botanical garden located in the foothills of Salt Lake City. It is off the University of Utah campus.
It’s a great place for an afternoon stroll where you can admire all the flowers, trees and relaxing water features. They even have various sculptures throughout the garden to admire. Pull up a bench, listen to the tinkling water and the breeze through the trees.
There are 5 miles of trails to check out and there is also an amphitheater with a Summer Twilight Concert series.
I wasn’t able to attend a concert as they sell out quickly, but while walking around I was treated to hearing the Fitz and the Tantrums practice for their show that night. So cool!
If you go, don’t forget your sunscreen, water and a hat or an umbrella. It can get a little toasty depending on what time of day or year you go. However, there are numerous benches to sit and and enjoy the shade.
Red Butte Gardens also has an absolutely amazing gift shop! It’s a great place to find unique gifts for your nature loving friends and family. Make sure you check it out before you head out!
They also have great air conditioning if you get a little overheated walking around. 😄 Before or after the gardens stop by Ruth’s Diner for a fabulous brunch nearby on their gorgeous back patio.
Tracy Aviary
If you are a bird lover like me and are looking for things to do in Salt Lake City, head over to the Tracy Aviary in Sugar House. I went to check out the newly hatched, adorable, baby flamingos. They are so fluffy and cute when they are babies!
I took this adorable video of a fussy baby flamingo searching for a shady spot to take a nap.
The Tracy Aviary revolves around a central lake. Circle around the lake and explore birds from all over the world in a beautiful park like setting.
If you’re looking for a fun and yummy restaurant in the area try Finn’s Cafe for breakfast or lunch.
Heber Creeper
If you like history and trains and are looking for things to do in Salt Lake City, check out the Heber Creeper.
It’s a near hundred year old historic train that was brought down from Canada, that you can ride through the Heber Valley.
They have a ton of different holiday themed train rides or ride the signature Deer Creek Express.
This ride comes complete with an old time western gun fight, fiddlers and tales from the old west.
Sit on the left side when boarding the train to get a great view of the Deer Creek reservoir and the Wasatch Mountains.
This historic train even has seats that flip direction, so you don’t have to ride facing backwards on your journey back.
When I come back I’m definitely booking the Chocolate Lovers Train where you can sample local artisan chocolates. Everything’s better with chocolate!
Explore Park City
Are you a skier, foodie, shopper or movie buff and looking for things to do in Salt Lake City? On your way back from Heber City why not stop in and explore Park City. Park City is also only 35 minutes from Salt Lake City International Airport.
This historic mining town is home to world class skiing, Utah Olympic Park and of course the Sundance Film Festival.
Stroll along and check out all the shops and restaurants. Don’t miss the Egyptian Theater where they hold screenings for Sundance.
This is definitely a pricey town, proven by the car I parked next to. If you don’t have a McLaren budget and are looking for an affordable lunch or dinner option without having to cash in your IRA like this guy, stop in at Red Banjo Pizza for a refreshing beverage and a delicious scratch made slice. This place is also vegetarian and gluten free friendly.
Snowbird Summer Scenic Tram
Nature lover and looking for things to do in Salt Lake City? Less than an hour from Salt Lake City is the beautiful ski resort of Snowbird.
Take a ride on Snowbird’s Signature Aerial Tram for a majestic view of the Salt Lake Valley. It is one of only 9 ski resort trams in the United States.
The tram is fully enclosed with a breathtaking 360 view of the surrounding mountains. There are also windows in the floor, so you get a full view of everything.
Our tram operator even pointed a moose that was grazing near a small lake on the way up the mountain. First wild moose I’ve seen in my life!!
If you are really adventurous you can pay extra to sit in the rooftop balcony on top of the tram as you ride up and down the mountain.
I’m a little afraid of heights, so I was just fine staying inside. 😄 The tram does have windows that open, so you can still feel that mountain breeze coming in.
The tram ride takes about 13 minutes each way and runs along a 1.6 mile cable, climbing 2900 vertical feet up to the summit of Hidden Peak.
Once at the summit spend some time drinking in the stunning views of the Salt Lake Valley.
There is even a cafe with a bar now at the top that is open on weekends. Watch out for the chipmunks if you sit outside as they can be very bold, hoping to sample some of your food.
Bring a jacket as it can get cold up there at 11,000 feet and your hiking shoes if you want to try walking back down the mountain.
I hope you enjoyed my ideas for things to do in Salt Lake City. If you’d like more restaurant recommendations for your trip read my list of the Best Restaurants in Salt Lake City with something for everyone.
Looking for cheap flights to Salt Lake City? Check out my other posts on finding plane tickets, packing tips for discount airlines or using points and miles for a free trip.
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Are you visiting Salt Lake City on business, for skiing, visiting family or just passing through on the way to one of Utah’s stunning National Parks? If so, you may be looking for the best restaurants in Salt Lake City with something for everyone. Well, I’ve got a story to tell you…
So a vegetarian and a gluten free person walk into a bar in Salt Lake City…just kidding. Well…not really. I do happen to be vegetarian and my good friend whom I was visiting does have gluten sensitivity. Plus, we both do enjoy a nice adult beverage from time to time. Okay, okay, me more than her probably. LOL
Wondering what the best restaurants are in Salt Lake City that have something for everyone?
Are there even bars in Salt Lake City? What if I’m traveling with someone who is vegetarian or gluten free? What are some great restaurants that are fun and can make everyone happy?
I’ve got you covered! I got the inside scoop from a local and I’ll tell you my top 5 best restaurants to try in Salt Lake City that are sure to have something for everyone. I think you carnivores will be quite happy too!
#1 – Best Restaurants in Salt Lake City for Breakfast
1624 1100 E. Salt Lake City, UT 84105
First stop breakfast! Finn’s Cafe is a beautiful family owned and operated cafe located in the hip area of Sugarhouse in Salt Lake City. It was started in 1952 by Norwegian immigrants who came to Utah for the wonderful skiing.
They serve Scandinavian inspired food with an American flair. This is not your typical 50’s cafe or diner. It feels classier and more refined than that. From the moment you enter you will see what I mean.
This small cafe is lined with large oval windows, has light colored wood ceilings, tables and floors with some retro glass blocks added in for additional light. It’s so bright and cheerfull. There’s even a little gnome (troll?) to welcome you when you come in!
They also have a great patio surrounded by a lush flowering hedge. No staring at a busy street or parking lot on this patio.
Order some hot LavAzza coffee served in Finn’s signature mug.
Next, they have a wide menu with your favorite breakfast and lunch staples . If your a more adventurous eater try some Scandinavian specialties like poached red trout with Finn’s tartar sauce, wienerschnitzel and eggs or Jule Kake French toast.
I ordered the waffles which were are a little thinner, crispier and sweeter than Belgian waffles. It comes with lingonberry jam and sour cream.
I skipped the sour cream and opted for the artfully sculpted butter shaped into what looked like raspberries to me, but you make your guess. 😄 Lingonberries maybe??
The classic omelette with hash browns was my gluten free friend’s choice. A tasty and relaxing way to spend the morning!
#2 – Sunday Brunch at Ruth’s Diner
4160 Emigration Canyon Salt Lake City, Utah 84108
Next stop, Sunday brunch! Ruth’s Diner is an amazing brunch spot in Emigration Canyon in Salt Lake City. Although they serve breakfast, lunch and dinner too.
This delightful spot has a fabulous back patio where you can gaze up at the surrounding canyon, sip some delicious mimosas and enjoy live music. This place was one of the highlights of my trip!
Ruth’s Diner has been open since 1930 and at this location since 1949 when Ruth moved a trolly car up to Emigration Canyon and started serving beer and burgers to under age frat boys.
The salty, cigarette loving, gun toting, chihuahua owning Ruth started out as a feisty cabaret singer who turned to flipping burgers and eventually opening her own diner. The rest is history!
Sit in the back garden under the lovely old tree, sip a delicious mimosa and get treated with Ruth’s legendary, complimentary biscuits and homemade raspberry jam as you move to the beat of the live band. Heaven on a plate!
Sorry, my gluten free friends, you will miss the delicious biscuits, but your friends will be happy to take yours. LOL
Along with my mimosa, I had a tasty cinnamon role French toast with orange cream cheese florets. If you are gluten free try one of Ruth’s delicious cheesy omelets, Benedicts or hashes. Breakfast is served most of the day from 8am to 4pm.
# 3 – Lunch at the Blue Iguana
165 S. West Temple Salt Lake City, Utah 84101
Then lunch! If you are looking for a hip spot in downtown Salt Lake City, hit up the Blue Iguana for lunch or dinner. It’s located in the heart of downtown near Temple Square.
They have a great lower courtyard patio with umbrellas and string lights where you can sit and relax, nibble some tasty chips and salsa and sip any number of delicious margaritas (I chose the peach) or step inside the colorful and art filled inside dining room.
This place is very refreshing and I’m not just talking about the margaritas. 😂 They have a great selection of vegetarian and gluten free options on the menu.
I’m so used to going places where they only have one or two options for me, so this place was great.
Next, I was excited to have a veggie chimichanga, which is rarely a choice for me since they are mainly made only with either chicken or beef.
My friend had the rice and avocado enchiladas which was not only vegetarian (I might be rubbing off on her 😂), but also gluten free. Healthy and delicious!
There are also many options to satisfy my carnivores out there from carne asada to carnitas or even burgers and steak fries if you are not in the mood for Mexican food.
# 4 – Dinner at The Bayou
645 S State Street Salt Lake City, UT 84111
Lastly, if you’re looking for a fun night out on the town for dinner and some great cold beer, head over to The Bayou!
It’s also located in downtown Salt Lake City. They have a little parking lot at the business next store that you can use for free in the evenings if you have trouble finding parking.
I’ve been coming to this place for over a decade and it is my favorite place to have a burger (veggie for me) and a beer or a local cider (Made in Utah, Hive cider is my fave!).
It’s a hip and funky Cajun place with brick walls, exposed pipes, dim lighting, neon signs and Mardi Gras beads strung up on the ceiling.
They have a huge beer menu along with wine, cocktails and fun mocktails if you happen to be the designated driver. See my friend’s delicious mocktail below.
Be careful if you drink in Salt Lake City. The legal limit for alcohol is lower than in other states.
Take the Trax downtown or Uber it instead and leave the car at your hotel. Your best friend wants you to stay safe and jail free!
I had a delicious veggie burger with cajun spices and pepper jack cheese.
Burgers are served with sweet and savory mix of regular and sweet potato fries that are so hot, crispy and yummy.
I couldn’t finish them all and took them back to the hotel, only to eat them for a late night snack later while watching TV.
My friend’s favorite is the red beans and rice which is gluten free.
You can also try crawfish, gumbo, jambalaya, muffuletta or even the alligator if you want to live on the edge. 😏
# 5 – Bonus Restaurant in Park City!
322 Main Street Park City UT 84060
Bonus restaurant! If you happen to venture out of Salt Lake and head to Park City, Red Banjo Pizza is a great affordable option for lunch or dinner.
This family joint has been in business for 60 years and serves up made from scratch pies which include regular, gluten free or cauliflower crust.
The pizza is great and served with a twist. Literally! The pizza is served with a slice of lemon. Never seen that before!
I had the classic margarita pizza and it was divine! I just love fresh mozzarella and basil. What a wonderful combination!
My friend opted for a gluten free, pick your own topping pie. Delish!
Besides pizza, Red Banjo also has pasta, sandwiches and salads plus a full bar. I like my pizza with a little vino!
I knew Red Banjo Pizza would be good because it was packed with locals and tourists alike! The local junior sports team was celebrating the end of their season and the 20 somethings girls next to me were advising their guy friend on his latest Tinder choices. Women can be brutal! Yikes!
It’s a small place stuffed with olympic skiing memorabilia and of course, red banjos on the walls. 😄 Plus, in nice weather there is a small rooftop terrace, although they weren’t seating up there when I went.
I hope you enjoyed my food tour of Salt Lake City! Stay tuned for my next post on fun things to do in and around Salt Lake City.
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For more restaurant recommendations, check out my post on the best restaurants in Long Island, NY. Planning your Winter Cruise? Find out which cruise line has the best food.
If you’d like to plan a trip to Salt Lake City check out some of my planning posts for flights, packing and paying for your trip with miles. Never stop exploring!
I rarely travel without getting some part of my travel for free. I’ve used various credit cards over my life to get free flights, hotels and even to cover my Lyft rides to and from the airport. I usually get one or two new credit cards a year like the Capital One Venture Card to help me stretch my travel budget. The more money I save, the more money I have to book more travel! I know. I’m obsessed!
The Capital One Venture Card is the first credit card in awhile that I’ve actually held onto for a few years instead of cancelling it after I’ve earned and spent my miles or points bonus.
It has the easiest program I’ve used and has some really nice perks. Here are my top 5 Capital One Venture Card Benefits!
Capital One Venture Card Perk # 1
First, if approved for a new Capital One Venture Card you get a bonus of 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months. That’s worth a minimum of $750 in free travel and with a few tips from your best friend, many thousands of dollars.
Fly you and your love on that romantic trip to Paris and kiss under the twinkling lights of the Eiffel Tower. Wander Italy in search of the best gelato or pizza place. Take a business class flight to Barcelona to admire the architecture of Antonio Gaudi with miles to spare. Save your cash for some Cava and tasty tapas while you’re there!
The possibilities are endless. Business class flights from the US to Europe are usually near $3,000. I’d say that’s worth the $95 annual fee. This card also doesn’t charge any foreign transaction fees which can really add up on an international adventure.
It’s easy to meet the spending requirement to earn the Capital One Venture Card bonus. I recommend automating all of your monthly bills that don’t charge an extra fee for using a credit card.
You would be surprised at all the bills you can automate with a credit card. I’ve automated my car insurance payment, water bill, electricity bill as well as the usual internet, streaming services and cell phone bills.
It does take a few minutes of work on the front end to set up each account, but then I save a ton of time and stress knowing that my bills are all paid, on time, every month.
I never have to worry if I have stamps, that I forgot to pay a bill while on vacation or that an error will mess up my checking account. Set up one autopay to pay your Capital One Venture card and that’s it!
Capital One Venture Card Perk # 2
Second, Capital One Venture Card gives two miles for every dollar you spend on the card. If you meet the spending requirement for the 75,000 mile bonus by spending $4,000 in the first three months that will give you an additional 8,000 miles. That’s a grand total of 83,000 miles! Not too shabby. 🙂
If you get the Venture card, as I did, you also get 5x the miles on hotels and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel. If you upgrade to the Venture X the annual fee is $395, but you get an annual $300 travel credit. Plus you get 10x miles for hotels and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel.
Redeem miles through Capital One Travel for flights, hotels or car rentals for 1 cent/mile OR score a great deal on your own flights and erase the charge using the “Cover travel purchase” option.
Better yet use the “Convert Rewards” option and transfer your miles to one of Capital One’s Transfer partners to make your miles stretch even further.
You can transfer miles at a one to one ratio per 1000 miles to the following partners except where noted:
- Aeromexico
- Air Canada
- Air France/KLM
- Accor Hotels
- Cathay Pacific
- Avianca
- British Airways (Can also move miles from British Airways to Aer Lingus and Iberia)
- Choice Hotels
- Emirates
- Etihad Airways
- EVA Air (1000 Capital One miles =750 EVA Air miles)
- Finnair
- Quantas
- Singapore Airlines
- TAP Airlines
- Turkish Airlines
- Virgin Airlines
- Wyndham Hotels
Perk # 3
Third, you get 5 Star Status with Hertz Rental Car which means you can skip the counter, head straight to the lot and pick your own car.
It’s such a time saver not to have to wait in line and I love the freedom to pick which vehicle suits my particular vacation. Is it a sporty car for a beach vacation or an SUV for those mountain drives? You decide!
Hertz 5 Star Status also lets you earn points for free rental days and upgrades from Hertz Dream Car Collections,
Perk # 4
Fourth, Capital One Venture Card members also get complimentary access to free all inclusive lounges twice per year. This can be a lifesaver if you have a long layover. Relax away from the airport crowds. Sample the free restaurant quality food instead of waiting in line for fast food AND enjoy a free full bar! Cheers to that!!
If the airport your visiting doesn’t have a Capital One Lounge don’t worry. You also have access to over 100 locations in their Partner Lounge Network.
Perk # 5
Lastly, if you don’t already have have TSA pre-check or Global Entry, no problem! The Capital One Venture card will reimburse you the application fee up to $100 for either TSA pre-check or Global Entry once every 4 years.
I decided to take advantage of this great perk and it has been so wonderful not having to remove my shoes, liquids or laptop from my bag when I go through airport security. Plus the lines are so much shorter, especially on busy travel days like over the holidays.
Here’s a tip from your best friend. If you will be doing any international trips at all get the Global Entry card. Enter your Known Traveler Number when you make your flight reservations and they will grant you TSA Pre-Check on your domestic flights. It’s like how we used to fly before 9/11.
Global Entry does require a brief interview with Homeland Security, but I was able to complete mine as I was returning to the U.S. from Barcelona on my last international flight home. No need to make an extra trip and it will save you time going through customs when you return home on your next trip!
These are just my favorite perks from the Capital One Venture card. There are many others like free gift cards, PayPal and Amazon credits and cash back. However, if you are looking to maximize your miles then I recommend using them for flights. This will give you the highest return on investment of your valuable miles. If you’re ready to apply here is my link.
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Have your own favorite travel card? Leave me a comment. I love finding new ways to travel better and more often!
I’ve recently discovered the “Explore” feature of Google Flights. If you haven’t checked it out yet, it is a great way to find some amazing deals on cheap tickets to destinations all over the world.
If you know where to travel and when, you can save yourself hundreds if not thousands of dollars on flights.
There are tons of great destinations waiting to be explored just an hour or two flight from home.
Why not try out a new food scene, take in some amazing art at a new museum or listen to a great concert from your favorite band in a nearby city?
How about visiting family or that friend you haven’t seen for a few years? Nothing beats eating your mom’s homemade cookies or laughing so hard you cry while you catch up with your best friend from college!
Cheap Ticket Finder Tip #1
Here’s how to find cheap tickets to fly round trip all over the United States for under $100.
When using Google Flights, first go to the top of the page and click the second tab that says “Explore”.
Enter whether you will be traveling Round Trip or One Way. Then enter how many travelers you have and what class of flight you’d like to take.
Cheap Tickets Finder Tip #2
Next the trick is to enter the city you are leaving from (Denver in my case), but leave the “Where to” box blank . You can also click the ‘Where to” box and select the “Anywhere” option.
Then when Google asks for the dates go to the second tab for “Flexible Dates”. Search by weekend trips, weeklong trips or two week long trips over the next 6 months. Six months is the maximum amount of time you will be able to search.
You can also search by month if you are working around school schedules, busy times at work, special occasions or you just have a favorite time to travel.
My favorite months to travel are “shoulder season” in May and October. The weather is still nice and usually a little cooler, which I prefer. The prices are also usually cheaper for flights and hotels as well.
Once everything is entered click “Done”.
Cheap Tickets Finder Tip #3
Filter by number of Stops, Travel mode (willing to drive to nearby destination or not), Interests, Price, Airline, Duration and Bags included.
I like that you can search by interests. Choose Popular, Outdoors, Beaches, History or Skiing.
The more flexible you can be the more great deals you’ll find! That’s how I discovered how I could find cheap tickets to fly round trip all over the United States for under $100.
Below are some of the deals I found on the day I was writing this post. Search by the List or zoom in on the Map and explore where you could go.
These cheap tickets are not just last minute flights either. Take a few weeks or months to plan an exciting weekend away or plan a longer more relaxing vacation.
Why not zoom out and explore the Caribbean, Europe or Australia? While not under a $100 you can easily find flights a little farther away all over the U.S. under $200 and some great deals on flights for world travel too.
My Cheap Ticket Score!
I scored a round trip flight from Denver to Salt Lake City to visit a good friend I haven’t seen for years for less than $68!
I also found flights from Denver to Miami or Ft. Lauderdale for $56 or Denver to Las Vegas for $48 that week. I couldn’t take a round trip Uber from the suburbs to downtown for that price!
I found my cheap ticket deal on Frontier Airlines and they have roundtrip flights all over the country for less than $100. That is an insanely good deal!
What’s the catch??
What’s the catch you ask? Well, it’s all the extra fees they add on for seat selection, agent assistance, priority boarding, one time changes and the biggest fees of all? Baggage.
If you are going to book any of these extras I suggest you do it when buying your ticket. If you wait until after you’ve booked your ticket the prices go up and depending on the day, way up.
Frontier airlines not only charges you to check a bag, but also to carry one on. Even with extras, Frontier Airlines flights can still be a good value.
I couldn’t resist the challenge of actually flying on a plane to another state for less than an Uber.
I accepted the challenge and put my expert packing skills to the test. I did have to show that my bag fit in the sizer, but other than that everything went smoothly.
Now if you’ve read some of my other blog posts like Three essential travel bags you can’t leave home without! you already know that I do not check bags. I like the security and freedom of knowing all my things will make it with me and back to my destination.
I thought it was ridiculous to charge for a carry on bag. After all who on earth travels on a plane with no luggage? Until I had an aha moment! The personal item. How am I going to fly with only one personal item you ask?
I have the perfect bag and I stocked it with my four other travel essentials. To read more about how to pack light so you can take advantage of these insanely cheap flights check out this post.
Take my traveling light challenge and score your own cheap tickets, so you can squeeze more travel into your budget!
The cost of everything is going up these days and that includes travel. This post will give you 5 packing light must haves to avoid paying baggage fees.
There has been a huge surge in travel demand after years of lockdown and travel restrictions due to COVID and I’m sure you’ve noticed a tremendous increase in the cost of flights lately as a result.
Don’t worry though there are still ways to find great inexpensive flights and scratch that travel itch without breaking the bank.
I’ve found deals on low cost airlines lately which I talk about in another post, but how they make up the difference is by charging extra fees for everything, even to bring on a carry on bag.
That’s insane! Who could travel without a carry on bag?? Well, I’ve figured it out. I’m going to show you how to avoid baggage fees with my 5 packing light must haves and get you jetting off for the weekend in no time!
If you’ve read some of my other posts you know I do not check bags and I love the freedom and time savings of skipping baggage claim and only bringing a carry on bag.
What do you do though if your airline charges you for a carry on bag? I’m going to expand on another post I did about my three must have bags and make some slight adjustments, so you can take advantage of the great low cost airlines out there without paying extra fees for baggage. Now my 5 packing light must haves!
Packing Light Must Have #1 – Underseater Carry On
First, it all starts with what personal item you choose. I recently rediscovered a bag I used to use when I flew monthly for travel years ago for work. The underseater!
This bag, as the name implies, is a bag that fits entirely under the seat in front of you and can be used as your one “personal item”. I found the latest version of my bag on Amazon for less than the cost of the baggage fee, one way, for my flight to Park City.
The American Tourister Underseater now comes in some fun colors too like teal, pink and purple in addition to black. It also has a fun geometric design interior.
This bag may look small, but with my other packing light must haves and a few packing skills I’ll share, you can be jet setting off for the weekend anytime you want for less than the cost of taking an Uber from the suburbs to downtown and back. Why not have your Saturday night on the town exploring a new fun city?!
A large tote bag, medium duffle bag or backpack would work as well. I just like the convenience of a wheeled bag. Plus a wheeled bag just feels classier.
This bag also has a zippered compartment that the telescoping handle retracts into to save space. The new version also added a strap so you can add it to the handle of a larger bag if you are going on a longer trip. I upgraded my bag to the new version and gave my old one to my travel companion. Now we can both take advantage of packing light must haves to avoid baggage fees!
Packing Light Must Have #2 – Packing Cubes
I know. I know. Everyone talks about packing cubes, but seriously I never travel without them!
Packing cubes keep everything neat and organized and they definitely save space. Just don’t bring seven of them okay?! Only take 3-4 cubes for a 7-10 day trip and 1-2 for a weekend trip. Max!! If you are traveling on a longer trip just do laundry and don’t bring any more clothes. Trust me it will be easier on you.
My packing cubes came from my favorite travel guru, Rick Steves’ website. They are super light, see through, mesh, packing cubes.
I use the big one for all my bottoms or as pictured in the large photo above, all my dresses. The bottoms fold up perfectly and fit nicely in the large cube or I can fit seven dresses if I roll them up tightly (dresses are great by the way if you are traveling to warmer locales, built in air conditioning, just sayin). I can also fit my swimsuit and cover up in there if I’m going somewhere with an ocean or a pool.
Then I use one medium cube for all my shirts. I roll them up to save space and I can fit seven in there easily. I like that I can see all my shirts when I’m deciding what jewelry and accessories to bring.
My pajamas, light robe and hair towel all go in the other medium packing cube. Yes, I do use a Turbie Twist okay! It’s less breakage for my long hair because there is less weight pulling on it than a bath towel. The microfiber also helps my hair dry quicker and it saves my towels from stains when I’m putting my makeup on. I’m sure the hotels appreciate me not ruining their towels too. 😄
Last, but not least I have a solid, opaque, small cube I put all my bras, underwear and socks into. That way TSA doesn’t get a free peak at my lingerie in case they need to open my bag. We are classy, remember? 😂
If I’m only going to bring one personal item, like my underseater bag, I can fit either one large cube or the two medium cubes, but not both. Personally, I like to keep things a little separate, so I use the two medium cubes.
Here are a few packing tips from your best friend:
- Choose a color palette for your clothes to minimize the amount of shoes and outerwear you need to bring. I like white, navy or black as a base and then throw in some different colors to keep things interesting. 😄
- Wear your walking shoes and jacket/sweater on the plane and only bring a low profile pair of flats, sandals or flip flops in your carry-on. The underseater bag has a nice pocket in the front for your shoes.
- Bring a medium sized Ziplock bag to store worn socks and underwear to keep them separate from your other clothes.
- Unpack all your clothes when you arrive at your destination. It gives the clothes a chance to unwrinkle. Then pack each days clothes back in the packing cubes at the end of the night. By the end of the trip all your clothes are packed and you can savor your last night of vacation instead of wasting the night packing!
Packing Light Must Have #3 – Hanging Toiletry Case
I love having a toiletry bag that I can hang up. It’s nice to have everything at eye level and it’s great when you don’t have a lot of counter space like on a cruise ship or at a European hotel. Plus you save extra counter space for your traveling companion(s) which keeps them happy. Plus it keeps everything neat and organized.
Hang it on the back of the bathroom door or a towel bar. I’ve even hung it from a light fixture on the wall in a pinch! The bag I currently use literally went out of stock the day I first made this post, but I’ve linked to a similar one. While I have not personally tried this one, I have always been happy with the quality and durability from L.L. Bean.
This one below has a built in mirror and also comes with a hanging shower caddy which I think would be pretty handy as there is not always enough shelf space in the shower, especially if you are sharing with other people. I just may have to upgrade!
Look for a hanging toiletry bag that can fit a clear bag of liquids in the front pocket. That leads me to my number 4 packing light must have…
# 4 – Clear Bag for Liquids
I like to put all my liquids in a clear cosmetic bag. It’s so much nicer than using a quart sized bag and lasts much longer. I’ve linked to a similar bag to the one I use on Amazon that is TSA approved.
A clear cosmetic bag will keep all your liquids from spilling on anything else. I keep most of my toiletries packed all of the time, so it’s a snap for me to pack for a last minute adventure.
I’ve even waited until the morning before a flight to pack my bag for a trip. I have a checklist saved in my phone’s Notebook app, so I never forget anything. It’s a little more work on the front end to put the checklist together, but it will save you time and stress in the long run.
# 5 – Soft Sided Cross Body Bag
What is really great about this bag though, is that it’s soft sided and you can easily fit it into the space left over in your underseater carry on bag.
Remember, to take advantage of the great low cost air carriers you will only be able to take one personal item, so your purse will need to be put inside your underseater before you board. This bag is a lot more pliable than a more structured bag and will fit more easily.
These bags also come in a variety of colorful and whimsical patterns that I just think are really fun! Choose the one that is uniquely you. 😄
While not a “must have” I do also like the matching Sakroots Eco-Twill Encino Essential Wallet which I can clip to the inside zipper pocket in the main compartment of my purse. I’m less likely to drop it that way or have a thief grab it.
These 5 packing light must haves will save you money, keep you organized and stress free whenever you travel! Do you have any packing must haves? Leave me a comment! If you liked this content please enter your email to subscribe below and make sure you don’t miss out on my next post about how to fly all over the United States for under $100.
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