Did you know that the Champagne region of France is home to one of the largest Christmas markets in the country? We headed to Reims, France, to explore their historic Reims Christmas Market. At the base of the Norte Dame Cathedral, you will find chalets selling locally made products, plenty of food, and, of course, Champagne. For the 2023 season, the market will be open from November 24th until December 24th. Here are some of the highlights:

Getting to the Reims Christmas Market

Reims, a small city located in the Champagne region of France, is close to major cities such as Paris and Brussels, making it a perfect getaway spot. A fast train (TGV) can get you from Paris to Reims in 45 minutes, making it doable even for a day trip. Even traveling by car to the Reims Christmas Market is easy as there are plenty of parking garages. It takes around 3 hours to get to Brussels and 2 hours to get to Paris. Christmas markets are popular among locals and travelers alike, so going on a weekday is best to avoid large crowds. For this trip, we stayed at the Mercure Parc des Expositions, which, although not in the city center, has comfy rooms, and free parking. You can get to the city center in less than 30 minutes by bus.

About the Reims Christmas Market

European Christmas Markets are magical. The lights flickering in the cold air, the scent of roasted chestnuts, and the cozy chalets serving mulled wine make for the perfect backdrop for the holiday season. Reims Christmas Market is no different. Bundle up (it was pretty cold when we went) and wear your comfy shoes to explore not only the enclosed market area but many of the light installations throughout the city. 

Food and Drink at the Market

When you go to the Reims Christmas Market, make sure you go hungry! Located in the Champagne region of France, several stands highlight the regional producers. One of my favorite large Champagne houses, Veuve Cliquot, has a fabulous heated tent with plenty of Champagne, charcuterie boards, and truffle chips. Champagne Lanson has a lively bar in the heart of the market that is quite popular, especially later in the evening. There are plenty of local cheeses, cured meats, and sweets for sale for you to indulge. 

We truly enjoyed our time at the market and the city of Reims. It’s festive and classy, just like the product it is known for, Champagne. 

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Should I Buy Travel Insurance for an International Trip?

Lesson Learned: When I booked my flight to Barcelona for my destination wedding via United, I purchased a policy via Allianz as it was offered when I purchased my ticket. I paid $71 for my $1100 roundtrip ticket. My return trip from Barcelona to DC was via Newark airport.  Guess what happened? My connecting flight was cancelled due to bad weather.  My insurance policy came in handy as my hotel room and meals were covered by my trip insurance. As soon as I got home, I filed my claim and received a check in the mail within 10 days.

This past August, we embarked on a three-week trip to Europe, starting in Belgium and ending in Sicily. I knew I had to buy travel insurance given that I was seven months pregnant and had a multi country itinerary involving multiple flights, train tickets, and rental cars. I wanted to ensure we were covered if anything happened during our trip. I researched my options, and purchased the Allianz “classic plan with trip+” for $158 for three weeks of coverage.  I wanted a plan that covered not only flight cancellations or missing luggage but most importantly, emergency medical coverage given my condition. Although nothing happened during this trip, it gave me peace of mind that I was covered in case of an emergency.

Should I buy travel insurance if I am already covered by my credit card?

Many travel credit cards also provide travel insurance if you book your trip with their credit card. My advice is to read the fine print as there are many restrictions to their policies. What I find useful in purchasing a standalone policy from an insurer is that you know all the details about your coverage upfront and you’re not limited to making all your purchases with said credit card, especially with an expensive itinerary.

The Verdict: Travel is an investment of time and money. It seems like every year, airlines become more restrictive in regards to trip cancellations. Additionally, regulations in regards to what you, the consumer rate varies extensively by country. You should buy travel insurance, especially when booking an expensive trip. After you purchase a ticket that costs over $1k, spending an extra $75- $100 may seem like a lot but in the end, you don’t want to be that person sleeping on the airport floor. Ensure that in case of an emergency, you follow the instructions of the policy and keep all your receipts! Happy travels…

Have you purchased trip insurance? Share your experience in the comments!

Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Allianz Travel Insurance. However, I paid for the policies mentioned in this post and opinions are my own.

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Flying to Holland

As an American, you don’t need a visa to go to Holland if you plan to stay for 90 days or less. You can find more entry requirements for the Netherlands here. Most large carriers like KLM, United, Delta, and American Airlines have plenty of direct routes from the major American hubs, and they arrive at Amsterdam Schiphol, the country’s main airport. If you’re traveling to other European destinations from The Netherlands, look at flying into smaller airports like Groningen, Rotterdam, and Eindhoven, where you can get great deals from low-fare carriers like WizzAir, RyanAir, Transavia, Nordica, and others.

Dining Traveler Tip: all of these airports are easy to get to via train or bus.

Taking the Train Through Holland

Trains offer the easiest and most affordable way of getting around in Holland. The Dutch train system is incredibly efficient and it gets you to your destination quickly. This is especially true in the Randstad, the area that covers the most populated Dutch cities: Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht. Trains are also a great way to get to neighboring countries like Belgium, France, and Germany. You can get from Amsterdam Schiphol to Brussels in less than two hours and to Paris in less than four.

Dining Traveler Tip: GoEuro has a great train guide that incorporates all of the rail systems associated with the destination. The website also offers a price and schedule comparison with other services, such as buses and planes.

Driving in Holland

Getting around in Holland can be quite tricky. The driving itself isn’t an issue, but parking can be incredibly expensive in big cities like Rotterdam and Amsterdam, where it can cost as much as 10 euros an hour. However, having a car can give you the flexibility to discover off-the-beaten path destinations that are oh-so charming. For instance, you can buy fresh Dutch cheese straight from the farmer near Gouda, discover the charming town of Giethoorn, or eat fresh seafood off the coast of Zeeland.

Dining Traveler Tip: If you’re looking to discover the country by car, look into staying in smaller towns that have local hotels with free parking.

Biking and Taking Local Transit in Holland

When traveling within the city, there are plenty of ways to get around by city bus, tram, underground, and bike, the Dutch-preferred mode of transportation. If you get confused, there’s always someone at the station willing to help you out. Don’t despair, since most Dutch people speak English.

If you really want to go native, rent a bike and truly discover the cities like a local. There are many delightful little alleys in cities like Amsterdam, Utrecht, and The Hague that you can easily find by bike. It’s normal to feel a bit intimidated at first, so read a local guide to cycling to get your bearings.

Getting around in Holland and beyond is easy, affordable, and fun. Traveling across the country is safe, and people are friendly and helpful. I recently traveled across the country for two weeks at seven months pregnant and felt very safe. Have you traveled across Holland? What are your tips?

Disclaimer: this post was sponsored by GoEuro. As always, opinions are my own

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Tamara, you moved to Alaska 29 years ago. What inspired you to move?

My husband was a goldsmith and we always wanted to own our very own business. Sitka was a place where we thought that opportunity could take place. So, when our son was 3 months old, we sold our Colorado Springs home that we’d lived in for 8 years, packed up everything we owned and headed north!

How did you get into the jewelry business?

My uncle is a goldsmith and it just so happened that he needed someone to work in his store. My husband was 16 at the time, baling hay in the hot Iowa summers. So, when my uncle offered him a job apprenticing as his goldsmith, my husband gladly accepted. (A raise and air conditioning… how could it get any better than that?!) My husband found that he not only liked this work, but was actually very good at it. So, he kept learning and eventually the desire to strike out on his own won – and that’s when we made the leap to Alaska!

You encounter many visitors at Alaska Jewelry. How do most travelers find your location?

Aside from my locals, many of my clients are visitors to Alaska, primarily via the cruise ship industry. Sitka is a small town with about 6 “downtown” blocks. My store is in a large building directly across the street from the location where cruise visitors begin their day in Sitka. The large selection of hand-blown glass that we have displayed in our street windows helps draw visitors into the shop. We also have a lot of clients that have never visited Alaska Jewelry, but have come to know us through our website. Not to toot our own horn, but we really do sell a number of things that many people have never seen before. This is part of what makes us… us! Our staff, and the items we sell, are fun and unique.

What makes Sitka such a great tourist destination in the summer? 

There really is no other place like Sitka. It truly is a “local” town with very little presence of seasonal stores. But Sitka isn’t just any old town – it’s stunningly beautiful. The combination of the ocean views, things to do, and the friendly local flavor is hard to beat.

What types of designs inspire you? How do you choose the designers/designs that are best suited for your customers? 

I want my client to have an experience at Alaska Jewelry’s Goldsmith Gallery that they won’t have anywhere else. I have never been very good at fitting the mold (in life or in fashion!). My store represents designers that create items that have a personal flair to them – options that anyone can wear, but also designs that are unique and make a statement about the wearer. I personally love quality pieces that are bold and beautiful, graceful, and even a little edgy.  I adore jewelry that makes me happy and excited about life. If I love it and am satisfied that the quality is impeccable, then I am confident that my client will love it, too!

When it comes to designers, I choose artists who care about the final product – designers who back up their product to me and the customer and are proud of the work they do. I select items that have a broad base of style so I can find an item that will fit anyone’s taste (and pocketbook!).  I want my customer to feel amazing when wearing jewelry purchased from my store. After all, jewelry is very personal and should be something that tells a story about the wearer. And I definitely think my designers achieve that in their final work.

What are some of your popular Alaskan-inspired pieces from Alaska Jewelry? Which jewelry items do you recommend as must-have souvenirs to take back from a trip to Alaska? 

We have beautiful jewelry that is inspired by the Glaciers of Alaska. It is our trademark item, “Glacier Ice”. We work with designers to achieve one-of-a-kind items set with Natural Blue Zircon, a stone that is unmatched in the blue intensity of color and brilliance. Natural Gold in Quartz is another design carried at Alaska Jewelry’s Goldsmith Gallery. Alaska is one of only three places in the world where this stone is found. Our selection is amazing, durable, and the designs are completely original.

I’ve never been to Alaska. As a local, what do you recommend I see, do, and eat?

I love to run through Totem Park. It is a beautiful setting along the ocean that’s filled with Native totem poles and draped with huge trees. It brings me both peace and energy.

Heading up to the top of Castle Hill and taking in the panorama of Sitka is also a must-see. Anyone can make it to the top and see where the transfer of the territory of Alaska occurred when the Russians sold Alaska to the United States. (Always good to get a little history lesson on your travels!)

Food, well, that is a no brainer…seafood of any kind! We have several restaurants that do a remarkable job preparing fish that is fresh from the ocean just outside our doors. Honestly, you will never forget your meals here.

And lastly, (of course) I also think you should visit Alaska Jewelry to see all the beautiful creations, to say, “Hello”, and to let me help you select a design that will forever commemorate your visit to Sitka, Alaska.

Big thanks to Tamara for sharing her Travel Influences with The Dining Traveler. I’ve never been to Alaska, but this interview moved it up on my list!  Dining Traveler Tip: Alaska Jewelry has a partnership with Alaska Airlines; you can collect miles on the airlines for every purchase made on the website. Not only do you get beautiful jewelry but it will take you closer to Alaska… literally!

Disclaimer:  This is a sponsored post in collaboration with Alaska Jewelry.  As always, opinions are my own.

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We’re headed to Austria this summer.  What should we see & do with five days in Vienna? – Victorino & Gloria, San Juan, Puerto Rico

Day 1: Arrival.  With five days in Vienna, it gives you enough time to discover the city little by little without feeling rushed.  To me, Vienna’s heartbeat is the culture that exists throughout the city.  There’s something beautiful and refined in every corner of the city, starting with its museums.  Start by discovering the early works of celebrated painters such as Egon Schiele and Gustav Klimt at The Leopold Museum in their permanent collection.  Where to eat? Sabrina recommends to indulge in a Wiener schnitzel (the local dish) at Figlmüller, just a 20 minute walk from the museum. Apres dinner, head to Café Hawelka not only for coffee and deserts but to get a feel for the beloved Viennese café culture.

Day 2:  Start your day early to head to The Belvedere Museum. This former imperial palace turned Museum is a day trip on its own.  Between the permanent collections (main draw is Klimt’s most famous work, The Kiss), and its gorgeous gardens, there’s plenty to see and do for several hours.  Hungry? The museum café is just as impressive. There, you can order lunch, have dessert, and even a glass of Grüner Veltliner, the grape that is grown in the local area. Dining Traveler Tip: The Belvedere is ALWAYS busy! I highly suggest to go during a weekday and pre-order your tickets online.  Walk back to the city center to get a vibe of the residential area. In 20 minutes, you will be at the Naschmarkt, one of my favorite places in Vienna. This outdoor market is vibrant all year round with stalls to include everything from exotic spices to Austrian wine. Where to eat? I’ve dined twice at Fisch Viertel, a fish restaurant. With its cozy, refined atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to catch an early dinner.   If you have five days in Vienna, you must see the opera.  The Vienna State Opera offers performances almost every day, with tickets starting as low as 13 Euros for some shows, which you can book online.

Day 3:  Although I have been to Hotel Sacher and had the beloved Sacher torte, I found the pastries at Cafe Demel much better and with a cozier atmosphere.  Start your day at Café Demel with coffee and a pastry, the afternoons there can get quite crowded.  Walk over to the majestic Hofburg Palace to learn about the Habsburg Empire.  Afterwards, head to St Steven’s Cathedral, with its impressive architecture and interior décor.  We had the opportunity to go to mass on a Sunday and it is quite impressive with its live classical music and choir.  For lunch, take in a traditional wurst at Bitzinger Wurst stand just a short walk from the church.  Save the afternoon to take in the Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the imperial family.  You can take a guided tour that will take you deeper into the history of the Austro-Hungarian empire or just walk around the grounds and take in the beauty of the palace.  Where to eat: Spending five days in Vienna this summer? Marie suggest you head to the Kunsthistorisches Museum (Art History Museum) for their gourmet evenings. The museum stays open for diners until 9pm and the multi-course meal is 44 Euros. Dinner must be booked ahead online, book here.

 

 

 

 

Day 4:  Take the morning to go to the Hundertwasser Museum.  It is not only the museum experience that it is worth it, but also getting there.  The museum is located in the northern part of the city which gives you a glimpse of local life as you take the tram and walk through residential neighborhoods.  Where to lunch? Sabrina recommends to dine at Figls, located in Grinzing, a noble district in the north of the city.  From there, head further north (15 minute drive, a bit longer via public transport, Vienna has Uber) to two local cellars and heurigers (wine restaurants), Christ and Bernreiter .  I had the opportunity to discover these family owned cellars and restaurants and the experience was unforgettable.  We dined at the Christ heuriger and we observed a neighborhood affair.  Everybody seemed to know each other while drinking the wine made in house and indulging in hearty Viennese fare. No five days in Vienna itinerary is complete without a heuriger experience!  Still have energy to go out? Head to the Museum Quarter as it comes to life after hours with live DJ’s and bars open until late.

Day 5:  Marie suggests to start the day with a traditional Viennese bakery with a modern twist – Joseph Patisserie and Bistro. You can get everything from a vegan breakfast to traditional Viennese breakfast with local breads, cheese, and cured meats. Walk breakfast off at Stadpark, just a short walk from Joseph’s.  Take a walk around this urban green space. Are you a flower lover? The park has 400 different variety of roses to choose from.  If you still have time before your flight or train, I recommend to walk back from the park into the city center of Vienna to explore and discover the small treasures the city has to offer.

The verdict:  There’s so much to see and do in the city that five days in Vienna almost seems too short!  Although I have visited the city several times, I always find new things to see, and most importantly new places to eat. Although it’s tempting to have an aggressive agenda and see it all, I do recommend to walk around the city, take it in, enter a random café and experience the Viennese café culture, and most importantly enjoy your trip to one of the most elegant cities in the world.  Dining Traveler Tip: Suggest to purchase a Vienna Card (you can get them at the Vienna Tourism office) as it covers public transportation and offers discounts at many museums, attractions, and shops.

Lodging Suggestions:  For a boutique hotel, I recommend Hotel Altstadt: I stayed in this hotel several years ago and loved its inconspicuous location in a residential area, a short walk from the Museum Quarter.  For modern luxury, the newly renovated Hilton Vienna Plaza has spacious rooms, a decadent breakfast buffet, and an attentive concierge team (more about my stay here).  For luxury and central location:  The Le Meridien Vienna is my favorite property.  I stayed there during my first trip to Vienna and the service is second to none. The rooms are beautifully decorated with minimal luxury and their deep bath tub is perfect for a soak after a day of hard core sightseeing.  If not staying at the hotel, still suggest a trip to their bar pre or post opera.

 

 

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Where to eat in Grand Cayman: Camana Bay

Jessie’s Juice Bar:

Our first morning  at Grand Cayman we were treated to breakfast at Jessie’s and we all became obsessed with this place, to to the point we begged to return the following mornings during our trip.  From fresh smoothies to the best avocado toast I’ve ever tasted, Jessie’s is a delicious (and healthy) breakfast or lunch choice (and way cheaper that your hotel breakfast!).  During our trip, we had the chance to tour the farm of Clarence McLaughlin who supplies Jessie’s with a lot of their fruit and vegetables. It was pretty awesome to see the process of farm to fork come to life at Grand Cayman.

Mizu:

I first heard of Mizu when I shared Chef Dylan Benoit’s Asian Turkey recipe for Thanksgiving.  I think I subconsciously manifested my trip to Grand Cayman after learning about this place! Just as the pictures describe on the previous post, Mizu is modern, stylish, and  serves the Asian classics with a modern twist.  Our dining experience included an outdoor teppanyaki dinner with the chef treating us to steak, shrimp, and local lobster cooked to order at our table.  Having your meal cooked in front of your eyes, under the moonlight, in great company was one of the dining highlights of my trip.

Ortanique:

Although we had a small taste of this local favorite at the Camana Bay Flavour Tour (more about this at the end of this post), we were all sold on the savory fish fritters. We then got to sample more of Ortanique’s fare from Chef Cindy Houston and we were sold.  She knows the Caribbean like the back of the hand as she started her career working on sailboats in the region. She incorporates these flavors into dishes such as snapper topped with peppers, such as what we tried at Slow Food Day.  Bonus: had several Dining Traveler readers suggest Ortanique when they saw I was at Grand Cayman on social media.

Abacus:

The sleek and sexy decor of Abacus is the perfect setting for a special occasion dinner in Grand Cayman.  I enjoyed the selection of tapas on the menu as it gives you the opportunity to taste some of their highlights such as the ceviche, grilled octopus, fried calamari, and crispy pork belly.  One of the locals who we dined with recommended we tried the sweet corn chowder, which after a spoonful of the creamy, spicy, and sweet soup, we automatically knew why it is one of the best selling items.

The Brooklyn Pizza + Pasta:

When looking for where to eat in Grand Cayman, you may be looking for a casual yet delicious experience. The Brooklyn Pizza + Pasta offers that.  We were starving after a morning on a boat tour and were treated to a casual yet yummy lunch of brick oven pizzas to share and beautiful salads.  I was strangely craving a Hawaiian pizza which hit the spot after a morning filled of sun and sea. Is it just me or do you also get hangry after hours of being in the water?

Gelato & Co Cremeria Italiana:

Every person we talked to at Camana Bay kept raving about the gelato at Gelato & Co.  I admit, I am not a big gelato person but I was also sold when I had a decadent cup of their Ferrero Rocher (an italian hazelnut truffle) flavor gelato.  It was like biting into a cold version of my favorite childhood chocolates.  I highly advise to save room for gelato after your meal.

Flavour Tour:

Can’t make your mind on where to eat in Grand Cayman?  Book a Flavour Tour which takes you to all the hot spots of Camana Bay.  You start with a glass of bubbles at West Indies Wine Company and taste your way through several of the restaurants of Camana Bay.  Traveling in a big group? They can arrange a private tour for 10-20 guests.  I love the concept of a food tour, especially when you’re short on time to experience everything the destination has to offer. Tour is $89 per person, which I find quite reasonable as it includes drinks and reasonable portions at each stop.

Although these are my highlights of my dining experiences at Camana Bay, there’s plenty more to see and eat!  Bonus: want to bring back something delicious back home from Grand Cayman?  Head to Camana Bay on a Wednesday for the farmer’s market.  There you can pick up local delicacies such as pure coconut oil, homemade pepper jelly, and handcrafted soaps and scrubs.  The verdict: when thinking of where to eat in Grand Cayman, add Camana Bay to your itinerary.

Disclaimer: The experiences on this “Where to eat in Grand Cayman” post were hosted as part of my Slow Food Day Media Trip. As always, opinions are my own. 

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Question:

I’m planning on going to Ireland either this July or next July, but I don’t know if I should take a bus tour with strangers, should I rent a car in Ireland (which scares me) or go alone and take buses. Have you been to Ireland? If so which would you suggest? – Siomara, Rochester, NY:

Audrey’s Answer: Driving around the country in Ireland is easier than it seems, just need to take to look to the left instead of the right. (Great tips on Wikihow on how to prepare yourself.)  I always encourage travelers to drive.  That way you can stop at any point you want to see a point of interest, visit a cool pub, and see anyone of the thousands of sights that will catch your attention…
The buses in ireland are OK, but just OK:  they are a cheap way to get around.  If you choose to travel by bus, make sure you plan your trip well.  There are great day tours you could take from the cities.  For example, getting from Dublin to Galway is easy.  There are several buses from the city via Gobus or CityLink.  Getting around Galway is a cinch as it is a pretty small city.

To me, if you want to experience the real Irish countryside, you should rent a car or book a tour. Also, I would highly recommend a night on the Aran Islands.  We took the little plane over and stayed in a B&B with a package and had dinner in a fab resto, live music all night, it was truly awesome, first time there! We hired bikes around the island, a total must do if you’re traveling in the summer.  Another drive I recommend is from Dublin to Cork which has amazing views of the Irish countryside.  The drive takes around 3 1/2 hours without stops, but then again, the stops are the fun part.

Amy’s Answer:  Should you rent a car in Ireland? Yes!!!  As for a tip, my advice for an Irish road trip is to take your time. Don’t try to follow a strict itinerary or schedule, but you’ll be charmed around every bend and want to have the time to stop, take loads of photos, and share a pint of Guinness with the locals. Don’t miss an evening in a local pub – musicians inevitably always show up and treat patrons to a taste of traditional music. It’s those unplanned moments that will be the highlight of the trip!

Auto Europe Car Rental Tip:   The best roads to drive in Ireland are arguably also the least traveled. If you’re outside of any major city and exploring the countryside looking for humble villages, castle ruins, or ancient monasteries, you’re going to find yourself cruising on many narrow, windy country roads. These roads can be notoriously bumpy and occasionally you’ll encounter congestion (though not necessarily with cars). Look out for potholes, frost heaves, and elderly shepherds piloting their sheep across the road. It’s absolutely crucial that you follow the speed limit posted on these roads, as they were implemented at sometimes sluggish paces to protect both drivers and pedestrians alike.

If you’re spending most of your driving time in large cities or congested towns, a compact-sized car is likely more appropriate as it will allow you to park easily in compact spaces. Ultimately, the best vehicle for your vacation is the one that fits your travel needs and your budget.

If you’re being tailgated, keep your cool and temporarily use the hard shoulder to allow faster vehicles to overtake you. This is allowed on all non-motorways and will let you keep your focus where it should be: enjoying the scenery during your road trip!

Useful links:  

Tips for driving in Ireland: http://www.autoeurope.com/go/travel-guides/ireland/tips-for-driving-in-ireland/

Ireland Car Rental FAQs:  http://www.autoeurope.com/go/travel-guides/ireland/ireland-car-rental-faq/

Ireland Road Signs: http://www.autoeurope.com/go/travel-guides/ireland/ireland-road-signs/

The Verdict:  Rent a car, enjoy your trip, and take the time to talk to locals, who always have the best tips!

Where are you headed to next? E-mail me your travel questions at jessica(at)diningtraveler.com

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2015 has not been a good year for the travel industry.  With unfortunate events such as the Paris and Beirut terror attacks, I know personally of people who have cancelled their trips.  Sadly, we look at acts of terror and hindsight is always 20/20. The best thing we can do is to be prepared if something does happen to us.

My key travel safety tips I have learned from my fifteen years on the road:

Keep Someone Informed of Your Plans:  The whole thought of wandering on your own sounds romantic but then again, look what happened to the guy of “Into the Wild”.  There’s nothing wrong with traveling alone, but I highly suggest you keep someone informed of your plans or any changes that come along.  Share your itinerary with your significant other, friends, colleagues, or parents.  If there is an attack or a natural disaster, they can quickly contact the authorities or your country’s embassy.

Register with the Embassy:  If you’re an American, you can enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program online before you travel or as an expat.  When I lived in Brussels, I appreciated the emails I used to get from the US Embassy about any issues ongoing in the city, such as protests that may hinder traffic and mobility within the city.  Also, each embassy also has information on scams or things that you should look out for while traveling.  As an American, I can share firsthand about my experience with the US Embassy but I know that many countries offer similar services.  Most importantly, being registered ensures that you are accounted for in case of an emergency at your destination.

Communicate:  I love my Simple Choice Plan from T-Mobile.  It allows me to use 3G free data and unlimited text internationally. When I traveled to Taipei earlier this year, I would send my husband quick texts via WhatsApp to let him know what I was up to, especially when I was out late exploring the night markets.  Google Translate is also a great tool to have.  You can type into the app and it can turn it into the voice of your language of choice.  Useful if you need to deal with authorities.

Know how to contact the authorities:  Yes, in the USA you can reach the police via 911.  EU emergency phone number across all member nations is 112.  The emergency number in Japan is 119.   It’s a good idea to have these numbers on hand and programmed into your phone before traveling.

Who’s Trying to Get Information?  There have been plenty of great people who I have met on the road, whether it’s at a restaurant, market, or bar.  However, be aware if someone you have encountered is asking too many questions.  Ask yourself: “does this person need to know where I’m staying?” “Does he/she need to know that I am traveling alone?” I recall being in Sydney years ago at a bar with two of my coworkers.  A random guy started chatting us up and then started asking questions about our jobs.  One of my colleagues clearly looked like a military guy.  We knew it was time to switch up the conversation and gracefully move to another spot.  Most people are genuinely curious but trust your gut.

Do you know where you’re going? Sometimes the best experiences are the ones we don’t plan, however, it’s smart to have an outline, especially on a multi-leg trip.  In case of a natural disaster at your destination, do you know the evacuation routes? What are the closest airports or train stations?  This takes just a few minutes to Google but can save you time and effort in case of an emergency.

Be Vigilant:  In Brussels, pickpocketing is a common practice.  I had plenty of my colleagues that came into my office with reports about being robbed.  I was a victim myself after my car was broken into twice.  Make sure to have all of your belongings close to your body.  That’s why I am not a fan of a backpack, especially if taking public transportation.  Totes or crossbody work best. Also, make sure you have positive control of your bags at all times.  Another trick I’ve seen too often is that a perpetrator will run by and cut the strap. If renting a car, make sure you keep your purse either in the locked trunk or on the driver’s side.  A common offense in cities like Brussels is perpetrators breaking the passenger seat and snatching the purse/bag while someone waits at the stoplight.

Luggage tags:  One of the things that make me cringe is when I see travelers or even people on the metro (especially those in military uniform) who have an open luggage tag with their address in plain view.  This gives easy access to perpetrators to know where you live.

Know your destination:  Aside from doing your research, ask a local friend or the hotel staff about safety practices.  For example, in San Juan you can treat a stoplight as a stop after 11pm in order to keep the vehicle moving and staying safe. During one of my trips in Spain, there was a warning about criminals throwing eggs at windshields of cars to make vehicles pull over and then rob the victims. Again, you can get a lot of this information via the local embassy website.

Change it up:  Many of us are creatures of habit, but especially during a long trip, change your habits up.  Go to a different bus stop to get to work at different times.  If you are a target for a robbery or an attack, it will be easier for a criminal to find you if they know your routine.

Valuables:  Make sure your valuables are locked up in a safe.  Also make a file on dropbox of essential numbers of your bank, embassy, airlines in case your wallet or passport get stolen.  Travel Insurance is a good thing to have.  Many travel credit cards provide travel insurance as well.  In the unfortunate case you do get robbed, make sure to get a police report as many insurance companies will require it in order to file a claim and be properly compensated.

Know the local laws:  Did you know that in many countries you can be detained without any right to a lawyer? Or that you may be detained for a certain amount of time before they have to inform your country?  Some countries require a specific dress code, especially for women.  Be aware of the laws, especially in developing nations in which laws can be vague at times. Unfortunately, I had to deal with my employees being detained by foreign police while living abroad.  They have an advantage as you are just a visitor. Don’t compromise your freedom, even if you don’t believe in those particular laws.

Driving: Do you know if you need an international license when renting a car at your destination? Are you comfortable driving on the left side of the road? Renting RVs is becoming more popular. Ask yourself: “do you need a special license to drive an RV?” before going on your adventure.

Trust your gut!  This is one of my main travel safety tips.  If there is something about a person you meet on the road that doesn’t give you a good vibe, trust your gut.  There’s a fine line between being courteous and being naive. I encourage people to explore local neighborhoods or places beyond the beaten path.  However, those experiences are best done with someone else or a walking tour if you’re traveling solo.

Latergram:  I know this one is challenging, especially from a blogger’s perspective as we are expected to capture our travel experiences in the moment on social media.  When I am traveling alone, I make my social media posts after the fact.  Even when I am traveling with my husband, friends, or group I use my judgement in terms of real-time posting.  If traveling on business, I suggest you check with your company or agency security officer and get their social media policy.

Despite the threats we face around the world, I think there is no better time to travel than now.  I think about my first time traveling abroad to Germany 15 years ago.  I was traveling alone-there were no apps, no google maps, no google translate. Things are so much more connected now.  Take advantage of that, prepare ahead, read my travel safety tips and see the world.

The post On the Road: Travel Safety Tips appeared first on The Dining Traveler.

Like any big city, living in Washington, DC can be expensive.  There’s always an exciting event to attend or a new restaurant to check out that bites at the pocket.  Also, let’s not forget all the travel that can easily be done from the city that snips at my paycheck.  That being said, I am always looking for affordable places to eat in DC.   When I talk “affordable” I don’t mean junk food but delicious fast casual places that will cost less than $20 for a meal and a drink.  So when Expedia.com asked me to share my top picks for cheap eats in the district I knew exactly what to recommend. From Mediterranean to hoagies, these are my favorite places for a cheap bite in the city:

Cava Grill:   I am biased, Cava Mezze is one of my favorite affordable places to eat in DC.  The concept is similar to Chipotle in which you make your own dish starting greens, rice, or even lentils and your choice of proteins, toppings, and veggies.  My favorite bowl is the savory braised lamb with the spicy harissa and crazy feta toppings.  This is also a place that I like to take my vegetarian friends as you build your own meal and the falafel bowl is just as delicious.

& Pizza:  This other locally-owned establishment has quickly grown in the district.  You can even find their locations at Reagan National and Dulles Airports. (Read about their airport locations here).   You can have your pizza customized with a selection of fresh ingredients or if you’re not feeling creative, there is a selection of “signature pizzas” that do the thinking for you.  You can wash your pizza down with local beer and wine.  Dining Traveler Pick: the Moonstruck with truffle mushrooms, goat cheese, and fig marsala.

Taylor Gourmet:  There are days that you just want a big ‘ol hoagie.  That is what Taylor Gourmet does best.  Big, think sandwiches and they do not skimp on the meat.  If you find yourself on an early flight from Reagan National, make sure to have their breakfast sandwich.  On a carb free kick?  They also offer delicious salads.  Dining Traveler Pick:  The Callowhill with spicy hand rolled meatballs. It’s glorious to bite into!

Mitsitam Café at the National Museum of the American Indian:  When exploring the Washington, DC, you must check out Mitsitam Café (a more detailed review here).  The culinary team has created seasonal menus based on recipes from the indigenous populations of the Americas. You can try everything from Peruvian “causa” (mashed potato cake) to a juicy Elk Burger.

Shake Shack:  This is the only non-local that I am adding to the list but I can’t help it, Shake Shack is one of my favorites!  Although there’s a bit of a wait for the burgers, it is well worth it when you bite into the smokeshack burger with its spicy sauce and crispy bacon.  Traveling by train or bus from DC any time soon?  Have breakfast at its Union Station location. It is one of the few Shake Shacks currently serving a breakfast menu.  Think juicy sausage patties with the classic Shake Shack bun.

Big Bear Café:  Want to eat like the locals in DC do, head to Bloomingdale for lunch at Big Bear Café.  If the weather is nice, take advantage of their beautiful outdoor seating and take in the unique architecture of the neighborhood.  I used to live right around the corner and became obsessed with the pastrami sandwich, washed down with a Stiegl Radler, an orange Austrian beer.  Dining Traveler Tip:  if you love farm to table, check out Big Bear Café’s dinner menu.

Amsterdam Falafel:  You know that moment when you have something so good, you actually remember the exact date and time you had it for the first time?  That’s me with Amsterdam Falafel, one of the most beloved affordable places to eat in DC by locals.  It was 4^th of July, 2012.  I was in DC on business travel.  My best friend K took me here for lunch.  When I bit into the crispy falafel smothered in tzatziki, I was sold.  I actually moved to DC three months later.  Perhaps the falafel had something to do with it.  Dining Traveler Tip:  Order the fries…. Dip them in peanut sauce. Trust me on this one!

El Camino:  Another one of my picks in the Bloomingdale neighborhood is El Camino.  This is also a place where I take my visiting friends for a local vibe, great happy hour, and tacos for $2.50.  My favorite:  the chorizo taco, lightly spicy on a soft tortilla.  I truly appreciate how they don’t skip on the meat given the low price.  Late night hunger?  The restaurant is open until 11:30pm on weekdays and 12:30am on Friday and Saturday.

Takorean:  Two of my favorite cuisines, Mexican and Korean come together at Takorean with several locations throughout the district at the Navy Yard, Union Market, and Metro Center.  This concept began in a food truck and it morphed into a local favorite.  The food truck scene in DC has taken off in recent years with many favorites establishing brick and mortar sites.  Try the bulgogi tacos topped with spicy kimchi and washed down with tamarind soda.  Dining Traveler Tip:  head to Union Market for spacious free parking.

The city’s culinary scene continues to evolve and thankfully there are plenty of affordable places to eat in DC.  From falafel to Korean tacos, there’s plenty of delicious choices to choose from.  What’s your favorite budget place in the city?

Disclaimer:  This post is a sponsored post from Expedia.com.  Opinions and story are my own. 

The post Affordable Places To Eat In DC appeared first on The Dining Traveler.

How do you define a country as vast, diverse, and limitless as India in a few simple words? One of the world’s largest, most populated, and culturally contrasting countries,India attracts millions of visitors every year. Whether it’s a beach holiday, a mountain holiday, a desert holiday, or an island holiday that you’re looking for, this South Asian jewel can offer you all of it, and more!

With so much to see in do, the question is…. How to plan for a trip to India???

By Preya Dave

Preparing for a trip to India does not only involve careful planning, but also an elementary update on its geographical terrain, climate, culture, and expected etiquette. In addition, you’ll also need to know about its cost and currency factors, Indian visa requirements, health and safety precautions, and lastly, what to pack on your Indian holiday?

Go through the following steps to find out the best method to prepare for a trip to India.

Decide where to go:

From Delhi’s cosmopolitan temperament, to Varanasi’s holy Ganges, to Mumbai’s free spirit, India is a big sub-continent with different experiences awaiting you in every state and city across the length and breadth of the country. So for those of you wondering where to go in India, it is hard to give a brief answer to that question.

It is best to decide on an itinerary that you can  relate to based on your interests. While the state of Rajasthan is known for its stunning forts and the endless Thar Desert, Kerala in the south is famous for hills with spice and tea plantations, backwaters, rainforests, and mouth-watering food. Goa’s balmy beaches, Portuguese influences, lush green countryside, and happening nightlife is ideal for younger travellers. The mountainous landscapes of the states of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Sikkim are breathtakingly beautiful.

Decide when to go/ best time to visit:

Your choice of where to go will be based on the kind of weather you prefer. India’s vastness makes the country’s climate vary enormously from one region to the other. There are three major seasons – summer, winter, and monsoon.

For those not used to extreme summer heat (April to June), it is best to visit India during the winter months (November to March), when most of the country experiences pleasant, moderate temperatures. Indian monsoon (July to October), especially in the coastal areas, experiences pretty heavy downpour. However, nothing can describe India’s natural splendour better than the monsoon season.

Please note that this is a generic information for India’s climate. We would recommend you search the weather conditions of your preferred destination individually, since statistics might defer.

What to see in India:

With a culture so rich, places of interests so varied, it might baffle you where and how to beginyour Indian sojourn. To make your choices easy,we have compiled a list of 8 must-have experiences of India:

1. Ride your Royal Enfield bike in style on the enormous stretch of white salt – Rann of Kutch, Gujarat.

When: December – March

Point of Interest, Gujarat: Sabarmati Ashram, Akshardham temple, Laxmi Vilas Palace, Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary.

2. Experience the beauty of the ‘epitome of love’ on a full moon night- Taj Mahal, Agra
   When: November- February.

Point of Interest, Uttar Pradesh: FatehpurSikri, KutubMinar, Jama Masjid, Banke Bihari Temple.

3. Forget the calorie count, and gear up for a gastronomical tour – Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.

   When: October- April

Point of Interest, Uttar Pradesh: Ganges River, Banaras Ghats, Bara Imambara, Lucknow University.

4. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings as you enjoy a shikara ride – Dal Lake, Srinagar, and Jammu& Kashmir.

  When: June- August.

Point of Interest, Jammu & Kashmir: Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden, Shankaracharya Hill, Mughal Gardens, Charar-e-Sharif.

5. Wash away your sins at the Holy Sangam – Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh.

          When: August-November.

Point of Interest, Uttar Pradesh: Allahabad Museum, Allahabad fort, Sarnath, New Vishwanath Temple.

6. Experience the royal lifestyle at the Palace hotel – Udaipur, Rajashtan.

   When: October – March.

Point of Interest, Rajasthan: Amer Palace, Jaisalmer Fort, Ranthambore National Park, Kalika Mata Temple, Chittorgarh Fort, Karni Mata Temple.

7. Watch the glittering city lights at Marine Drive. – Mumbai, Maharashtra

   When: November- February.

Points of Interests, Maharashtra: Lonavala, Bhandardhara, Ganapati Phule, Nashik.

8. Party all night– Goa

   When: November – March.

Points of Interests, Goa: Dudhsagar Falls, Chapora Beach,Anjuna Flea Market, Morjim Beach,Church of St Cajetan.

This list merely touches the surface when it comes to experiencing the delights of India. There is so much more to experience across the lengths and breadths of the wide, wide country that India is.

Cost factors:

India can accommodate and please all pockets – budget, mid-range, as well as high-end. Accommodation can range from simple backpacker dorms to incredible high-end hotels, and some very interesting mid-range hotel options, too.

Overall Costs:

• For a budget traveller, the average daily cost is in the range between INR 1000-1500 per person.
• For a mid-range traveller, the average daily cost is in the range between INR 3000-4000 per person.
• For a high-end traveller, the average daily cost rangesbetween INR 5000-7000 per person.

Most importantly, you can find delicious meals that fill your stomach but do not empty your wallet. And domestic travel is not very expensive either.

Etiquette tips/ what to expect

India is such a complicated mix of old and new traditions, customs and outlooks that it is difficult to sum up the Indian culture in a few words. The country is a contrasting mix of Western, Asian, conservative as well as modern cultures at the same time. Travellers to visit India for the first time should note that attire is an important way of showing social stature and status in India.

Women, especially those travelling to rural areas should try dress conservatively. Wear loose clothes, or go for an authentic “salwar kameez” or “sari” (who knows, it might be fun!).

Health and safety

Consult your doctor or local travel clinic concerning precautions against diseases that are prevalent in India. Diarrhoea, malaria dengue fever, and typhoid are some common diseases you should take precautions against while travelling in India. Water concerns are another thing to pay attention to. Indian food is mostly spicy, so for those of you not used to spicy food, it’ll take some time to get used to the local cuisine.

However, don’t be alarmed: Millions of travellers leave India having suffered nothing more than an upset stomach, and even this small inconvenience should settle within a few days.

What to pack

The type of luggage best suited for travel to India really depends on your itinerary. Apart from clothes (which too can be bought in India at surprisingly cheap rates), other disposables like medicines, shampoo, conditioner, moisturizers, razors, deodorant, shoes and the rest are easily available in Indian markets.

Your local currency can be exchanged for Indian National Rupee (INR) in foreign exchange offices. Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities. ATM machines can also be found in most places, including small towns.

Visa requirements

All visitors entering India should have a passport. And any traveller who does not have an Indian, Nepalese, or Bhutanese passport, should apply for a tourist visa from their nearest Indian Consulate or High Commission. Some nationalities can obtain a 30-day visa on arrival. For longer trips, most people obtain a six-month tourist visa, which is valid from the date of issue, and not from the date you arrive in India. You won’t be admitted to India unless your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your entry, and it should typically also be valid for at least 3 months beyond the period of your intended stay.  Given the nature of India’s bureaucracy, the rules and fees for application change regularly, so it’s best to check with your travel agent or with the relevant authority for the latest visa information. For more information, www.indianvisaonline.gov.in
Have you been to this amazing sub-continent?  What are your tips on how to plan for a trip to India?

Big thanks to Tanvi, a fellow DC-based lifestyle blogger with Tanvii for sharing these beautiful photos of her motherland!

Disclaimer: this is a sponsored post by Holiday Me.  I only share topics and posts that I believe are of interest to our fellow Dining Travelers.  Have a safe trip to India!!! 

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