You won't believe Munich's new motto!!!

“München mag Dich” sounds almost like it maybe means something inappropriate, but the city of Munich, the capital of Bavaria in Germany, is not afraid to tell you how it feels.

And honestly, it feels nice to hear!

What in the heck is THAT supposed to mean? Find out!

Munich's new motto, “München mag Dich,” translates to "Munich Loves You". Aw, Munich! We love you too. And if you're considering a vacation in Munich, you'll definitely agree. The new motto may sound a little corny, but it's how most travelers feel as soon as they step foot in this iconic European capital. This Bavarian city, with its melting pot of cultures, great food, and historic sights, will leave you feeling like it loves you right back. There's something for every traveler when you plan a trip to Munich.

Of Germany’s major cities, Munich is Berlin’s more cosmopolitan sister, with perhaps a bit of an adolescent identity crisis. Throughout history Munich has often taken a different path from the general German way. During the Reformation, Munich remained staunchly committed to the Catholic Church, and while the people enjoyed the flourishing Renaissance period, the Duke marveled in such endeavors as bankrupting those very institutions.

Additionally, Munich’s Kingdom of Bavaria maintained its sovereign status from Germany until Ludwig II’s notorious habits prompted Germany to fully incorporate the region in 1871. After World War I, Munich was a hotbed of social movements where the Nazi party was capable of growing deep roots and slowly taking hold of government. By 1938, the first concentration camp, Dachau, had been constructed to the north. Visitors to Munich can take a tour of this historic site, which has largely been destroyed but contains memorials and an extensive collection of information on World War II.

When in Munich

The best way to experience Munich is to think and act like a local. There are a multitude of wonderful cultural experiences in the center of town that are overlooked by many visitors. Assimilate your way into Bavarian life by attending any one of the superb classical or modern plays at the Residenztheater, a wonderful artistic alternative to the National Theater that is also in the city center. To the northeast, the royal family’s summer residence, Nymphenburg Palace, is also a more desirable alternative to the crowded and touristy Residenz in central Marienplatz for its magnificently vast gardens, stables, winter ice-skating, natural history and science museum and open public parks. The palace is open for public viewing year-round as well. At night, pubs and jazz clubs open their doors with generous hospitality to anyone who shows a little respect and appreciation for the German way of life. Veer off the main square to find a meal fit for a Bavarian King and cocktails among chatty natives.

Beyond Beer Gardens in Bavaria

Although Munich is home to one of the largest beer gardens in the world, not to mention the famous Oktoberfest, its proximity to Italy, the Alps and the Mediterranean coast makes Munich the ultimate German destination for city travelers. Spring and autumn are the best times to enjoy Munch; however, winter in known for its riotous six-week pre-Lent gala of Festivals, Balls and overall indulgence. Even if Munich is just a stop along the way, you may find yourself compelled to drop everything and rewrite your plans!

The Best Part of Traveling with a Group on a Cruise

When traveling, it's sometimes best to travel with a group rather than travel solo. For the extrovert traveler this is the obvious choice, but even those who enjoy solitude might be happier if they have a support network with them while traveling. Here's why...

Of course traveling is supposed to be about having fun, experiencing adventures and new locations. But there's something about traveling with a group that makes travel even more fun. But who should be in your travel group? A travel group could be anything from just you and your spouse, your troupe of besties, maybe a family reunion, even a group of co-workers! Whoever makes up your travel group, big or small, it's definitely going to be an unforgettable experience.

Planning for Group Travel on a Cruise

Planning might be easy for one but organizing for a whole group could be tough. You need to keep everyone's preferences in mind while trying to be fair to the whole group. Make sure to talk to everyone about their feelings about the trip. Ask if they have any worries, ask if they have any special requests. A group meeting beforehand is great for this. If you're in charge of planning, make sure to get some alone time with each traveler before the trip as well in case there is something they didn't want to bring up, such as medical issues.

Consider using a travel agent to plan your cruise

Choosing and seeking the help of a reliable travel agent is a determinant if the trip would be hassle free or the other way around. Make sure that you will choose according to the credibility the agency owns due to its experience in handling group trips or travel.

After a research on the possible cruise lines, make a comparison of all the amenities and destinations and see which one meets both your travel requests and your budget. Take your time on this and make sure everyone is on the same page to avoid any confusion or hurt feelings later.

Remember to get a copy of the contract contract you have with your travel agent. Have everything in both digital and print outs, like your reservations and itineraries, as well as recommended packing lists. Email everything to yourself and save it on your phone, and share it with everyone in the group.

Organizing Group Shore Tours

When there are shore tours, have a copy of the list of buses, timetable of the tour and assign somebody to be responsible for the seating arrangements and if ever the honorarium for the drivers are included in the fee.

Assure that the cruise activities are exclusively for all the members only. Outsiders must not be allowed to join or meddle on the affairs of the group and the ship or line must provide the security the group deserves to have on the entire trip.

If the group comes in a bigger number, ask for the help of those responsible and choose a part of the ship where you all could sit down and talk. If there are concerns or problems, this would serve as the venue for that too.

A list of all the important contacts in case of any problem and the list of room assignments must be secured too. Activities, if pre-arranged must be in coordination with the Guest Relation Officer.

For meals, the group must be in contact with the restaurant manager. Group leaders may be assigned for larger groups.

With all these, points to ponder- make the best out of your GROUP TRIP!

Light Packing for Cruises 101

On a cruise you meet interesting new people all day and night. You go to lots of different activities and need to be prepared. You want to make the right impression, look fashionable, and feel comfortable, but you don't want to pack more than necessary. Some travelers are happiest with tons of luggage, but you're the type who wants to pack a single bag and be done with it, right? Light packing for cruise travel can be tricky, but there are some secrets to be found!

Organization and planning will let you pack efficiently for travel on cruises

How to Pack Efficiently for Cruise Travel

How can one stay fashionable without packing a whole closet worth of clothes? A little planning, flexibility, and smart packing will be your best bet. When you're traveling, you should remember that you should bring only the most important essentials. Things to consider:

1. Where is your cruise destination? What ports?
2. What will the weather be like on the trip and at the ports?
3. What activities will you be enjoying?
4. What items and accessories do you need for entertainment and comfort?
5. Do you need multiple changes of clothes/accessories?

Answering these questions will give you much better insight into what to pack. An Alaskan cruise means packing cold weather gear like sweaters, parkas, an extra blanket, wool socks, gloves and scarves, etc. A Mexico beach cruise means swimsuits, snorkels, flip-flops, sunblock, and beach towels. Check to see what items your cruise line will provide to you, what you feel comfortable using (could you be happy renting snorkel gear or beach towels that have been used?), and check to see if they have recommended packing lists available. This is especially important for guided tours in exotic locations. Make sure to list to your tour guide about the gear to bring!

What outfits are best for cruises?

Casual, semi-formal, and formal outfits may be best depending on the activities you'll be taking part in. Are you going to hit the night clubs, the formal dining nights, museums and night-time affairs? Bring perhaps a suit or cocktail dress in a neutral color. You can re-use a formal outfit for another night with the right accessories. A different shirt and tie changes a suit completely; the addition of a shawl or chunky colorful belt will change a dress. Consider bringing a pair of dress shoes and semi-formal shoes as that can dress an outfit up or down as necessary. It's easier to pack multiple necklaces and wraps than it is to pack multiple dresses.

It's easier to bring a pair of dressy heels and a pair of casual ballet flats than it is to bring a dress for every day of your trip.

For excursions, events, and active outings like snorkeling, rock climbing, and hiking, it's best to keep yourself to one set of gear if your goal is to pack light. You can easily clean your gear and hiking outfits, taking extra good care of it to make sure it lasts for the whole trip.

Do your research!

Make sure to check online for pictures of people on that cruise line to see how others dress. Not only with the cruise line have pictures on their website, but you can also search facebook and instagram for the hashtag related to your cruise line and ports. This will let you know how formal you need to dress for formal events, and how casual you can dress for daytime excursions.

What electronics to pack for cruise travel?

Picking the right electronics and entertainment items for a cruise is entirely dependent on your style. If you're a professional or hobby photographer, you're likely not going to want to leave without your DSLR. But if you're not a photography enthusiast, consider using your smartphone instead of bring a separate camera. Most modern smartphones are excellent digital cameras as well. The iPhone X is a 12MP camera with both wide angle and telephoto capabilities, with up to 10x digital/optical zoom. That will allow you to take beautiful destination photography as well as casual selfies, and print them up to 16in x 20in or larger without issue. A back-up battery or two (rechargeable of course!) and a waterproof case will be all you need if casual photography is your goal.

For entertainment, consider bringing a smart tablet in place of a laptop and books. A tablet will double as both a way to watch movies and catch up on your eBooks, as well as let you have access to games and apps to pass the time.

Make sure to bring two sets of chargers and two sets of earbud headphones. They're small enough that packing two of each won't take up a lot of room, and it saves the hassle of trying to find compatible products at your destinations.

These are just a few tips for packing light for cruising the high seas! Planning and organization ahead of time will be your best bet. Just remember that you will have your own cabin, so don't pack so lightly that you're uncomfortable on your trip.

Tips for Easy Kid-Friendly Travel

Have you ever heard the cliche "broaden your horizon" and wonder what it means? To "broaden your horizon" means to expand your knowledge, as a metaphor for the view of the world in your mind. It really is great to get outside of your comfort zone and explore this big, wide world. Travel literally and figuratively broadens your horizons. The sights, food, and cultures you experience will help build your confidence, teach you respect for different types of people and traditions, and give you amazing experiences to carry in your memories your whole life. And what's good for you is great for your kids. But traveling with kids can be a challenge. How do you make travel easy for kids and parents alike?

Kid-friendly travel in 2017 means more than just crayons and coloring books!

When kids are with you, you KNOW you need to be prepared for lots of different outcomes. Kids are not always as flexible as adults, so we need to be ready to reassure them and make them comfortable during these new experiences. Here are some tips for easy, kid-friendly travel to make your journey a little more comfortable!

Kid-Friendly Travel First Aid Kit

When traveling, you might not have quick access to the medicine and supplies your kids are used to at home. Depending on your mode of travel - car, cruise, or airplane - there may be some travel rules you'll need to obey, so make sure to check before bringing your first aid kit in your carry-on. That aside, here are some must-haves to bring with you to help your little ones with any sudden illness or scrapes:

• Band-Aids in varying sizes (waterproof or sports style for beach trips!)
• Travel sized hand sanitizer. A bottle for your first aid kit, your purse, and your keychain.
• Small packs of tissues, a couple for each bag as well as your kit.
• Sunblock, at least SPF 30 or higher.
• Kid-friendly tylenol
• Peppermint oil capsules, pepto-bismal, and other tummy tamers motion sickness
• Wet wipes for quick clean ups and accidents
• Chewy candy or gum to help kids "pop" their ears at higher altitudes
• Prescriptions, vitamins, and other daily medicine necessities. Make sure to check for rules if traveling abroad!
• Bug spray and mosquito repellent if you're going somewhere tropical
• List of emergency contacts, allergies, doctor's phone numbers, etc written out and saved digitally on your phone

DIY Travel First Aid Kit

If you want to make your own first aid kit for travel, it's best to go with something compact, waterproof, and that zips securely closed. This will keep the contents from spilling into your luggage if anything breaks or spills. This Hanging Nylon Waterproof Travel Toiletry Bag on Amazon is a great choice because it has lots of individual pockets, it closes securely using a sturdy zipper, and it has a hook in it to hang up in the car, hotel closet, bathroom stall door and more. At only 9in x 7in it fits easily inside backpacks, totes, large purses, and carry-on bags. If you're on a road trip, consider stashing it under the front seat on inside your center console for easy access.

This small waterproof toiletries case has a hook inside for easy storage, as well as lots of pockets for organization.
Perfect for a DIY first aid kit for your vacation!

Travel Activities for Kids

Kids are not always going to be into their surroundings when traveling. This is especially true for long flights or road trips. They may need something to keep them entertained, or help them decompress if they get overwhelmed with sensory input.

• Crayons and coloring books, or coloring book apps for your tablet or smartphone
• Mechanical pencil and notebooks or sketchbooks. They can make their own travel journal!
• Highlighters and book of mazes, crosswords, word search games
• Fidget spinners and other quiet fidget toys
• Decks of cards, card games like UNO
• Handheld video games, anything from a gameboy to a Nintendo Switch to apps for your phone. Focus on games that don't require an internet connection to be playable.
• eBooks on your tablet or smartphone. Actual books can get bulky, plus digital storybooks come with a built in reading light.
• Videos downloaded to your phone and tablet. Do not rely on streaming! You may not always have internet access.

Kid-Friendly Travel Comfort Essentials

• Snacks and bottled water. Consider a reusable bottle with built-in filter.
• Sun glasses. Not only are they cute, they prevent eye fatigue and headaches.
• Hats and visors to help protect them from the elements.
• Light-weight sweater, hoodie, or wind breaker.
• Travel-sized umbrella, usually one can be shared with two people.
• Extra memory cards for digital camera, and back up and clear out older photos on your smart phone to make room for new ones.
• Extra copies of birth certificates, photo I.D.s, travel reservations, airline tickets. Digital and print outs!
• Zip-lock bags in varying sizes. Great for snacks
• Travel night light, flash light, and fan combination. This one from Opolar is GREAT! I carry one in my small purse at all times. Comes with rechargeable battery, powered by USB cord.
• Extra chargers for all your gadgets. Get a set for your car, a set for your hotel room/cruise cabin/sleeper car, and a set for your purse/bag.
• Headphones for each traveler, in their own little headphone case. Bring an extra set in your luggage. Good for privacy and polite for other airline travelers.
• Small blankets, neck pillows, and more.
• Emergency phone charger, a portable one that runs on batteries and/or can be recharged.
• Consider leaving your child's favorite security blanket or toys at home. You could buy a special blanket or toy specifically for this trip and talk to your child about letting their favorite lovey have a little break at home. Travel is the biggest reason these special items get lost! Sentimental items are safer at home.

Rechargeable USB powered mini fan and flash light. SUPER powerful, can run for 6 hours. Love it.

These are all just suggestions and should be tailored to your own family's needs. These basic kid friendly travel tips are some ideas that will get you started on making your family's trip as comfortable and fun as possible.

The Best Places to Ski Worldwide

The snow, the slope, the scene, the chill… these factors are important in considering the Ski site. Some ski-enthusiasts are really making sure that they do not only go skiing because of their hobby but they also check out the Ski sites. They are indeed worth your visit. These sites are also having this race to popularity against each other.

Best Worldwide Cities for Skiers 

As of the present, there are a lot of well-known Ski sites around the globe. You could check for your self the seven most sought-after sites where you could enjoy the thrill, the challenge and the splash of snow. These are the seven Ski sites you would not dare miss going to and a travel would be very cherished for you:

Best Ski Cities Around the World

Vermont, USA

Vermont, Eastern US is the mother of the Ski resort named Stowe. There are two Ski areas here: Spruce Peak and Mount Mansfield.  It has the most picturesque ski resort in the area. It possesses the traditional New England lure and the largest vertical drop.

Chamonix Mont-Blanc, France

In France, the host of the 1st World Olympic Games: Chamonix Mont-Blanc is one of the world’s finest Ski site. It is proud to have a lift-served vertical drop and the longest run.

Banff, Canada

Mount Norquay, Sunshine Village, and Lake Louise are three Ski sites that could be found in Banff National Park in Western Canada.

Vail, Colorado, USA

Be captivated with Vail, also called as the “America’s favorite Ski resort. What makes this resort from Colorado, in Western United States so unique is that it does not only hold skiing activities but as well as it give s clients the best art galleries, ice skating, snowmobiling and the like.

Switzerland

Switzerland, one of the cleanest in the world, who would have known that in its womb, is the beautiful, it is said to be the cleanest Ski resort. The peace of mind it complementing the beautiful country of Switzerland is really a sight.

Ktzhubel, Austria

Go to Austria and visit Ktzhubel, the “Peal of the Alps”. As the former host of the Olympics, it also has the breath-taking scene that would steal any skier’s heart out. It is also the most famous during holidays.

Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia

The most famous Ski site is the Whistler/Blackcomb which could be found in British Columbia. It has the biggest vertical drop. What makes it so big for those thrill-enthusiasts? Cafes, restaurants that cater foods of the world, stores that are internationally known, make it as the coolest spot for both skiers and non-skiers.

The delicious food is the topmost reason why people crave for this Ski site.

Discover the snow, the thrill, the fun, the excitement. Unravel the Skier in you- visit the seven of the best Ski sites in the planet. Travel the world, travel around these sites for skiing.

International Travel Safety Tips! Travel outside the country, safe and sound.

There is an undeniable fact that most people might have the great chance to travel abroad at some point. It might be a work trip, a pleasure cruise, a vacation, or a honeymoon. Whatever the purpose of that international travel is, see to it that you make yourself safe from whatever hassles may come. Some basic precautions will help you be prepared for international travel.

Basic tips for how to travel abroad safely!

These are travel safety tips you are a good start for those looking for ways to maximize their fun and minimize their hassles.

International Travel Safety Tips

• Get your papers in order. Make sure that you've gotten the correct passport, visa, IDs, and more. ALWAYS double check everything; these are the most important things you have to secure before anything else when planning a trip abroad. Be sure to fill in the information for the emergency contacts as well! Do not skip any information. 
• Research your destination. Read, watch, and listen to as much info about the country as possible. Get to know the country you want to visit. The Consular information sheets would likely be essential reading material, as well. You really have to get to know the country you choose to visit. After daydreaming about the popular tourist spots, make sure to learn about local customs, the kind of manners they expect from locals and visitors alike. Some things that may be very polite in your country may be very rude in another. Watch travel shows, read blogs, check wikipedia and more.
• Learn the laws of the land. You're in their house, so respect their rules. You have to obey the rules and law of the country you are visiting. This is especially important for countries with strict laws, non-Westernized countries, religious countries etc. Don't let your week-long visit turn into a 20 year prison sentence because you didn't research local laws.
• Respect local customs. Be aware of traditions and customs. Not only are you a representative of your home country in these foreign destinations, you are also subjecting yourself to possible hassle or even danger if you don't respect local customs. Do not make yourself an outcast and don't hurt others just because you have gone against their traditional beliefs, regardless of how you personally feel about them. In the interest of safety, when you are in their space is not the time to stand on a soapbox and preach another way of life. When you show respect to the culture, you will be safer and sow the seeds of respect for your home and culture as well.
• Make copies of your travel IDs. Keep copies of your passport, visa, etc in a safe place, like in your hotel safe or hidden in your luggage. Do not give yourself the chance to leave your passport in your wallet, which may end up forgotten on a bar or landmark.
• Know where the US embassy is and how to get there. Memorize the address, shortest routes, and phone number in case of trouble.

These are just the quickest tips for basic safety when traveling abroad. The most important thing you can do is research.

Don't avoid the horror stories, but don't be daunted by them either!

It's bad to let fear be your guide, but if you are planning on international travel then you are already an adventurous person. It doesn't hurt to be a little cautious if that's the case. This is especially important if you are traveling to countries or territories that the government deems to be risky at all. Don't avoid the horror stories or think "that is an exaggeration, that could never happen to me". The hard truth is that tourists who fall victim to scams, violence, or wilderness danger can sometimes blame ignorance and arrogance for their trouble. Learn from the mistakes of others so that you can enjoy yourself to the fullest in your travels.

Wanderlust is a beautiful thing, and the world is full of wonders to behold, but don't throw caution to the wind. After all, the saying You Only Live Once is not just a warning of wasted time, but a warning that you only get one chance to live! Find a balance between caution and adventure and you will be able to enjoy your wanderlust for a long, healthy life!

For the best honeymoon travel, take to the seas!

Being on a yacht for your honeymoon journey is to be sure one flawless thought. For couples, traveling on a yacht gives you the best balance of privacy and freedom to travel anywhere you want. To sail or go about the open water, alone together with plenty of good wine and cocktails, sounds like a little piece of heaven for newlyweds.

Best honeymoon cruise travel tips

Your wedding will be one of the most memorable, important, and well-planned events in your life. A beautiful, romantic honeymoon is the best way to unwind from the stress of wedding planning and is the perfect start of your life together. TheKnot.com surveyed thousands of brides and grooms and found that their perfect honeymoon vacation is one that balances luxury and cost with fun activities, tropical beaches, and hot nightlife. Honeymoon sailing, cruising, and yacht rental are three great options for exploring the Caribbean for your newlywed tour.

Where might you be able to sail and travel for your honeymoon? If your wish is to see the magnificence of the world in only a couple of days, here are the proposed places to start:

Your special first night will to be sure be as sweet as nectar on the off chance that you pick the reasonable blue waters of US VIRGIN ISLANDS. The white sand shorelines will in the end resemble a guarantee of unadulterated love among you. As one of the Caribbean sentimental travel spots, its bundle would give you a chance to feel the glow of adoration in the four corners of your private manor. Is it not about great?

On the off chance that you two are searching for a dynamic yet sentimental wedding trip, ARUBA will give you a chance to appreciate the ocean through snorkeling, scuba jumping or wind surfing. Being unified with the most wonderful shorelines on the planet and the most lovable individual in your life is heaven.

Three Rs will be meeting by you two. JAMAICA guarantees that. Revive, reestablish and renew. Extravagance accompanies the best convenience, colorful cooking, quiet shorelines, ever-sentimental atmosphere and exercises that would make the bond more tightly.

Would you like to move the night away like morons? In the event that fun is kept between two individuals in affection, the start of the relationship waits. Where does the place where there is fun and love exist? Attempt and be dazzled, MEXICO. This travel is a mess of night life. As you set down on the white sand, trade your pledges once more.

A yacht, a couple especially enamored, a voyage the evening of the big day-what's more?

A ton of the world's magnificence as the quickness of the yacht gives you a chance to go to the spots you believe were simply however dreams.

Best Singles Cruises Adults Under 30: Looking for Love While Traveling

No arms to hold, no eyes in which to gaze... Looking for a good time or perhaps healing a broken heart? Take a break, get away from the congested city life, free your spirit by traveling! Dating on singles cruises may be a new way to heal your spirit and meet new people while cruising the smooth blue waters of the open seas. 2017 singles cruises on a budget mean luxury accommodations, fun in the sun, and lots of new people to meet.

Best Singles Cruises for Adults Under 30

Through dating cruises for singles, enjoy cocktail parties, games, group activities, intimate dinners, sexy night clubs and more. This is the PERFECT venue for meeting that special someone. And with hundreds of cruises to pick, there is one to fit everyone's style.

Here are the 3 best singles cruises for Adults Under 30!

Looking for the most popular singles cruises for adults under 30? These fun singles cruises ideas will give you a chance to find the right match, from just a casual fling to even finding your potential soul mate. At the very least, luxury cruise amenities on a budget will leave you feeling pampered and refreshed, as well as broaden your horizon!

Tropical Adventurers should try Royal Caribbean Singles Cruises to the Caribbean (Budget: $ - $$$$)

A budget-friendly luxury 7 night Caribbean cruise is a great place to meet singles under 30. It's active, fun, tropical, and very romantic.The "Allure of the Seas" from Royal Caribbean is a great choice for those looking to date on cruises. 

Royal Caribbean Cruises have fun pool-side activities like FlowRider surf simulator.

Royal Caribbean round trip cruises from Fort Lauderdale to the Caribbean Islands are the perfect place for adventuring singles who are looking for fun daytime activities paired with sexy night clubs and cocktails at night. FlowRider surf simulator pool-side, yoga classes for meditation, rock wall climbing, basketball courts, even the gym are all great places to meet and mingle with singles your age. Looking for some South Beach inspired nightlife? Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas has pop-up night clubs in their Solarium, but they also have several dance clubs and even pub-inspired options for cocktails, beers, some dancing, and more after the sun has gone down.

Click here to check out Royal Caribbean 7-Night East Caribbean Cruises.

Geek Chic Fans should try Walker Stalker Cruise ($$ - $$$)

This Walking Dead fandom cruise sells out quickly. Right now only a few balcony and suite rooms are left for the January 2018 cruise, starting at $3,000 for singles. But if you're someone off the beaten path looking for a break from the traditional cruise activities, Walker Stalker Cruise is a great place to start. Meet fellow survival horror fans, sci-fi fans and more. Norman Reedus and Robert Kirkman will be in attendance at the January 2018 cruise as well!

Imagine getting the chance to meet them on the Walker Stalker cruise!

The January 2018 Walker Stalker cruise departs from New Orleans and cruises to Cozumel, Mexico on the Norwegian Pearl. Not only are there lots of opportunities to meet single Walking Dead fans such as yourself, the accommodations and other amenities are really great.

Norwegian Pearl cruise Mini Suites for Walker Stalker Cruise Convention January 2018. Zombies not included.

Interested in the January 2018 Walker Stalker Cruise? Better click here quick to grab your spot as cabins are selling out fast!

NYC Wine and Cheese Yacht Cruise (Budget $ - $$)

Looking for something a little more sophisticated? An NYC motor yacht wine and cheese cruise might be your speed. Each week, trained sommeliers select wines from a carefully cultivated collection of boutique or family-run producers, which is paired with strictly local artisan or farmstead cheeses.

NYC Wine and Cheese Cruises for Singles Under 30

If you can't or prefer not to commit to a long trip for a singles cruise, a short trip like this focusing on one of your passions or hobbies is a great way to meet people who share your same interests. Even if these kind of short cruises are not solely focused on singles or match-making, one of the best ways to meet that special someone is to instead focus more on yourself and having a good time. Plus these short cruises are usually a great balance of being budget-friendly and having luxurious amenities.

Interested in an NYC wine and cheese yacht tour? Click here to read more.

These are just a few of the best cruises for singles under 30 looking for a way to meet new people. What's the best fit for you? Let me know in the comments!

Best 5 Sites to Buy Yachts for Sale

When it comes to traveling in style, nothing is more exclusive than a private yacht. Iconic imagery of celebrities and CEOs are usually the first things that comes to mind when you picture buying a yacht, but in reality there are luxury yachts of all sizes that fit even average budgets. Whether you’re ready to hit the seas or you’re just browsing yacht sale listings, these are the best 5 sites to buy yachts for sale.

#1 Luxury SuperYacht Sales: Burgess Yachts

Superyacht brokerage for luxury living

The aptly named Burgess Yachts is one of the top resources for those looking to indulge in a luxury superyachts. Self-proclaimed “superyacht authorities”, they measure up to their own expectations with a powerhouse team of expert brokers around the world. Their listings feature lots of information about their listed yachts, everything from size to number of cabins and even who designed the ship itself. Large, professionally shot images on every listing make it easy to imagine yourself lounging pool side on your own personal superyacht.

Burgess Yachts has a clean, modern website design that makes it easy to find luxury superyachts for sale.

Make sure to bring your wallet because their listed yachts start at $3,000,000 and go WAY up from there, with several coming close to over $200 million.

Browse Burgess Yachts superyacht listings here. (opens in a new window)

#2 Luxury Yacht Listings: Fraser

Luxury Yacht Interior Formal Dining Area

Fraser’s website is similar to Burgess in features and style, but they offer a wider ranger of services. Upscale yacht charters, sales, builds, and management are all some of the services this company offers. Their listings start at a much lower price point with personal yachts available at less than $200,000, but they still have many superyachts available priced at well over $100,000,000. Their listings can be sorted by a wide range of factors including price, length, and even number of guests.

Stunning Luxury Yacht available through Fraser Superyacht Sales

Their upper level listings have tons of beautiful photos, but occasionally their smaller, less expensive yachts for sale have fewer pictures that could use some basic color correction. There is still lots of detail information on each yacht, and their wide range of resources and options for selling, crewing, and managing ships make up for this one occasional flaw.

Click here to browse Fraser's luxury yachts for sale.

#3 New and Used Boats for Sale by Owner and Dealer: Boat Trader

Anyone who likes RVs will be familiar with Boat Trader’s format. Unlike luxury boat sellers Burgess Yachts and Fraser, Boat Trader is an online marketplace for dealers and private sellers to sell their yachts, similar to classified listings in a magazine or newspaper.

Straightforward classified listings of used Bayliner motor yachts

There are thousands of listings for any type of yacht you could want. For instance if you’re looking for used Bayliner motor yachts, there are over 80 listings right now starting at a few thousand dollars up to over $200,000 each. Many listings have a lot of great pictures but some listings have no pictures at all, or ones that are dark or small. Yachts found through Boat Trader listings will require probably a lot more footwork to sort through before you find the right one for your lifestyle.

New and used yachts for sale here on Boat Trader.

#4 An Interesting Option for Buying Yachts: eBay

eBay started as an online classifieds for people to sell their unwanted items around the home, but over the years it’s become a huge marketplace where you can buy almost anything, including yachts!

eBay is a surprising resource for those looking for good deals on used yachts

Unlike Boat Trader and craigslist, where the seller and buyer are solely responsible for payment and legalities, eBay will help process the payment and communicate with the buyer and seller for you. There are limits to their legal liabilities though, so make sure to do your research. Dealers and private sellers alike can list their motor yachts on ebay and with auctions, there are some great deals to be had on new and used pleasure boats alike. The website’s design is a bit busy, dated, and cluttered, which may make it difficult for some potential buyers, but the process is well explained once started.

Click here to browse yachts available on eBay.

#5 Used Yacht Deals for a Price: Craigslist

The ultimate in bare-bones online marketplaces, Craigslist is as simple as it gets for buying and selling anything you want. There is no moderation and very few rules on craigslist, so it can be home to a lot of scammers if you’re not careful. It’s a great place to get a good deal on a used boat that may need some work, and some dealers do use the website to sell newer yachts in better condition.

Craigslist local classified listings make it easy to find a used or new yacht that fits your budget

When it comes to Craigslist though, “caveat emptor” should be your motto – in other words, buyer beware. Make sure to do every bit of research you can before even contacting a yacht seller on Craigslist. You don’t want to give your personal information to someone with bad intentions. If you practice common sense and basic internet privacy rules, you will probably be fine. The benefit of Craigslist is that it’s really easy to connect with sellers in your neighborhood, so you can start seeing yachts tomorrow if you wanted!

Look for deals on used yachts on Craigslist by clicking here.

So there you have it! Whether you’re looking for a 30 cabin superyacht to cross the Atlantic or just looking for a decent priced on a used Bayliner yacht to explore the Great Loop, there is an online source for your yacht shopping needs.

4 Cruise Myths That Simply Aren't True in 2017

"I would LOVE to go on a cruise someday, but I don't want to put up with, you know, that..." my friend Sherri said over dinner one night last month. I paused mid-bite and resisted the urge to roll my eyes. Sherri I love you but you can sometimes be a little overly dramatic. I'm pretty sure I recall a certain someone stepping in dog poo at a local park once and threatening to sue for emotional damages. But I WAS curious what she was so worried about that she would avoid cruises all together. Okay Sherri, I'll bite.

"With what?" I asked.

"Well, you know, cruises have so many old people. Does anyone even play shuffle board anymore?"

I was shocked! It's 2017. Come on Sherri. I can't believe anyone would believe those clichés about cruises that haven't been true since the 80s. Shuffle board? Cramped cabins? And what's wrong with old people anyway? No no no, this won't do. Time to put these cruise myths to bed, once and for all.

In 2017, luxury cruises are available for people of all ages and travel styles. Millennial looking for adventure and exotic locations? There's a cruise for that. Gen-Xer wanting to surprise your girlfriend with a romantic, quiet getaway? There's a cruise for that! Looking for a way to make grandma, grandpa, husband, and the kids happy all at once? There are TONS of cruises for that. Modern cruise lines are all about tailoring the cruise experience to your style.

Cruise Myth #1: Cruises are Boring

One of the most common myths is that cruises are boring. You're going to be stuck in a tiny cabin with nothing to do for days at a time between ports, right? No way!

Cruise Fact: Cruises are PACKED with stuff to do!

So much room for activities! Tons to do on modern cruises.

There are tons of activities waiting for you on modern cruises. Popular cruise lines like Carnival are known for having a wide selection of onboard activities such as comedy tours, concerts, water park activities like water slides and wave pools, mini golf, and IMAX movie theaters. Royal Caribbean offers extreme sports like zip lining and rock climbing, as well as tamer stuff like art studios, video game lounges, and more. Almost any big cruise is going to have multiple dance clubs for nightlife experiences, as well as full-service spas that offer manicures, pedicures, facials, and massages.

Introvert? Like things quiet? You can hang out in your room and enjoy the views as you travel. Most modern cruise ships offer wifi internet connections in your cabin and out and about on the ship. TVs in the rooms offer cable TV line ups. Sit back, relax, catch up on Game of Thrones and let your more active cabin mates go out and enjoy themselves. There is something for everyone to do.

Cruise Myth #2: Cruises are Uncomfortable

This is another persistent myth about cruises even today. Most of us aren't among the wealthy elite, which means we can only afford cruise cabins without windows that are tiny and sweltering hot. Plus Uncle Frank gets soooo seasick. And everything is so crowded! Right? Wrong!

Cruise Fact: Cruises are (mostly!) super plush!

Modern cruise cabins are super comfortable. This is nicer than my own house, honestly.

It's true that you're not always going to be able to afford staterooms with balconies, but even interior cabins are really comfortable in today's cruise ships! They can usually sleep up to five people with walking room to spare, queen and even king sized beds, have a spacious bathroom with shower, desk, lounge furniture (even if it's just an arm chair), and tons of storage space. Ocean view and balcony rooms are going to be bigger and usually have a dedicated couch and dining area. Suites of course have the most room. Usually it means a bigger balcony, a bathroom with a soaking tub, and lots of extra sitting and storage space. No matter what you choose, today's cruise ships offer lots of plush comforts in every cabin style.

Seasickness is an unfortunate side effect for people with motion sickness who travel. I suffer from it myself. There are lots of over-the-counter seasickness medicines that will help you (Bonine is my favorite), and even all natural remedies like ginger, fennel seeds, and peppermint that stop and prevent nausea. Most cruise ships are so big that you don't feel any motion at all. Stabilizers go a long way in correcting that uncomfortable lurch on the high seas. If you suffer from seasickness, it's best to pick a cabin near the center of the ship for the most stability. Most cruise lines recommend going for a quick walk on deck, slow deep breaths, and keeping your eye on the horizon if you feel overwhelmed. However, most people find that motion sickness is not nearly as much of a problem as they feared.

Cruise Myth #3: Cruises are for Old People

Worried you’d going to be lost in a sea of silver? It is certainly true that older generations enjoy the comfort and all-inclusive amenities of cruises, but long gone are the days when cruises were only for retired couples only looking for quiet activities like shuffleboard.

Cruise Fact: There are Cruises for Everyone

This isn't your grandma's cruise experience. Unless your grandma is into rock climbing.

There are many fantastic styles of cruises for people of all ages and travel styles. It’s easy for you to tailor your cruise experience to your tastes. Some cruises focus on exotic adventure ports, others focus more with onboard activities and comfort. There are even cruises with specific themes like culinary tastings (foodie cruises!), cruises that are like floating conventions for your favorite TV shows and movies, fitness cruises, and more. There are whole-ship themes and partial-ship themes too, so if you and your cruise mates don’t agree on a theme you can pick and choose what activities are right for you.

Cruise Myth #4: Cruises are Dangerous

Movies like Titanic don’t do much to inspire faith in cruise line safety. Common fears include power loss, running aground, contagious illness, and of course sinking. But how often do incidents like these actually happen?

Cruise Fact: You're more likely to be struck by lightning that be in serious danger on a cruise.

The last major incident for a cruise line was almost 25 years ago when a smaller cruise line hit ice in the Baltic Sea. More popular cruise lines that use larger, more modern ships in milder waters are exponentially safer than just walking outside your house in the rain. You’re more likely to be struck by lightning than be on a ship that requires evacuation. Simple issues like power outages or the occasional plumbing blockage may occur, but they are usually temporary inconveniences. And you can count on one hand how many cruise ships have actually sank in the last 30 years. Among those incidents, evacuations were completely successful in the larger, more modern cruise lines.

You’re much more likely to get into a dangerous car accident than be caught in a dangerous incident on a cruise ship.

The REAL DEAL about Modern Cruises in 2017

These are the four biggest cruise myths that stubbornly refuse to give up even today. As technology improves, cruises will only continue to get more affordable and more luxurious. So feel free to treat yourself to these all-inclusive vacations if you’re curious about the cruise lifestyle!

Top 5 Biggest Hotels in the World

When I was a kid I was obsessed with the Guinness Book of World Records. I was always a bookworm but even my indulgent mother shared a confused look with my grandma when I’d request a new Guinness World Records book for Christmas every year. It's really not something the average 6 year old wants, but I thirsted for knowledge and that knowledge was apparently oddly specific yet useless trivia. I wanted to know about the world’s smallest dog, the world’s longest yacht, the world’s largest mansion. As an adult, my interest remained. Travel piqued my interest. What ARE the biggest hotels in the world anyway? Hotel size doesn’t REALLY matter, does it?

Well, there are some benefits to a really big hotel: big hotels often have big amenities; they are really impressive in travel photos; there are usually tons of activities. If you want a LOT of stuff to do without needing to rent a car or use public transport, a big resort is the right fit for your travel style.


So even though my beloved Guinness World Records books are long outdated and lost in time through dozens of yard sales, I can still satisfy my craving for crazy superlatives. Such as...

The Top 5 Largest Hotels in the WORLD

#5 Wynn & Encore, Las Vegas Nevada Hotel with 4,748 Rooms

Wynn and Encore Hotel, photo from their site. View from my dreams.

Hold up, how can TWO hotels qualify on a list of the world’s largest hotels? Well, Las Vegas’s Encore and Wynn hotels are technically siblings and count as one big hotel. These hotels combined in 2008 and became serious contenders in the luxury accommodations market. With over 4,700 rooms, each qualifying as Gold List suites, Wynn/Encore also has an 18-hole golf course AND a fully-stocked Ferrari dealership. Staying at this Las Vegas powerhouse hotel starts at $120 per night.

Wynn Hotel Suite. I mean come on, check out that view.

Las Vegas doesn’t mess around when it comes to huge resort hotels. This shining paradise in the desert boasts not just one, but SIX out of 10 of the hotels with the most guest rooms on Earth. If the Wynn and Encore are booked, you can also check out The Luxor and Mandalay Bay. Both of these luxury Las Vegas hotels have about 4,300 rooms each and TONS of amazing amenities. The top 5 list here could center entirely on Las Vegas so I’m going to limit the city to only 2 entries on this list!

#4 Disney All-Star Resorts, Orlando Florida Hotel with 5,658 Rooms

Disney World All-Star Music Resort in Orlando FL

If you’re looking for a family-friendly resort packed with fun activities in the Southeast US, Disney World in Orlando FL is a great place to start. Disney World is THE ultimate family vacation destination! Disney All-Star Resort is the largest hotel in Florida. Disney All-Star Resorts are made up of three hotels, each with their own theme: Disney’s All-Star Music Resort, Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, and Disney’s All-star Sports Resort. The total room count for all 3 resorts is 5,658. Starting at $130 a night, this Disney World resort hotel is a great balance between amenities, kid-friendly activities, and budget.

#3 Sands Cotai Central in Macau, China with 6,000 Rooms

Southeast China Luxury Hotel

This Cotai Strip luxury hotel located in right along the coast of Southeast China only opened in 2012, but it has already made waves as a top luxury Asia travel destination. While it does have over 100,000 square feet of casino gaming, this hotel is known primarily for its business and exhibition purposes with over 300,000 square feet of meeting space.

Whether you’re there for business or pleasure, with 11 restaurants and tons of shopping and fun, there is something for everyone at this stately Macau luxury hotel. Sands Cotai Central rates start at $200 USD a night and up.

#2 The Venetian Las Vegas in Las Vegas, Nevada with 7,117 Rooms

This five-diamond hotel and casino luxury resort is located right on the Las Vegas Strip. Adjacent to the Sands Expo Convention Center, this 36-story tall hotel is the largest hotel in the USA.

The Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas Nevada. Photo credit Wikipedia.

Fans of Italy will feel right at home in this Vegas strip landmark; the luxury hotel uses Venice Italy as its design inspiration, including using working gondolas to ferry hotel guests in style! Other famous Venetian Las Vegas attractions include the Guggenheim Hermitage Museum, four theaters (such as the Opaline and the Palaazo), a stunning wedding chapel, and TAO Nightclub, known for its Buddhist inspired design and infinity edge pool stocked with stunning koi fish. This Las Vegas luxury hotel giant starts at $160 a night.

#1 First World Hotel & Plaza, Pahang, Malaysia Hotel with 7,351 Rooms

Pahang may only be the third largest state in Malaysia, but it houses the number one biggest hotel in the world! The First World Hotel is a work of art, painted entirely in streaks of red, blue, green, yellow, and orange.

First World Hotel in Malaysia. Love it or hate it? Let me know in the comments.

This vibrant resort is only a short walk away from Genting Theme Park so there is a lot of stuff to do besides take selfies in front of the 2800-foot-tall wraparound mural. The Genting Theme Park is under construction until 2017-2018, but there are still amazing indoor attractions such as Snow World and Fun Land. 20th Century Fox World, a movie inspired theme park, is set to open in 2017 as well. Believe it or not, you can reserve a room at this colossal hotel for only $30 USD a night! With stunning views of the Genting Highlands, it’s a MUST SEE spot in Malaysia.

So those are the BIGGEST hotels in the world! You can fit an entire town in some of these giants. Which hotel is going on your bucket list? Let me know in the comments below!

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