Jerry Shiveley | Travel

Welcome to Jerry Shiveley's Travel Blog

4 Cities to Visit in 2018

The United States boasts thousands of amazing cities that often go unnoticed due to the sheer popularity of places like New York City and Los Angeles. But, many of the lesser known towns have just as much, if not more charm than America’s greatest urban areas.

Now well into 2018, many cities around the country that may have once been considered dull or stereotyped are being added to travelers’ wish lists. The following are just a few amazing cities that the U.S. has to offer that have not gotten the credit they deserve in the past.

Portland, ME

The Northeast and New England specifically have seen enormous tourism booms in recent months, leading to more people realizing just how pristine of a location Portland, Maine is. While it can get quite cold in the winter, visiting here during the spring and summer months are ideal. The coastal countryside is truly something marvel at, while the downtown area has a plethora of bars and restaurants serving the freshest seafood in the area.

Lancaster, PA

Outsiders may see Lancaster as nothing more than a hub for Amish culture, but few realize there is a bustling city at the heart of it. This city possesses unique, beautiful architecture, which includes cobblestone streets and natural brick buildings. Lancaster has an impressive food scene to match. Restaurants like LUCA and The Pressroom serve some of the finest cocktails around, with LUCA receiving national fame in recent months.

The art scene here is another great aspect of the city. The Fulton Theatre hosts plays regularly with Gallery Row just a few blocks away, showcasing some of the greatest paintings and pieces of art Lancaster has to offer.  

Louisville, KY

A city southern enough to come with its notorious charm and hospitality, Louisville is the bourbon capital of the country with a number of great distilleries to choose from. Another city with a lively restaurant and bar scene, Louisville is a perfect weekend getaway for those looking to enjoy their leisure. If you’re lucky enough to visit during the Kentucky Derby (taking place on May 5th this year), seeing the iconic Churchill Downs is something to certainly make time for.

Philadelphia, PA

There is perhaps no city in the world happier than Philadelphia right now given the Philadelphia Eagles’ first ever Super Bowl win this past month; undoubtedly a reason to visit in itself. The neighborhood of Fishtown has seen a recent boom in culture with plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from. Kensington Quarters specifically sources their food from the freshest farmers and producers in the area, in addition to promoting local agriculture and a push for more sustainable practices.

If you’re looking for somewhere new to plan your next vacation, consider any of the aforementioned cities to experience their booming cultures and growing attractions.

5 of the Best Destinations to Get in Touch with Nature

One of the best aspects of traveling is not only getting the opportunity to explore the world, but to see its natural beauty in all its glory. Mother Nature has endured our time on this planet long enough to not be appreciated for all that she gives us. With that said, your next vacation should commemorate her spirit. The follow are just a few of many destinations around the world that offer breathtaking views, and bring visitors one step closer to nature.

Finland

Finland is one of the greatest countries to visit for a clear view of the northern lights. The scenic outdoors here are perfect for the many outdoorsy hotels, like the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. Visitors can stay in literal igloos for hotel rooms here, or other, warmer accommodations that still provide stunning views of the woodlands and night sky.

While the temperatures here are almost always cold, the amenities Finland provides make it all worthwhile. Winter sports enthusiasts will find endless opportunities here, as well as hikers or just curious sightseers.

Dominica

Volcanic hot springs and seemingly never-ending jungles are just some of the many natural wonders that Dominica has to offer. The mud baths, waterfalls, and natural swimming holes here are perfect for travelers wanting to quite literally immerse themselves in nature. For animal lovers, there are several sanctuaries dedicated to the preservation of leatherback, hawksbill, and green turtles, as well as an array of whale watching opportunities.

British Virgin Islands

Mostly known for The Baths, the British Virgin Islands are home to some of the most amazing rock formations that allow for the perfect snorkeling conditions in near crystal clear waters. Devil’s Bay in The Baths is another great snorkeling spot, or for those just looking to dip their feet in.

Gorda Peak National Park is a great destination for hikers, as this spot seeings a plethora of blooming flowers and wildlife throughout.

Switzerland

Nowhere else in the world can you see a truly stunning mountaintop like that of the Matterhorn in Zermatt, Switzerland. Aside from a rugged landscape that makes you feel like an ant in a universe of giants, the Matterhorn comes with beautiful valleys boasting colorful flowers and green grass as far as the eye can see. Of course, the mountain itself is surely something to marvel at, reaching heights of over 15,000 feet.

British Columbia

A popular honeymoon destination, British Columbia in the western regions of Canada has some of the most picturesque landscapes, mountain ranges, and lakes in the entire world. Banff National Park is home to an impossibly blue Lake Louise and a breathtaking woodland scene perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Here, guests can hike, kayak, canoe, and even horseback ride through the wilderness.

Air Travel Etiquette to Always Practice

Air travel has become a much less luxurious means of transportation since the mid 20th century, and many find it quite unpleasant today. More and more airlines are beginning to ditch the amenities that many people look forward to in order to save costs, but that does not mean that the flights are becoming cheaper or shorter. With that said, frustrations can begin to boil on a long, crowded flight, but it is always important to practice civility nonetheless. Here are a few basic etiquette rules to follow when flying.

Leave Room in the Overhead Bin

Just because an overhead bin is exactly that (right over your head) does not mean that it is for you and you alone. With the number of frequent flyers boarding planes today, they can get crowded, and thus need as much space as possible to accommodate their luggage. If you have more than one carry-on item, put the smaller bag at your feet to save overhead room.

Respect the Flight Attendants

This should go without saying, but many of the requests made by flight attendants upon taking off and landing may frustrate some flyers. For example, having to turn off electronics may inconvenience business travelers trying to get work done, but taking this out on the stewardesses is highly unprofessional. The only thing a commotion accomplishes is a delayed takeoff, aggravating all those around you.

Respect Other Flyers’ Space

Going off of the notion that flights are becoming more crowded, room is becoming more scarce. Be aware of the room that you are taking up, and if your seat reclines, do so respectfully. Warn the flyer behind you or ask if they’d be okay with you reclining beforehand. Similarly arm rests are known to be a source of confrontation with many travelers fighting over who has the right to which one. Again, be respectful. Use only one (depending on your seat location), and mind others’ personal space.

Control Your Children

A child on a plane is almost symbolic at this point. If you are flying with your kids, keep them under control. A loud child running about the cabin is just another source of stress for flyers trying to get through their flight. Talk to your children before boarding and explain the importance of being respectful, quiet, and polite. For passengers without children who may need to voice their opinions in the event of an out-of-control child, confront the parent with courtesy and ask them if they could take control.

Follow Standard Disembarking Procedures

This is perhaps the most frustrating part of flying. Many travelers are eager to get off the plane as quickly as possible, but there are standard disembarking procedures that must be followed. Rows are exited starting with the first, going back to the last. Cutting off anyone before your row is exiting will only delay the process, and frustrate flyers even more.

How to Quickly Navigate through Airport Security

Though traveling can be and often is an extremely enjoyable experience, the preparation beforehand is not. More specifically, maneuvering through airport security.

This is perhaps the most dreaded part of a vacation. Airports, though not all bad, can be complex, frustrating mazes that seem to only delay your vacation time. There are several factors that can make this worse: larger crowds, stricter screening procedures, and fewer TSA agents assisting travelers throughout the process. Because of this, it’s rare that a trip through the airport will be a quick one. However, there are steps you can take to better your chances for a smoother, faster experience.

Look into pre-check programs

There are plenty of apps and programs that can assist in skipping certain lines. Enrolling in PreCheck or Global Entry is as simple as paying a small fee (typically $85-$100 or so for five years) and verifying your identity. Once you are a member, shorter lines in TSA await. It is important to note that not all airports accept these however, so choose this option carefully.

Know when the best time to fly is

The day of the week and time of day play an enormous role in determining just how crowded the airport may be. Think about traditional rush hour times. Fridays between 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. tend to be the busiest both on the road and in airports. This is especially common during the summer months, and, obviously, holidays. Try booking outside of the 4-8 p.m. window. If your travel plans are flexible, consider flying through smaller airports rather than JFK International or LAX as well. This page has a great list of airport times according to traffic and average wait time.

Always print your boarding pass beforehand

This seems like a no-brainer for experienced travelers, but having your boarding pass printed before you reach the airport translates to one less line you have to stand in. Should you have it sent to your email, you can even save a screenshot of it for mobile use. Being this prepared upon arriving cuts down on time spent within the airport. You’ll find your gate faster, and thus have time to either grab a bite to eat or simply relax, basking in the joy of being one of the first flyers to arrive.

Dress accordingly

This is a simple strategy that many travelers may already be doing unbeknownst to them. Planning your wardrobe before a flight is worth putting some thought into. Consider the fact that you will have to take off your shoes and any metal clothing items before entering your gate for security purposes. Pack any watches or jewelry you wear to avoid the tedious task of removing it when passing through metal detectors. With that said, pack any gear you are bringing along strategically as well. Laptops and other electronic devices should be stored in cases or sleeves that are easily transported through conveyor belts.

4 Things to Do and See in Sao Paulo, Brazil

When spending time in the largest city in South America, it can be difficult, and downright intimidating trying to come up with an itinerary that includes everything you want to do.

Sao Paulo, Brazil remains true to its roots through winding roads and highways that follow the historic routes of its settlers, and the cultural abundance that makes up the city allows for a truly diverse experience no matter where you choose to go. With that said, the following are just a few of many fun things you can experience when visiting Sao Paulo.

Free Walking Tours

If you prefer to go the organic route in terms of tourist attractions, walking tours around the city provided by local information centers can give you a local’s perspective on what to do, and where to go. You have a number of options, with the Old Downtown walk being one of the most popular, and Paulista Avenue following closely behind. What’s great for American visitors, all tour guides speak both English and Portuguese to include every guest.

Parque Estadual da Cantareira

A truly breathtaking park located just north of Downtown Sao Paulo, The Cantareira State Park allows visitors to get up close and personal with local wildlife, in addition to providing one of the best views of the city. Though it requires a bit of climb, reaching the top of this park is an experience unlike most. Various species of birds, monkeys, and local plant life are abundant throughout, making the view that much more magical.

It is important to note however, that the park is only open on weekends and holidays, so plan your trip accordingly.

Mercado Municipal de Sao Paulo

The Municipal Market of Sao Paulo features meats, spices, fruits, and vegetables from all over Brazil to give you a taste of the country’s best foods. The building itself houses a number of restaurants as well, many of which serve traditional Brazilian recipes like Pastel de Queijo and Mortadella sandwiches. Be cautious when purchasing though, as prices tend to be on the heavier side. Buying a large basket of goods could rack up a hefty bill.

Sao Paulo Cathedral at Se

The Metropolitan Cathedral of Brazil’s largest city is located at Se, otherwise known as the spiritual centre of Sao Paulo. Aside from attending one of the daily services held here, visitors are welcome to explore the cathedral freely and take photos both inside and out. While the surrounding neighborhood may not be the most aesthetically pleasing, there are also a number of great cafes nearby.

How to Sell your Timeshare Safely

Many Americans have chosen to purchase a stake in a Timeshare so that they can enjoy time away from their home with their families, without the hassle of trying to book a hotel or Airbnb. Many get into timeshares not only to have a secure place to vacation with their families and loved ones, but also with the anticipation that they’ll be able to sell their timeshare for a profit once they’ve decided they don’t want them anymore. Unlike traditional real estate contracts and ownership clauses, which grant possession of a plot of land to a buyer, timeshare deals work out such that purchasers own the property for a distinct amount of time, and ownership changes hands frequently after the allotted time is up.

Because of the complicated legalese, it’s easy for ne’er-do-wells to take advantage of people trying to sell their timeshares. Between fallacious fees and doctored legal documents, predators target individuals who are desperate to get out of their timeshare holding and can syphon bank accounts in the blink of an eye. Older Americans are especially easy prey for scammers who seek to inflict harm because of the financial constraints of fixed incomes and desperation to get out from under a timeshare agreement. If you’re trying to sell your stake in a timeshare, be cautious and follow your gut if something seems off. Below are some other red flags to keep in mind if you’re trying to sell a timeshare.

Be on your guard if a company cold-calls you | Realistically, the demand for your timeshare is likely rather low. If a company randomly calls you and makes you an offer, there’s a strong chance that they’re simply trying to get you excited enough to hand over sensitive data, which they can then use to can take certain amounts of money.

Exercise caution if the price looks too good to be true | By and large, don’t count on your timeshare being a high-return investment, and depending on the state of the economy, you may even take a loss on your sale. A common ploy for scammers is to offer you an unreasonably high price for your timeshare so that you let your guard down and volunteer account information that you should not.

Never ever pay upfront fees | There is almost no legitimate reason why you should ever have to send money to a buyer or company before the negotiation has started. If someone requests some kind of fee, tax, or inspection, you should approach with extreme caution and perhaps even consult a lawyer to ensure the legitimacy. Scammers will often demand up-front money and once they receive it, they will completely disappear.

When it comes to selling timeshares, always be patient and highly prudent when you vet potential buyers. As the old adage goes, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.

How to Handle Delayed or Canceled Flights

With the holidays just around the corner, the number of people flying to and from their desired destinations is sure to skyrocket. Larger crowds and more frequent flights are typically prepared for by airlines, but difficulties tend to arise regardless. Flight delays and cancellations are not too uncommon, so it’s best to ready yourself beforehand, especially with inclement weather forthcoming.

Planning for a flight delay or cancellation is not exactly ideal, and it can be hard to predict. But, it is better to be safe than sorry. Obviously, the more important the flight, the more careful you’ll want to be. Freebird is a revolutionary new app for travelers of all experience that allows you to book a new flight in the event of a cancellation or delay, without having to wait in line for a new ticket.

Many times, travelers are owed compensation when their flights are canceled, so understanding your rights and what you are entitled to is the next step in ensuring a smooth (if possible) cancellation. The U.S. Department of Transportation has a great library of resources for those unaware of their traveling rights. Refunds, acts of discrimination, lost baggage, and much more are all clearly outlined, allowing you to enter the airport with a plethora of knowledge.

Flight vouchers can be deceptively tempting, as they often come with a decent amount of limitations. The window of time in which they are valid is often very short and during inopportune dates of the year. Most are also non-refundable, so it is wise to weigh the odds. Would it be better to deny the voucher and wait for your delayed flight, or accept it and risk losing money or time?

Should accepting the cancellation be your only option, book a nearby hotel yourself as soon as possible. Many airlines offer to do this for you, but often cause long lines of waiting passengers, leaving you with little to no options in the surrounding lodgings. First class passengers and frequent fliers are often the demographic to be accommodated first, so taking care of this yourself is much safer than waiting.

If all else fails and waiting out your delayed flight is the only option, enjoy your time with every form of entertainment that that airport may offer. Have a meal or drinks at the nearest lounge. Or, if you’ve packed accordingly, get some work done that you may not have been able to access while on the plane. Bringing a laptop and charger is a perfect way to prepare for an extended period of waiting time.

How to See the World with Money in Mind

Traveling the world is an expensive hobby. Many people typically reserve this activity for the one-to-two times per year that their budget allows it. However, avid adventurers often know how to adequately manage their spending in order to see as much as the world as they can without breaking the bank. Aside from scouring the web looking for the cheapest flights possible, there are a number of strategies you can implement to best maintain the money you have on hand.

When Planning…

Always pack enough to be prepared for wherever you are going, and how long you plan on staying. This includes clothing, toiletries, non-perishable foods, and anything you can pack that will prevent you from making frivolous purchases once you arrive.

Look into all-inclusive resorts or packages, so long as your chosen destination supplies them. Much of the features that come with a stay in these resorts are paid for with a relatively reasonable up-front fee.

When Flying…

Check airfares regularly. Prices are always fluctuating, so comparing them during down seasons or times in which tourism rates are lower in certain destinations can land you the cheapest tickets possible.

When traveling internationally, non-U.S. airlines tend to be cheaper when booked through regional discount sites like easyJet.com. Compared to major U.S. airlines, the prices you’ll find here can be astoundingly lower.

When Choosing Where to Stay…

Seek out options other than hotels, as they can be fairly expensive depending on the country you are staying in. Renting houses, condos, or utilizing the online traveling wizard known as Airbnb can help you find a residence that won’t run up your vacation’s total bill. In addition to saving a few hundred dollars, most two-bedroom apartments available to rent are often the same price, if not cheaper than one-bedroom hotel rooms.

Should you prefer the amenities of a hotel, opt for a smaller one. Large chains and brand-name hotels cater specifically to avid travelers, hiking their prices up to account for their regular customers. Independent businesses usually have flat rates that are much cheaper than their competitors.

When You Arrive…

First, research modes of transportation that cost you little to nothing. Many airports will provide you with train systems or busses directly to your place of stay, which can be significantly less expensive than taking a cab.

Check out your destination’s tourism website. Most countries offer deals for first-time visitors, or those traveling in groups. From museums, to parks, to local events, you can experience your location of choice like its local citizens, without spending much more.

What to Know Before Buying a Timeshare

Many people today understand the risks of purchasing timeshares, and often avoid the seemingly useless investment altogether. However, there are benefits to owning one. They can guarantee you a vacation time with the fixed annual dates you are allowed to operate within the home, and they are a great alternative to hotels in that you have all of your own personal amenities in a private space. But, before taking the plunge and buying a timeshare, take all of the most important considerations into account.

Know Your Rights

Sales pitches and the salesmen giving them have been accused time and time again of forcing customers to purchase timeshares through unethical, and, at times, illegal methods. To combat this, several states have adopted the “right of rescission,” which gives buyers the possibility of opting out of a contract should they feel it is not worth their time or money. However, be aware that these rights vary from state to state, and many timeshare companies are well aware of which states have the most lenient laws, effectively taking advantage of that location’s customers.

Know What You’re Getting

Understand that a timeshare is exactly as the name suggests: a shared piece of property with which you are given a certain period of time to occupy its quarters throughout the year (typically one to two weeks). This provides you with the conveniences of a luxury resort while avoiding the hassles. But, it’s important to keep in mind that you will not be the only person using this space. Never leave any personal items behind.

Another important aspect to understand about purchasing a timeshare is that it is not an investment. Its value will not increase over time. Those looking to invest and make money are mistaken. The only reason you should be purchasing a timeshare is because you actually want to spend time in its respective location.

Know When You’re Being Scammed

 
Not all timeshare purchases are scams, but many salesmen will offer to throw in a “free gift” or something of the like in an attempt to have you pay more than you have to. Similarly, there are hundreds of cases of resale scams for buyers who are struggling to sell their timeshare. If you are contacted by a “buyer” who is seemingly ecstatic to buy your timeshare, approach with caution. A few red flags include them offering to pay more than the asking price, and receiving any calls at all if you haven’t advertised your sale. Luckily, there are laws in place that help timeshare owners properly navigate this complex industry, and avoid falling victim to the many financial traps that exist.

The Best Websites for Travel Deals

One of the most important aspects of travel that every avid adventurer understands is financing and the need to budget one’s expenses. Traveling the world is a very expensive hobby depending on your modes of transportation and level of involvedness in the countries you are visiting. The first step you can take in alleviating these financial difficulties is finding the best deals online before you embark on your journey. With that said, here are some of the best websites you can find that will help you save on airfare, lodging, and so much more.

Kayak.com

One of more well known travel sites that has been rapidly growing in popularity in recent years, Kayak searches the internet for the cheapest flights, conveniently compiling them on a detailed list that you can look through with ease. Be sure to keep in mind that you’ll tend to find the better deals when you aren’t on such a strict schedule. That is, the more flexible you are with your time of departure and where exactly you’d like to land, the more likely you are to save.

Kayak also allows you to see how much higher or lower prices may be in the near future with their price forecaster, and recommends either buying now or waiting for prices to drop. These predictions depend on when and where in the world you’d like to go, and whether it is a one-way flight or round-trip.

TripAdvisor

When looking for in-depth hotel reviews from both professionals and customers, look no further than TripAdvisor. Refine your search down to the very mile from the airport you plan to land at, and this incredibly helpful site will display the nearest hotels, bed and breakfasts, and even rentals. Sort by rating, and your reason for your stay. Whether you are traveling with family, friends, on business, or for a romantic getaway, you are guaranteed to find the perfect place to stay.

It is important to note that TripAdvisor is a third party site that links you directly to their partnering sites, like Expedia and Hotels.com. They don’t actually offer hotels or rooms themselves, but they are able to find some of the best available offers throughout the web.

Priceline

Priceline does almost everything for you. Searching for the lowest prices in hotels, flights, and rental cars, this travel site is essentially an online travel agent. After you’ve chosen your preferred star rating, the dates of your stay, and where you’re traveling, Priceline negotiates deals for you. The trick is that you aren’t told exactly what hotel you’re staying at until after you’ve paid, so for the less adventurous, this online tool may not be for you. Unless you are visiting your desired destination for the first time or are uncomfortable with blind booking, Priceline can be an incredibly helpful resource in haggling, and saving substantial amounts of vacation expenses.

Page 2 of 3

Powered by WordPress & Theme by Anders Norén