5 Luxury travel hacks

1. Rent a lux house

Grab your mates, your extended family or multiple families and rent out a luxury house. The initial price may seem huge, but when you split it per person, it will often end up cheaper than staying in a cramped hotel.
Now you’ll feel like the rich and famous; you can all throw in to share food costs, which means you can go a little more deluxe with your food choices – don’t forget the champers and morning mimosas!
We stayed in a luxury house on the waterfront on the Gold Coast with 14 of my friends for my 40th.

2. Luxury for less

We recently shared a new search aggregator by Travelex that helps you find luxury holidays for less and breaks it down into flight, accommodation and currency costs according to your budget. You’ll be surprised by how far your money can go.

3. All-inclusive holidays

There are plenty of travel destinations or experiences (like cruises) that offer all-inclusive deals, which can be a great way get more for your money. You know how much to budget before you go, your food, accommodation, and sometimes alcohol and activities are all included.
All inclusive holidays are suited to those type of holidays where you don’t want to do too much but relax and spend time with those you love, rather than exploring, adventuring and tasting the local life.

4. Repositioning cruises

Cruise ships often have to relocate to start a new itinerary or season. Instead of sailing the ship empty, they sell discounted tickets – on average up to 50% off. Repositioning cruises travelling to and from Australia frequently stop in Tahiti or travel via Hawaiian ports such as Honolulu, Lahaina, Kailua, and Kona. Other repositioning itineraries that journey to and from Asia include ports such as Singapore, Bali, Kota Kinabalu in Malaysia, and Puerto Princessa and Manila in the Philippines.
If you’re planning on a one way trip to a destination, this could be a cheap way to get yourself there, making the journey part of the travel adventure. I considered it as an option to get to Hawaii on our America Unplugged road trip, but couldn’t find anything to suit.

5. Chauffeur driven transfers

Travelling business or first? Top tier airlines such as Qantas and Emirates offer complimentary chauffeur driven transfers to and from the airport on selected major flights.
If you have a big travelling party, it might even be worth you investigating the price of this in comparison to other forms of transport. Go lux for less when you can!

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6 Travel Hacks to save money on accommodation

1. Use your points

We stayed in Denver, Colorado recently using hotel reward points, saving us around $300 a night. It’s beneficial to sign up to hotel chains loyalty programs. Get on their email list as they often have special deals come out for their members such as double points and free upgrades.
It doesn’t always have to be direct with that hotel chain. American Express Membership Rewards have two Hotel Guest Partners. You can transfer your points into your preferred program and book directly with the partner.

2. Access Club Lounges

Some hotel chains, like Ritz-Carlton and Sheraton, have Club Lounges. You may get access to these depending on your program status, or you can purchase a pass with your points.
These club lounges have free food and drinks. We saved a lot of money eating out when we stayed at the Ritz in Denver as we could eat in the Club lounge!

3. Ask for upgrades and best price

Don’t be shy to ask for an upgrade when you check in. We often get upgrades without even asking. Hotel chains will often upgrade you if they have space as they want their customers to have incredible experiences.
Golden Rule – be kind, courteous and friendly. It’s just karma baby!
Ask the accommodation what is the best price they can do. They can often reduce the rate for you if you book directly with them. On our road trip around Australia, we often asked the caravan parks/hotels upon check-in if that was their best price. We’d often get the kids thrown in for free! If you don’t ask, you don’t get.

4. Use Airbnb

Airbnb is my favourite way to book cheap accommodation. Plus, you get to live like a local and have the facilities to cook your food and save more money.
Apartment rentals often come with free Wi-Fi, are in good locations, and other perks, like tea and coffee, use of kayaks and bikes, and a local’s guide to the area.
I stayed in an Airbnb in LA, and the host even offered transfer services to the airport which were on par with Uber prices. She was also a wealth of inside knowledge, and it was way cheaper than staying in a hotel – by at least $1000 in total.

5. Find the deals

Two for the price of one, discounted rates, kids stay for free – there are multiple ways to find cheap accommodation. Travelling outside of peak times will give you the biggest chance.
Stay connected to your favourite hotel chains and search engine providers via email or social media to quickly grab the deals as they come through.

6. Book your travels with points

As outlined in this post, I used the American Express Travel booking service on their website to book flights, accommodation, car rental and even tours. I found their deals very comparable to other sites, if not better – they had some great discounted deals on accommodation!
You can book using points, or a combination of points + pay.  If you use up all your points, and still have more to book, you can pay for whatever’s left with your American Express Card and collect more points for travel!
With American Express Travel Online there are no restrictions, no blackout dates, and no fees. Simple.
For some eligible American Express Cards offer a complimentary Travel Credit, which can be used to book eligible prepaid flights, hotels or car hire when booking with American Express Travel Online.


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13 Travel hacks to save money on flights

1. Clear your cache, enable private browsing

Airlines track your behaviour via cookies, which means if you return at a later date to grab that cheap flight you found in your flight search, they’ve noted your interest through the cookies previously and so will, this time, return a slightly higher price for your flight. #cheeky You can get around this by clearing your cache or enabling private browsing.

2. Use a VPN

Flights can be different prices depending on which country you book from. Use a VPN – a Virtual Private Network – which makes it look like you are in another country.
You can select a VPN from the US, UK, Germany, Japan, etc. to find the lowest price and book through that VPN. It may take time, but you could save a substantial amount on flights.

3. Use search engines

Use search engines like Skyscanner, Adioso, and Google Flights who will scan the airlines for you and bring you comparative rates. You can purchase the best deal directly from them. OR, after finding the best deal, go direct to the airline’s website to see if you can get a better deal.
You can then also check to see if you can reduce the price or get free upgrades with your frequent flyer or membership points. Check your favourite airline first. If the price is right, it’s always best to fly your favourites and stockpile those points each time you fly.

4. Use Frequent Flyer or Membership Points

I can’t tell you how many flights we’ve paid for using frequent flyer points. You can collect them each time you fly – as long as you’re a member of that frequent flyer program. Or, you can collect them using our first travel hack – use your credit card to pay for all expenses. You’ll be surprised how quickly they accumulate.
Craig just used his frequent flyer points to pay for his flight to South Australia. We get several flights per year, including international, due to our frequent flyer points.
American Express Membership Rewards program has over 10 Airline Partners you can transfer your points to. We usually try and consolidate our points to Qantas, but our current Card doesn’t have that option – but we can transfer to Velocity (Virgin), which we use frequently.
If there’s a seat available with Webjet, your points can pay for it, or a combination of points plus pay on your American Express Card.

5. Free flight with your credit card fee

When we pay our annual fee each year for our American Express Platinum Edge, we get a free domestic flight on Virgin. Our friend, Mel, has used her one before to visit us on the Goldie – yay!
I used mine the other day for my return flight to South Australia. If you’re paying fees, find ways to make them work in your favour.
Plus, when you create a new account with American Express you get a bonus 10,000 points. You can use those points in multiple ways as outlined in this post.

6. Find hidden airports

Some airlines don’t operate in the same alliance or have a codeshare agreement, which means they might not show up together on flight searches even though the option is available.
TripCombi uses an algorithm to search connections from nearby airports or between two airlines to track ‘hidden airports,’ as the team calls them. These flights can often offer better rates and connections.

7. Follow Sales Days

Some airlines have certain days of the week where they will release their sale fares. For example, Virgin Australia has its Thursday Happy Hour, which is an exclusive sale for discount flights that you can access only by signing up for their email alert and Jetstar has Friday Frenzy with great sales to domestic and international locations each week.
You can also do this through websites like Airfare Watchdog and CheapAir.com, which both offer fare-track alerts that let you know when prices drop.

8. Politely complain

Don’t go looking for things to complain about, but if something legitimately goes wrong on a flight, reach out to the airline to express your disappointment and explain the situation. Often you’ll receive credit.
I complained to Jetstar once about the rude staff, and I received a $100 credit. It wasn’t why I complained; I didn’t even know that would happen.

9. Get bumped

If you’ve got plenty of time up your sleeves, this is one of my favourite travel hacks.
Plenty of airlines overbook their plans with the hopes some people won’t show up. If they’re too full, they ask for bump volunteers. They’ll get you on the next possible flight as well as giving you perks like free flights, credit and accommodation vouchers if the next flight is not until the next day.

10. Set flight alerts

Search Kayak for the flight you want, and check the price predictor.  If the flight is more than 3-4 months away, set a fare alert, and watch the price.
When you find a price that works, try to book it on a Tuesday or Wednesday when prices are typically lower. To make the hack work even more in your favour, head over to American Express Travel and pay the flight with as many points as you have. If there’s a balance left over, use your American Express card to pay for it and collect more points!

11. Buy an upgrade with points

Some seats on each flight are kept aside for frequent flyers to effectively ‘buy’ using points. These can be seven times less than the Points plus pay seats which are available. These are best suited to solo and flexible travellers.
Qantas has the option to bid for your upgrade. The last remaining unsold biz class seats are put to auction with the highest bidder wins! Take your chances!

12. Work for an airline

Craig worked for Delta in North Carolina for two years. We had standby free flights including flights back to Australia. It was such a shame that they only had space remaining in business class!

13. Airline Lounge upgrades

Free food, drinks and Wi-Fi plus TV, desks and comfy chairs away from the chaos. I didn’t even notice my flight was delayed by almost three hours on my return from LAX. I was lapping up the luxury in the Qantas Business Lounge. Check your frequent flyer program status to see if lounge access is included.
American Express grants eligible Card Members two complimentary airport lounge visits each year to the Sydney International lounge.

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7 Beautiful Lakes

In this post we share 7 beautiful photos of Lakes. Check them out and then share your thoughts in the comments.

Lake Louise, Banff National Park

Emerald Lakes, Tongariro, New Zealand

Taal Crater Lake, Philippines

   

Bear Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Lake McKenzie, Fraser Island, Australia

Lake Malawi, Africa

Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe, California

                                                                 

What is your favourite lake? Share a link to a blog post featuring a lake and we will PIN it.

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How to Travel by Bus in China (Plus Expert Tips)

When it comes to traveling in China, most tourist opt to either fly or hop on a train. The reasoning is quite simple: flying is fast and trains are cheap.
There are times, however, when China’s massive, intercity bus system is your best option. Perhaps the flights are too expensive or the train is too full. Maybe you want to save a few dollars or you’re heading to a place that isn’t serviced by an airport or train station.
Whatever the reason, if you plan to take a bus in China, this guide should provide everything you need to know before you travel. Since it has ended up being a relatively long guide, I’ve divided this into multiple “chapters” to help make it easy to digest and you can skip to what you want to read using the table of contents here:

If you find this guide helpful, please leave a comment below or share it on social media. Thanks!

Pros and Cons of Taking a Bus in China

 

There are a number of reasons why you might want to take a bus in China…as well as a few reasons you would potentially want to avoid it. Over the decade, I’ve seen my fair share of both while traveling on a Chinese bus.
Let’s start by breaking down a few of the reasons that a bus is a good option for tourists:

• Frequency: Chinese buses often run at a higher frequency than flights in China or trains. Most of the time you don’t have to worry about booking in advance because there will be a bus between two cities that runs every 20 minutes.
• Convenience: Compared to Chinese airports and train stations, security at a bus station is a breeze. I rarely arrive at a bus station any earlier than 30 minutes before my departure and I still end up waiting for 15 minutes.
• Station Location: Most of the time, Chinese bus stations are located in the heart of a city as opposed to airports and train stations which are usually on the edge of town. This can not only save you time, it also saves you the expense of a taxi into town.
• Availability: I have never bought a bus ticket earlier than a day in advance and often I buy it on the day of departure. Unlike flights and trains, China bus tickets tend to have more availability, giving you the flexibility to change your itinerary at a moment’s notice.

That’s what makes China bus travel good. Here’s a bit of what I don’t like about China bus travel:

• Unreliable Comfort: Sometimes you get a relatively new bus but often you’ll find yourself riding a vehicle that has seen a couple decades worth of use. It’s a gamble you take and sometimes it can be quite uncomfortable.
• Unreliable Delays: Unexpected delays are possible (or in China, rather probable) no matter what form of transportation you decide to take. Unlike planes and trains, buses usually leave right on time. The difficulty comes with the unpredictability of the roads. I have been stuck in horrendous city traffic for hours, my bus has been stopped on the highway for a security checkpoint, my bus has broken down and I’ve run into road construction delays. It sucks but there’s nothing you can do about it.
• A Different Kind of Traveler: Buses are the poor man’s transportation, there’s just no way around it. Don’t get me wrong, the people are great, but since it’s not a high-profile means of transportation the rules don’t always get enforced. For instance, smoking: it’s not uncommon to see people smoking on a bus despite numerous signs saying it is forbidden. I’ve also seen a man walk onto a bus carrying a car windshield. No joke. His seat mate was miserable during the entire ride! These kind of things technically aren’t permitted but the rules are much more relaxed on Chinese buses.

Hopefully I haven’t discouraged you from attempting to take a bus in China, I just want to make sure you have a dose of reality. There are plenty of good reasons to take a bus – and I hope you do! – but make sure you set your expectations before buying your ticket.

A Peek Inside a Chinese Bus

If you’ve never had a chance to look inside a Chinese bus and you’re afraid about what you’re getting into, allow me to walk you through the average bus.
Generally speaking, there are two basic kinds of buses in China: the seated bus and the sleeper bus.
Seated Bus: the seated bus is exactly what it sounds like. There are usually two sets of two seats with a middle aisle and all the seats facing toward the front of the bus. As a tall guy, I’ve never had a complaint about the leg room in a Chinese bus but the seats can be somewhat narrow.

Image Credit: Asia Adventures

Most buses have an entertainment system that will play Chinese movies throughout the duration of the journey and most buses have an air-conditioning and heating system (though not all). Your seat will recline slightly but don’t expect a great sleeping position. A few seated buses have a bathroom but often they won’t be available for use (or you won’t want to use them anyway).
All seats in a seated bus are priced equally and are sold on a first-come-first-serve basis and prices are fixed.
Sleeper Bus: A sleeper bus is different in that travelers each have a bed instead of a seat. There are usually three rows of beds with two aisles in between and a bathroom toward the back (which again, may or may not be available for use). There is a top and bottom bed the entire length of the bus.

Image credit: Earthlooping

Anybody whose height exceeds 5’8″ will have trouble fitting onto one of these beds, as I do. I don’t have the option to hang my feet over the edge since that is somebody else’s bed so I end up having to scrunch up a little.
These buses also usually have an entertainment system, A/C and heating, although it all depends on the age of the bus you’re riding.
Beds are priced higher for the top bunk than the bottom bunk in a sleeper bus.

Getting to a Chinese Bus Station

To the unseasoned China traveler, it seems simple enough to find a bus station, right? Just look up the word for “bus station” in your handy Mandarin phrasebook and tell the taxi driver. Boom! You’re done 🙂

Unfortunately, it’s not always that easy. With the exception of small towns, most cities in China have a number of different bus stations scattered around. One may be a “long distance bus station” while the other is an “International Bus Station.” Often, bus stations are categorized by which direction their buses head (north, south, east or west) or even by which specific city or region they service. The bottom line is that the word “bus station” just doesn’t cut it. You need to know exactly which bus station you want to go to. How do you do this? Here are a couple ways:

• Travel Guide Books: Often, the best China travel guide books will give details on which bus stations go to which cities.
• Ask Your Hotel: Chances are they won’t know off-hand, but they’ll be able to ask the appropriate people and then write down the name of the bus station on a piece of paper that you can hand your taxi driver.
• Ask Your Taxi Driver: Don’t just tell the taxi driver to head to a bus station, tell him specifically which city you’re taking a bus to. In many cases, a taxi driver will know where you should go.

How to Find the Bus Schedule in China

In my opinion, the most confusing part about taking an intercity bus in China is figuring out the schedule. Unlike trains and airplanes, you can’t check schedules or even buy tickets online.
For most major intercity connections, China buses commonly depart once every twenty minutes, half-hour or hour. I’m making a major generalization here, I realize, but I’m assuming you’re not wanting to go to some po-dunk village that isn’t on any map.
There are some cases where only a handful or even one or two buses depart each day. In this case you’ll want to have an idea of the bus schedule. I’m going to separate the following recommendations by whether or not you can read Mandarin:
Yes, I Can Read Mandarin! Congratulations, your job will be a bit easier here. Most bus stations either post their schedule on the wall or have an LED board that lists destinations and departures to each city. Sometimes they are translated into English but often they are not.
Since you can read Mandarin, I assume you can also write/type as well. In this case, I’ve had moderate success looking up “[city] to [city] bus schedule” in Mandarin on baidu.com. The results aren’t always up-to-date, but you’ll at least get a general idea of when a bus should depart and how much it should cost.
No, I Can’t Read Mandarin. That’s ok, it’s really not a big deal. As I mentioned in an above chapter, you can always check out a good China travel guide book for bus schedules, although you should make sure that the book is the latest edition.
Other options include just asking the people at the bus ticket counter who can often show you on a computer screen the times of departure and how much a ticket will cost. Alternatively, perhaps your hotel or hostel can give you some good information.

How to Buy Bus Tickets in China

Since buying bus tickets online has not yet become an option, you’re left with only two options: buy a ticket at the bus station or (maybe) have a proxy do it for you.
China now runs on a “real-name ticket system,” which means that you have to have an official form of ID (your passport) in order to purchase bus tickets. Once your ticket is bought, you can’t transfer this ticket to anybody else without returning it and buying a new one.
Standing in line at a Chinese bus station isn’t my favorite activity in the world, but it’s usually not as bad as, say, standing in line at a train station. Most of the time I arrive on my day of departure, stand in line and purchase a ticket. You’ll want to have cash ready for the purchase since bank cards usually aren’t accepted – particularly foreign credit cards.
It used to be that hostels would offer a ticket purchasing service for guests (I’m not sure how many still offer this). You would need to provide a photocopy of your passport and they’ll charge you a fee, but at least you don’t have to stand in line yourself. An alternative would be to purchase tickets online with a service like www.chinabusguide.com. It’s easy to use but not every city in China is included.

China Buses: Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve tried to provide as much information as I can in the above chapter, but I consistently receive questions that I want to answer here in detail.
What can you take on a bus?
The beauty of the Chinese bus is that you can take almost anything you want. People take bicycles, overweight pieces of luggage, instruments…you name it. There isn’t an official weight limit so whatever can easily fit in the underneath hatch is usually permitted.
What are you prohibited from taking on a bus?
Like any other form of transportation in China, there are still some things that you can’t take with you through the security checkpoint of the bus station. This includes: knives, bottles of any kind of liquid, fuel canisters (used for camping in China), lighters, etc. For drinks, you can buy water and sodas at shops inside the bus station.
Can you smoke on a China bus?
While officially prohibited, unfortunately I’ve seen plenty of passengers and even bus drivers smoke on a China bus. Most people wait for a rest stop to pull out their cigarettes but that’s not always the case. If you don’t like smoking, it’s not impolite to ask the smoker next to you to put out their cigarette. Be bold! You’re a foreigner and you can get away with it.
Are there electrical outlets on a China bus?
No. I wish there were but I have yet to see a seated or a sleeper bus with electrical outlets.
Can I get off anywhere along the bus route?
Yes, you can. Just tell the driver exactly where you want to get off (perhaps a specific village or place along the road) and they will stop to let you off.
Do buses pick up hitchhikers in China?
Yes, they do. If you’re out in the boondocks, you can stand on the side of the road and try to wave down a bus. They won’t stop if they’re full, but if they stop just tell them where you’re going on and hop on. You’ll have to pay the driver directly and they’re usually pretty good about giving a fair price for transport.

Bus Tips from a Seasoned China Traveler

Over the many years that I’ve taken buses all across China, there are a few quick tips I’ve picked up that I believe could be helpful to you or even save you money. Hopefully you find them useful!

• Take the Night Bus: Want to save some money? Take the night sleeper bus to save yourself the money of a hotel. It won’t be as comfortable of a sleep but you’ll manage, I promise.
• Take Your Own Food: The rest stops for buses can be sketchy at best. Food options are limited and the hole-in-the-wall restaurants are usually a recipe for disaster. Stock up on food before you leave to make sure you can survive on what you have in your own bag.
• Keep Valuables Up Top: While I definitely recommend you store your luggage in the lower storage compartments, make sure you have all your valuables with you at your seat. I’ve known a couple people who have had items stolen from the below compartments.
• Bring Your Own Light: This tip is for the overnight sleeper buses. Sometimes you’ll have a light to read by but many times you won’t.

Conclusion: Taking a Bus in China

That’s it! I hope you’ve found this guide to be helpful. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the experience and adventure of taking a bus across China’s beautiful landscape and I hope you have the opportunity to do the same.
If you have any questions, please let me know in the comments below and if this has been useful please share this guide on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ or any other social media platform. Thanks!

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10 Things You Need to Know About Abalone Diving in Mendocino, CA

The cliffs of Mendocino

My Mendocino abalone diving adventure started with a drive from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Mendocino—which was one of the most stunning drives I have ever experienced. I lucked out on the weather and drove out of the city through sun-kissed hills that rose off the bay and up onto the swerving roads encompassed by trees that dappled my path with playful shadows. The road eventually led out to the graceful landscape of golden fields and layers of vineyards as I came into Sonoma wine country. My surroundings were so stunning that I decided that the next time I make the four-hour journey, I will set aside a full day and stay overnight at one of the many inns along the way and perhaps take in some wine-tasting before hitting the coastline. The end of my journey was enshrouded by Sequoias. The road took on a fairytale feeling of towering majesty and pine that swept open to the expansive coastline and sheer cliffs of the Pacific.
The Little River Inn (built in 1857) is set directly on North Highway One, a few miles outside of the charming town of Mendocino and just around the bend from Van Damme State Park. Pulling up felt familiar, almost as though I was visiting a dear friend or family member, and that set the warm and inviting precedent for the entire experience. The inn is ingrained in local history and is still run by the family that started it five generations ago. It’s beautifully managed. Every room features a view of the ocean and modern amenities and is kept with care and thoughtfulness. The place features a chef-run restaurant, a fantastic bar that has changed little since 1939 (you can whale-watch from the bar; they provide binoculars), a spa, a golf course, and even a cottage that sells yarn of every type called the Mendocino Yarn Shop (they teach knitting and crocheting as well).
The diving camp takes place over two days. The first day is a practice run and includes some “classroom” time with the experts from TritonX—licensed guides Josh Russo, Greg Fonts and Greg Shimaura. Many may wonder why a guide is needed when there’s freediving just off the coastline. If it’s your first time freediving, instruction is a must. It’s a whole new ballgame from diving with tanks, as you are relying on specific breathing technique and body control—and the waters can be unforgiving. This is not a hardcore-adventure-travel-type of thing to take on, but it’s definitely not for wimps. I grew up diving, to include freediving, but I was very grateful to have some of the world’s best freedivers guiding me through every procedure, safety and the laws of hunting abalone (yes, they are stringent and the coastline is heavily watched by wildlife officers).
Once you’re back from Van Damme Beach you have the option to learn how to clean and prep what you caught for the day. Having chef Marc Dym on site was a treat, as we also learned the different ways to prep abalone steak and enjoyed a beautiful meal created from our catch. The accompanying wine from Mendocino was a big bonus, and no matter where we were on the property there never seemed to be a lack of stunning views. In a short space of time it was easy to create friendships, and I have every intention of returning.
Here are ten things to know before you go:

Abalone catch in Mendocino, CA

1. You need a license
You must have a State of California Department of Fish and Wildlife fishing license for the days you are hunting abalone. This is to include a Report Card that lists what the details of what was caught, where, when, etc. You can obtain a license from the CVS in Ft. Bragg, a short drive from prime abalone hunting off of Van Damme Beach. You can order them in advance through the CDFW site, but keep in mind delivery may take up to two weeks.

A room with a view at Little River Inn

2. The Little River Inn
There are several places to stay, but I highly recommend Little River Inn. It’s been family-owned for five generations, and every room has a knockout view of the ocean, and you are treated like welcome family.

Freediving equipment provided by TritonX

3. Wet suits should be 7 mm thick
If you bring your own wet suit, it should be at least 7 mm thick. The water is cold, even in the summer months. It should also include a hood, booties and gloves.

Tag your abalone

4. Know the rules of how many abalone you are permitted to pull
This season on the California North Coast the annual limit is 18, but only a total of nine can be taken from Sonoma and Marin Counties. It may not be obvious, but you are being monitored and it’s not unusual for the wildlife rangers to do a license spot check.

Whale-watching from Ole’s Bar

5. Whale watch at Ole’s Whale Watch Bar
If you haven’t had enough wildlife after your dive, the best place to get a drink and whale watch at the same time is Ole’s Whale Watch Bar, which is conveniently in the Little River Inn. They even provide the binoculars and the bartenders are excellent.

Rolling hills of Anderson Valley, CA

6. If you fly in to San Francisco, rent a car and make a day of the drive
The scenery coming out of the city into Marin County and then through the vineyards of Anderson Valley is stunning. You end up on a road winding through striking redwood forest that opens up to a coastline like no other.

Van Damme Beach in Mendocino

7. Forget something? You can pick it up in Ft. Bragg
If you forget anything Ft. Bragg is a short drive away from the primary diving spot of Van Damme Beach and is full of modern conveniences.

The town of Mendocino, CA

8. Take some time to visit the town of Mendocino
It’s quintessentially California quaint, with Victorian houses and lovely cafes set on the wild coastline of the Pacific.

Josh Russo of TritonX preps divers

9. Go with professional divers…
…especially if you are remotely new to free diving. This is not a sport to be taken lightly, and even in shallow depths there is opportunity for bad things to happen. Being taught the right way to dive and harvest abalone is imperative not only to personal safety, but also to the future of the abalone population.

Van Damme Beach in Mendocino

10. Sign up for Abalone Camp
Make your experience streamlined and sign up for Abalone Camp or another of Little River Inn’s abalone diving options that include accommodation, gear, meals, and world-class freediving guides. The Abalone Camp package starts at $393. It’s a fun and social way to enjoy learning how to catch, clean and cook abalone—all while under the care of professionals who love what they do. There is also an Abalone Adventure at the Albion Schoolhouse package available August 1 – November 30, 2016. The package starts at $4,000 for six people. Reservations are based upon availability and require a 14-day notice. 

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5 Easy Tips for Saving Money on Solo Travel

“Double occupancy” — a phrase that strikes fear and annoyance into the hearts of many a deal-seeking solo traveler. And when tours, resorts and cruises aren’t running at full capacity, paying a single supplement for a spot that would have otherwise been empty — and generating no revenue at all — seems downright unfair. If you’re planning on taking a solo trip anytime soon, follow these five easy tips so you won’t have to pay extra for that phantom travel partner.

1. Negotiate a Better Rate
By now you should know that a phone call and some pleasant words can get you further than any amount of savvy Googling. If your dream vacation is advertised as a package for two, call up and see whether the tour operator can do right by you as a solo traveler instead. Gently point out how your being there — even at a cut rate — is still money in their company’s pocket, especially if you’re looking to travel at a less popular time of the year. After all, a half-filled room is more lucrative than one that goes empty, and for an all-inclusive package, that’s also one less hungry mouth they’ll have to feed.

2. Be Adventurous
The upkeep of a room in use — as in maid service, laundry, etc. — is an oft-cited reason for the single supplement since it costs the same in overhead no matter if one or two people are staying in the room. Enter adventure travel, with its hostels, tents, shared hotel rooms and other inexpensive accommodations, often charged on a per-person basis instead. G Adventures, TrekAmerica, The Clymb and REI Adventures — yup, from the popular outdoor retailer — have a number of off-the-beaten-path options that won’t cost you double, as long as you don’t mind roughing it a little.

3. Consider Taking a Group Tour
A number of tour companies have caught on that there’s money in solo travel and cater specifically to it. More than half of the travelers on group tours by companies like Contiki and Intrepid Travel go it alone and end up meeting new friends in the often-shared accommodations along the way; Intrepid Travel, which caters to clientele of any age (rather than the strictly 18-to-35-year-old policy of Contiki), will only charge a single supplement if you simply must have your own room (Contiki works the same way, as does G Adventures, mentioned above). Overseas Adventure Travel, on the other hand, bills itself as “the leader in solo-friendly travel” for adults 50 and up, promising no additional charges for your own accommodations, while Exodus Travels earmarks certain weeks of its international tours for single travelers at the same per-person rate.

4. Cruise for Less
While singles cruises have been a thing since The Love Boat, several cruise lines have more recently begun building ships to better cater to solo clientele. Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean and Holland America all have boats featuring studio cabins specifically designed for parties of one, with no extra fee for booking. Norwegian’s offerings are most robust — with five of its large liners equipped with solo-style cabins — and include a Studio Lounge with a daily happy hour just for those staying in them. Meanwhile, Holland America’s Single Partners Program offers a same-sex roommate service in which you pay the double-occupancy rate even if no roommate is found, as well as a plethora of mingling opportunities just for solo travelers. For those over 50 who prefer a cozier boat experience, Grand Circle Cruise Line seldom charges a single supplement on its small ships and river cruises.

5. Double Down on a Good Deal
Sometimes, a vacation discount is so good or a points offer so valuable, you’ll do better paying the double occupancy rate than trying to find a trip without the single supplement. As you might imagine, this is most likely to happen if you travel off-season or snap up a last-minute deal — something that’s ever-so-much easier when yours is the only schedule you have to contend with. Even still, it can’t hurt to make a phone call, too, just in case.
Do you have any tips for saving money on solo travel? Share them in the comments, below.
Featured image of a solo traveler taking a selfie in a beautiful city courtesy of Shutterstock.

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5 Places to Eat Thai Street Food in Bangkok

Eating Thai street food is one of our favourite things to do in Bangkok.
It’s hard not to find a street corner with a row of carts lined up dishing up Thail meals like noodle soup, BBQ pork, fish cakes and delicious curries.
Is your mouth watering as much as mine?
The good news is that eating street food has many benefits to you as a traveller  – it’s generally safe (you can see what’s being cooked and it’s fresh), you get to interact with the locals, it’s authentic, delicious and the best way to give back to the local economy.
Eating Thai street food in Bangkok is incredibly cheap, as is the street food in all of Thailand. A bag of fish cakes will set you back 20 baht (less than a $1) and a noodle soup around 60 baht ($2).

How do you know where to eat the best street food in Bangkok?

Craig and I really believe the best Thai street food is the street you are on. Go to the areas that are thriving with locals—always a sign that the food rocks.
Know a few of your fave dishes in Thai, so you can order the right thing. Have it written down in Thai language if you can. If all else fails use your eyes to choose and then point and smile.
I know most of you are eager to really eat at the BEST places for street food in Bangkok. There has to be a list somewhere right?
Well according to our guide Tim, from Absolutely Fantastic Holidays, there is. Tim is a Bangkok local and shared with us what is widely considered throughout the Bangkok community to be the

5 Places to Eat Street Food in Bangkok

1. Chinatown

OMG, if you love authentic Thai street food you will love visiting Chinatown in Bangkok. There are hundreds of street stalls, markets, carts and restaurants. Night time is when Yaowarat, as Chinatown is also known as, will rock your taste buds.
We can really understand why this comes in at Number 1. According to Jim Thompson, who took us on a walking tour of Yaowarat last year, Chinatown is the place where street food first began in Thailand over 200 years ago when Bangkok was the major trading hub of South East Asia.

Dumplings

Just look for the ad hoc stalls, the plastic tables and chairs, feast out on delicious food and wash it all down with a Singa beer.
We lived a short walk from the outskirts of Chinatown and loved wandering down for our evening meal of Thai noodles with gravy. At 20 baht how can you say no?

oyster omellete – Chinatown special

2. Silom Road, Bangkok

Simlom Road is the only area on the list we have not experienced recently, although we did venture to this area of Bangkok whilst living in the city in 2002.
Being the central business district of Bangkok there are a lot of people, hungry people wanting a quick meal in between office hours. That means you’ll find a lot of Bangkok street food options.
Soi Convent and Soi 20 is where you probably most want to go to gorge on cheap Thai food.

3. Soi Rambuttri

This is one of our favourite streets in Bangkok.  Soi Rambuttri is one of the few places you can escape the madness of Bangkok.
When we lived in Bangkok this street was known as Dog Shit Alley, because of the number of dogs that paraded up and down the rat-infested street. We loved eating Thai food and drinking here. It was cool before it was the hipster-cool it is now. It has had a major uplift and is now a pretty Bangkok oasis.

credit: zealous

We were surprised Soi Rambuttri made the list as it seems such a small area, but Tim assures us the food there is known to be first class. It’s also really cheap.
We didn’t eat there this time, except for Kalyra who gorged herself on a cheap banana pancakes with chocolate – one of our fave 2am treats after a night in the Alley.

4. Banglamphu

When we explained why we didn’t understand how Soi Rambutri and Banglamphu were both on the list – as Dog Shit Alley is in Banglampoo – Tim explained that the street food is a little different.
Banglamphu is the area around the river, near the Golden Palace that comprises the backpacking travel area of Khao San Road and So Rambutrri.
If you want the really great Bangkok street food, then walk to the end of Khao San Road, turn right past the police station opposite the Wat and Soi Rambuttri and lining the streets will be many many street stalls and carts. Also the streets adjacent to Khao San.

credit: amsfrank

We can absolutely affirm that this is a great place to eat the best street food in Bangkok. This was where we ate dinner most nights when we lived in Bangkok, we loved to feast on fish cakes and noodle soup.

5. Soi 38 Sukumvhit

We don’t feel we had the normal Soi 38 street food experience. We were excited to feast on this street as we had heard so much about it, but only felt disappointed upon arrival.
There were only a few carts lining the street, we envisioned much more, and the selection didn’t seem all that great. Mind you, we did have a very whiny 5-year-old at the time so probably were not really focused. We ended up jumping in a small stall just to have some peace.

The Tom Yum Goong we ordered was one of the worst we have ever had. Maybe because we are so used to Bangkok street food, we weren’t that wowed by Soi 38. Many people are though, so I would go and see for yourself.

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10 Places to Visit in Ireland with Kids

It’s incredibly easy to think of Ireland as a place for “seasoned” tourists to take bus tours or for young singles on self-directed “pub tours”.
But the Ireland I know is welcoming for the entire family, filled with a centuries old magic just waiting to be discovered.
For nearly a decade I have been traveling with my children. My eldest daughter’s first flight was to Ireland. As we have crossed the country in the years since her first trip, we’ve discovered many amazing places – and have many more on our “future visits” list.

1. Cliffs of Moher

Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher seem a very obvious choice. The most popular tourist destination in Ireland, people have been coming here for hundreds of years to take in the incredible views.
Before walking up to the cliffs – a bit of a hike – be sure to stop in the Visitor’s Centre. The Atlantic Edge exhibit is well worth the time.
Kids, and even adults, will enjoy learning about the history of the Cliffs and how bird eggs were collected from the cliff walls.

2. Killarney

Jaunting Cart in Killarney National Park

The tourist town in Southwest Ireland – and for good reason. Killarney is often the starting point for many tourists who plan day trips around the Ring of Kerry.
Nestled next to the city centre is the edge of Killarney National Park, which includes Ross Castle, Muckross Abbey and Traditional Farms, and miles of walking and cycling trails.
Killarney is a terrific base for day trips through the Gap of Dunloe and the Beara Peninsula. Add in shopping, dining and lively pubs and it’s very easy to spend your entire vacation in this single area.

3. Lough Gur / Ballyhoura

Donkey Sanctuary

Quite possibly one of Ireland’s most magical – and least visited – areas. Lough Gur lies just south of Limerick City. In this small area you’ll find Ireland’s largest stone circle, the entrance to faerie land, castle ruins and incredible archeological sites. Easily, an entire days’ worth of exploration and discovery.
The Ballyhoura Region, of which Lough Gur is a part of, covers much of County Limerick and the northern portion of County Cork. A popular area for hikers and mountain bikers, you’ll also find Ireland’s only Donkey Sanctuary, which is fun and free to visit.
Rambling Houses across the area will teach you Irish Dancing or maybe even how to play the Irish whistle or bodhrán.

4. Kylemore Abbey

Photos of breathtaking Kylemore Abbey in Connemara inspire many adults to visit Ireland. But few realize that the grounds of the Abbey are incredible place for children. The paths throughout the grounds feature fun play areas for kids.
While the adults will marvel at the Walled Victorian Gardens, the kids will see a fabulous place to run and explore. The gardeners are always happy to answer questions and the tea shop provides a relaxing spot for a cuppa and a bit of chocolate.
If you are very adventurous, enquire about mountain hikes behind the Abbey. Not for the faint of heart, but the views are unbelievable!

5. Dingle Peninsula

The Dingle Peninsula

Often overlooked in it’s neighbor’s (the Ring of Kerry) popularity, the Dingle Peninsula offers quite a lot for families. One of the largest draws is the town of Dingle’s resident dolphin, Fungi.  A terrific Oceanic Aquarium lies just by Dingle Bay.
Driving the peninsula leads to a stone age fort, bee hive huts and the Gallarus Oratory. Views are just as dramatic as you’ll find on the Ring of Kerry.
The Dingle Peninsula is a Gaeltecht, or Irish speaking area, so you’re likely to pick up a few Irish words, as well.

6. Giant’s Causeway

Will you believe the scientists, who say the Giant’s Causeway is the result of an underwater volcano, or will you trust the Irish legend that says it was built by Finn McCool as a path way to Scotland?
After visiting the miles of octagonal stones along the Antrim coastline, it’s likely you’ll choose the Irish legend.
For those looking for adventure, follow the Antrim Coast Road, a narrow, often single carriage-way drive that hugs the Antrim coast providing some of the most breathtaking views in Northern Ireland.
Include a stop at the dramatic ruins of Dunluce Castle or, for those who enjoy a thrill, cross the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge.

7. Lough Boora Parklands

The Lough Boora Parklands were once a prime peat mining area. Now those acres of land are public space, filled with art that can be appreciated by all ages.
Wander the pathways on foot, or rent a bicycle. And bring bits of bread to feed the ducks and geese that call the park home.

8. Clifden / Sky Road

Enjoying the traditional craic

Though maybe not as white-knuckling as the Antrim Coast Road, the Sky Road near Clifden offers incredible views – and a few heart-racing moments as well. At times the road seems like it must fall off the edge of the cliffs above the Atlantic Ocean, and then the road widens, providing a place to stop and enjoy the spectacular scenery.
The village of Clifden is called the Capital of Connemara. Filled with shops and pubs, it’s the perfect place to dance the night away in a pub to traditional Irish music (yes, kids are allowed in the pubs!). And the beaches of Mannin Bay are a terrific place to hunt shells and sea glass.

9. Bunratty Castle

Bunratty Castle

One of Ireland’s best preserved tower houses, Bunratty Castle is the center of a folk park filled with traditional Irish cottages as well as a small village filled with traditional shops and a pub.
Wandering the grounds leads to a beautiful walled garden, a piggery, plenty of animals and even a play area featuring a wooden castle.
Bunratty castle can be explored top to bottom and hosts a Medieval Banquet nightly. For families with young children, I recommend Traditional Irish Night, which is filled with music, dancing and craic (pronounced “crack”; Irish for fun and entertainment).

10. Phoenix Park / Dublin Zoo

Many visits to Ireland begin and end in Dublin. But Dublin is not all about the pubs.
One place in the city that will surely please kids of any age is Phoenix Park. Over 1700 acres, Phoenix Park was originally a Royal deer park. You’ll still find deer and other wildlife throughout the park as you explore on foot or bicycle.
Also within the park is the Dublin Zoo, playgrounds, a flower garden, and tea shops. Phoenix park is truly a relaxing oasis in the center of bustling Dublin.

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34 Things to Know Before You Visit China

Ever since opening its doors to the world in the 70s, China has experienced a period of rapid growth and change.
These days, more and more tourists from around the world are flocking to the ancient country to experience its rich history and perhaps catch a glimpse of its bright future.
While China’s modernization has meant that many western amenities are available, there are still a few hurdles that might catch the unprepared unaware.
After two and a half years living and working in China, I’ve compiled some of the tips I wish I’d had before I got there. Hopefully, these will help you discover what a wonderfully challenging and beautiful country China is.

Using Money in China

1. Cash is preferred

Although more and more businesses (particularly large hotel chains and upscale restaurants) now accept Visa and Mastercard, the most widely accepted card scheme is UnionPay. However for the most part, you’ll need to pay with cash.

2. China recognizes only one currency – its own.

The official currency of China is the yuan, otherwise known as RMB or colloquially as ‘quai’.
Notes are available for 1RMB, 10RMB, 20RMB, 50RMB, and 100RMB. There are also 1RMB coins available, as well as smaller fractions of known as ‘Mao’ for the Chinese leader who adorns them.
Chinese businesses do not accept other currency, including the US dollar and the Hong Kong dollar.

3. Exchange currency at ATMs in China

While many Chinese banks do not accept foreign cards, larger chains such as HSBC can be used to withdraw local currency from foreign bank accounts. This usually offers a far better exchange rate than services such as Travelex.
International ATMs are available in all major cities, but may be harder to find in less tourist friendly areas.

4. Don’t forget to tell your bank you’re visiting China

Make sure your bank knows you’re going to be using your card in China. You don’t want your card being cancelled mid-trip.

6. Bring a translator

If you need to do your banking face to face, you may need to bring a local to help translate. Very few bank employees will have sufficient English to help you, although in larger cities such as Beijing or Shanghai they should have an English speaker on staff.

7 Don’t tip in China

The Chinese do not tip, and you aren’t expected to either.

8. Use your haggling skills

Outside of chain stores and boutiques, it’s totally possible to practice your haggling skills. Never accept the marked price or first price offered.
With shrewd negotiation, it’s possible to get souvenirs and such for a fraction of the quoted price.

Organising travel documentation for China

by Shutterstock

 9. Visas for China

China does not offer visas on arrival, so you’ll need to arrange your visa well in advance of your travels.
When applying for a tourist visa, you’ll need to provide either a letter of invitation from a Chinese friend or relative, or provide a detailed itinerary of your intended trip. This includes return flights and confirmed reservations for your hotel bookings.
Visas can be applied for in person at the Chinese consulate or can be ordered via post.

10. Booking hotels in China

If you want some flexibility with your itinerary, make use of sites that do not require upfront payment to make bookings. Chinese sites such as C-Trip require no deposit to book accommodation, and you can cancel without penalty once your visa is approved.
Booking.com offer free cancellation on most rooms. And their book now, pay later at check-in system allows you to lock in that rate with some flexibility. Just check the booking conditions per room type and you’ll have piece of mind when booking through them.

11. Travel insurance for China

While China is a very safe country with relatively low crime, it pays to be prepared. Book travel insurance and be sure to insure more valuable items such as cameras, laptops etc.
Read More: The best travel insurance for Australian’s travelling overseas

Managing your Health in China

 by Shutterstock

12. Drinking water in China

For the most part, tap water in China is not drinkable. Bottled water can be purchased very cheaply at most restaurants and stores.

13. Pharmacies in China

Chinese pharmacies offer both western and eastern medicine at very reasonable prices. Prescription medication can usually be purchased without a prescription (within reason) by simply providing the pharmacist with your identification.

14. Finding a doctor in China

Chinese hospitals can be crowded and daunting, but most major cities also have specialized hospitals catering to foreigners living and working in the country.
Even in the crowded public hospitals, many doctors will speak English.

15. Coping with air pollution in China

Larger cities in China have serious problems with air pollution, particularly in Beijing. Many locals swear by masks on days with hazardous air pollution, but it is safer to avoid exertion on days with particularly bad pollution.

16. Bring toilet paper

Most Chinese toilets do not provide toilet paper. Hotels and nicer restaurants will have it available, but it’s always a good idea to carry a roll of toilet paper or a box of tissues.

17. Bring hand soap or hand sanitizer

Like toilet paper, hand soap is not standard in many Chinese bathrooms. Carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer with you just to be sure.

Travel & Transit in China

 18. Get to the airport early

It is advisable to get to the airport three hours early for international flights to China and two hours early for domestic. Chinese airports can often be chaotic and overcrowded, so you’ll be grateful for that extra time.

19. Expect delays

In my two and a half years in China, I can count on one hand the number of flights that left on time. Be prepared to wait in the airport (or even on the plane) when flying from a Chinese airport.

20 Catching buses and trains in China

China is serviced by a fantastic network of buses and trains, including the high speed G-Trains that can whisk you across the country in a matter of hours. Rates are extremely affordable by western standards.

21. Bring your passport when making a booking

You’ll need your passport when making a booking, and you can only book one ticket per passport.

22. Make use of local booking sites

Chinese booking sites such as C-Trip and eLong often offer better rates than western booking sites. Be sure to check both when planning your trip.

23. Driving in China

Chinese roads can be rather chaotic, so self-driving is really only recommended for the particularly brave!

24. Catching taxis in China

Taxis in China are cheap and plentiful. Most drivers will not speak English, so it’s a good idea to get your destination address written in Chinese by somebody at your hotel.

Experiencing the Chinese Culture

by Shutterstock

25. Eating street food in China

Chinese street food is delicious and it is everywhere! When choosing which vendor to purchase from, check to see where the locals are dining. If you see a queue, it’s likely to be a safer bet.

26. Spitting in China

The Chinese do not use handkerchiefs and tissues to clear their noses, and instead spit. While this can be a bit confronting when you first visit China, they’re similarly affronted when they see us blowing our noses and keeping it.

27. Personal space

China is a crowded place, and the locals have become accustomed to a much smaller personal space than we are accustomed to in the west. Don’t be surprised if you’re jostled or shoved when queuing – it’s just part of Chinese culture.

28. Taking photos in China

The Chinese love to take photographs, and don’t be surprised if a local tries to snap a sneaky photo of you or even comes up to ask for a picture with you.
Like in most other countries, it always pays to ask permission before photographing a person or a government building.

29. Mailing things home from China

With cheap prices and a huge variety of products, it can be easy to go over your luggage limit while shopping in China. Thankfully, it is very affordable to post things home using China Post’s surface (sea) mail.
This can take one to two months, but is a very affordable way to get your belongings home.

30. Beware of Chinese knock-offs

Shopping streets such as Nanjing Road in Shanghai are a great place to find a bargain, but be aware that knock-offs of prominent brands can be seized at the airport upon your return home.

31. Don’t be shy in restaurants

Chinese waiters and waitresses aren’t as proactive as you may be used to, so don’t be afraid to throw your hands up and call for the fuyian if you want service.
Also be aware that conventional western service is hard to come by. Don’t be surprised if your starter, main, and dessert all arrive at once while your friend still waits for their first dish.

Technology in China

Guilin landscape by Shutterstock

32. Get a local SIM card in China

China’s major carriers include China Telecom and China Unicom. SIM cards can be purchased at the airport or at most corner stores, and credit is quite affordable.
Most Chinese SIMs are locked to the province in which they are purchased, so you’ll pay roaming charges when texting, calling, or using data outside of this province.
Even then, the rate is far cheaper than international roaming.

33. Get a VPN for China

China’s ‘Great Firewall’ blocks sites such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, and most of the Google selection. If you want to access these while you’re visiting China, you’ll need to purchase a VPN.
When shopping for VPNs, check that they cover China – as many free options do not.

You can try a VPN from NordVPN here, which comes highly recommended and covers China.

34. Download Weixin (or WeChat)

China’s premier messaging app is Weixin (WeChat in English) and everybody you meet – expats and locals alike – will have it.
Download the free app and set it up, as it’s a great way to keep in touch with locals who may not have social media.
Most importantly, don’t be afraid to get off the beaten track. While Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an are worthy of their international fame, there is so much more to China than these cities and their cultural sites.
China is a massive country with a rich history, over thirty distinct cultural groups, and a huge variety of landscapes to explore – don’t limit yourself to the same few sites everybody else visits.

Plan Your Trip to China

We’ve been traveling consistently for 17 years and have come to rely on a few trusted websites that save us money and time when booking accommodation, flights and car rental. Below are our preferred partners:
Accommodation in China

• Booking.com has over 30,000 properties in China including hotels, apartments and hostels. You get free cancellation on most rooms and a best price guarantee.

Flights to China

• Skyscanner is a comparison website that searches millions of flights. Once you find your best deal, they send you directly to the airline or agent to book (no extra fees).

Car Rental in China

• RentalCars.com is the world’s biggest car rental booking service that compares all the major brands like Hertz, Avis, Alamo, Enterprise, Europcar and Thrifty.

Do you have any tips for travel in China or other things to know before visiting China?

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