Stay Ready: Top Things to Carry in Your Carry-On

Mary Yohannan on

We all know the excitement of jet setting to a new destination, but let’s be real—flight delays and cancellations happen, and they can throw off even the best laid plans. That’s why having a well packed carry-on isn’t just smart, it’s your secret weapon for peace of mind when travel hiccups arise. When you have your essentials at your fingertips, those unexpected moments feel a little less stressful and a lot more manageable.

So, what’s the must have arsenal for your carry-on bag? Here’s a handy breakdown to keep you comfortable, connected, and prepared no matter what the skies throw your way:

Carry-On Essentials Checklist:

1. Important Documents  

  • Passport, ID, boarding passes, travel insurance, and any necessary visas — keep them organized in a travel wallet or clear pouch.

2. Comfort & Wellness  

  • Travel pillow, cozy socks, eye mask, earplugs or noise cancelling headphones, and a lightweight blanket or shawl. Don’t forget essential medications and a small first aid kit!

3. Medications & Medical Devices  

  • Always carry prescription medications in their original containers, along with copies of your prescriptions. Don’t forget any medical devices you rely on such as CPAP machines, inhalers, insulin pumps, or hearing aids — plus their chargers or batteries.

4. Tech & Entertainment  

  • Phone, charger, power bank, headphones, ereader or tablet with downloaded books, games, or movies, and a universal adapter if needed.

5. Snacks & Hydration  

  • Pack nonperishable, protein rich snacks like nuts, granola bars, or dried fruit, plus an empty reusable water bottle to fill after security.

6. Personal Care Items  

  • Toothbrush & toothpaste, deodorant, facial wipes, hand sanitizer, moisturizer, lip balm, and a small hairbrush.

7. Change of Clothes  

  • A fresh set of underwear or socks and a lightweight layer can be a lifesaver during unexpected delays.

8. Valuables & Essentials  

  • Wallet with cash and credit cards, glasses or contact lenses with solution, and any other personal items you can’t travel without.

Remember, your carry-on is your travel lifeline—organized thoughtfully, it turns surprises into just another part of your adventure! If you want a personalized checklist or tips tailored to your next getaway, our team is here to help.

Safe travels and happy packing from all of us at Life is Better Traveling!

Please understand we get several requests per day for European vacations. We provide experiences for our clients that provide a lot of value. If you are looking for a budget vacation, that is NOT us.

What is 7+4?

Portugal Adventure Awaits: Discover the Best of Beaches, Bites, and Sights!

Mary Yohannan on

Over here at Life is Better Traveling we are having a busy 2025!  A huge shout-out to all of our amazing clients who have trusted us with their upcoming travel plans.  Thank you for all your support!  

Some amazing destinations that we have planned in January were to Japan, an African Safari, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Jamaica, Walt Disney World, various cruises, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and what our newest newsletter is about, Portugal!  So are you ready to explore Portugal? This charming country is packed with sunny beaches, tasty food, and historic adventures. Let’s dive into what makes Portugal a must visit spot!”

Delicious Portuguese Foods to Try 🍴:

  • Bacalhau: Delight in Portugal’s famous salted cod. Try it baked, grilled, or in a stew  delicious every way!
  • Pastéis de Nata: These creamy custard tarts are a sweet treat you can’t miss.
  • Francesinha: A hearty sandwich piled with meat and cheese, smothered in a tasty sauce. Perfect for lunch!

Best Beaches to Relax On 🏖️:

  • Praia da Marinha: Known for its stunning cliffs and crystal clear water, perfect for sunbathing and snorkeling.
  • Costa Nova: Famous for its colorful striped beach houses and a wide sandy beach great for family fun.
  • Cascais: A charming beach close to Lisbon, offering both beauty and convenience.

Top 5 MustSee Attractions in Lisbon 🏰:

  • Belém Tower: This iconic tower is a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discovery.
  • Jerónimos Monastery: A stunning example of Manueline architecture rich with history.
  • Alfama District: Wander the narrow streets of this historic area, perfect for exploring and taking photos.
  • Lisbon Oceanarium: Dive into sea life at this popular family friendly spot.
  • São Jorge Castle: Climb the hill to enjoy panoramic city views from this ancient fortress.

Let’s make your dream Portugal getaway a reality!  For additional photos and information check out our Facebook page as well.

Check out working with one of our many award-winning travel agents or fill out the form below to begin planning your family’s next great adventure!

Please understand we get several requests per day for European vacations. We provide experiences for our clients that provide a lot of value. If you are looking for a budget vacation, that is NOT us.

What is 7+4?

Cruise the New England Coast: Discover the Magic of Fall

Mary Yohannan on

Fall Cruise to New England

🍁 Fall in Love with New England’s Coastal Charm by cruise🍁

As the leaves begin to turn into vibrant hues of orange and gold, there’s no better time to experience the picturesque New England coast than by setting sail on a fall cruise. Imagine gliding through serene waters, with crisp autumn air and stunning landscapes unfolding before you. From the quaint cobblestone streets of Boston to the historic lighthouses of Maine, a New England cruise offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that is simply breathtaking.

Discover Unique Shore Excursions

When you dock, the adventures continue! Explore Portland, Maine’s charming Old Port district, bursting with local boutiques, seafood restaurants, and artisan shops. Or embark on a scenic drive along the Kancamagus Highway, a must-see autumn foliage route. In Newport, Rhode Island, take a stroll along the famous Cliff Walk for panoramic ocean views and opulent Gilded Age mansions. Each port of call is a new opportunity to discover the distinctive flavors and character of New England.

Adventure Awaits Beyond the Shore​​

Step back in time with a visit to Mystic Seaport in Connecticut, America’s largest maritime museum. Immerse yourself in the 19th-century coastal village with its historic ships, a working preservation shipyard, and charming shops. For an adrenaline rush, consider whale watching in the Gulf of Maine, where you might spot humpback whales breaching against the backdrop of fiery autumn foliage. This once-in-a-lifetime experience will leave you in awe of nature’s grandeur.

Taste and Savor New England’s Culinary Delights

No New England adventure is complete without indulging in its culinary treasures. Enjoy a traditional lobster bake on the rocky shores of Bar Harbor, Maine, or sample the famous clam chowder in Boston. Don’t miss out on visiting a local farm for apple picking and sipping fresh apple cider in Vermont. These delicious encounters will not only tantalize your taste buds but also give you a deeper connection to the region’s rich agricultural heritage.

Create Lifelong Memories with Life is Better Traveling

At Life is Better Traveling, we know how to turn a trip into a lifetime memory. Our expert travel advisors will help you plan the ideal cruise itinerary that fits your aspirations. Whether you yearn for cozy, intimate experiences or grand, adventurous excursions, we’re here to personalize every detail. Ready to set sail? 

Also, check out our Facebook page for amazing pictures.

Please understand we get several requests per day for European vacations. We provide experiences for our clients that provide a lot of value. If you are looking for a budget vacation, that is NOT us.

What is 7+4?

Spotlight Destination: Rome, Italy

Mary Yohannan on

Roaming Through Rome!

Rome is rich in history, culture, fashion, and food. 

The “Eternal City” is a destination that never fails to impress visitors with its stunning architecture, iconic landmarks, and vibrant street life. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Rome has something for everyone!

Rome, the capital of Italy, is one of the oldest and most historic cities in the world. Founded in 753 BC, this vibrant cosmopolitan city is famous for its iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Vatican City. 

With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your trip to Rome. But don’t worry, here is a list of things to do in Rome, hidden gems to discover, and off-the-beaten-path attractions that make this city so special. 

Rome Italy

Top 5 Sightseeing Things To Do in Rome

  1. The Colosseum: The Colosseum was built in 80 AD and was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles.
  2. The Pantheon: The Pantheon is a temple that is dedicated to all the gods of Ancient Rome. It was built in 27 BC and is famous for its impressive dome, which is the largest unsupported dome in the world! It’s an incredible sight.
  3. The Vatican City:  The Vatican City is another landmark that should not be missed when visiting Rome. It is the smallest independent state in the world and is the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. The Vatican is home to many famous landmarks such as St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums. 
  4. The Trevi Fountain is also a must-visit landmark in Rome. It is one of the most famous fountains in the world and is known for its stunning Baroque architecture.
  5. Villa Borghese: The Villa Borghese is one of the most famous parks in Rome and is home to many museums and galleries. The park also has a lake where you can rent a boat and enjoy the scenery.

Top 5 Hidden Gems of Rome

  1. The Catacombs of San Callisto: Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is the Catacombs of San Callisto. These catacombs are located on the outskirts of Rome and are home to many ancient tombs and crypts. The catacombs offer a unique glimpse into the history of Rome.
  2. The Teatro dell’Opera di Roma: This opera house is one of the most famous opera houses in the world and has a rich history of hosting some of the best opera performances in Italy.
  3. The Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia is another famous theater in Rome and is home to many classical music performances.
  4. Shopping streets: Via Condotti is one of the most famous shopping streets in Rome and is home to many luxury fashion brands such as Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton. Another famous shopping street is Via del Corso, which is a long street that is lined with shops and department stores. 
  5. Monti Boutiques: If you are looking for something unique, then head to the vintage boutiques in Monti. This neighborhood is famous for its vintage shops and fun, bohemian vibe. Some of the best vintage shops in Monti include Pifebo, Humana Vintage, and Flamingo.
Rome Italy

Top 5 Must-Try Foods in Rome

  1. Roman-style pizza:  The Roman-style pizza is thin and crispy! It is a must-try when in Rome. Some of the best pizza places for your to try include Da Remo, Pizzarium, and Pizzeria La Montecarlo.
  2. Carbonaro: Another famous (and delicious!) Roman dish is carbonara, which is a pasta dish made with eggs, bacon, and cheese. The best place to try carbonara in Rome is at Roscioli, a famous restaurant that is known for its delicious pasta dishes.
  3. Roman Wine Bars: The city has many wine bars where you can try some of the best Italian wines while relaxing amongst gorgeous views. Some of the best wine bars to try include Il Goccetto, Enoteca Cavour 313, and Trimani.
  4. Roman coffee: When it comes to coffee, Rome has a rich coffee culture, and you can find many coffee shops all around the city. Some of the best coffee shops include Tazza d’Oro, Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè, and Roscioli Caffè.
  5. Alesso di Bollito: This is a simmered beef dish that has been around for ages! It consists of tender juicy meat that is placed on bread and dipped in its own juices. Truly delicious. 

Enjoy your time exploring the beautiful city of Rome! 

Not sure where to start planning a European Vacation or how to put all the components together? Let an agent at Life is Better Traveling help you plan it. We have helped planned over 1000 clients to various European countries including Italy and we can help you too! Simply fill out the form below and someone from our team will reach out to you shortly.

Destination Spotlight: Paris

Mary Yohannan on

The City of Love and the City of Lights lives up to its reputation as one of the most romantic cities - and one of the most highly visited destinations in the world. 

Paris is a must-see, with over 30 million tourists visiting each year! It is filled with beautiful landmarks and monuments, picturesque gardens, high fashion, charming boulevards for strolling that are lined with romantic cafés - the French cuisine in Paris is to die for! 

Over 50,000 street lights shine a beautiful glow on Paris, creating a truly magical setting. 

So, cross Paris off your bucket-list. You won’t want to miss a thing!

Top 5 Sightseeing Things To Do

  1. River Seine Cruise: A round trip river cruise along the Seine is relaxing and romantic - something you won’t soon forget. Sail under bridges and see iconic Parisian sights from a unique perspective with panoramic views. The audio guided tours (through your smartphone) allow you to discover things about the Eiffel Tower, the Notre Dame Cathedral, Les Invalides, Musée d'Orsay, Louvre Museum, Place de la Concorde, Grand Palais, and more. For a romantic spin, take the river cruise at night! The City of Light will shine, illuminating iconic sights as you leisurely pass by. There are many available (and relatively affordable!) cruise times, but be sure to reserve ahead of time. 

  1. Arc de Triomphe and Rooftop: Cast your eyes on all of Paris! The Arc de Triomphe was commissioned in 1806 to remember the soldiers whose lives were lost during the French Revolution and Napoleonic wars. The treasured names are inscribed, and a vault underneath commemorates a soldier from WW1 - the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It is a significant site, annually celebrated by the Bastille Day military parade and the Tour de France race. While showing respect, observe stunning views from the roof. It is fantastic, and worth the climb! You will see all of Paris, the Eiffel Tower, Sacré Coeur, Champs-Élysées, etc. 

  1. Palace of Versailles & Gardens: Take a day trip and view incredible opulence and stunning gardens at Versailles. It is truly majestic - the greatest achievement in French 17th century art. A World Heritage sight, Louis XIII's home is something you can not miss! Several reigns of kings embellished the Palace through the French Revolution. There are over 2k rooms in the palace, and the vast gardens are simply breathtaking, with hundreds of statues, fountains and water features. Thousands of plants and trees have been beautifully maintained over the years for your viewing pleasure. It’s a day not to miss! 

  1. Louvre Museum: Did you know that the Louvre is the most visited museum in the entire world? View a myriad of incredible artifacts and true artistic masterpieces, from prehistory to modern-day. The Louvre itself used to be a palace, and is now home to the world's most famous and recognizable masterpieces, like the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci, the Coronation of Napoleon by Jacques-Louis David, and the Vénus de Milo. Create a plan of what you’d like to see. There are tours available and visitor trails. Be sure to also take a moment to rest in the lovely gardens on site.

  2. Musée d’Orsay: Paris is art! This special museum contains the largest collection of Impressionist and post-Impressionist art in the entire world! See masterpieces you probably studied in school, by the likes of Monet, Seurat, Manet and more. You will also see stunning art by Degas, Gauguin, and Renoir. Can you imagine seeing these up close? And all in the beautiful, relaxing Orsay. Restaurants and cafés on site.Truly a lovely day. 

Top 5 Hidden Gems Of Paris

  1. Secret Covered Passages of Paris: These hidden passages are a bit less touristy, and perfect exploration spots in Paris - and a perfect rainy day activity! They date way back to the 18th and 19th centuries, but today you will find unique restaurants, book shops and shopping arcades there. Some favs: The Passage du Grand Cerf in rue Saint Denis boasts a stunning glass roof. The famous Galerie Vivienne has glittery lights and a stunning mosaic flooring, with upscale shops. The Passage des Panoramas is the oldest, with shops selling postcards, beautiful stamps, and more. The Galerie Vero-Dodat, was the first to witness gas lighting! It is filled with lovely antique shops. The Passage des Princes by the Opera Palais Garnier Opera House is filled with video games and toys, and is part of the wizarding world of Harry Potter. Celebrate the night away at the Andy Wahloo on rue des Gravilliers to enjoy creative cocktails & champagne in a cobbled outdoor courtyard.

  1. Paris Catacombs: Looking for something a bit different and a touch spooky to do? Underground Paris is home to a veritable labyrinth of tunnels that house the Catacombs in what were once quarries. This amazing underground gravesite was created in the late 17th century when Paris' cemeteries were too overcrowded. It is something unique to be experienced during your visit to Paris. Keep in mind that you will be underground in somewhat dark, cave-like tunnels, and up close to hundreds of skeletons. There are approximately six million skeletons throughout the tunnels. 

  1. Le Marais Gardens and Mansion Houses: For something historically Parisian, spend time at the Marais. The area is rich in history, filled with 17th century private mansions that were built with white freestone, with large entrances for the old horse-drawn carriages to pass through. They were once the homes of powerful nobles, bankers, lawyers, and more. Walk through the vaults of the Place des Vosges - the oldest planned square in Paris. It was built in 1605 by Henry IV. Venture off the square to less-traveled side streets, too. There, you will find quirky galleries and charming restaurants throughout the area. A perfect place to explore, dine and shop. 

  1. Rue Cremieux: For even more Parisian charm, visit the most colorful and picture-worthy street in Paris! This warm street is lined with pretty brightly colored homes along cobble stones. It's “Instagrammable”, they say. You can find it in the 12th arrondissement of Paris. These were once the homes of construction workers, and are now very desirable properties. The quaint painted house fronts have made the street a hugely popular spot for filming, too. 

  1. Promenade Plantee: This beautiful walkway was built on an unused viaduct, and is the inspiration behind the Highline in New York! Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the first elevated park in the world. The promenade is about 3 miles long, and travels from the Opéra Bastille to the Bois de Vincennes, passing above the avenue Daumesnil to the Jardin de Reuilly and finishes at Porte Dorée near the Bois de Vincennes. This scenic walk is a bit of a secret that even many Parisians are unaware of. The walk is also completely free to enjoy, and a perfect escape from busy Paris - right in the heart of the city.

Top 5 Must-Try Foods

  1. Croissants: When in Paris, do as the Parisians do! Enjoy delicious, cheap, unforgettable croissants! Start your day off French style, with an all-butter croissant for breakfast. In Paris, these perfectly flaky pastries are baked to sheer perfection. Enjoy with a nice hot coffee, sweet orange juice, or rich tea at a cafe. Croissants are a quick on-the-go meal, too. Be sure to visit a fresh boulangerie.

  1. Cheese: Cheese, please! France is known for their fine cheeses paired with delicious wines. Offering more than 300 varieties of cheese, you can find everything from a creamy brie to munster to blue in Paris. Cheese is traditionally served as its own course, right  between the main dish and the dessert. Paris truly is a cheese lover’s dream!

  1. Escargots: Another delicious treat that is not to be missed while in Paris is escargots. They say they are the national symbol, and they are not kidding around. These delicious snails are cooked in a wide variety of styles in Paris. They are often prepared in butter with white wine, or even a roquefort or truffle sauce. In Paris, escargots à la Bourguignonne is a real favorite. For this dish, a dozen are oven-roasted in their shells and served stuffed with delicious, creamy garlic herb butter. Escargots are delicious, and good for you! 

  1. Jambon-beurre: Sandwiches are always a great idea, but in Paris they are magical. They are on-the-go street food at its finest, and perfect for busy tourists, too. The Parisians keep this snack high quality, affordable, and simple. There are three key parts: fine Parisian ham, French butter, and perfectly crispy baguette. The quality of these three ingredients is always devine - the ham is just not like your standard ham elsewhere. The Parisians do this to perfection. While you are sightseeing, be sure to grab one to go, or if you have time, enjoy this perfect snack/lunch at an open air cafe with a crispy green salad and glass of wine.

  1. Macarons: Have a sweet tooth? Well, French sweets are quite possibly the finest in the world. Macarons are the most popular food in Paris. Some say they were originally created in the 18th century at a convent in France. They have just the right touch of sweetness and richness. They are delicate rounds filled with a creamy and rich interior jam-type filling. Flavors include chocolate, pistachio, carmel, vanilla and strawberry. Within Paris, you will find shops that specialize in making macarons of the highest -  most delicious - quality!

Interested in planning your next vacation with one of our award-winning travel agents?  Simply fill out the form below and we will get back to shortly!

Quick Travel Tid-bits from our other articles...

Curious about the best airport lounges? Want to get in? Tips on how to get you in!....

Did you know that there are places in the airport you can go to escape the manic nature of the terminal? They’re called airport lounges. Airport lounges are some of the best places to spend time before your flight as they are their own getaway. They often offer free food and drinks, spacious seating, free Wi-Fi, and even some provide amenities like showers and nap pods. If you are in a larger airport some lounges offer spas, barbershops and workout equipment.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Why are passports taking so long?

It all boils down to health being tantamount. The offices were closed during COVID and are still not operating at 100%. This led to a backlog in requests. Labor in every field has been impacted from the pandemic, and the Department of State is no exception. There’s only so much each person can do, which leads to a ripple effect of consequential delays.

I need to renew or get my passport, NOW!!

RAVE REVIEWS

Real stories on how Life is Better Traveling travel advisors aided their clients during the outbreak and disruption of COVID-19.

"I wanted to also say what a pleasure it’s been planning our trip with you. We really think your ideas would have made our trip to Italy a trip of a lifetime. We are looking forward to re-booking this vacation when the virus situation is no longer an issue. I also can’t thank you enough for all your help. Reg and I are so looking forward to calling you with new dates someday hopefully soon."

Regis Family
Philadelphia, PA

 “Mary is ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC! She was extremely knowledgeable about each of the cities we went to and different excursions we were able to try. She gave us wonderful recommendations of what to do and what is not worth the time and/or money. She was very organized and sent us a binder of our itinerary as well as all of the vouchers we would need for our trip. She set up personal transfers from the airports/train stations/hotels/etc. which was wonderful! We did not have to worry about what time we needed to leave or how we were going to get there. This allowed us to enjoy our trip and not stress about the details. I would recommend Mary to anyone looking for an amazing and stress-free trip! She thinks of every little thing and is there to guide you every step of the way! I will definitely be using her anytime we need a vacation and recommending her to all of our friends and family!!”

Stephanie
Ohio

LIBTGreecemktgphoto

We have changed the Greece dates to 2023.  We had so many people interested in traveling with us, but still wanted to wait another year.  We want everyone to feel comfortable, so we have decided to move the dates to 2023.    

YES, sign me up to come with you!

Why I loved 😍 the DR even though I plan European vacations!

Mary Yohannan on

Many of you know that my passion is planning customized European vacations and having helped planned hundreds of clients to Europe it was an interesting choice to go to the Dominican Republic (DR).  Life is Better Traveling has an amazing team of travel agents who help plan all-inclusive vacations.  Because our agents doing an amazing job, our suppliers have acknowledged and appreciated our partnerships that they invited us to the DR to visit various resorts and inspect them.  When all of our agents who plan all-inclusive have prior commitments, I, as the agency owner, jumped on the opportunity to explore the DR.  I wanted to share with you what my two favorite resorts were while I was down there.  

First I want to say that the DR is beautiful and the people are so kind.  I would jump on a plane and head back down there in a heartbeat.  On my next trip, I will be exploring more of the island though and immersing myself with the locals.  

For those looking for an adults-only getaway to reconnect, recharge, and relax together I would recommend the Secrets Cap Cana.  The Cap Cana area is close to the airport and within its own gated community.  Even though it is close to the airport you don’t really see or hear any airplanes.  

The moment you walk into the lobby of Secrets Cap Cana you are transported into an island oasis.  Tranquility with running water, high ceilings, and plush sitting chairs instantly have you feeling relaxed.  The property is lush, and there are plenty of little spots throughout the resort for a quiet place to enjoy a bottle of wine or steal a few kisses.  One of my favorite things about this resort is that the beach is not long.  A short walk from the pool to the ocean on the soft, white sand beach is perfect

You have plenty of room options to choose. Looking for some more room then let’s book one of the villas with a swim-out pool looking out into the ocean.  You don’t have to book the villa to have an amazing time.  The standard junior suites are beautiful with more amenities than your typical resort.  Overall, I would recommend this resort for those who are looking to take their honeymoon, an anniversary trip, reconnecting trip, or a quick getaway from the kiddos.  

My new favorite family-friendly resort, upon which I now will never rent a house in the Outer Banks but go here, is the Dreams Macao.  Yes, to get to this resort you do go through some areas that aren’t too eye-appealing but once you are at the resort you are transported to paradise.  The lobby is open and big, but not too big because this resort has a lot to offer.  

If you have kids under the age of 5 there are two splash pad areas with plenty to do including slides.  For the older kids, there is a slide park with four different water slides and a lazy river.  Looking for something more thrilling for your teenagers?  How about some ziplining, rock wall climbing, or even laser tag.  Yes, all of this is available to do at this resort including an arcade and four-lane bowling alley.  However, at night there is plenty of music to keep everyone dancing.  

I also love that there are multiple options for food at this resort including Italian food.  I personally ate at this resort, and the food was delicious.  The chef made some food creations that were out of this world for our group, and it had me thinking that if he takes this much consideration into the menu for us, the food for everyone else must be amazing.  

If you are considering an all-inclusive for a romantic getaway or a family-friendly vacation, contact me or one of our award-winning travel agents to help you get amazing deals.  Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, and Baltimore.  Check out these amazing deals for Springbreak 2023.

Dreaming of an all-inclusive for this winter or spring break? Make sure to reach out to our award-winning team to get you a quote today! Availability is limited. Simply fill out the form below and someone will get back with you shortly.

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Check out our other articles!

5 Apps Every Traveler Needs to have a Great Next Vacation

Mary Yohannan on

As a travel professional, I always want to book your dream vacations. While I manage all of your travel plans to a T, not all experiences are always plannable. Luckily, there are some great travel apps to help with just about any aspect of your trips. Here is the our list of apps we use at Life is Better Traveling.  

An App for: Speaking the Language

When traveling to foreign countries, be sure you are prepared with an app that helps you speak the common language. Google Translate is a lifesaver for any mono-linguist traveler. Translate from 103 different languages just by typing or drawing the word or phrase. Use your phone’s camera to hold up to street signs or even restaurant menus for instant translations. The best part is that the app works without using a wireless connection so you can explore data-free. Navigate with confidence and even learn a thing or two about the native tongue.

An App for: Maps & Directions

Don’t leave home without a solid navigation app for exploring. Apps like Maps.Me or City Mapper offer downloadable maps with turn-by-turn navigation, traffic updates and can even pinpoint local hotspots to check out. Explore points of interest from restaurants to tourist attractions, all with step-by-step directions. Even create driving, walking and cycle routes to save extra time, or just to take in the scenery.

An App for: Packing

Ensure you never forget a thing for their next trip. With apps like PackPoint, you can type in the destination and select the activities planned to create a customized packing list for the trip. It will even check the weather to make sure you are packing all the essentials. Share the list with your fellow travelers so nothing is ever left behind.

An App for: Chatting

Make sure always stay in touch with friends and family. WhatsApp provides free voice calls and messaging when they are connected to Wi-Fi. The group chat feature also allows you to share messages, photos and videos to share their experiences.

An App for: Time Zones

Never lose track of time again. With an app like Circa, travelling to multiple locations across different time zones has never been easier; find the best times for connecting flights and send invitations to other travelers in different time zones to meet up. Now you will never miss a beat no matter how far apart you are.

Recommending helpful apps shows that at Life is Better Traveling we go above and beyond, and care about every aspect of our client’s trip. Contact one of our agents to get started planning your next trip today. 

Thinking of planning a 2022 vacation but not sure where to start? Fill out the form below and one of our award-winning travel agents will get back with you shortly.

Welcome to Armchair Explorer, your weekly burst of travel inspiration

Mary Yohannan on

ARMCHAIR EXPLORER:  travel inspiration + your imagination

A good dream should never be rushed. It takes time to explore the places our dreams take us, time to appreciate the escape and let that joyful serenity sink into our bones.

Due to our current global situation, time is something many of us have more of lately. It’s an unexpected benefit — a balm to help soothe the pain of disruption. Which makes now a great time to sit back, relax and let our minds wander free.

Each Thursday over the next few months, we’ll send you inspiring ideas to fill that extra time and those dreams with travel. We ask that you virtually and mentally explore from the comfort of your armchair, couch or bed, letting your mind wander the earth to sample a world of experiences.

When this crisis ends, and you are ready to turn those travel dreams into reality, you can rely on our agency. We are here for you, whenever you need us.

EYE-OPENING VIRTUAL TOURS

Pop in your Bluetooth earphones and visit breathtaking national parks, ancient and modern wonders, and some of the finest museums in the world. No lines, no bad weather — just you and your bucket list.

 U.S. Attractions

Tour the National Parks of the U.S.

The Georgia Aquarium

 
Wonders of the World

Hike the Great Wall of China

See the Northern Lights from Manitoba

Machu Picchu

Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

Eiffel Tower, Paris

The Taj Mahal, India

Tour of Japan

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro

Stonehenge, England

Petra, Jordan

The Colosseum, Rome

Chichén Itzá, Mexico

​​Museums

The Vatican Museum, Rome

The Guggenheim, New York

Getty Museum, Los Angeles

The Louvre, Paris

National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.

Musée d’Orsay, Paris

Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam

INSPIRING TRAVEL BOOKS

Looking for something new to pick up at your local independent bookstore or download on your e-reader? Browse our favorite travel-themed titles for a healthy dose of wanderlust.

 
“The Art of Travel” by Alain de Botton — This philosophical examination of why and how we travel goes around the world and throughout history to describe, in poetic detail, the pleasure of anticipating a journey, the magnetic allure of the exotic and the value of observation.

 
“Tracks” by Robyn Davidson — A frank and funny account of a courageous young woman’s journey through the Australian desert, where she learns a lot about herself and her companions: a dog and four camels.

 
“Holy Cow: An Indian Adventure” by Sarah Macdonald — A woman who vowed never to return to India returns to India. The resulting story is one of discovery and adventure in this land of beauty and chaos.

 
“Desert Solitaire: A Season in the Wilderness” by Edward Abbey — A real-life account of a famed writer spending a season working as a ranger at Arches National Park, where he attempts to experience nature in its purest form.

 
“Turn Right at Machu Picchu: Rediscovering the Lost City One Step at a Time” by Mark Adams — Laugh-out-loud account of an adventure travel expert (who has never been on an actual adventure) attempting to re-create the original expedition to Machu Picchu.

RAVE REVIEWS

Real stories on how Life is Better Traveling travel advisors aided their clients during the outbreak and disruption of COVID-19.

 “Mary goes above and beyond to help during the process of planning (and cancelling) a vacation. Mary used her knowledge to get us the full refund from the hotel. But we will reschedule with Mary when this is over!”

Garraty Family

​New Jersey 

Look out for another installment of Armchair Explorer every two weeks! And feel free to contact Life is Better Traveling about any travel questions you have. Until next time …

 “The best dreams happen when you’re awake.”

-Cherie Gilderbloom

Planning Ahead….

Liz Hough on

It is 2018 but not too early to start planning for your 2019 vacation.

 

There are several steps you take when planning a vacation and you may not even realize you are going through them.  Here are some of the initial travel planning steps…..

 

Step 1 “The Thought”:  Do we want to take a big vacation or do we want to do something low key?  This step gets you started thinking about whether or not this year will be the year you take that big overseas trip or do you just want to take a 7 night cruise.

 

Step 2 “Where do we want to go?”:  Now that you have in mind what kind of trip you want to take it is time to decide where you want to take it.  This can be one of the most difficult steps in the process.  There are so many places you want to go but then there are so many places you have been and would like to go back.  How do you decide?  You make a list of just 5 places you want to travel to.  Why 5?  Because you don’t want to make the list too long.  Write some reasons why you want to go each place.  The place that has the most reasons why you want to travel there should be the place you choose to go!

 

Step 3 “How do we want to get around?”:  By step 3 you are moving full steam ahead in the planning of your trip!  Depending on where you are considering going there are several means to get around: cruise, rail, motor coach, or air.  Sometimes you don’t have a choice.  But if you do, consider trying a means of transportation that you haven’t tried before, i.e. a river cruise or the rail system.

 

Step 4 “Call your travel agent”:  This is the easiest step by far.  At this point you have some great ideas that you can’t wait to share with your travel agent.  This is where your travel agent is able to get together some information for you regarding pricing, tours, and time frames so you don’t have to spend precious time searching on the internet.

 

The planning process should be fun and exciting but there are a lot of decisions to be made.  Just remember that plans can change but once you have made that final decision there is a sigh of relief that comes with knowing your vacation is just around the corner.  Also, don’t forget to invite friends and family so you can start making lasting memories.

 

Fill out the form below to get started planning your next European Vacation.  Looking for a motor coach tour, self-drive, or private tour, we can easily put together the perfect European vacation for you and your family’s needs. 

When you book your vacation with a member of the Life is Better Traveling Team, you are supporting local families and business.  Thank you to everyone who has supported us over the past 4 years, we have become an AMAZING travel agency due to your support!

Please understand we get several requests per day for European vacations. We provide experiences for our clients that provide a lot of value. If you are looking for a budget vacation, that is NOT us.

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