travel y go

Wander Wisely with Cheap Hotels, Flights, Vacations & Travel Deals | Travelocity

• Things to do

Add a flight

Explore stays in trending destinations

San Luis Obispo

Pismo Beach

South San Francisco

Palm Springs

Make fresh memories

Find your perfect trip

Plan a trip for the whole family—from family travel tips to family-friendly filters, our tools make it easy.

Book with flexibility

Looking for a change of scenery, but want something flexible? With free cancellation on most hotels, you can book with peace of mind.

We've got your back

Need more help along your journey? We offer 24/7 support on social and through virtual agents onsite.

All-inclusive resorts 

Last minute getaways

Start planning your next trip.

Sunny beach hotel offers

Car rental deals

Member discounts

Vacation rental offers

Here to help keep you on the move

Change or cancel a trip, use a credit or coupon, track your refund, destination ideas to plan your next trip.

• Chicago Hotels
• San Jose Hotels
• Baltimore Hotels
• Las Vegas Hotels
• Maui Hotels
• Oakland Hotels
• Fort Walton Beach Hotels
• Washington, DC Hotels
• London Hotels
• Paris Hotels
• Cancun Hotels
• Punta Cana Hotels
• Flights to London
• Flights to Maui
• Flights to Washington, DC
• Flights to Fort Lauderdale
• Flights to St. Louis
• Flights to Frankfurt
• Flights to Barcelona
• Flights to Baltimore
• Flights to Paris
• Flights to Orange County
• Flights to Honolulu
• Flights to Los Cabos

Vacation packages

• Orlando Vacations
• San Diego Vacations
• Miami Vacations
• Nassau Vacations
• Seattle Vacations
• San Francisco Vacations
• Denver Vacations
• Montego Bay Vacations
• Los Angeles Vacations
• Las Vegas Vacations
• Cancun Vacations
• Cozumel Vacations
• London Car Rentals
• Maui Car Rentals
• Fort Lauderdale Car Rentals
• Honolulu Car Rental
• Newark, NJ Car Rentals
• San Juan Car Rentals
• Dublin Car Rentals
• Barcelona Car Rentals
• Washington, DC Car Rentals
• West Palm Beach Car Rentals
• Madrid Car Rentals
• Paris Car Rentals
• Bahamas Cruises
• Canada/New England Cruises
• Hawaii Cruises
• Mexico Cruises
• Australia/New Zealand Cruises
• Alaskan Cruises
• European Cruises
• Bermuda Cruises
• South Pacific Cruises
• Panama Canal Cruises

All Inclusive resorts

• Top All-Inclusive Resorts
• All Inclusive Resorts Adults Only
• All Inclusive Beach Resorts
• All Inclusive Family Resorts
• Cheap All Inclusive Resorts
• All Inclusive Resorts Couples Only
• Best All Inclusive Resorts for Couples on a Budget
• Luxury All Inclusive Resorts Adults Only
• Best Adults Only All Inclusive Resorts for Couples

Travel deals

• Vacation Package Deals
• Travel Deals
• Daily Travel Deals
• Hotel Deals
• Travelocity Coupon Code
• Last Minute Travel Deals
• Hotels Under $99
• All Inclusive Resort Deals
• Flights Under $200
• All our Destinations

Additional information about Expedia Group

HOW YOUR MEMBERSHIP WORKS

From the world’s most influential travel brand comes a new type of travel membership. travel + leisure go provides big savings, exclusive perks, and valuable benefits..

Preview the savings, free of charge with our preview membership

Join the club when you are ready to make your first booking

Unlock all the extra benefits you get with our full memberships

Become a member today and experience millions of travel options at your fingertips.

Top travel deals, travel + leisure go brings you access to exclusive deals & discounts on hotels, attractions, and more. discover how much you could save on your next trip., live the issue, turn the pages of the magazine into a reality. now you can plan, book, and save on the adventures found within the latest issues of travel + leisure., world’s best awards 2023.

Unlock an awe-inspiring collage of travel industry award winners.

The Food & Adventure Issue

Adventure vacations marry two greatest passions - culinary vacations and a desire for excitement.

“We created Travel + Leisure GO to help bring the magazine to life. We're thrilled to bring members exclusive savings and unforgettable travel experiences with this one-of-a-kind travel membership.”

BOOK CURATED ITINERARIES

Discover handpicked destinations, hotels, and experiences for one exclusive price with Travel + Leisure GO.

• destination-of-the-year
• world's-best

Napa Valley Gourmand Tour

Grand canyon grandeur, influential florence, whimsical key west, abu dhabi's otherworldly oasis, exhilarating new york city, sophisticated chicago, adventurous jackson hole, passionate milan, colorful san juan, cosmopolitan london, cultural quebec city, immortal istanbul, see what travelers have to say.

"I can honestly say it’s worth the hype. The savings were amazing but what really impressed me was the breadth of unique offerings their team has curated in so many different locations. If you are planning any travel in the near future I highly recommend Travel + Leisure GO. It will not disappoint."

"I’m only staying at Travel + Leisure World’s Best hotels from now on! We couldn’t have asked for a better resort to stay at during our time in Cabo with Travel + Leisure GO. I saved over $1,700 on my 4-night stay!"

MORE FROM THE MAGAZINE

4 New Charleston Restaurants Shaking Up the City's Food Scene

How to take ‘The Notebook’ Tour of Charleston

Travel + Leisure Readers Ranked This Southern City No. 1 in the U.S. for the 7th Year in a Row

Popular destinations

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

Search vacation packages & trips.

As a  One Key member , earn up to 10x more OneKeyCash on your flight when you book a package.

Enjoy flexibility with our Book now Pay later option & fully refundable rates on most hotels

Customize your vacation with ease all in one place

Las Vegas Vacation Packages

Book your trip to Las Vegas and save by bundling a flight + hotel!

Time to get away?

Grab a deal on last-minute travel

Top Destinations by Month

Choose from incredible vacation destinations.

Top vacation destinations

Tick one more destination off of your bucket list with one of our most popular vacations in 2024

Puerto Rico

Find your perfect vacation

Take a break from work and soak up the sun at one of our hottest vacation destinations

• Beach Vacations

Build a beach vacation package to suit your every need. Life is better on the beach!

• All Inclusive Vacations

All your needs are catered for with an all-inclusive vacation package. All the extras that make a lifetime of memories.

Family Vacations

Great offers for the entire family. Find peace of mind when you book a family vacation package with Expedia.

• Northern Lights Vacations

Get a front-row seat for one of nature's greatest spectacles with a Northern Lights vacation package with Expedia.

Last Minute Vacations

Planning a romantic break for 2 or an impromptu trip with the whole family? Expedia helps you find last-minute vacation deals.

Romantic Getaways

From honeymoon packages in far-flung destinations to a weekend luxury spa break, find your perfect couples vacation.

Find your next vacation package 

Are vacation packages worth it.

Vacation packages can save a lot on your 2024 vacation, as discounts may be available when booking multiple aspects of your vacation at once, such as the hotel and the flight. Flights and hotel packages can include a car rental at your destination. Check our package deal today on Expedia!

How much do vacation packages cost?

The exact cost of a vacation package varies based on various factors such as destination, accommodation quality, flight class, and even the time of year you visit. The type of vacation you embark on can also affect cost with options like family packages and all-inclusive packages . You can search for your specific price range, too, with plenty of vacations under $1,000 , for example. 

How to choose your vacation package?

To find the best vacation package, you'll need to consider the type of vacation you're looking to enjoy and the destination. Using the site's search function, you can find a wide variety of packages available for your chosen vacation location, while search filters can narrow down options based on vacation type. Browse our deals now.

How to find cheap vacation packages?

If you're looking to save, be sure to set filters for any budget limitations you may have in your search. Additionally, you can sort by price to automatically put the cheapest options first in your search results. Weekend getaway packages can be relatively inexpensive as well if you are looking for cheap getaways. 

How to vacation on a budget?

Budget-friendly travel is easy when you book with Expedia, as we can help you keep prices low via search filters, but that's not all. There are general trends to keep in mind regarding prices, such as travel packages generally being cheaper during the off-season of your vacation destination. Additionally, the higher the quality amenities you opt for, the higher the price typically is.

How to get great vacation deals?

Vacation deals are common with Expedia, as we offer plenty of discounts on great packages, with packages already being a deal compared to booking hotels and flights separately.

How to find last-minute vacation deals?

To book last-minute vacation trips, simply input your travel dates into the search and see what's available at that time for your destination. You can still filter based on virtually anything you can imagine, including amenities, price, star rating, and more.

Where should I go on vacation?

Booking a Hawaii vacation package is especially popular with all sorts of travelers, whether it's families or couples, and Disney World packages have much to offer for families. Consider the kind of vacation you're looking for to determine the perfect destination. 

What are some of the best vacation spots?

Top vacation spots include cheap Caribbean vacations and European vacation packages . With rich culture, history, and stunning natural beauty, a vacation package to these destinations can provide an unforgettable adventure. 

Where to go on a vacation in the US?

Staying in the US still offers easy access to great vacation places with Vegas packages and a Grand Canyon vacation being popular choices among other options. Whether you’re seeking the thrills of the Vegas Strip or the majestic views of the Grand Canyon, browse your options today.  

Where to go on vacation on a budget?

Cheap vacation ideas can still take you to a variety of great cheap vacation destinations, including Yellowstone vacations and Glacier National Park vacations . Parks and outdoor experiences tend to be free, so national park vacations are excellent for a budget-friendly trip. 

What are some great all-inclusive vacation packages?

All-inclusive vacations to the Bahamas and all-inclusive vacations to Cancun are some of the best options available, putting you in a Caribbean paradise. However, all-inclusive vacations are more varied than you might think, with worldwide options. 

What are the best destinations for a family vacation?

Traveling with kids means you'll need to find fun for the whole family, and Orlando vacation packages can put you and your little ones in the world's theme park capital. Of course, a vacation package to Anaheim offers a similar experience on the West coast. 

Where should I go on vacation this summer?

If you're looking to embrace the season, head to the beach with a summer vacation package to Destin . Of course, you may be more interested in escaping the heat with something like a vacation package to Vancouver . 

How to find cheap beach vacations?

In your search, you can apply search filters for beach trip packages and sort your results by price to see the cheap vacation options first. With those standards, you can find amazing cheap trips with beach vacation packages like vacation packages to Panama City and vacation packages to Myrtle Beach . 

What are some great couples' vacations?

Traveling with your partner means a more romantic adventure, which is easy when you book vacation packages to Honolulu . However, you can always opt for the classics and get a vacation package to Paris . Even a simple 3-day cheap getaway can be suitable. 

What are the best destinations for a luxury vacation?

One of the best destinations for luxury is a Las Vegas vacation package , as the city was essentially designed to make visitors feel luxurious. Of course, a Lake Tahoe vacation package can be just as fulfilling as a more outdoor-oriented experience. Golf vacations also tend to be quite elegant. 

How to find great Christmas vacation packages?

To find an excellent package for a Christmas vacation, simply put your travel dates into the search and discover what's available. Vacation packages to New York and vacation packages to Chicago are trendy around Christmas. 

Where to get ski vacation packages?

Ski vacation packages are readily available on Expedia, including vacation packages to Aspen , vacation packages to Vail , and packages to other notable ski resorts. Check out the deals now and book your next ski vacation today.  

Can I cancel my vacation package with Expedia?

Yes, you can cancel your vacation package via your itinerary page on Expedia or by contacting customer service. Remember that some packages are fully refundable, but the details vary based on each unique booking. A fully refundable package may depend on how far out from the travel dates you're canceling and what airline you are travelling with.

Why should I book my vacation package with Expedia?

Booking with Expedia makes it easy to plan your entire vacation in advance. Vacation packages with airfare included can also feature a rental car and even activities in some cases, with discounts typically coming with booking more than one aspect of your trip at a time. One Key members will earn  OneKeyCash  with every eligible booking that you can use to save on future eligible bookings. Membership is free, sign up today!

*OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia,  Hotels.com  and Vrbo.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Domestic vacation packages & getaways.

• New Orleans Vacations
• Fort Lauderdale Vacations
• Chicago Vacations
• Phoenix Vacations
• Williamsburg Vacations
• Laughlin Vacations
• Atlantic City Vacations
• Portland Vacations
• Austin Vacations
• U.S. Virgin Islands Vacations

Popular Vacation Destinations in Mexico

• Mexico Vacations
• Tulum Vacations
• Quintana Roo Vacations
• San José del Cabo Vacations
• Puerto Vallarta Vacations
• Cozumel Vacations
• Acapulco Vacations
• Tijuana Vacations

International Vacation Packages & Trips

• Paris Vacations
• Greece Vacations
• Bahamas Vacations
• Caribbean Vacations
• Aruba Vacations
• France Vacations
• Bali Vacations
• Colombia Vacations
• Belize Vacations
• Toronto Vacations
• Honolulu Vacations
• Nassau Vacations
• St. Thomas Vacations
• Bora Bora Vacations
• Montego Bay Vacations
• Dominican Republic Vacations
• Negril Vacations
• Tampa Vacations
• Puerto Rico Vacations

Vacations from

• Vacations from Atlanta
• Vacations from Austin
• Vacations from Boston
• Vacations from Chicago
• Vacations from Dallas
• Vacations from Houston
• Vacations from Las Vegas
• Vacations from Los Angeles
• Vacations from Miami
• Vacations from New York
• Vacations from Orlando
• Vacations from Philadelphia
• Vacations from Phoenix
• Vacations from Pittsburgh
• Vacations from Seattle
• Vacations from Washington

Best Vacation Destinations by Month

• January Vacations and Deals
• February Vacations and Deals
• March Vacations and Deals
• April Vacations and Deals
• May Vacations and Deals
• June Vacations and Deals
• July Vacations and Deals
• August Vacations and Deals
• September Vacations and Deals
• October Vacations and Deals
• November Vacations and Deals
• December Vacations and Deals

Other Vacation ideas

• Vacation Payment Plans
• Weekend Getaways
• Last Minute Vacation Deals
• 3 Day Getaways
• Plan a Trip
• Thanksgiving Getaways Deals
• Vacations Under $500
• Christmas Vacation Deals
• Vacations Under $1000
• New Year's Vacation Deals

More Types of Vacations

• Adventure Vacations
• Golf Vacations
• Kid Friendly Vacations
• Luxury Vacations
• Romantic Vacations
• Ski Vacations

Additional information about Expedia Group

Money For My Beer

Awesome Stories and Guides Online

Is Travelgo.com Legit or a Scam? An In-Depth TravelGo Review

In recent times, online travel booking platforms have become increasingly popular, offering travelers convenience and competitive prices for flight reservations.

One such platform is TravelGo.com , which claims to provide affordable flight bookings for both domestic and international travel.

However, its legitimacy has been a subject of debate among travelers due to mixed user experiences and varying reviews.

In this in-depth review, we’ll explore the features, pros and cons, user reviews, and overall verdict to help you decide whether Travel Go is a trustworthy platform for your travel bookings.

What is TravelGo (Ly.Com)?

TravelGo ( https://www.travelgo.com/ ), also known as Ly.com , is an online travel agency that allows users to search for and book flights from various airlines. The platform claims to offer competitive prices on airfares, enabling travelers to find budget-friendly options for their journeys.

While the website functions as a flight aggregator, it does not operate airlines or provide its own travel services. Instead, TravelGo partners with established airlines to offer flight options to its users.

Pros of TravelGo

TravelGo offers competitive prices, a variety of payment options, easy search and comparison features, partnerships with established airlines, and a user-friendly website.

• Competitive Prices – Some users have reported finding cheaper flight options through TravelGo compared to booking directly through airlines or other travel agencies. The platform’s ability to aggregate flight data from multiple sources can lead to cost savings for certain routes.
• Variety of Payment Options – TravelGo accepts payments through credit cards, PayPal, WeChat, and AliPay, providing users with convenient payment choices. This flexibility makes it easier for travelers from different regions to complete their bookings.
• Search and Compare – The platform allows users to search and compare flights from different airlines, making it easier to find the most suitable option based on their preferences and budgets. This feature streamlines the booking process for users looking for specific flight details.
• Partnered with Established Airlines – TravelGo collaborates with well-known airlines like Virgin Australia, offering flights from reputable carriers. This partnership lends credibility to the platform’s flight options and can give users peace of mind when booking through TravelGo.
• User-Friendly Website – The website design is relatively straightforward, enabling users to navigate and find flight options without much hassle. The booking process is intuitive, and users can complete their reservations with relative ease.

Cons of TravelGo

Below are some cons to consider before using TravelGo for your flight bookings.

• Negative User Reviews – TravelGo has received a significant number of negative reviews, with complaints about poor customer service, difficulty reaching support, and unresolved issues. Many users have expressed frustration with the platform’s lack of responsiveness and lackluster assistance.
• Lack of Information – Some users have raised concerns about the limited information available about the company, including its physical location and registration details. The absence of comprehensive company details can make it challenging for users to assess the platform’s credibility.
• Passport Details Requirement – TravelGo asks for passengers’ passport details even for domestic flights, which may raise privacy and security concerns for some users. Requiring passport information for domestic travel can seem unnecessary and deter potential customers.
• Uncertain Legitimacy – The abundance of negative reviews and the platform’s limited transparency raise questions about TravelGo’s legitimacy and reliability as a travel booking service. Users may hesitate to entrust their travel plans and personal information to a platform with uncertain credentials.

Why TravelGo Appears to be Legitimate?

TravelGo does appear to have some characteristics that may suggest legitimacy:

A. Website and Booking Platform

TravelGo has a functioning website where users can search for and book flights. The platform appears to offer flight options from various airlines, and users can enter their travel details to find available flights.

B. Accepted Payment Methods

According to user reviews, TravelGo accepts payments through various methods, including credit cards, PayPal, WeChat, and AliPay. Accepting multiple payment options can be a sign of a legitimate business.

C. User Reviews

While TravelGo has some negative reviews, it also has a few positive reviews where users have reported successful bookings and satisfactory experiences. User reviews can offer insights into a company’s services and credibility.

D. Contact Information

The platform provides contact details, including an email address and a phone number. Having accessible contact information is a positive sign as it allows users to reach out for assistance or inquiries.

E. Website Design

From the information provided, the website appears to be functional and reasonably well-designed, although it may lack some detailed information about the company itself.

F. Booking with Established Airlines

Users have mentioned booking flights with well-known airlines like Virgin Australia through TravelGo. Collaborating with reputable airlines can indicate that the platform is working with legitimate partners.

TravelGo Review Verdict

While I cannot definitively label TravelGo as a scam, there are numerous red flags and reasons to be cautious about using their services. It’s essential to be aware of these potential issues to protect yourself and make informed decisions when booking through any online platform.

Here are some reasons that might make you skeptical about TravelGo’s legitimacy:

A. Lack of Official Affiliations

TravelGo is not registered with reputable industry bodies such as AFTA (Australian Federation of Travel Agents) ‘s through ATAS (Australian Travel Accreditation Scheme) or other recognized travel associations. Established travel agencies usually have affiliations that provide consumer protection and reassurance.

B. Mandatory Passport Details for Domestic Flights

Requiring passengers to provide passport details for domestic flights is highly unusual and raises concerns about the platform’s intentions and potential misuse of sensitive information.

C. Inconsistent Customer Service

Numerous negative reviews highlight poor customer service from Travel Go. Delayed responses, unhelpful assistance, and difficulty in resolving issues have left customers frustrated and dissatisfied.

D. Obscure Background and Location

The platform’s Chinese origins and the lack of detailed information about the company’s background can make users skeptical about its legitimacy and trustworthiness.

E. Mixed User Reviews

While some users report successful bookings and competitive prices, there are also numerous negative reviews detailing problems with bookings, cancellations, and refunds, raising doubts about the platform’s reliability.

F. Lack of Trustworthy Testimonials

The absence of well-documented and verifiable testimonials from reputable sources may lead users to question the credibility of Travel Go’s claims.

G. Potential Scam Reports

There have been instances where users reported being scammed by travel agencies with similar names, leading to confusion and mistrust in the market.

User Reviews

User reviews of TravelGo are mixed, with some travelers expressing satisfaction with their bookings, citing competitive prices and smooth transactions.

Positive reviews often highlight successful experiences where users secured affordable flights with TravelGo.

However, the platform has also received a substantial number of negative reviews like below. Many users have reported issues with customer service, refund processes, and communication, indicating potential risks when booking through this platform.

Note: Remember, it’s best practice to review recent feedback from various customers across different review sites for a safer experience .

As with any online travel booking platform, caution is advised when using TravelGo . While some users have reported successful bookings and satisfactory experiences, others have faced significant challenges and frustrations.

Before making a decision, it’s essential to conduct thorough research, read reviews from multiple sources ( Not just this one ), and consider using well-established and reputable travel booking sites to ensure a safe and reliable booking experience.

Remember to prioritize your privacy and security when providing personal information and making payments online. Ultimately, the decision to use TravelGo should be made after careful consideration of all available information and potential risks.

Also Read: Is Weegy.com Legit or a Scam? An In-Depth Weegy Review

So what are your thoughts?

Did you like what you have read about “ Is Travelgo.com Legit or a Scam? An In-Depth TravelGo Review)” ? If so, please comment down below. Sharing your thoughts will encourage me to do better research and improve page content.

Moreover, to see more content like this check the  review  section of  Money For My Beer .

Chief Editor and Website Owner.

A software dude and the website owner of Money For My Beer . The site where the best people stories and legit money making online is compiled.

Related Stories You May Like:

Leave a reply cancel reply.

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

• Fact Sheets

Frequently Asked Questions: Guidance for Travelers to Enter the U.S.

Updated Date: April 21, 2022

Since January 22, 2022, DHS has required non-U.S. individuals seeking to enter the United States via land ports of entry and ferry terminals at the U.S.-Mexico and U.S.-Canada borders to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and provide proof of vaccination upon request.  On April 21, 2022, DHS announced that it would extend these requirements. In determining whether and when to rescind this order, DHS anticipates that it will take account of whether the vaccination requirement for non-U.S. air travelers remains in place.

These requirements apply to non-U.S. individuals who are traveling for essential or non-essential reasons. They do not apply to U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents, or U.S. nationals.

Effective November 8, 2021, new air travel requirements applied to many noncitizens who are visiting the United States temporarily. These travelers are also required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination. All air travelers, including U.S. persons, must test negative for COVID-19 prior to departure. Limited exceptions apply. See  CDC guidance  for more details regarding air travel requirements.

Below is more information about what to know before you go, and answers to Frequently Asked Questions about cross-border travel.

Entering the U.S. Through a Land Port of Entry or Ferry Terminal

Q. what are the requirements for travelers entering the united states through land poes.

A:  Before embarking on a trip to the United States, non-U.S. travelers should be prepared for the following:

• Possess proof of an approved COVID-19 vaccination as outlined on the  CDC  website.
• During border inspection, verbally attest to their COVID-19 vaccination status. 
• Bring a  Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative  compliant border crossing document, such as a valid passport (and visa if required), Trusted Traveler Program card, a Department of State-issued Border Crossing Card, Enhanced Driver’s License or Enhanced Tribal Card when entering the country. Travelers (including U.S. citizens) should be prepared to present the WHTI-compliant document and any other documents requested by the CBP officer.

 Q. What are the requirements to enter the United States for children under the age of 18 who can't be vaccinated?

A:  Children under 18 years of age are excepted from the vaccination requirement at land and ferry POEs.

Q: Which vaccines/combination of vaccines will be accepted?

A:  Per CDC guidelines, all Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved and authorized vaccines, as well as all vaccines that have an Emergency Use Listing (EUL) from the World Health Organization (WHO), will be accepted.

Accepted Vaccines:

• More details are available in CDC guidance  here .
• 2 weeks (14 days) after your dose of an accepted single-dose COVID-19 vaccine;
• 2 weeks (14 days) after your second dose of an accepted 2-dose series;
• 2 weeks (14 days) after you received the full series of an accepted COVID-19 vaccine (not placebo) in a clinical trial;
• 2 weeks (14 days) after you received 2 doses of any “mix-and-match” combination of accepted COVID-19 vaccines administered at least 17 days apart.

Q. Is the United States requiring travelers to have a booster dose to be considered fully vaccinated for border entry purposes?

A:  No. The CDC guidance for “full vaccination” can be found here.

Q: Do U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents need proof of vaccination to return to the United States via land POEs and ferry terminals?

A:  No. Vaccination requirements do not apply to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs). Travelers that exhibit signs or symptoms of illness will be referred to CDC for additional medical evaluation.

Q: Is pre- or at-arrival COVID testing required to enter the United States via land POEs or ferry terminals?

A: No, there is no COVID testing requirement to enter the United States via land POE or ferry terminals. In this respect, the requirement for entering by a land POE or ferry terminal differs from arrival via air, where there is a requirement to have a negative test result before departure.

Processing Changes Announced on January 22, 2022 

Q: new changes were recently announced. what changed on january 22.

A:  Since January 22, 2022, non-citizens who are not U.S. nationals or Lawful Permanent Residents have been required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter the United States at land ports of entry and ferry terminals, whether for essential or nonessential purposes. Previously, DHS required that non-U.S. persons be vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter the United States for nonessential purposes.  Effective January 22, all non-U.S. individuals, to include essential travelers, must be prepared to attest to vaccination status and present proof of vaccination to a CBP officer upon request. DHS announced an extension of this policy on April 21, 2022.

Q: Who is affected by the changes announced on January 22?

A: This requirement does not apply to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents. It applies to other noncitizens, such as a citizen of Mexico, Canada, or any other country seeking to enter the United States through a land port of entry or ferry terminal.

Q: Do U.S. citizens need proof of vaccination to return to the United States via land port of entry or ferry terminals?

A: Vaccination requirements do not apply to U.S. Citizens, U.S. nationals or U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents. Travelers that exhibit signs or symptoms of illness will be referred to CDC for additional medical evaluation. 

Q: What is essential travel?

A:  Under the prior policy, there was an exception from temporary travel restrictions for “essential travel.” Essential travel included travel to attend educational institutions, travel to work in the United States, travel for emergency response and public health purposes, and travel for lawful cross-border trade (e.g., commercial truckers). Under current policy, there is no exception for essential travel.

Q: Will there be any exemptions? 

A: While most non-U.S. individuals seeking to enter the United States will need to be vaccinated, there is a narrow list of exemptions consistent with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Order in the air travel context.

• Certain categories of individuals on diplomatic or official foreign government travel as specified in the CDC Order
• Children under 18 years of age;
• Certain participants in certain COVID-19 vaccine trials as specified in the CDC Order;   
• Individuals with medical contraindications to receiving a COVID-19 vaccine as specified in the CDC Order;
• Individuals issued a humanitarian or emergency exception by the Secretary of Homeland Security;
• Individuals with valid nonimmigrant visas (excluding B-1 [business] or B-2 [tourism] visas) who are citizens of a country with limited COVID-19 vaccine availability, as specified in the CDC Order
• Members of the U.S. Armed Forces or their spouses or children (under 18 years of age) as specified in the CDC Order; and
• Individuals whose entry would be in the U.S. national interest, as determined by the Secretary of Homeland Security.

Q: What documentation will be required to show vaccination status?

A:  Non-U.S. individuals are required to be prepared to attest to vaccination status and present proof of vaccination to a CBP officer upon request regardless of the purpose of travel.

The current documentation requirement remains the same and is available on the CDC website . Documentation requirements for entry at land ports of entry and ferry terminals mirror those for entry by air.

Q: What happens if someone doesn’t have proof of vaccine status?

A: If non-U.S. individuals cannot present proof of vaccination upon request, they will not be admitted into the United States and will either be subject to removal or be allowed to withdraw their application for entry.

Q: Will incoming travelers be required to present COVID-19 test results?

A: There is no COVID-19 testing requirement for travelers at land border ports of entry, including ferry terminals.

Q: What does this mean for those who can't be vaccinated, either due to age or other health considerations? 

A: See CDC guidance for additional information on this topic. Note that the vaccine requirement does not apply to children under 18 years of age.

Q: Does this requirement apply to amateur and professional athletes?

A: Yes, unless they qualify for one of the narrow CDC exemptions.

Q: Are commercial truckers required to be vaccinated?

A: Yes, unless they qualify for one of the narrow CDC exemptions. These requirements also apply to bus drivers as well as rail and ferry operators.

Q. Do you expect border wait times to increase?

A:  As travelers navigate these new travel requirements, wait times may increase. Travelers should account for the possibility of longer than normal wait times and lines at U.S. land border crossings when planning their trip and are kindly encouraged to exercise patience.

To help reduce wait times and long lines, travelers can take advantage of innovative technology, such as facial biometrics and the CBP OneTM mobile application, which serves as a single portal for individuals to access CBP mobile applications and services.

Q: How is Customs and Border Protection staffing the ports of entry? 

A: CBP’s current staffing levels at ports of entry throughout the United States are commensurate with pre-pandemic levels. CBP has continued to hire and train new employees throughout the pandemic. CBP expects some travelers to be non-compliant with the proof of vaccination requirements, which may at times lead to an increase in border wait times. Although trade and travel facilitation remain a priority, we cannot compromise national security, which is our primary mission. CBP Office of Field Operations will continue to dedicate its finite resources to the processing of arriving traffic with emphasis on trade facilitation to ensure economic recovery.

Q: What happens if a vaccinated individual is traveling with an unvaccinated individual?  

A:  The unvaccinated individual (if 18 or over) would not be eligible for admission.

Q: If I am traveling for an essential reason but am not vaccinated can I still enter?

A:  No, if you are a non-U.S. individual. The policy announced on January 22, 2022 applies to both essential and non-essential travel by non-U.S. individual travelers. Since January 22, DHS has required that all inbound non-U.S. individuals crossing U.S. land or ferry POEs – whether for essential or non-essential reasons – be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and provide related proof of vaccination upon request.

Q: Are sea crew members on vessels required to have a COVID vaccine to disembark?

A:  Sea crew members traveling pursuant to a C-1 or D nonimmigrant visa are not excepted from COVID-19 vaccine requirements at the land border. This is a difference from the international air transportation context.

Entering the U.S. via Air Travel

Q: what are the covid vaccination requirements for air passengers to the united states  .

A:  According to CDC requirements [www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/noncitizens-US-air-travel.html | Link no longer valid], most noncitizens who are visiting the United States temporarily must be fully vaccinated prior to boarding a flight to the United States. These travelers are required to show proof of vaccination. A list of covered individuals is available on the CDC website.  

Q: What are the COVID testing requirements for air passengers to the United States?  

A:  Effective Sunday, June 12 at 12:01 a.m. ET, CDC will no longer require pre-departure COVID-19 testing for U.S.-bound air travelers.

• Border Security
• Transportation Security
• Airport Security
• Coronavirus (COVID-19)
• Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
• Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

Solo traveling basics: Expert advice for your first trip

Boarding the plane to head to another country alone is often an emotional experience – there’s the excitement, the anxiety, the anticipation.

It can also be totally nerve-wracking.

When Angie Orth made the bold choice to leave her job and embark on a solo yearlong journey around the world in 2011, her friends and family cautioned her about safety concerns. “Everyone was horrified,” the Florida native told USA TODAY. “The fear was all I heard.”

The then New York City-based Orth kicked off her 12-country solo trip in Fiji before making her way to New Zealand, Australia, and Southeast Asia. Then she trekked through Europe, including Greece, Spain and England, and stopped in Turkey and Egypt before ending in Kenya and South Africa.

Stay safe while traveling: Here are 17 CIA tips, advice to think like a spy on vacation

Learn more: Best travel insurance

It wasn’t always smooth traveling. At times, Orth said she survived “by the skin of my teeth.” Orth was in Egypt during the Arab Spring , got unbelievably sick in Thailand, and had a bike accident in Bali. She was also robbed of 400 euros. “I was in Greece for a half an hour and had already been pickpocketed,” she said. 

Still, to Orth, the solo journey was invaluable. “It’s a confidence that I don't think there’s any other way to get that confidence than by solo travel,” she said, referring to the problem-solving that inherently comes with navigating travel on your own. Then there’s also the compassion you gain from meeting and experiencing other cultures. 

Now more than ever, more people are deciding to forgo travel companions and embark on their trips alone. Solo vacation package searches on Google shot up by more than 200% over the past 90 days as of Feb. 2.

Increased connectivity on our phones makes it easier to feel secure and social media shows more people – especially women – traveling the world alone. 

“Women are not waiting for permission or their 401(k) to mature. If my husband doesn’t want to go, fine. Women are having more confidence,” said Orth, who is also the author of the upcoming book “Flirting with Disaster,” which chronicles her yearlong solo trip. 

Here’s everything you need to know about solo travel. 

How to safely travel alone

Safety is always top of mind when traveling, and it’s especially important for solo travelers who have to look out for themselves. 

'It's like your local bestie': This startup helps make solo travel as a woman feel safer

“Isn’t it fun to meet a person in a hostel and say yes, let’s go hiking right now? That’s fun, but it’s risky,” Orth said. “It’s about balancing it out and researching ridiculously.” 

◾ Start your research by heading to the State Department website to see if there are any travel advisories for the destination you’re interested in. These advisories are based on changing conditions and also inform you about the specific region you’re visiting.

For the most direct updates, enroll in the agency’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), a free service that sends you the most up-to-date information on the destination. It can also help connect you to the nearest U.S. embassy and consulate if traveling and something happens.

◾ One thing Orth always searches for is “the destination plus scams” to see what she has to look out for when in that place. Many European cities are notorious for petty theft, like pickpocketing in popular tourist hotspots like the Trevi Fountain or public transportation.  

When doing research, it may feel like an information overload. "There is so much information now, you could read 1,000 reviews and get so many sources of conflicting information," Orth added. "It’s hard to wade through all that and find trusted sources."

◾ To help sift through everything, Orth recommends reaching out to others who have traveled to your ideal destination. She also recommended cleaning out your feed and only following travel content creators who “give you the good and the bad.”

“You don’t want the glossy, glossy, oh, it’s so magical because travel isn’t always so magical,” she said. 

◾ At your destination, you’ll also need at least a basic understanding of the language used there. “Translation plays a big role in safety, just being aware of your surroundings,” said Craig Ewer, Google Communications Manager for Search. 

Besides direct translation between 133 languages, the Google Translate app offers pronunciation help – “such a lifesaver,” according to Rose Yao, vice president of product management at Google. You can also snap a picture of a menu and have it translated in real time. 

The Google app also has a feature called Lens that allows users to search using a picture of something like a sign. “You’d be surprised at what you can Lens: menus, what is that building or what is that statue,” Yao said. You can also capture a screenshot of your social media feed and then search for it on Google to incorporate it into your travel plans.

Staying healthy on your travels

◾ To safeguard yourself and others against preventable illnesses while exploring new places, look up any recommended vaccinations for the countries you plan on visiting. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website is a good starting point, with in-depth travel health notices and recommended vaccines and medicines posted. 

The CDC website also offers travel advice on managing nonpreventable illnesses, like preventing bug bites to reduce the risk of contracting diseases like dengue or Zika.

◾ Typically, you’d want to give yourself at least a month before departing on your trip to get everything you need from your doctor. And if you don’t know who to go to, the CDC can help you find a clinic as well. 

Orth recommends having a doctor help you put together a medical kit with some necessities and medications, such as for food poisoning. “It’s helpful to have some things on hand so you’re not scrambling on a remote island and no one knows what you’re talking about,” she said. 

◾ As you’re making the big purchases for your trip, don’t forget about travel insurance for the unexpected. Orth said she never travels without this layer of protection. Travel insurance not only helped with her medical costs from her bike collision but also replaced her camera, which was smashed in the accident. She also recommends a service called  MedJet , which offers worldwide security crisis and medical transportation assistance for its members.

What are the most popular solo travel destinations?

According to Google, the top-searched destinations for American solo travelers are: 

◾ Puerto Rico

Tips for solo travelers

◾ The Google app’s generative AI search allows you to “ask really detailed questions like you would ask a friend,” Yao said. “Ask what’s off the beaten path, what’s not crowded. What’s a great time to visit the Louvre that’s not super crowded?” 

◾ For your first trip alone, it’s OK to start small and dip your toes in the solo travel pool. “Start in an easier destination, something more familiar where you speak the language or you don't have to fly far away,” Orth said. “A lot of folks see ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ and travel content creators trekking in Borneo for it to count but it doesn’t.” 

◾ It won’t always be rainbows and butterflies, despite what you see on social media. Expect decision fatigue from having to make many micro-decisions, like if this taxi driver seems safe. “I think this probably hits women a lot harder than it hits men because we are never not thinking about our safety, and that’s if we’re going to Target in our hometown or hopping on a plane to a remote island,” Orth said. 

◾ Make an itinerary for yourself with at least one thing planned every day, so you don’t feel aimless but still have space for flexibility, said Madison Pietrowski, U.S. brand director at GetYourGuide, a marketplace for travel experiences, where each company listed is thoroughly vetted. It can be as casual as wanting to eat at a certain restaurant for dinner or more intensive like a whole-day tour. (On that note, make sure to read the fine print and be aware of cancellation policies for your excursions.)  

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

Where to go in 2024: when to visit our Best in Travel winners

Oct 25, 2023 • 19 min read

Head to Croatia in June when the weather is bliss - before the bulk of the summer crowds arrive © Matthew Baker:Getty Images

If you’re anything like us, you’re looking to cram as much adventure as possible into 2024.

And if you are looking to be inspired, we’ve just released Best in Travel 2024 – a roundup of the best places to unwind, connect, eat, learn and journey around the world next year. With 30 different destinations and experiences among our picks, there’s plenty to pack in.

So if you want to start planning a year’s worth of epic trips, read on to find out the best time to visit these incredible places in the coming year.

Where to travel in January

Nairobi, kenya .

While there really isn’t a bad time to be in Nairobi , the height of the summer season is always a good bet. January sees an average of four days of rain and temperatures of 23°C/73°F. Expect perfect conditions for a safari experience in Nairobi National Park , just on the outskirts of the city. It might be the only place in the world where you can see black rhinos, lions, hyenas, gazelles, warthogs, zebras, giraffes and buffalo against a backdrop of skyscrapers. 

Southern Thailand

Many have described Southern Thailand as Thailand before the backpackers arrived. In January, the busiest month for tourism in Thailand, you can lie on a deserted beach near Ao Khanom, waiting to catch a glimpse of the elusive and beautiful pink dolphins. It’s good to know when not to go, too: keep in mind monsoon season arrives from July to October. And in 2024, Ramadan falls across March and April, with Eid-ul-adha in the middle of June. 

The dry, cooler winter, from October to April, is the ideal time to visit India , with February being the sweet spot. Plan at least one long-distance rail journey as part of your trip – there’s no experience quite like waking up on an Indian sleeper train barrelling across the plains.

It’s always best to avoid the rain-drenched monsoon season from May to September, unless you’re heading to arid Ladakh , in the far north. 

Benin is solidifying its status as a premier West African destination for art and culture. As part of efforts to repatriate historical artifacts, Benin is establishing the Museum of the Epic of the Amazons and Kings of Dahomey , set to open in late 2024 with priceless pieces restituted from France. So why are we not encouraging you to visit in December? Well, you should – but January 10 sees Benin’s famed voodoo festival take place in Ouidah and Porto Novo. It’s an enriching cultural experience that shouldn’t be missed.

Find out more of the best places to go in January . 

Where to travel in February

There’s hardly a wrong time to visit the Caribbean – yet February sees a high influx of visitors hoping to escape cold-weather countries. St Lucia ’s independence from British rule in 1979 is celebrated on February 22, and marked by parades and celebratory events island-wide. Come prepared to party.

Hokkaido, Japan

February is when the temperatures are at their coldest in this premier Japanese hub for skiing and snowboarding, and the season even offers an opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to try ice fishing on the top of a frozen lake. ​​ Sapporo Snow Festival – Hokkaidō ’s most famous festival, featuring snow and ice sculptures and giant slides – is held in February, bringing a huge number of well-wrapped-up visitors. 

A Mexico visit in January or February means dry and relatively cooler days, providing some relief in humid coastal destinations. It’s also whale-watching season along the Pacific Coast . In Mazatlán , February is carnival time: the 2024 festival is the 126th edition.

Kangaroo Island, Australia

Deceptively vast and blessed with a ridiculous amount of stunning coastline – 540km (335 miles) to be exact – this is where you may find you’ve scored an entire beach to yourself. Kangaroo Island invites guests to indulge in its unique local produce, encounter adorable Australian wildlife and discover some of the country’s best beaches. And the island is a total show-off during the Aussie summer months of January and February.  

Find out more of the best places to go in February .

Where to travel in March

For those seeking a trekking experience away from snowy summits, the Anti Atlas Mountains in Morocco are perfect in March, when you can embrace tranquil hikes and the season of wildflowers and blooming trees. Don’t miss the annual almond blossom festival in Tafraoute , held in February or March to coincide with the vibrant flowering and harvest of almond trees.

Uzbekistan 

March welcomes the start of spring in Uzbekistan , as blossoming apricots grace the landscape. As the month unfolds, expect warm and moderately dry weather, with temperatures ranging from 14°C (57°F) to 30°C (86°F). Seize the opportunity to explore the storied cities of Samarkand , Bukhara and Khiva ; immerse yourself in mountainous retreats; or embark on an artistic and cultural journey in the capital city of Tashkent .

Normandy, France

If visitors to France fancy something other than the Olympics , the region of Normandy is hosting the Normandy Impressionist Festival from March to September next year to celebrate 150 years of Impressionism. The event will bring visitors into the heart of a 19th-century movement that turned art on its head with its radical, soulful focus on outdoor scenes and the effects of light. The program includes open-air theater performances and dance cafes, art exhibitions and workshops, plus forest walks, stargazing, sound- and-light shows and romantic picnics straight out of a Renoir.

Though Spain might be one of the most popular countries for visitors, the sun-washed destination is leading the green-travel way with its plans for a more sustainable, circular tourism model. The Mediterranean city of Valencia is a European Green Capital for 2024, and March is the perfect time to visit and explore Jardines del Turia , a 9km (5.5-mile)long riverbed that’s been transformed into a road-free park.

Since winters along the Mediterranean coast can be cold and wet, and desert nights icy, March is an ideal month to visit Algeria . To see the Algerian Sahara ’s most beautiful sand dunes, head to the blood-red oasis city of Timimoun and its nearby Grand Erg Occidental, a dune sea twice the size of Belgium . It is also best to avoid summer, when temperatures in the Sahara can get into the 50°C (122°F) range. In spring and autumn, the weather is ideal for touring, and hotel rates are lower than the summer peak. 

Find more of the best places to go in March .

Where to travel in April

Danube limes, bulgaria.

The string of settlements on the ancient limits of the Roman Empire known as the Danube Limes has been nominated for inclusion on the Unesco World Heritage list in 2024, so expect visitor numbers to increase. Go in April before the summer heat hits, and explore part of the 460-mile Dunav Ultra cycling path , which follows the Danube through Bulgaria all the way to the Black Sea. 

Paris, France 

Who doesn’t love Paris in the springtime? And 2024 will certainly be the eternal city’s year, with the Olympics happening in the summer. Even if you didn’t score tickets, visit in April to cheer on the runners in the Paris marathon , Europe ’s biggest and considered by many the world’s best. The route takes in most of the world-famous Paris landmarks, including the Arc de Triomphe , the Bastille , Notre Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower .

From beachcombing to village-hopping, volcano-climbing and indulging in fresh, lip-tingling ceviche, Nicaragua ’s pleasures are plentiful. And in 2024, the country will offer visitors something even more special: it’s a prime viewing destination for the total eclipse on April 8 . Observe it from atop a volcano for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Wales ’ southwest is far less crowded with tourists than the north – and has an air of the untouched and untamed. The best period to visit starts in April, when rainfall is low and temperatures milder. A hike along the Wales Coast Path is the best way to explore this protected shore.

This small Pacific nation offers uninhabited tropical beaches where you can live out your scuba-diving dreams. Visiting in April guarantees warm and sunny weather for diving, snorkelling and swimming – although it is possible to go to Palau throughout the year, as the country does not experience typhoons.

Ikaria, Greece

The Greek island of Ikaria seduces with aquamarine waters and wild terrain, plus an independent spirit. As spring unfolds, Ikaria comes alive with delightful weather and vibrant natural landscapes, creating the perfect setting for island tours and outdoor activities. Embark on sailing adventures, explore the waters through kayaking or pedal along scenic cycling routes. Ikaria is also a popular spot for stargazing. 

Find more of the best places to go in April .

Where to travel in May 

Mostar, bosnia .

Swap the Bosnian city of Mostar ’s stifling summer heat for a balmy cultural getaway in spring. Visit the colorful Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque for its panoramic views of the city. Wander along cobblestone alleys (relatively crowd-free at this time of year) to find bazaars selling everything from ceramics to textiles and traditional art. Then head down to the River Neretva, where you can witness locals test gravity’s limits by diving from the Stari Most bridge . Maybe you’ll join in? If not, you can enjoy front-row seats at a riverbank cafe, Turkish coffee in hand.

Europe’s night trains

From spring 2024, European Sleeper will expand its services to offer travelers even more overnight rail options . The expansion connects Berlin to more Dutch and Belgian cities, and will simplify travel from London to Paris or Prague. Book a journey in early May before the summertime crowds arrive, and you can enjoy scenic train rides through lush green valleys, cherry-blossom-lined landscapes and snow-capped mountains.

The Western Balkans

Launching in 2024, the Trans Dinarica cycling route covers 3364km (2090 miles) through the Western Balkans , weaving through alpine lakes, national parks, Unesco sites and villages in the Dinaric Alps and nearby regions. The route is divided into 50km (31-mile) sections, with dining and accommodation options at the end of each one. Late May to early June is an ideal time to go: the snow has melted, spring flowers are in bloom and temperatures aren’t so punishing.

Find out more of the best places to go in May .

Where to travel in June

It’s almost impossible to move through the narrow streets of Croatia ’s historic cities and old towns at the height of summer without jostling elbows with fellow tourists. Go in early June instead, when you’re almost guaranteed sun-kissed weather and you’ve a better chance of snagging a spot at a popular attraction or restaurant without agonizing queues. Now that Croatia is officially in the eurozone , you can easily enter from most other EU countries without changing currency.

Basque Country, Spain

For much of the year, Spain’s Basque Country is under a constant drizzle – but by June the sun is out, and so are the locals. Outdoor terraces, bars and beaches come alive as people gather to linger over seafood and pinxtos. Try San Sebastián for its culinary scene and crescent-shaped cove; Bilbao for bar-hopping and museums; or try any of its scenic hiking trails. We love the Wine and Fish trail that traverses through the region's vineyards and coastal towns.

Jakarta, Indonesia 

Jakarta offers a dizzying mix of attractions, from exceptional cuisine and coffee to a rich history, a vibrant art scene, fantastic shopping and lively nightlife. While the weather is hot and humid most of the year, June offers a pleasant break with the onset of the dry season. Due to Jakarta’s unsustainable future, Indonesia plans to move the capital to Nusantara –  so visit soon, before it transforms forever.

The Portuguese Way, Camino de Santiago

The Portuguese Way  – also known as Caminho Portugues de Santiago – unfolds with ancient villages, locally owned albergues (hostels) and scenic paths through Portugal and Spain. June is an excellent time to take on the pilgrimage route, thanks to generally bright and pleasant weather, moderate crowds and lush, green fields.

Find out more of the best places to go in June .

Where to travel in July

The midwest, usa.

With revitalized warehouses turned into art spaces, eco-design hotels and world-class museums, the USA ’s Midwest offers a multitude of reasons to visit. Moreover in 2024, Ann Arbor, Michigan – a haven for foodies – celebrates its 200th birthday with year-round festivities, while Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio celebrates its 50th anniversary. Visit in July to see Midwest energy in full force before August’s heat sets in.

Donegal, Ireland

Beautiful, wild and windswept Donegal boasts the longest coastline in Ireland and over 100 beaches – so even though summer attracts large crowds, finding a spot of solitude should be no problem. While you can never depend on the weather in Ireland, you’ll generally have a better chance of clear skies in July, making it an ideal time to hike Europe’s largest sea cliffs at Slieve Liag , or any of the Wild Atlantic Way ’s coastal paths. Earagail Arts Festival takes place in July, offering the chance to connect with the Irish language and local traditions.

Montana, USA

With its vast wilderness and jaw-dropping “big sky” landscapes, Montana truly embodies the spirit of the American West . While there’s no bad time to visit, July stands out for outdoor activities like hiking, white-water rafting, cycling and wildflower spotting. With the snow melted, Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks are more accessible (though tour buses are back on the road). Festival season is in full swing, too, with the Under the Big Sky Festival in Whitefish, Evel Knievel Days in Butte and the Flathead Cherry Festival in Polson all taking place in July.

Saalfelden Leogang, Austria

In 2024, Saalfelden Leogang , an Austrian mountain resort, is embracing a sustainable future with a new solar-powered chairlift and an array of guided outdoor activities. Visit in winter for skiing or snowboarding – or in summer, when you can hike, bike and swim in the lake at this family-friendly mountain playground.

​​Mongolia beckons to those yearning for vast expanses, thrilling adventures and captivating cultural encounters. With its awe-inspiring landscapes and rich heritage, this extraordinary destination holds a multitude of treasures waiting to be discovered . Mongolia is best visited in the summer, when the steppes turn electric green and you can explore the countryside. July is the main time to catch Naadam events (with such traditional games as horse racing, wrestling and archery) happening in small towns across the country. 

Find out more of the best places to go in July .

Where to travel in August

In 2024, Greenland will get two new airports, in Nuuk and Ilulissat, allowing for direct flight connections between this icy land and North America. Once there, you can enjoy unique local experiences. For dog-sledding and the northern lights, spring is the ideal time to visit – and coincides with the 10th anniversary of the Arctic Sounds music festival next April. If you’re looking for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, wildlife-spotting and endless hours of sun, though, you can’t go wrong in August.

August is an excellent time to embrace Poland ’s natural beauty. You can hike in the Carpathian Mountains , kayak in the Great Marsuain Lakes and bike in Białowieża National Park . In fact, Poland boasts 23 national parks, which means you’ll never run out of outdoor activities. If you prefer something more relaxing, Poland’s coastline offers affordable, uncrowded white-sand beaches, best enjoyed in late summer.

With drier weather and more sunshine, August is a great time to explore Ecuador ’s 10 national parks and eco-friendly cloud lodges – and Día de Independencia (August 8) and the procession of La Virgen del Cisne (August 15) are big events on the cultural calendar. If you’re not pushed for time, a brand new digital-nomad visa means tourists can enjoy extended stays in one of the world’s most biodiverse countries. 

Far North, Scotland

Next year, Scotland ’s Far North is vying for Unesco World Heritage recognition thanks to its rich biodiversity and critical role in carbon sequestration. The wild and boggy terrain is home to mist-shrouded mountains, rivers, a diverse wildlife population and restaurants that emphasize local, foraged ingredients. A late-August visit ensures comfortable temperatures for exploring the great outdoors – without the nuisance of midges.

The Baltic Trails 

Crisscrossing Estonia , Latvia and Lithuania , the newly established Baltic Trails are best tackled in summer, when guesthouses are operating and the sun shines until 10pm. Trekkers can take to two trails: the Baltic Coastal Hiking Route, which runs along the Baltic Sea; and the Forest Trail, which takes you through forest hinterland and national parks, including Latvia’s Gauja River Valley.

Find out more of the best places to go in August

Where to travel in September

Kansas city, usa .

Kansas City , in the heart of the American Midwest, is increasingly traveler-friendly thanks to revitalized urban spaces, a brand-new, state-of-the-art airport terminal and expanded (free!) streetcar service. In 2024, the city is set to unveil its first National Women’s Soccer League stadium – a prelude to hosting World Cup games in 2026. For the ultimate KC sports experience, visit in September, when the NFL season kicks off and you can experience the roar of a Chiefs home game.

Tuscany, Italy

Few destinations epitomize the art of savoring life’s unhurried moments quite like this idyllic region. Whether you’re wandering along pristine hiking trails or reacquainting your palate with the rustic charm of cucina contadina (farmhouse cooking), any experience in Tuscany is an exquisite fusion with the land itself. Come September, as the sun’s gentle warmth lingers, you’ll find the bliss of fewer tourists and countryside paths awash with wild blooms.

İzmir, Turkey

İzmir is a city that prides itself on good living – which isn’t hard thanks to its seaside location, fresh Aegean cuisine, and a blend of rediscovered heritage and revitalized contemporary culture that draws visitors from teeming Istanbul . With its mild winters and refreshing breezes caressing the city from the bay, İzmir’s allure as a year-round destination is undeniable. Yet September, as the summer heat mellows, might be the ideal time to explore this city.

South Africa

South Africa is an ode to natural grandeur: penguins inhabit the coastline, lions and black rhinos prowl the bush, and the fynbos shrub breathes life into the hills of the Western Cape . The southern-hemisphere-spring months of September and October bring the best chances of dolphin and whale encounters, including at whale-watching centers such as Hermanus . Do your research and book responsible experiences, taking care to avoid places where wild animals are held captive or made to alter their natural behavior.

Find out more of the best places to go in September

Where to travel in October

In October in Pakistan , the monsoon season has ended, vibrant autumn hues take over the Hunza Valley, and guided outdoor tours through the country’s alpine valleys and snow-capped Himalayan passes beckon. Don’t miss a journey along the dramatic Karakoram Highway to immerse yourself in the country’s most epic mountain scenery. 

Montréal, Canada

While summer is the best time for outdoor festivals, fall in Montréal offers cheaper prices, beautiful autumn leaves and just-right temperatures. Don’t miss the Parc du Mont-Royal , where wooded trails and the Belvédère Kondiaronk provide views of the mountain’s changing hues against the backdrop of downtown. Another must-visit is Gardens of Light , a colorful event that transforms the Chinese, Japanese and First Nations gardens of the Jardin Botanique into works of art through the end of October.

The long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum is set to open its doors in 2024, offering a tantalizing immersion in Egypt ’s ancient treasures. What’s more, budget travelers will have more options, with the potential launch of low-cost flights from Ryanair and Air Sphinx. Unsure when to visit? October is usually a great time , as crowds thin out, temperatures remain balmy and the light provides excellent photography opportunities.

New trails, ever-growing parklands and a truly ambitious rewilding project make Patagonia both fiercer and more approachable than ever before. Need another reason to visit in 2024? An annular solar eclipse will black out the skies over both Argentina ’s and Chile’s Patagonia National Parks on October 2, creating even more buzz in one of the planet’s wildest corners.

Find out more of the best places to go in October

Where to travel in November

Travelers will love Chile in November. After the hush of winter months, Patagonia awakens to the vibrant hues of spring, while the northern regions gradually shed their chill, offering a respite from the dampness of previous seasons. This also marks the ideal time to explore the picturesque coastal towns and desert landscapes of the north, a month before the busy tourist season swings into action. 

Swahili Coast, Tanzania

Tanzania ’s Swahili Coast boasts a timeless allure, beckoning travelers year-round. November offers terrific wildlife watching. Savor the coastal wonders in their full glory with whale sharks swimming on Mafia Island or float along the wide Rufiji River on a boat safari, passing hippos submerged in the shallows, crocodiles sunning themselves on rocks and kingfishers taking it all in from the riverbanks.

Southern Lakes and Central Otago, New Zealand

November can be a great time to visit, especially if you love mountain biking (Kiwis have gone bike-mad) amid still cooler weather. New Zealand ’s Great Walks hiking season also kicks off in late October and runs through until April. Spring festivals include Crayfest Kaikōura , pairing everyone’s favorite crustacean (crayfish) with local wine and craft beer. It’s also a good time to incorporate some whale watching at Kaikoura . 

Find out more of the best places to go in November

Where to travel in December

Philadelphia, usa .

Looking for an art and culture city break? Head straight to Philadelphia . In 2024, the Franklin Institute celebrates its 200th anniversary with revamped exhibitions and interactive displays. A new world-class art museum, Calder Gardens , dedicated to the work of world-famous sculptor (and Philly native) Alexander Calder, will open near the Rodin Museum and Barnes Foundation before the end of the year. While it’s cold in December, there are plenty of festive activities, including a public ice-rink near towering City Hall .

Manaus, Brazil 

Manaus , gateway to the Amazon , is best explored in the dry season, which generally runs until the end of December. Look for sustainable tourism and Indigenous-led initiatives like Biatüwi ’s all-Indigenous menu, which showcases ingredients from the Amazon Basin. Or go wildlife exploring in Rio Urubu, located just two hours from the city center.

Prague, Czechia

Yes, December can be bitingly cold in Prague – but that doesn’t mean it’s not a magical time of year, and the perfect month to find a traditional cozy pub to warm up and sink a tall Czech beer. Hearty Czech cuisine warms you up, and the cobblestone streets are illuminated with twinkling lights. Don’t miss the Christmas markets: the biggest is in the Old Town Square and runs until the end of the month – with mulled wine, gingerbread biscuits, seasonal gifts and musical performers.

Find out more of the best places to go in December

This article was first published November 2019 and updated October 2023

Explore related stories

Destination Practicalities

Mar 24, 2024 • 5 min read

With a wet season, potential hurricanes and a lot of humidity, it can be hard to know when to visit Everglades National Park.

Mar 23, 2024 • 17 min read

Mar 22, 2024 • 4 min read

Mar 22, 2024 • 9 min read

Mar 22, 2024 • 5 min read

Mar 21, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 21, 2024 • 10 min read

Mar 20, 2024 • 9 min read

Mar 20, 2024 • 7 min read

• KAYAK for Business NEW

Compare package deals to find the right one.

Search vacation deals by destination, find vacation packages, las vegas vacations, honolulu vacations, toronto vacations, paris vacations, new york vacations, cancún vacations, rome vacations, san juan vacations, miami beach vacations, montego bay vacations, punta cana vacations, key west vacations, orlando vacations, barcelona vacations, hawaii vacations.

• Skip to main content
• Keyboard shortcuts for audio player

• Dear Life Kit
• Life Skills

We asked, you answered: Parent-approved tips on traveling with kids under 2

Becky Harlan

Last month, Life Kit asked parents to share their go-to advice for traveling with babies and toddlers under age 2 as part of an episode we did on the subject. Over 200 folks responded with tips they wish they'd known before taking a big trip with a little one.

Reading through these responses, it became clear there's no magic hack that works for every kid. Some parents swore by sticking to their kid's sleep schedule on a trip, others said their vacation was smoother when they let the usual routine go. Some sang the praises of the overnight flight (so their child would sleep on the plane), others said their child has never slept more than 10 minutes on a plane no matter the timing.

I flew to Japan with my baby. Here's the travel advice that helped me survive the trip

A few pieces of advice held true throughout. A hungry kid is an unpleasant kid, and children are messy. So packing lots of snacks, extra diapers and a change of clothes ranked high on the list of must-dos. Almost 40 of over 200 responses suggested packing extra outfits in your carry-on for your kid and for you. (If your charge spits up, throws up, blows out or spills it will also get on you!)

So here's a non-exhaustive, impossible-to-be-comprehensive, but-hopefully-still-helpful round-up of your top advice for traveling with little kids. These responses have been edited for length and clarity.

What to pack

A stroller that can be stored in the overhead bin. It's a game changer to not have to check clunky strollers at the gate or check-in counters. —Amy P.

A change of clothes for yourself. If the baby spits up or has a blowout, there's a high likelihood that the mess will end up on you too, especially if you're holding them. Also, be sure to bring a bag to put messy clothes in. Reusable waterproof bags are great and they keep the smell in! —Jenna Yount

Extra diapers. You think you will be fine but if something comes up it's not a good situation to be in. —Jeanna Limtiaco

Overnight diapers. Fewer diaper changes in transit makes everyone happier. —Samantha Warren

Snacks. Remember, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration allows for any size baby food [and baby or toddler beverage], so pack those pouches! —Clara W.

Meds you and your kids might need in flight. That includes chewable Tylenol, Imodium, Dramamine, Zofran, ginger chews, Band-Aids and alcohol wipes. —Paige Ellis

A dark-colored bath towel. It's a blanket, it's for tidying up, it's a tablecloth, it's a sun cover, it shields bottoms from hot slides, it dries off swings. It's a multi-tasking powerhouse. —Judith Heise

Consider what may make sense to buy, rent or borrow upon arrival. You don't need to stuff everything into your suitcase. Buy some of your diapers and snacks at your destination. See if you can borrow or rent large, bulky items like car seats or travel cribs from Facebook Marketplace or your hotel or Airbnb. —Jocelyn Newman

How to get through the flight

Get to your gate an hour before boarding. It gives you time to feed your child, change their diapers, have a cup of coffee and fill your water bottle. It can also help your kid let out their energy before they have to sit on the plane. —Shelly C.

Check the airport for family friendly spaces. Use nursing spaces or pods and family restrooms to reset as needed. Check lounges for nursing and play rooms. —Sara Conger

Take an early morning flight. Those are least likely to get delayed, which is important when traveling with kids. —Carina Ochoa

Parenthood Is A Shock To The System. These Tips Can Help You With The Transition

Board with your partner separately. If you're traveling with two caregivers, have one go on the plane first with all the stuff and do the gate-checking of the stroller while the other hangs back with the kids until the last minute. It gives kids more time to run around! —Andrea De Francesca

Get a plane seat for your kid. Even though many airlines allow kids under 2 to fly for free as a lap baby, if you can afford to get them their own seat, it is worth it. It is recommended for safety to have them in a car seat, according to the Federal Aviation Administration, and the extra space for them to move around is nice. —Nicole Shelledy

Be ready for motion sickness. We were not prepared for how easily some little ones get motion sickness on an airplane. Have throw-up bags handy at all times. —Tiff Bankhurst

Prevent ear discomfort. Sucking during take off and landing may help relieve ear discomfort. My babies have flown with me from 4 weeks onward and never had a problem as long as they had a bottle or sippy cup or straw to suck on. —Shelly Ransom

Don't plan on them sleeping on the plane. It's great if they do, but if it doesn't happen, you'll be frustrated. —Colleen Mayerhoff

Don't worry too much about your kid "bothering" other people. The vast majority of people don't care, and many have been in the same situation you've been in and feel nothing but empathy for you. As for those who do care, they are not guaranteed a child-free existence in public. Kids are part of society too, and they are also allowed to take up space. —Jenna Yount

Make friends with the flight crew. They're going to help, they've got more experience than you, and they also want the flight to be pleasant. —April Graham

Save the screens for the flight. If you're using a screen, wait until you're on the plane. While you're waiting in the terminal, let them move as much as possible. Find an empty gate and play Simon Says, see who can jump in one place the longest, do animal charades. Let them go wild. —Paige Ellis

Download age-appropriate shows for your child on an iPad. (But know that if your kid is under age 2 they'll mostly just want to push the buttons.) —Chantel Dockstader

Travel hacks

Find a lodging close to a grocery store and a park. It makes it easy to buy last-minute things and burn off their energy easily at a park. —Gillian Molina

Dress your young kids in bright, matching shirts. I once traveled alone when my kids were 2, 4 and 6. We all wore matching yellow shirts so people could see we were together. —Emily Hernandez

If you want to let your little one crawl around , bring a pair of socks that you can put over their hands. Then you don't have to worry about dirty hands afterward. —Shannon Geraghty

Hire a photographer. You'll have photos with everyone in them, maybe get to see some scenic parts of the city you hadn't seen before. Dress up, wear matching outfits, be extra! They're only little once. —Tina Doyle

Helpful mindsets

It's not a vacation. It's a trip. You're just parenting in a new place. Set your expectations accordingly. —Laura Henriquez

The airport/train/bus/car is not the time to enforce the normal at-home rules. Do you want Doritos at 7 a.m. at the airport? OK. Do you want to watch 20 episodes of Blippi on the plane? No problem. There are no rules when traveling. This also makes traveling fun for kids because they get to do something different. —Meg Houston

Build in extra time to do things. It will decrease the chances of you and your child getting into stressful situations. —Cori DeLano

You're not going to get as much done as you think with a kiddo in tow. Think about things like nap schedule, traveling with a stroller, meltdowns, diaper changes. On my most "successful" trip with my kiddo, we planned one big activity a day and left the rest of the day open with some general ideas and left room for flexibility. —Whitney Winters

They might not remember, but you will. —Nina Hartman

The digital story was edited by Malaka Gharib. The visual editor is Beck Harlan. We'd love to hear from you. Leave us a voicemail at 202-216-9823, or email us at [email protected].

Listen to Life Kit on Apple Podcasts and Spotify , and sign up for our newsletter .

• Life Kit: Parenting

Advanced Route Planner for Car Travelers

Unlock new adventures with our free route planner: perfect your road trips, discover new routes, and leverage expert travel insights for an unforgettable journey.

This distance calculator, covering the United States, North America, and worldwide, simplifies your travel planning. Enter your start and end points in the "From" and "To" fields — accepting city names, addresses, or GPS coordinates — and click "Calculate" to get started.

Customize your journey with "Fuel consumption" and "Fuel price" for cost estimates, and use the crosshair icon for map selections. Dive into "Advanced options" to add stops or adjust speeds, tailoring the trip to your pace and ensuring accurate travel time predictions.

Routes Between Cities in the US

• Harlingen - South Padre Island
• Huntington Beach - Buena Park
• Manteca - San Francisco
• Charlotte - Hilton Head Island
• Yakima - Redding
• Dallas - Alvarado
• Lewisville - Dallas
• Visalia - Tipton
• Arkadelphia - Santa Ana Maya
• Norfolk - Ocean City Beach
• Oceanside - Yuma
• Eau Claire - Thorp
• Watertown - Agency Village
• San Angelo - Brady
• Cameron - Raleigh
• Monterey - Carmel
• Albany - Brunswick
• Waynesburg - Morgantown
• Lewisville - Grapevine
• Sutton - Charleston
• Cody - Laramie
• Owatonna - Northfield
• Pendleton - Indianapolis
• Fernley - Carson City
• Matthews - Durham
• Winnemucca - Carson City
• Belmont - Manchester
• Alpena - Petoskey
• Bowling Green - Greenville
• Luray - Roanoke
• Yermo - Barstow
• Tulare - Porterville
• Dixon - Owensboro
• Atlanta - Tulsa
• Whigham - Cairo
• Redlands - Salinas
• Pagosa Springs - Tierra Amarilla
• Little America - Elko
• Odessa - Atlanta
• Pevely - Silva
• Biloxi - Corpus Christi
• Wallace Crossroads - North Myrtle Beach
• Lee - Saratoga Springs
• Lynbrook - New York
• Hampton Township - Seward

What Can You Do With This Route Planner

• Family Vacation Planning : Families planning summer vacations can use the distance calculator to plan their route, estimate fuel costs based on their car's fuel consumption, and calculate budget needs, ensuring a cost-effective and enjoyable journey.
• Business Travel Optimization : Professionals can plot the most efficient routes for their business trips, incorporating distance calculations to manage time effectively and budget for travel expenses accurately.
• Logistics and Freight Management : Long-haul truckers and freight forwarders can utilize the tool to map out routes between cities, estimate mileage, and calculate transportation costs based on company tariffs, optimizing delivery schedules and pricing.
• Meeting Halfway : Friends living in different cities can find a central meeting point by calculating the halfway distance between their locations, making it easier to arrange reunions and share new adventures together.

How Is the Distance Between Cities and Points Calculated?

Distance and travel time calculation algorithm.

This route calculation tool harnesses the power of shortest path search algorithms within a weighted road graph, employing sophisticated algorithms like Dijkstra, A-Star, and Contraction Hierarchies . Unlike conventional calculators that use distance or travel time as the graph weight, our system optimizes drive time for vehicles, favoring routes on higher-class roads for a smoother journey.

The backbone of this tool is built on OpenStreetMap data, ensuring our road graphs are accurate and up-to-date. We calculate distances between road segments with the haversine formula , using precise GPS coordinates to measure the Great Circle Distance. This formula is pivotal for calculating "air distance" or "straight line distance" between two points, taking into account the curvature of the Earth.

Road distances, however, diverge from straight line distances due to the natural curvature and layout of roads . To address this, roads are represented as segmented lines, and the haversine formula is applied to each segment, allowing for precise calculation of the journey length between any two points.

Recognizing that cities encompass large areas, our tool selects a central point within each city for distance calculations between cities. For personalized route planning, users can specify exact addresses or select points on the map. Additionally, the route's start and end points can be adjusted directly on the map for enhanced customization.

Travel time calculations break down the route into segments, evaluating the maximum permitted speed for each segment to estimate the fastest possible travel time.

It’s important to note that while our route calculation relies on advanced computer modeling for accuracy, no model is perfect . We encourage users to plan with a margin for adjustment to ensure a reliable and efficient journey.

Other Methods of Calculating Distances

One simple way to measure distance is by using a highway atlas. By tracing a route with your eye and rolling a curvimeter along it, you can gauge the distance. Estimating travel time involves assuming an average speed of 50 miles/hour on major intercity roads. Although this method provides rough estimates, it's straightforward.

In the absence of a curvimeter, a ruler can serve as a substitute. Start by aligning the ruler's zero mark with your route's beginning and follow the road's bends closely. Then, translate the measured length into kilometers or miles using the map's scale, which is typically provided in the atlas.

For distances between cities, reference tables in atlases and guidebooks offer a handy solution, especially for routes linking major cities. Note, however, that these tables may not cover smaller towns.

• Distance between cities
• Infographics
• Widget for Website
• Popular routes
• Suggest idea

© DriveBestWay.com: distance calculator , calculator of distance between two points , cost to drive calculator , routeplanner .

• Share full article

Advertisement

Travel Advisers: When to Let a Professional Plan Your Trip

By Julie Weed

Decades ago, your vacation most likely began with a visit to a travel agent, who relied on a combination of expertise and connections to find the best deals on plane tickets, hotels, tours and more. Since then, the internet has turned most of us into our own travel agents, and artificial intelligence software is making research and self-booking even easier. But for some trips, that special insider knowledge can still make a big difference.

So when should you hire a professional, and how does it all work? Here are some tips.

Why should I consider a travel adviser?

It’s easy for a traveler to do the research for a standard trip, said Chris Anderson, a professor at the Cornell University School of Hotel Administration, “so they should look for a specialist for the type of tour they are looking for, say a bike trip in Ireland, who can really add value.”

The insider knowledge offered by a travel adviser can add the most value to trips that have multicity itineraries, involve a wide age range of travelers , are very significant (like an anniversary vacation) or are to destinations you are unfamiliar with, said Gary R. Johnson, who has run the travel agency Woodside Travel in Seattle for nearly 30 years. An adviser could help you decide, for instance, in which order to visit European cities based on local events and transportation options.

What can an adviser give me that a booking site can’t?

Travel advisers can help you research the best destinations, lodging, or activities for your particular group and travel goals, offering up specific advice that might be hard or time-consuming to find yourself. Those specializing in cruises might know which cabin to choose if you are prone to seasickness, while a safari planner could help you decide which park would be best for bird-watching or seeing specific animals, like rhinos.

Travel advisers typically have relationships with tour companies, hotels and cruise lines, sometimes through networks. Those connections can allow advisers to offer extra perks such as late checkout, free breakfast, airport transfers, a welcome basket or a credit to spend on a cruise ship.

“A good travel agent will be a better steward of your travel budget than you are,” said Guy Rubin, managing director of Imperial Tours , which arranges travel in China.

When bad weather or other circumstances disrupt your itinerary, travel advisers often have direct lines of communication with providers and can do the work of rebooking and changing plans, saving you time and stress.

OK, let’s say I need help. How do I find an adviser?

Networks like the American Society of Travel Advisors and Travel Leaders have websites that can help you start your search for a travel adviser by answering a few questions about your desired trip. Once you have a handful to choose from, get on the phone with them to talk about what they might do for you, how they charge and the level of service you can expect. Special trips can cost thousands of dollars, so it’s worth investing time up front, Mr. Rubin said.

Make sure to read over the travel agent’s reviews and any user-generated social content that mentions them, Dr. Anderson said. “If there is no external validation, that’s a red flag.”

How do advisers get paid, and how much will it cost me?

Advisers receive commission from suppliers, typically 10 to 15 percent of the price, when selling cruises, lodging and tours. They also sometimes charge travelers a planning fee, from a few hundred dollars, which may be credited to the final bill if the booking is completed, all the way up to tens of thousands of dollars annually for a luxury concierge travel planner they can call on all year. Mr. Johnson said that he charges a planning fee the first time he works with customers. If they return for other trips, he waives the fee.

Advisers may be tempted to sell you something that will earn them a higher commission, Dr. Anderson said. But, he points out, the same is true for the large online services, which promote hotels that pay them larger commissions. Travelers can ask advisers about specific commissions they receive or how they are affiliated with the products they are recommending, he said.

Sometimes a local tour company will package transportation, lodging and experiences for an adviser, who tacks on a percentage before passing it along to a client. But a bill that is not itemized can make it harder to make trade-offs — between a more expensive hotel and a special experience, for example. If pricing transparency is important to you, discuss it with the adviser up front.

How are A.I. and other technologies affecting travel advisers?

While new technologies are allowing do-it-yourselfers to create their own itineraries online based on individual preferences, and to type questions directly into travel websites, advisers are also taking advantage of those technologies to improve their services. Joan Roca, chief executive of the upscale travel planning company Essentialist said his team “uses technology to enhance the human touch,” employing artificial intelligence to choose options from a database of travel offerings selected by a human team. If a couple wants to take an after-dinner stroll, for example, Essentialist’s app will offer up ideas of where to go, based on what part of the city the travelers are in and conversations they’ve had with their travel adviser.

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

Italy :  Spend 36 hours in Florence , seeking out its lesser-known pockets.

Southern California :  Skip the freeways to explore the back roads between Los Angeles and Los Olivos , a 100-mile route that meanders through mountains, canyons and star-studded enclaves.

Mongolia : Some young people, searching for less curated travel experiences, are flocking to the open spaces of this East Asian nation .

Romania :  Timisoara  may be the most noteworthy city you’ve probably never heard of , offering just enough for visitors to fill two or three days.

India: A writer fulfilled a lifelong dream of visiting Darjeeling, in the Himalayan foothills , taking in the tea gardens and riding a train through the hills.

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Save up to 82% on Cruises!

First-Time Visitors

Are you looking for a cruise at an unbelievably low price? Since 1984, Vacations To Go has helped more than 8 million travelers save hundreds of millions of dollars on discount cruises!

Our world-famous 90-Day Ticker is a complete listing of last-minute cruises on the world's best cruise lines. If you see a cruise there that interests you, don't delay! Average availability is less than seven days and many cruises sell out within hours of listing.

If you prefer to book further in advance, or if you have a specific cruise in mind, use Find a Bargain or Custom Search. You'll find a treasure trove of early bird discounts, two-for-ones and other cut-rate promotions on the world's best lines.

Once you've found your cruise, call us at 800-338-4962 or inquire online about a quote or reservation. Our fast quotes and friendly service make booking a breeze.

Now in our 41 st year, Vacations To Go is the largest cruise-selling company in the world. We've built a reputation for discounts, service and professionalism that is second to none.

Price Guarantee We work with every major cruise line in the world, and you'll find their lowest authorized prices with us. However, if you ever find a lower price for the same ship, date and stateroom category, before booking, we'll match it.*

Service Guarantee Our cruise counselors are fast and friendly. However, if you are ever dissatisfied with any aspect of our service or our Web site, please click here to tell me about it. I will respond as quickly as possible, and always within 24 hours.

* The lower rate must be advertised on a competitor's website and available for booking at the time you contact us; offer does not apply to group rates.

How to Play

Buy me a coffee.

If you like travle - consider buying me a coffee!

Travle Game Modes

Travle's official website is https://travle.earth/ It looks like you're playing on a website that has stolen it!

These websites steal revenue from game creators by re-hosting their games and overlaying their own ads. Always play Travle on imois.in , and you'll always have the latest version, fewer ads and help support the creators (I.e. me)!

Thanks, - Oisin

Privacy Policy

California Consumer Privacy Act (“CCPA”)

Under CCPA, Californian residents have the right to declare their preferences on the sale of data for advertising and marketing purposes. If you wish to change your preferences, click this link to launch our preference portal:

We use a third-party to provide monetisation technologies for our site. You can review their privacy and cookie policy at https://publift.com/privacy-policy/.

In addition we collect generic website analytics by way of website browser and cookies. This is performed using google analytics.

Transfer Your Statistics

Confirmation.

This will delete any statistics on the current device, and is not reversable. Are you sure you wish to proceed?

Past guesses (click to show/hide):

Get a hint (0/3):.

Situation in Haiti March 22, 2024

U.s. citizens in haiti, update january 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents, external link.

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Where do birds go offshore? The answers may be blowing in the wind

How far do birds travel when they migrate? How long do they live? How are their numbers changing over time? 

For centuries, people have tracked birds to answer questions about their lives and populations. But although tracking technology has evolved rapidly in recent decades — from aluminum leg bands with embossed numbers to light-sensitive geolocators — researchers who study bird behavior and migration still face a big obstacle: the ocean.

“We really have no way to know where birds are when they’re offshore,” said Emily Argo, fish and wildlife biologist for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and recovery lead for the federally protected red knot and piping plover in Virginia.

Now that’s starting to change with the emergence of another kind of technology. 

Along the eastern seaboard of the U.S., where wind speeds are consistently high, and the continental shelf is relatively wide, flat, and shallow, offshore wind farms are starting to come online to support the transition to renewable energy. 

Thanks to the growing collaboration between conservation agencies and energy developers, offshore-wind infrastructure is generating new opportunities to track birds and bats when they're far from shore. 

Eyes on the skies

Twenty miles off the coast of Virginia, two 600-foot-tall wind turbines — about the height of the Washington Monument — rise out of the open ocean. In 2020, Dominion Energy, Inc., built the structures as a pilot for a commercial-scale offshore wind farm scheduled to break ground this year.

To monitor the pilot project’s impacts on wildlife, Dominion installed a surveillance system with microphones, infrared cameras and daylight cameras capturing the spinning-blade zone on both turbines. 

The primary purpose of audio-visual monitoring is to estimate activity patterns of birds and bats at wind-energy facilities, and the footage collected at the pilot turbines is encouraging. 

“We have video of birds and bats flying through the area, but they avoid the turbines,” explained Matt Overton, a biological consultant for Dominion. “It’s clear they can see the blades spinning, and they’re flying around them.”

The footage also revealed something unexpected.

“Unbeknownst to us, at certain times of year, there are large numbers of insects out in the lease area, and we have video of bats foraging the insects around the turbines,” said Scott Lawton, environmental technical coordinator for Dominion. “They use the masts to trap them.”

Flight tracking

While the surveillance equipment provides surprising snapshots of bird, bat and even bug activity that scientists can use to generate new research questions, another monitoring device can shed light on where these creatures are going. 

After discussions with Argo and colleague Pam Loring from the Service, Dominion agreed to install a wildlife-tracking system called Motus on both turbines at the end of the required monitoring period. Motus uses antennas to detect signals from birds and bats tagged with tiny radio transmitters.  

Since the Motus network launched in 2015, more than 30,000 birds, bats and butterflies have been tagged, but the majority of the 1,500 antennas are on land. Meanwhile, many species migrate over the ocean.

Extending the Motus network offshore can help managers identify migration paths as well as stopover habitat on land, where birds fuel up before long flights over open water. Conserving those areas is critical, as migration is the most perilous time in a bird’s life cycle, due to the physical demands. 

Knowing more about where migratory species do and don’t go can also inform the design and placement of future wind farms to ensure they don’t interfere with these arduous journeys.

To gather more information about the flight paths of the red knot and piping plover, Dominion agreed to fund a two-year project in Virginia, tagging these species with Motus transmitters that weigh just a fraction of an ounce. 

Biologist Katie Oliver at Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge led the tagging effort for piping plovers, coordinating with other partners along Virginia’s coastal islands and Eastern Shore.  

Larry Niles of the nonprofit Wildlife Restoration Partnerships led the effort to tag 15 red knots — seven at Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge on Cape Cod, and eight in New Jersey. 

Just one year into the study, we’re starting to see results. 

“We had two tagged piping plovers picked up by the receivers on the turbines, so we know these birds are out in that space,” Argo said.

High as a whimbrel

When the commercial-scale wind farm is built out, Dominion will install additional Motus stations, giving researchers more precise information about where tagged birds are in space, including how high they’re flying. A Motus transmitter doesn’t communicate a specific point — it gives off a radio wave signal, which is picked up by the antenna on a radio receiver. The more antennas you have in a given area, the better you can narrow down where that signal coming from.

The hope is that these birds are flying well above the turbines, and research on another migratory species indicates many of them are. 

Dominion partnered with the Center for Conservation Biology at William and Mary College and The Nature Conservancy to fund a two-year tagging effort for whimbrels. Researchers used a different kind of tracking technology, solar-powered GPS tags, which use satellites to triangulate a signal and provide precise coordinates. 

These tags have their limitations. For one, they’re too heavy for small-bodied birds like piping plovers to carry. One of the reasons researchers chose whimbrels for the study is they’re relatively big (about the size of a crow). They were also a strategic choice because other studies suggest they’re among the lowest-flying migrators — meaning they may be at greater risk for collisions. 

But the study results show that, of the 30 tagged whimbrels, the majority maintained an altitude of 3,000 feet when flying near the turbines.  

“There were a few that flew lower, but it’s mostly good news,” Overton said. 

Setting the stage

The partnership between the Service and Dominion will carry over to the commercial site, where 176 800-foot-high turbines will produce 2.6 gigawatts of electricity, enough to power more than half a million homes each year. 

“We will continue to work closely with the Service to monitor birds and bats,” Lawton said. “This is just the beginning.”  

It’s also a preview of what’s to come. Offshore wind developers throughout the region plan to install systems like Motus as part of long-term monitoring in their lease areas, and the Service has worked with the Bureau of Ocean and Energy Management and other partners to set the stage for their success. 

In collaboration with the Biodiversity Research Institute, the University of Rhode Island and Birds Canada (the developers of Motus), Loring led an effort to optimize and standardize the use of Motus at offshore wind farms by testing the technology at one of the first facilities to become operational in the U.S. , Block Island Wind Farm. 

The products of that effort, including a guidance document and an interactive study design tool, were released in 2023 and are available online. 

“Now wind energy developers are starting to come to us for technical assistance,” Loring said.

The Biden administration has committed to approving 16 offshore wind farms by 2025, with the hopes that offshore wind energy will power 10 million homes by 2030.

To be prepared, the Service recently used funding from the Inflation Reduction Act to hire five renewable energy biologists. The new staff will provide technical support for these projects and assess the impacts of offshore wind energy on migratory birds. 

"There’s still lots we don’t know,” Loring said. “With this added capacity, we can identify information gaps and start to address them through research studies with partners.” 

Blowing in the wind

Additional offshore wind leases have already been proposed in the central Atlantic region, including one directly east of Dominion’s, creating the potential to ask more questions about migratory species. The answers may be blowing in the wind.  

Related Stories

Latest Stories

You are exiting the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website

You are being directed to

We do not guarantee that the websites we link to comply with Section 508 (Accessibility Requirements) of the Rehabilitation Act. Links also do not constitute endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Could real estate go the way of the travel industry? Not quite

Technology has revolutionized how people book travel, buy groceries and manage their everyday finances. Yet, the process of buying a home has withstood many similar changes.

Sites like Redfin and Zillow provide a way for buyers and brokers to connect online, but the role of real estate agents in closing purchases has persisted.

Given the settlement, Tomasz Piskorski, a professor of real estate at Columbia Business School, said buyers’ agents might see their work simplified through technology consumers can use themselves, similar to changes in money management.

“I think we are reaching a point where there’s going to be a lot of innovation in the housing market,” Piskorski said. “One simple idea is: Do homeowners really need a real estate agent?”

Nearly half of home buyers began their search online, according to a 2023 report by the NAR, and many buyers do home research themselves.

“Ultimately, people will understand what real estate agents really do, especially on the buy side,” Piskorski said. “The whole business model actually under which we operate right now makes these fees not very transparent to home buyers.”

Danielle Hale, chief economist at Realtor.com, told CNN in an email that technology could make things easier for buyers in an industry that has often been opaque.

“Ultimately, if these changes bring about greater consumer transparency, that’s a good thing,” Hale told CNN.

But even with the possibility of major changes, Hale said, one thing will almost certainly remain the same for real estate agents. Buyers, she noted, “will likely be reluctant to navigate the financial decision of a lifetime without their professional expertise and support.”

Finance, travel and other models

The NAR settlement essentially decouples the buyers’ and sellers’ agents. While previously home sellers have paid a commission (generally 5% to 6%) that was split between agents, the settlement makes it so home buyers might be on the hook for paying their agent up front.

Experts told CNN that could affect how home buyers think about enlisting an agent.

Currently, the framework of real estate solely emphasizes the buy and sell transaction, said John Bodrozic, co-founder of HomeZada, a real estate tech company. Yet, as technology simplifies the process, agents will have to advertise their value as long-term consultants in a niche industry.

Bodrozic said tech will enable real estate to become more like personal finance in this sense.

“I really believe it’s a bigger picture here, which is the opportunity for the real estate industry to think of their clients as a never-ending client that I want to keep happy and provide value to throughout their entire journey,” he said.

Bobby Juncosa, chief technology officer of Edgewise, a real estate tech company, said there are lessons from how travel agents changed as technology has allowed people to search for, compare and purchase flights on their own.

“The buyers’ agent will become, this is the part that’s a little bit more controversial, but a little bit more travel agent-esque, and they’re kind of pointing you in the right direction,” he said. “You know, ‘this neighborhood has good schools,’ all things that are public information that you could find out on your own, but you’re hoping for that local expertise.”

A lot of real estate transactions could be digitized, and this settlement may provide impetus for that, Piskorski said. He said developments in tech that organize home inspections, make arrangements to hire lawyers or fulfill other duties of a buyers’ agent, would “significantly reduce the costs associated with home transactions.”

Even as technology expands further into the real estate industry, Piskorski said he thinks a fully automated process, such as an Amazon marketplace for buying and selling homes, is still far in the distance.

The real estate market, he said, is “too complex to be completely automated on a computer.”

Juncosa said as the industry adjusts to the settlement rules, agents will become more like consultants throughout the home buying process, offering value-add insight. Yet what ultimately differentiates a travel agent from a real estate agent is the value and risk associated with the purchase.

Purchasing a home is a major life decision, and some people will always benefit from the assurance of a broker, Juncosa said.

A key point of home buying is the behavioral aspect, Piskorski said. “Some households just want a human being to be with them, to assure them that this is the right decision,” he said.

Ultimately, Juncosa said that agents serve a fundamentally human purpose: reassuring homebuyers about the biggest financial decisions of their lives.

The-CNN-Wire™ & © 2024 Cable News Network, Inc., a Warner Bros. Discovery Company. All rights reserved.

More On This

$418 million settlement paves way for negotiable commissions in housing market.

Meet this mom: Tiffany Bowden, real estate broker aiming to educate communities on home-buying

Related Topics

• real estate

Copyright 2024 by Cable News Network, Inc., a Time Warner Company. All rights reserved.

Blue Devils ready to take on JMU, haters in NCAA Tournament round 2

A game official was replaced at halftime of the NC State women's basketball game because of background conflict

Powered by big man DJ Burns Jr., N.C. State muscles past Oakland in overtime to reach Sweet 16

South Carolina women reach 10th straight Sweet 16, beat North Carolina 88-41 in March Madness

North Carolina beats Tom Izzo, Michigan State in March Madness again to reach Sweet 16

WRAL Late News

WRAL WeatherCenter Forecast

Daytime Pick 3 and Pick 4 Drawing

Evening Pick 3 Pick 4 and Cash 5

Powerball Drawing