There are few cities in the world that have as much personality as Barcelona. The city has so much character and so many unique qualities that it is impossible to confuse Barcelona with any other European city. If you have never been, it is hard to comprehend how so much history, charm and beauty can fit into one area, but anyone who has spent time in the city can speak to the unique and unforgettable feeling of touring Barcelona.

Finding Your Way

The second-largest city in Spain, Barcelona can be difficult to navigate for those who are unfamiliar with it. The numerous streets, paths, bus lines, train tracks and various other methods of transports can be overwhelming when first viewed. Especially if you do not speak the language, a travel map of Barcelona can look more like a confusing piece of abstract art than an actual guide.

However, once you spend a little time familiarizing yourself with the system, it becomes clear that Barcelona has one of the more efficient systems of public transportation in all of Europe. It may not always be simple, but once you have mapped out your routes, bought your tickets and planned your tour of the city, you can spend less time worrying about getting around Barcelona and more time taking in the wonderful experience it provides.

Driving in Barcelona

Unlike other European cities that have a few major attractions concentrated into one urban area, Barcelona offers a wider variety of things to see in a larger area. This means more opportunity for independent exploration instead of confined, guided tours. It also means that tourists– especially Americans– will feel the need to rent their own car upon arrival.

Your own car will allow you to reach areas outside the city proper, and it may provide you with more control over your travel. However, it can actually be a hinderance to you inside the city. Traffic in Barcelona can be a nightmare at times, and it is notoriously harsh on newcomers. If you do have your own car, you will almost always be better off parking it immediately upon reaching the city and then taking advantage of the various public transportation options.

Trains

The train system in Barcelona can seem overly complex at first glance. The Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya (FGC) and Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB) are the two organizations which provide public transport in the city, and the Rodalies serve the entire metropolitan area. There are 27 train stations within the city, and millions of people use them every year.

The easiest way to simplify your train travel is to purchase an Hola BCN ticket which will allow unlimited travel on all train lines for a specified period. These tickets can be purchased for periods of between two and five days and eliminate most of the hassle from travel. Another option for tourists is the Barcelona Card which allows for unlimited public transportation as well as several discounts and other vacation benefits.

Taxis

“The taxis in Barcelona are much more affordable than other European cities,” says one travel expert from BookTaxiBCN. These will often provide a more reliable, personalized travel method, but you should order your car in advance. Unlike some major cities, it is difficult (and frustrating) to hail a cab inside the city, but they can be procured at stands, online or by phone.

Other Options

Buses and trams can also be good options for travel inside the city, but the routes can be confusing. You can get a map at any station and most stores, and then plan your route in advance using the color-coded system. Bicycles, mopeds and scooters can also be rented and provide a more open, independent technique for exploration in Barcelona.

Having kids shouldn’t stop anybody from traveling. In fact, it should inspire you to travel more. Giving your children the experience of seeing the world is invaluable in their memories. If you’re lucky enough to be able to do so, you should!

However, as with anything you do with your children, safety is always a priority. Ensuring your children are safe while exploring a new city may be anxiety inducing. With these simple tips, you should be able to put your fears at ease and enjoy the experience.

It’s unrealistic to think that you need to plan everything down to the smallest detail. Micro managing is no fun. You don’t need to work out your airport parking two months ahead of time. Enjoy a little spontaneity; just be prepared along the way.

It’s important to consider where in the world you’re going. Some places aren’t child appropriate. And that’s okay! There are just as many places around the world that are perfect for kids. Consider the age of your children, what activities you’re intending to do and how easy the place will be to navigate – dependant on your kids and their needs. This is easy. You know your children and you know what they need to be happy while away.

Accidents can happen anywhere. That’s why it’s important to have a plan in case things do go wrong. Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance. Make sure that your children know what to do if they get lost. That includes having phone numbers to call, and possible tracking on their mobiles (if they have one).

Teach your children about appropriateness for when you travel. Is the country you’re visiting specific in their customs? Do they have a heavy emphasis on respect? Ensure you adopt the “when in Rome” attitude and make sure your kids are aware of this.

Keep all important documents on you at all times. Have photos of your children ready on your mobile and hard copies too. In some countries you should always keep your passport on your person. Keep yourself safe by being prepared for the worst case scenario. Chances are, nothing bad is going to happen. But it’s better to be prepared, you could save yourself a lot of trouble.

There’s a tonne of information available online that will help you prepare for your family holiday. The better prepared you are, the more relaxed you will be and the better experience you will all have. These experiences will be treasured by your kids for the rest of their lives. Enjoy it!

The 1277 miles road trip from New York to Miami is just like a blank canvas. It can be made fascinating if right choices are made. About 20 hours are required for this road trip if there is no hiatus. However it is not recommended as there are several stoppers which will not let you pass. If you feel tired then there are several hotels in Miami which can be utilized getting back to normal. However for this road trip it is advised to spend at least 2 nights at each of the venues mentioned below:

1. Richmond, Virginia

It is regarded as the first stop which is to be taken while taking a road trip to Miami from New York. There are many tourist attractions here which are worth seeing. It includes Virginia Aviation Museum, The Valentine and Capitol Square Park. The city itself lies on James River which also a huge tourist attraction. The Virginia State Capitol which was built in 1788 stands tall in its white appearance. The Richmond History Museum has a lot to offer and has eclectic collections which are never to be missed. The Civil War Center is also another important tourist attraction which is to be visited. Though it is not possible in 2 night stay but most of this can be covered with ease.

2. Wilson, North Carolina

This city is at the heart of North Carolina. The expert travellers say that seeing this attraction means that NC has been seen in full. Some important tourist attractions here are Lake Wilson, Whirligig Park and Imagination Station. Lake Wilson has a range of recreational facilities which are free and the tourists from all over the world come here to enjoy. The Oliver Nestus Round House Museum is another place which can be visited. Here the tourist can see what African American did for the development of the city. The biggest attraction is the building itself and the eclectic memories of the past gathered here. It is small but still visited frequently by tourists.

3. Florence, South Carolina

The first attraction is located close to Florence Civic Center which is the Veteran’s Park. Florence County Museum is another important attraction here which attracts everyone on this route. The huge collection of arts and war related items will leave you speechless. Thieves market is another antiques market which can be visited while the tourist is here. With number of stores and decent parking lot Magnolia Mall is a place which should definitely be visit here.

4. Jacksonville, Florida

It is another stopper which won’t let the tourist past. Southbank Riverwalk, The Museum of Science and History and Jacksonville Zoo and Garden are some of the top attractions here. While the car enters Florida this is the first spot which a tourist encounters with. Riverside Arts Market filled on every Saturday is another place worth paying a visit. The suburbs of Jacksonville are filled with EcoMotion Tours which gives an opportunity to see the flora and fauna of the region closely. For nature enthusiast this place is a boon.

Many of us have heard of this area of France as a hot spot for movie stars and jet setters.  Well with the help of some good resources, France-Voyage.com.  A European French Riviera adventure is within your grasp.  The French Riviera is located between the Alps, the Italian Border, and the Mediterranean Sea it is a beautiful pocket of Earth where it is sunny and mild almost all year round.  There are many sights to see in the area and also some incredible places to catch a tan.  The Côte d’Azur is famous the world over for its famous destinations like Cannes, Nice, Monaco and Saint-Tropez.  There are also incredible beaches and seaside resorts including the Baroque heritage and charming villages like Eze and Bormes can be made into a fun off shot of a visit to a bigger local city.

It is easy and fun to plan a French vacation for yourself.  With tons of pictures and information available it is easy to find. From simple short breaks to family holidays through weekends with friends, there is something for everyone at France-Voyage.com.  The site is easy to follow and fun to explore as the French country side opens up before you begging to be explored.  As well as unique and special restaurants and cafes which pepper the area.  Many difficult to find unless pointed out but they will create long lasting memories of exquisite meals.  There are even general trip outlines which can be used to have a specific itineraries but can also be tweaked to extend your stay into a certain area or spend some more time at the vineyards or the beaches.  France-Voyage.com is a great resource and should not be missed when planning your next trip to France.

When setting off for your next adventure in the Lake District there are several things to keep in mind besides having the best time of your life. There are places to visit, sites to see, and nature to enjoy. In an effort to help you get the most out of your holiday, we have identified some tips in which you will want to take note of while on your trip.

1. Pack accordingly. There are so many amazing things to do in the Lake District, that you want to make sure that you are prepared with the proper attire. With the wide variety of outdoor activities to partake in such as but not limited to hiking, fishing, cycling, and boating, you will surely want to pack comfortable clothing that is lightweight and breathable. Also be sure to pack proper shoes. It would not serve you well to pack your favorite Converse All-star shoes to go hiking. You may want something a bit more suitable by brands such as Columbia or the North Face.
2. Wear sunscreen. While the weather will vary in temperature and the clouds may come and go, it is still important to be prepared with sunscreen. The gorgeous landscape can take your breath away and also provide great access to your skin. If you are not a fan of wearing sunscreen, opt for a long sleeved shirt, long pants, and a wide-brimmed hat. This will keep you from getting scorched by the warm sun which could cut your vacation short if you were to get sun poisoning.
3. Drink water. While on vacation, regardless of where you are traveling to, it is important to stay hydrated so that you can enjoy your time to the fullest. If you are dehydrated, your body may not be able to keep up and may require frequent rest stops or worse, a hospital visit. Eat and drink to nourish your body so that you can be as active and adventurous as you want to be.
4. Try something new. One of the best things about going on holiday is that you are most likely going to a place where you can experience and try new things. Don’t be afraid to be adventurous and attempt something that you have never done before. Perhaps you are new to boating or you have never heard the stories of Beatrix Potter. Whether you stop by the Beatrix Potter Museum for a spot of tea and biscuits, or you go on a boating excursion, trying something new will provide a long-lasting memory from your travels.
5. Take photographs. The Lake District provides some of the most outstanding backdrops for scenic photographs. Whether you photograph the gorgeous Tarn Hows or Beatrix Potter’s farmhouse, be sure to take many so that you can remember the lovely trip you had. It is also a good idea to get a few photographs of you and those you traveled with.

The Lake District is gorgeous and has something for everyone. When you are traveling, be sure to remember our friendly tips and have a great time!

Many people face the exciting challenge of settling for a good place to visit. While other factors may sometimes dictate the destination, many people are stuck with the decision on where exactly to go. Picking the right and the most appropriate place is the beginning of a successful journey.

Here are some factors to consider when settling for a destination.

Budget: You can only work with what you have. Enough planning and thorough research always works to provide the best experience. While at it, check offers in your preferred destinations if you are working on a tight budget. If possible, schedule your trip against the masses.

Security: Tourists tend to be terrorists’ frequent targets. Given that terror threats are real, make sure to pay close attention to travel bans and advisories.

Thieves also target visitors. An attack could leave a tourist quite horrified. Many people, if not all, who undergo a robbery ordeal suffer trauma among other things. Hence, avoiding polarized areas or politically unstable regions is wise. Keep to the sectors that are secure.

Weather: A shift from one extreme weather condition to another instantly may take a toll on your body making a supposedly enjoyable holiday a misery. Before getting to make the travel arrangements, it is essential to take note of the weather. This information should also be a pointer to what the suitcase will contain. The climatic conditions will determine the types of clothes to be carried.

Reason for visit: Different reasons prompt excursions and travels for different people. A doctor going on duty may not need a very defined itinerary. On the other hand, a vibrant group headed for a dancing experience will need to consider some things.

According to Cindy and Steve Clough from https://www.justforkix.com/girls/cat, a dance troupe has to think of all the details, from a seamless transport arrangement to well-chosen dancing costumes and gear, for the maximum thrill. Of course, the luggage will reflect the purpose of the visit.

Time difference: Regions differ in time zone. You will need to familiarize yourself with the time zone in which your destination lies. The last thing you would wish to experience is missing your flight, train or whatever means of transport in a strange place. In case you are on safari, ensure you work with the timings of the wild.

Travel documents and other requirements: Some of the questions to ask are, are their travel documents required to get into the country of choice? Are the travel documents such as passport, Identification cards, and others valid? Some countries facilitate visas on arrival while others require one to process in advance. As it varies from one country to another and their relationships, every traveler should do their due diligence.

Understand the state relations and all requirements in advance. There are also some vaccines recommended or required when entering some regions. I am sure checking into ER does not feature in your travel plan.

Language and Culture: While some destinations are great sites, their locations are extremely remote. Indigenous populace might not be able to express themselves in foreign languages due to lack of exposure and foreigners. If the place is a rich historical site, then a visitor might end up not getting sufficient background information. One would be advised to consider engaging a translator in such cases.

Going by the example of a group of teenage and youthful dancers, be conscious of the local cultural practices. Western countries are extremely accommodating in regard to dressing.

However, in the Middle East or some parts of Africa, some dresses may be deemed offensive.

Customer Review: Always find time to check what others said about the proposed destination before settling on the particular spot you would wish to visit. Other people’s experiences and recommendations can save you headaches by helping you identify the most preferred destinations. Once you settle for the right destination, the other details will easily fall in place.

Summer is upon us and planning your annual family holiday is probably taking great stock in your mind. Planning a big trip can take lots of time, energy, and attention to detail. When putting your vacation agenda together, you have to take into consideration the interests of everyone who will be on the trip as well as costs associated with the activity. If you are planning to travel to Hawaii this summer, Live Your Aloha can help make the preparation process smooth and stress-free. This article will also help you plan as it will identify 5 fun things to do in Oahu!

1. History! Oahu is home to several historical landmarks that date back to the day that will forever live in infamy, December 7, 1945. Taking your family to visit the Pearl Harbor Memorial, USS Arizona Memorial, or the Battleship Missouri Memorial will be both educational and unforgettable. While there are many fun things to do on the island, taking time to visit the memorials and learn about Pearl Harbor is a once in a lifetime opportunity. While some visit the memorials on their own, it is best to go with a tour guide. When booking a tour, you will not have to worry about fighting the crowds for tickets or worrying about where to park. The tour guide will take care of all the logistics. All you have to do is show up.
2. Nature and Parks. Grab your sunscreen and set out to explore the gorgeous land that is Oahu island. There are many parks to visit. Many include opportunities to hike or relax on the beach. Whatever you choose to do, be sure to use sunscreen generously and stay hydrated.
3. Sailing. There are many ways to enjoy the ocean in Oahu. Take your family on a sailing excursion or an evening dinner cruise. Perhaps you may have an interest in snorkeling or fishing. The opportunities to experience the ocean and marine life are abundant in Oahu. If you are not much into experiencing the ocean by boat, consider taking a helicopter ride to experience the island from above. See picturesque views that are remarkable and will leave you mystified by the beauty.
4. Food and drink. The island offers a great deal of bars, restaurants, flea markets, and swap meets. Whether you are interested in purchasing fresh produce while on your vacation or bartering with the locals at a flea market, there is something for everyone in Oahu. After a morning at the market or swap meet, stop by a local bar and grill for a bite to eat and a cold, refreshing beer.
5. Valley of the Temples. If you are interested in religious monuments or simply want a place to worship or meditate, there are many places to do so in Oahu. The Valley of the Temples is located in the mountains, surrounded by well maintained lush vegetation and small gold fish ponds. Local cats are known to wander around the property so do not be alarmed if you make a new furry friend.

There is something for everyone in Oahu. Pack your bags and have a magnificent time!