Saying ‘I Do’ to Cheaper Car Insurance

Consider cheaper car insurance to be another financial benefit of getting hitched.

At Credio, we evaluated which car insurance companies offer the most discounts through the lens of our “young couple” demographic . In the U.S., some of the largest car insurance companies offer an incredible number of discounts to customers. Of the 14 companies with the highest market shares, 12 have ten or more discounts that they frequently offer. Some of these are substantial discounts of up to 20 percent or more.

These discounts generally fall into one of four buckets: driver discounts (e.g., being a safe driver), billing discounts (e.g., signing on for electronic billing), vehicle discounts (e.g., driving a car with interior safety features), and bundling discounts (i.e., setting up two or more lines of insurance with one company). For the latter, home and car insurance bundling is common. Insuring multiple vehicles under the same policy could also qualify for a bundling discount.

In part, it’s an example of passing on savings to consumers (e.g., spending less on preparing and reviewing paper bills, a la electronic billing). But it also diversifies a company’s risk pool with a variety of drivers more likely to be responsible.

While a consumer might look at insurance as a hedge against the unforeseen, insurance companies target certain traits based on probabilities. A driver perceived to be less likely to get in an accident and file a claim directly improves an insurance company’s bottom line.

Note : We’re curious how discounts apply to same-sex couples, especially since gender starts to matter less for drivers over a certain age (it’s a well-known fact that men are generally more expensive to insure than women). For today, our scope is limited to a young, heterosexual couple.

Cheap holidays in London, United Kingdom

London is world famous for relaxing holidays. The city has a population of over 13 million. London is a leading global city, with strengths in the arts, commerce, education, entertainment, fashion, finance, healthcare, media, professional services, research and development, tourism, and transport all contributing to its prominence.

Travelling to London, you can enjoy a simple stroll along the Thames, taking in the Houses of Parliament, dine in any number of Europe’s best restaurants, or head to the East End for edgy culture and a rummage in exciting vintage shops.

And, of course, stop to take in the Queen’s city residence, Buckingham Palace, and its surrounds. On sunny days venture to one of the Royal Parks, where deer can be seen roaming freely, or take to the river for a catamaran trip to Greenwich. And once you’ve done all of that, there’s never a week that passes without either a festival, or an amazing show to see in the West End.

The weather is not London’s strongest card. Midsummer days can, quite famously, give way to rainclouds at a moment’s notice. However, when the sun is shining temperatures and the spirits of locals both soar equally high.

The city centre can, at times, reach 30°C between June and September, however, around 21°C is more likely. Though winters can be chilly, a visit to Oxford Street at Christmas is somewhat of a pilgrimage, along with hundreds of thousands of shoppers looking for bargains from some of the world’s biggest and best known brands.

There are many sightseeings, place or art you must see in London, such as Oxford Street, one of the most famous shopping streets in the world, this is paradise for the enthusiastic holiday shopper.

You can also take a walk at St Paul’s, the Houses of Parliament, the Thames, London Bridge and Tower Bridge or take in a museum: The Natural History, the V&A, or the Science Museum.

BUGATTI VEYRON 16.4 SUPER SPORT

With a 1,200 horsepower engine, Veyron Super Sport will leave every other vehicle on the road in a cloud of dust. Built with a streamlined appearance, it looks like a hunting cheetah. However, it comes with a bad looking price tag – Bugatti has only sold around 435 of these machines, so far. Reaching a top speed of 252.97 miles per hour, this car uses a set of specialized tires that can only be serviced at a shop in France, for $70,000.

Most people like power. You don’t have to be passionate about it, but you have to admit that you prefer having power to being powerless. This simple truth is obvious, and you can find it in everything that surrounds us – even our homes and our toys. Passion for power is obvious when you look at some cars. Here are some of the most powerful cars you can buy today

Weekend Layover: Drive Thru American to California

The Golden State is an idealized one, synonymous with opportunity and beauty. If you need a refresher on California’s natural beauty, just look at its national parks. How can the land of Yosemite and redwood, sequoia and Joshua trees not be golden? Meanwhile, California boasts a strong road trip culture. Popularized by highways and the last stretch of Route 66, California is lush with roadside attractions like Salvation Mountain and the Cabazon Dinosaurs.

Could California be the quintessential road tripping state? You’ll have to go there to find out.

Flip through the gallery above to see our picks for a Californian road trip.

1. Redwoods National and State Parks, Calif. 2. Murphy-Goode Tasting Room; Healdsburg, Calif. 3. Angel Island, San Francisco, Calif. 4. Fisherman’s Wharf, Monterey, Calif. 5. Alabama Hills, Lone Pine, Calif. 6. Venice Canals Walkway, Venice, Calif. 7. Mitla Cafe, San Bernadino, Calif. 8. Cabazon Dinosaurs, Cabazon, Calif. 9. Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum, Joshua Tree, Calif. 10. Salvation Mountain, Niland, Calif.

Weekend Layover: See New York City by Boat

Go glam on a Bateaux New York dinner cruise which sails along the Hudson River past iconic sights such as the USS Intrepid, the Freedom Tower, the Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty. The 3-hour tour aboard this intimate, high-end boat with a glass-enclosed dining room includes a 3-course meal with options like rib-eye steak and sweet berry galette, live music and dancing, an open bar featuring fine wines and of course, 2 outdoor decks with unbeatable skyline views. Brunch, lunch and even full moon cruises are also available. The romance factor is high on the Bateaux; woo your partner by booking an anniversary jaunt.

Any tourist will tell you that a few days exploring Manhattan can empty your wallet. Save money and still enjoy views of the Manhattan skyline, Statue of Liberty, Governor's Island and more by hopping aboard the very inexpensive -- read: FREE -- Staten Island Ferry. This commuter boat departs daily, around the clock on its 25-minute, 5-mile trip from Lower Manhattan's Whitehall Terminal to St. George Ferry Terminal on Staten Island. Sure, you miss a guide's commentary and a proper tour's frills, but you can enjoy the same spectacular city views from the water, at zero cost.

For a variety of sightseeing-only cruises, book a tour with Circle Line, which has operated boat tours around Manhattan for more than 60 years. All tours include informative and, at times, pretty darn entertaining commentary, on boats with outdoor viewing decks as well as indoor seating surrounded by oversized windows. The Best of NYC Cruise takes visitors past 101 city sights, including the Intrepid, Yankee Stadium and the Cloisters, while the Landmark Cruise sails past the iconic sights of Midtown and Lower Manhattan. Food, snacks and drinks are all available to purchase onboard.

From the Empire State Building to the Freedom Tower and all that glitters in between, Manhattan's skyline is one of the most iconic in the world. Visitors and locals with an urge to experience those epic views from a new perspective should venture out on the mighty Hudson and East rivers aboard a boat tour.

Best Places to Visit in England

England is a great place to visit, whether travelers are making their first or umpteenth trip abroad. That’s partly because the language barrier isn’t there for English speakers, though one can hear languages from throughout the world spoken here. First-time visitors may just want to hit the highlights, such as Westminster Abbey or shopping at Knightsbridge in London and perhaps visit a university town or Stonehenge. Return visitors might opt for hiking on the moors, investigating the nooks and crannies of picturesque villages, or digging into their English heritage. The best places to visit in England truly offer something for everyone

London
No superlative is too great when it comes to describing London, the capital of England and the UK. This bustling city is history personified from Westminster Abbey to Buckingham Palace – be sure to watch the Changing of the Guards. Shopping, from Knightsbridge to Carnaby Street, is a must as is riding a red double-decker bus and the “tube,” or subway where one is constantly reminded to “mind the gap.” London is also famous for live theatre; be sure to stop in at local pub for a pint after a performance.

Stonehenge & Avebury
One of the most popular places to visit in England, Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument found in Wiltshire. From about 2500BC, Neolithic and Bronze Age man started to bring gigantic stones from Wales and the Marlborough Downs. It was not until 1600BC that Stonehenge came to be completed. A trip to Stonehenge is best combined with a trip to prehistoric Avebury to the north, which has an even bigger stone circle, with fewer restrictions, and far fewer tourists.

York
York is a walled city with a rich heritage located where the River Foss meets the River Ouse. Plenty of exciting sights compete for visitors’ attention as they stroll along the city’s cobblestone streets. One of the city’s landmarks is York Minster. This commanding stone cathedral is filled with remarkable works of art. The medieval Clifford’s Tower, which was built by William the Conqueror and rebuilt by Henry III in the 13th century, is a great vantage point for panoramic views around the city.

Oxford
Oxford dates back to Saxon England when it was known as Oxenaforda or a place where oxen crossed a river. Today it is known as home to the oldest university in the English-speaking world, Oxford University, which dates back to the 12th century. This southeastern England town, the county seat for Oxfordshire, also boasts the remains of Norman castles, and the Christ Church Cathedral, a college chapel and cathedral rolled into one building. Because students come from all over the world to study here, Oxford is an ethnically diverse city.

Jurassic Coast
Fossil hunters may want to make a beeline for the Jurassic Coast, a section in southern England that runs roughly from Bournemouth to Exmouth. The rocks date back 185 million years to when the continents were crunching up against each other and then drifting apart. Museums along the way explain each region; Charmouth is the best place to find fossils. Fossil hunters, and all visitors, should take time to walk the beaches or visit the small charming towns along the way. Take care when walking near cliffs since rocks can fall at any time.

Visit Famous cities in the United States

New York City
The largest and most populated city in the USA, New York City is often called the “city that never sleeps” because it is constantly buzzing with activity. Located in New York state on one of the world’s largest natural harbors, New York City is made up of five boroughs, which include, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, Staten Island and the Bronx. World renowned for its concentration of skyscrapers and famous attractions, New York City is what many foreigners visualize when they think of the USA.

San Francisco
Best known for the Golden Gate, cable cars and steep, rolling streets, San Francisco is a beautiful city in northern California, set on the tip of a peninsula in the San Francisco Bay Area. Undoubtedly, the Golden Gate Bridge is the city’s number one attraction. Tourists can drive, bike ride or walk across this famous suspension bridge to admire and photograph stunning views.

Las Vegas
Springing up from the desert in southeastern Nevada, Las Vegas is a major US city world renowned for its casinos, luxury hotels, comedy acts, musical productions and extravagant shows. Most of the city’s main attractions are all concentrated within the area commonly referred to as the “Strip.” In addition to gambling, show girls and lavish performances, Las Vegas offers plenty more to suit people of all ages and interests.

Washington DC

The capital of the United States and seat of the federal government, Washington D.C. is located on the country’s East Coast. A cosmopolitan city that is home to many diverse cultures, Washington is widely known by its many iconic landmarks like the White House, Capitol Building, the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial. Many of these monuments are all located within the beautifully landscaped parkland known as the National Mall.

5 Best Places to Visit in the USA

With the Statue of Liberty as a national icon, the United States is widely known as the Land of Liberty. For the past few centuries, people from all over the world have come to the US, drawn by the nation’s prosperity and democracy, seeking a better way of life. As a result, this vast nation is also a land of diversity from its landscapes to its culture, cuisine, politics and religion. An overview of the best places to visit in the USA:

Denver
Nicknamed the “Mile-High City” because it sits exactly a mile high in altitude above sea level, Denver is Colorado’s capital and largest city. Located just east of the Rocky Mountains, Denver is a popular winter sport destination that celebrates its mining and cowboy history along with its modern arts and culture scene.

Atlanta
The capital and largest city of Georgia, Atlanta is a sprawling, modern city with three urban skylines rising up from the picturesque scenery of rolling hills, pine forest, magnificent old oak trees and charming magnolia and peach trees. Established as a railroad terminus in 1837, Atlanta has emerged as the leader of the New South. The city’s top attractions are the CNN Center, World of Coca-Cola and the Georgia Aquarium, which features the world’s largest indoor aquarium.

Houston
Home to the NASA Houston Space Center, Houston is a sprawling city in southeastern Texas, just a few miles inland from the Gulf of Mexico. As the fourth-largest city in the US, Houston features a dazzling cityscape of skyscrapers, commercial districts and diverse ethnic neighborhoods. While Houston is primarily established upon the oil industry, the city attracts many tourists with its fantastic, shopping, dining, sports and arts scenes.

Portland
Straddling the Willamette River in the shadow of the majestic Mount Hood, Portland is the largest city in Oregon as well as the third largest city of the US Pacific Northwest region. While the city is known for its frequent rain drizzle, it is Portland’s climate that produces it with picturesque scenery, including a plethora of rose gardens, which give Portland the nickname, “City of Roses.” Besides its natural attractions, Portland is a popular destination for its relaxed atmosphere, outdoor activities and large number of microbreweries.

San Antonio
The jewel of Texas, San Antonio is a city steeped in both rich history and modern day appeal. Located in south-central Texas, the city is one of the largest in the United States and best known as home to the Alamo. Another of San Antonio’s most visited attractions is the Riverwalk, a vibrant pedestrian scene of restaurants, shops, hotels and entertainment venues stretching along both sides of the San Antonio River right in the middle of the downtown area.

Find your trail: 15 spectacular hikes around the USA

One hundred and twenty five miles of trails weave through Acadia National Park in Maine, many of which were initially established by Native Americans and early settlers, and then made into trails in the early 1900s. The Bubbles Divide Trail (or Bubble Rock Trail) winds through mixed forest with views of Jordan Pond and Bubble Rock; Bubble Pond is a further from Jordan Pond.

The "Grand Canyon of the East," Letchworth State Park in Genesee Falls in New York's Finger Lakes region has 66 miles of marked trails ripe for exploration, the Genesee River roaring through a gorge to create three waterfalls. (The park was also named the USA TODAY Readers' Choice Award for Best State Park in the United States for 2015).

On a clear day along the Appalachian Trail near Roanoke, Va., you can easily see the Southern Shenandoah Valley from McAfee Knob, one of the most photographed spots on the Appalachian Trail; closer in you'll find stunning views of the Catawba Valley. The hike is about six miles long roundtrip and affords 270-degree views, as well as a downhill return.

In North Carolina's Smoky Mountains, the five-mile hike at Purchase Knob can be done in about four hours, but that depends on how much time you take to stop and simply gaze at the beauty that surrounds you. A comprehensive guide map points out those must-stop spots.

Blackwater Falls State Park in West Virginia has more than 20 miles of hiking trails, and along the way you're sure to spot the falls for which the park is named, not to mention the water that flows through an eight-mile long gorge. The Lindy Run Trail is just over a mile long yet provides spectacular, sweeping mountain views.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan has 13 trails with nearly 100 miles ripe for exploration. Follow the 2.8-mile Sleeping Bear Point Trail for dramatic views over Lake Michigan.

Be sure to take water with you when hiking in Saguaro National Park outside of Tucson – it gets hot in the Arizona desert any time of year. Once in the park, Douglas Spring Trail is an easier six-mile, round-trip hike that ends at a – surprise! – waterfall (seasonally).

Elsewhere in Arizona, the easy, one-hour Brins Mesa Trail in Sedona's Coconino National Forest starts just outside of town and leads hikers to wide open spaces to really soak in the majesty of the red rock formations that crop up throughout the area, including Chimney Rock and Coffee Pot Rock.

Getting to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, Utah, is not for the faint of heart. Most of the three-mile round-trip hike is on wide paths, but as you get closer, the path gets more narrow and the last 200 yards or so is along a rock ledge. The views at the other end more than make up for that lasts harrowing bit, however.

Hiking in the Virgin River's 65-or-so-degree water, stepping through and on slippery rocks in a current is more than challenging, but The Narrows in Zion National Park provides stunning surrounds. Rock walls tower overhead a thousand feet, and whether you hike for an hour or the entire 10-mile roundtrip, the views are stunning both going and coming.

Probably one of the most iconic hikes in all of the USA is Half Dome in Yosemite National Park. The work is hard – 14 to 16 miles roundtrip – and you'll climb up, up, up 4,800 feet, but is it ever worth the effort. Along the way, stop for views of Vernal and Nevada Falls, Liberty Cap and finally, panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and the High Sierra.

The majesty of Olympic National Park in Washington instantly surrounds you upon passing into the park, and beautiful spots are bountiful and accessible. For a different sense of beauty, hike the Hoh River Trail to "One Square Inch," possibly the quietest spot in all of the USA. Once there, sit, close your eyes and let the silence wash over you.

Denali National Park in Alaska doesn't have many maintained trails, so it's pretty much hike where you like. However, if a trail's what you're looking for, make sure and hike Horseshoe Lake Trail. The three-mile roundtrip trail is developed most of the way with panoramic views of the Nenana River.

On the Hawaiian Island of Lana'i, the hike to Pu'u Pehe, or Sweetheart Rock, is a popular spot to watch the sun rise over the island. Leaving from the Four Seasons Resort Lanai at Manele Bay, a quick 20-minute hike up the rocky cliffs ends in this sweet spot, also perfect for watching the sun set at the end of the day.

Instead of hopping on a mule for the descent along Moloka'i's sea cliffs – the world's tallest at 3,600-3,900 feet – lace up your hiking shoes and hoof it instead. At the bottom, a quiet beach awaits, and a bit farther afield, Kalaupapa National Historic Park.

10 SWIMMING HOLES FOR ESCAPING THE SUMMER HEAT

THE BLUE HOLE REGIONAL PARK | WIMBERLEY, TEXAS
It doesn’t get more picturesque than this Southern hot spot. Texans get their kicks at the spring-fed oasis sprinkled with shady cypress trees and two teasing rope swings. Don’t forget your picnic basket—find the perfect plot on the park’s 126 acres for a post-swim feast.

HAVASU FALLS | SUPAI, ARIZONA
Hawaii in Arizona? You’ll believe it when you see this majestic, remote waterfall. But you’ll have to earn it: the breathtaking natural beauty is only accessible by helicopter, a 10-mile hike or on a pack mule. But with views like this, it’s worth going the extra mile.

SAND HARBOR | INCLINE VILLAGE, NEVADA
Crystal-clear water, panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and 55 acres of sandy beaches makes this an ideal swimming and Scuba destination. And while most of Nevada’s beaches are tough on the feet due to coarse sand, this stretch of land gets its namesake from the fine white grains brought in by breezes. Sand castle competition, anyone?

MEADOW RUN NATURAL WATERSLIDE | OHIOPYLE, PENNSYLVANIA
Get carried away (literally) by the natural currents on this Keystone State water slide. After checking with a park ranger to ensure safe water levels, swish down the slick sandstones to make a splash into the natural pool. We have a feeling you’ll want to try this more than once.

LITTLE RIVER CANYON NATIONAL PRESERVE | MENTONE, ALABAMA
Jump into this Appalachian favorite that boasts a 12-mile, 600-foot deep canyon in Northeastern Alabama. Speckled with waterfalls, bluffs, sandstone cliffs and natural pools, there’s plenty of reasons to beat the heat at this haven.

SLIDING ROCK | BREVARD, NORTH CAROLINA
This natural waterslide in the Pisgah National Forest with have the young (and young at heart) lining up to slip down the 60-foot smooth rocks into a seven-foot deep cool pool. Not your speed? Sunbathe on the rocks or picnic at the observation decks.

LAKE MACBRIDE STATE PARK | SOLON, IOWA
Who said Iowa isn’t known for its beaches? (Don’t answer that.) The Hawkeye State’s largest park offers surprisingly sandy beaches along Lake Macbride, as well as picture perfect spots for picnicking and hiking. And attention anglers—it’s also an acclaimed fishing hole!

PEEKAMOOSE BLUE HOLE | SUNDOWN, NEW YORK
In the heart of the Catskill Mountains, Rondout Creek rushes through a rock gap, creating a very deep (and very cold) pool that’s perfect for summer dips. Named because its frigid temps feel like it could turn your skin blue, this Hudson Valley hideaway is perfect to escape a New York heat wave. Bonus point: it has a rope swing!

WHITE ROCK PARK | ST. PAUL, INDIANA
Your weekend just got booked. From a 10-meter diving platform, zipline and Scuba diving to tan-enticing banks, volleyball courts and shady lawns, this beer-friendly park makes for one hot American summer!

JOHNSON’S SHUT-INS STATE PARK | BROOK, MISSOURI
Soak-in or explore the rocky shallows of the Black River’s East Fork in Reynolds County. More of an adventurous type? Shoot through the waterfall-like rivulets (known as shut-ins) that stream above and around igneous rocks.

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Sydneysiders adore their giant 'coathanger'. Opened in 1932, this majestic structure spans the harbour at one of its narrowest points. The best way to experience the bridge is on foot – don't expect much of a view crossing by car or train. Stairs climb up the bridge from both shores, leading to a footpath running the length of the eastern side. You can climb the southeastern pylon to the Pylon Lookout or ascend the great arc on the wildly popular BridgeClimb .

The harbour bridge is a spookily big object – moving around town you’ll catch sight of it in the corner of your eye, sometimes in the most surprising of places. At 134m high, 1149m long, 49m wide and weighing 52,800 tonnes, it's the largest and heaviest (but not the longest) steel arch in the world.

The two halves of chief engineer JJC Bradfield’s mighty arch were built outwards from each shore. In 1930, after nine years of merciless toil by 1400 workers, the two arches were only centimetres apart when 100km/h winds set them swaying. The coathanger hung tough and the arch was finally bolted together.

Flying around Australia, Getting around Australia

Flying around Australia

Once you get here, Australia is the land of long distances and for so long we only had two airlines, Qantas and Virgin, so there was a lack of competition and prices were high.

Thankfully, air travel is getting a little more competitive and cheaper.
Tiger Airways has cheap domestic flights within Australia, and after a few teething issues in their early days like late departures and maintenance, they’ve scaled back there number of flights and are now doing much better.

Virgin and Jetstar are the two other main domestic carriers to consider.
Jetstar has a Friday Frenzy deal where you can snap up a flight sometimes for as low as $19. The flight route changes each week and the competition is fierce though.

Rex Airline has a backpacker pass available only to international travellers, which gives you one or two months of unlimited Rex air travel. Rex flies to regional areas such as Broken Hill, Kangaroo Island, King Island and Coober Pedy.

When searching for flight deals in Australia we always start with Skyscanner which is a comparison website that searches thousands of flights. Once you find your best deal, you book directly through the airline or agent (no extra fees).

Also read our in-depth post 21 ways to find cheap flights online for extra tips!
Whilst we’re on the subject of flights, if there are three or more of you traveling to an airport, it will probably be cheaper to share a taxi than the train link.

Travel IN Australia

The rules of travel have altered so much in the last few years, with strict regulation regarding air travel, questionable car searches that may vary in regulation from state to state, and the feeling of never really being ultimately sure what is appropriate or improper in the travel world any longer. In most cases, if you decide to fly the formerly affable skies, your airline or airport website will have an accurate and up to date list regarding what is okay and what is not okay regarding your luggage. As if packing for a trip wasnt difficult enough, now we all have to do it with cloudy and blurry regulations and a list we print out from the airlines.

The first measure of travel complacency is simple; dont try to squeeze on a carry on that you know is not really a carry on. You will get yourself into the frustrating position of trying to argue your way onto the airplane with an large bag that just wont do. Youre not going to succeed. Once upon a time you would, but not anymore. Now, you will simply be forced to check it and risk being charged an additional fee for having too many luggage items. Plus, youre going to end up travelling without your usual band of comfort items that you could have had if you just scaled down into standard sized carry on luggage. The simple fact is that there used to be wiggle room, and now, there is none.

Most airlines limit luggage by the length of the flight. A domestic flight may accept 2 pieces of luggage plus one carry one per person (sometimes including and sometimes excluding persons under 4 years of age) while others limit the baggage content to one piece of checked luggage and one carry on. Additional pieces of luggage run anywhere from $50 to $200, depending on the airline and the size of the flight and while mess of miscellaneous stuff they dont release to the public. Airlines have been struggling since the disaster of 9-11. Some will make up the continued lost revenue anyway they can, including charging phenomenal fees for additional luggage. It is just cheaper to have your extra necessary luggage shipped, even overnighted, if you just cant do without it.

World-wide flights often hold the same code, two pieces of checked in luggage and one or two carry on pieces per person. Again, the child may not be granted such grace if they are particularly little. If you havent purchased a seat for your small child (which is legal up until the age of three) then dont expect to have them counted in the luggage count. No ticket, no luggage. Most people who are taking a long term trip out of the country, or a permanent trip out of the country, find this limit a little exasperating. However, from experience I can vouch for the frustration of arriving in a foreign country for the first time, negotiating language barriers and awkward gestures, while trying to lug around three hundred pounds of belongings packed carefully away in small and large luggage cases. Even with the help of carts on wheels (assuming the country you land in has them) eventually you have to talk over all of this material up a flight of steps or into a narrowed passageway. This can become a little more than merely discouraging. It can become downright risky. Again, the best thing to do if your luggage exceeds the international flight limit is ship everything that you can bear to part with in advance. Some nations take as long as 6 weeks to deliver your goods. If your trip is short, try merging. If you have to, purchase what you need to while youre there and then ship it back to your house. Youre not likely to end up waiting helplessly for your underwear from Australia or your pajama bottoms from Costa Rica.

Cycle to Castel Sant’Angelo at sunset in Rome

Veritably drenched in history as far back as, well, almost forever. It’s easy to see why people come from all corners of the globe to experience the delights found within this Italian capital. Whether it’s the ornate and bountiful fountains found throughout the city such as the Trevi Fountain (Romans are obsessed with fountains) or the desire to climb the Spanish Steps, Rome’s place as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe is definitely not a statement without evidence and should be on anyone’s travel wishlist. But, there’s more to life than fountains. We’re all huge Rome fans here at Global Grasshopper and in partnership with Trip4Real, here’s our collective selection for 12 different, unusual things to do in Rome….

What’s better than cycling around Rome on a balmy evening after a little aperitivo? With the sunsetting in front of you as you ride a bicycle towards the famous Castel Sant’Angelo. You’ll have the opportunity to see the Tiber River, ancient and enchanting bridges and, of course, the sublime sunset. What are you waiting for? On your bike!

Visit the Museum of the Souls in Purgatory
This museum is found within another museum. Museumception. The Museum of Souls in Purgatory is situated in the vestry of the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. This is a place in Rome which is really off the beaten path and isn’t full of tourists. The amazing thing about this place? It’s just a simple room full of scorched papers, books and bibles of people’s faces – representing souls trapped in purgatory. Not bad, Rome. Not bad at all.

Go for an espresso in a historic cafe
Italians know their coffee. No, like, they really know it. There isn’t a Starbucks in sight in Rome. Anyway, back in 1945 a man called Achille Gaggia invented what is known as the modern espresso machine in Milan and before long everyone was crazy for the caffeine. But to have a really delicious espresso like the Romans, pop to Caffè Sant’Eustachio. It opened in 1938 and the original furnishings are still largely there. Awesome.

Take a gelato class in Trastevere
Gelato is to Rome what cheese is to France, it’s what oxygen is to my lungs. Necessary. A requirement. And what better place to get your gelato fix then in the capital of Italy. Gelato is a serious affair and not to be taken lightly. A class at the Gelato School in Trastevere will have you learning the basics of this indulgent ice cream including the importance of the consistency between dairy and water. The ingredients are organic and fresh so I suppose that makes it all slightly less guilt inducing for the dieters amongst us.

Make friends with cats
Miaow. Rome is home to many cats without homes. But there’s a shelter found within the city just for them. So if you’re feline particularly lonely and want to surround yourself with an abundance of cats then Largo Argentina is the place for you. Whilst a cat sanctuary is no unusual thing what makes this one special is its set upon the ruins of Pompey’s Theatre. Trust cats to set up camp in such a majestic way. Explore Pigneto’s street art Paris has Belleville, London has Shoreditch, New York has Williamsburg and Italy has Pigneto. It’s the alternative neighbourhood that’s bursting with enough street art to throw a stick at. Local artists flock here from all over and the decorated buildings are a feast for the eyes. So for the hipsters amongst us, this is certainly a place to go and get lost in the streets. In this little corner of Rome there’s also a cinema and a food market making it one vibrant and cultural district worth witnessing.

Visit one of Rome’s flea markets
Whilst Rome is typically known for its high fashion from the likes of prestigious designers like Armani, Prada, Gucci and Versace, you’d be surprised of the treasures hidden within the various Roman vintage markets. A stone’s throw away from the Colosseum is the Monti Market which strikes a balance between vintage fashion and bright and wonderful furnishing. It’s full of many old and unloved items begging to be given a new lease of life.

People watch
Free things to do in Rome? Hello, people watching. This is great because you don’t pay a penny and it’s fascinating. Everyone in Rome, whether it’s students, families, kids, anyone they congregate in piazzas and public places making for the perfect excuse to sit and see Italian life happen right before your eyes.

Go horse riding on the Appian Way
Yep. Horse riding. Totally possible. Completely fun. Firstly, the Appian Way is beautiful whether you manage to find a horse or not. It’s an ancient Roman road that connected the capital city to Brindisi. The long length of the road matched with the verdant vistas make it a perfect excuse to grab your hiking boots and go for a day long walk. Although, if you manage to walk the 350 miles in one day, I’ll eat my hat. But, in the spirit of doing things slightly differently, grab a horse (preferably find one from a registered horse riding company) and see the history unfold before your eyes.

UK Holiday Ideas

If you live in the United Kingdom, you actually don’t need to travel far in aim to get cheap holidays. Cheap holiday in the UK can be spent in almost every corner. We know cheap is relative from person to person but here are some UK holiday ideas:

Climb on Windsor Castle
Yes, you can actually climb on top of the Windsor Castle. Windsor castle is oldest occupied castle in the world. It is built by William the Conqueror thousand years ago. It is the also official Queen residence over the Easter and one week in June. This is something you could talk about to your grand children.

Dorset Beaches
South of England brings you breathtaking beaches and scenery. Over 18 million visitors visit these beaches. So if you are into swimming and surfing this is right place for you.

Fly Fishing in Scotland
Experience Scottish Highland through fly fishing. It does not matter if you are not skilled angler, it’s easy to learn it and on top of that Scottish Highland scenery is something you will never forget.

Hot Air Ballooning
This experience is so cheap and everybody should try it. Go to Ballooning Camps and experience massive balloon events. Enjoy camping and the ballooning in the same time.

Skydiving
Skydiving is getting more and more popular in Britain. Look for offer and experience big adrenalin hit. Once you get hooked, you always came back for more. Experienced instructors are jumping with you together and take care of everything. You only need to enjoy.

Explore London with Bicycle
If you are not from London, then pick some of the excellent cheap London hotels and rent a bike. And when night falls, try some of the famous London nightlife.

Music Festivals
Spend a week on one of the famous UK music festivals. Some of the most known festivals are: Glastonbury, O2 Wireless, T in the Park, Wakestock, Big Chill and many more…

What to see in Washington DC

Washington DC is the capital city of the United States and yet it is a place that is rarely frequented by tourists from around the world. It is a place that Americans will flock to see the home of their president as well as a great deal of monumental buildings and other fascinating sights. But for tourists who have never been before there are a number of cheap holidays available there. But what are the best things to see and do while you’re there?

The number one thing that must be done when in Washington DC is to trek down the National Mall. Make sure you have your camera to get pictures of the historic and national buildings and monuments such as the Capitol, the Washington Monument, the White House and the Lincoln Memorial. Take some time to view these, and try not to hit them on a busy day. You’ll be overawed by the size and splendour of them all.

The city also offers up a huge collection of museums, some of which are free for the public to visit, others which are not. Make sure to research which ones are ‘must-sees’ on your list beforehand to save on time and money. The Smithsonian is truly an unmissable place, comprising of the world’s largest museum and research complex centre with everything from American Art and History collections to the National Zoo and an Air and Space Museum.

If you’re in a rush to see all the typical tourist traps, why not buy yourself a one-day ticket for the Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tour? It’s definitely the easiest and most convenient way to get between all the big sights, with 20 stops and trolleys departing every 30 minutes.

To get away from all the crowds of tourists, head out to some of the surrounding districts. Georgetown is often cited as being the best place to shop, but it also offers a very quaint atmosphere with back streets filled with old houses.

If you’ve got a little more time in the capital, it might be a good idea to take a day or two away from the big city. There are a number of trips available to places just outside Washington DC such as Gettysburg, the site of America’s largest ever battle. You’ll travel through the beautiful countryside of Maryland and Pennsylvania to reach it, so it’s definitely worth the trip. Make sure to get a professional tour guide to take you around to provide you with insights into the historic place.

How to plan an awesome Australian Road trip for 2016

With its long stretches of road and endless supply of gorgeous scenery – an Australian road trip is classic bucket list fodder. Thinking about adding it to your list in 2016? Then here’s exactly what you need to think about…

Plan your Trip

The first problem you’ll have is deciding where to go. If you’re a fan of vast open spaces then consider a drive through the outback taking in sites like Alice Springs, Kata Tjuta and of course Uluru. If you’d rather visit famous beauty spots like Fraser Island, Whitsunday islands and Byron Bay then the ever popular East Coast would be a better option. Western Australia is often overlooked but it would be a good route for those looking for laid back surfing towns with a few national parks thrown in for good measure.

After you’ve made the most important decision, you can get stuck into the finer details. Download an Australian road map for your Sat Nav and plot your route by choosing the places your want to stop at between four and eight hours apart. Most National Parks in Australia charge for entry so don’t forget to include these in your budget.

Choose the time of year wisely

When people think of Australia they usually think of endless hours of sunshine, but it’s not always like this and erratic weather patterns could easily make or break your trip. For starters if you’re going to tour through the outback then you should be aware that temperatures can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and then plummet at night. During December to March, the tropical Northern part of Australia has a humid rainy season which peaks from December to March. During this period rivers can flood and roads have been known to be completely washed away.

Don’t forget the small towns

Australia is filled with world-famous beauty spots but after spending three months travelling around the country I know that if you skip over the smaller places you’ll be seriously missing out! For example one of my favourite memories of our Australian trip was staying in a hostel/commune in an idyllic spot located near the hippy village of Nimbin (New South Wales) and a fellow traveller was so enthralled by the laid back coastal town of Broome (Western Australia) she ended up staying four months!

Pick your vehicle

Depending on the length of time you’re planning to be on the road, buying a camper van just might be the more cost effective option for you. Generally speaking if you’re planning to hit the road for 6 weeks or more then look into buying instead of hiring. If you own your own van then you’re likely to worry less about bumps or scrapes and if you look after it well you can sell it on afterwards without making too much of a loss. You’ll just have to remember to register it, make sure its passed a safety inspection and then sort out your insurance and breakdown cover (essential if you’re planning to travel long distances in Australia).

To find a vehicle to buy then start your Australia journey in Kings Cross Sydney. There is a huge backpacker community in Kings Cross and here you’ll find camper vans to buy on hostel notice boards or adverts in the local paper. Also check popular high traffic websites like the Gumtree or eBay, just make sure you avoid car dealers due to the hefty middle man commission they always whack on.

Plan your accommodation

If you’re planning your Australian road trip in a camper van, then be aware that you can’t actually just pull over and camp where you like. There a quite a few restrictions and you can’t park up overnight inside a city, at the side of the road and sometimes even rest areas. Thankfully though, Australia is well geared up to organised camping and sites are dotted all over the place. Campervan sites with power will set you back up to $40/night, and un-powered sites can cost up to $25/night, just make sure you call ahead if you want to stay in an official campsite with facilities. If you’re thinking of staying in either hotels or hostels then book well in advance on more popular routes, especially if you’re travelling during the Australian summer or school holidays.

Choose your travel companions well Road Trip Australia

Last but not least, make you whoever you’re planning on going with that you get on well – you’re going to be spending nearly every waking (and sleeping) minute together. Even better, test drive your prospective travel companion on a shorter road trip before hand, but of course most importantly remember to have fun! Australia is an incredibly beautiful country and a road trip could easily be one of the highlights of your life!

10 of the most beautiful places to visit in Brazil

Half a year ago Brazil was booming, everyone wanted to be there. The mood was on top and the party was never ending (at least until that game against Germany). Yes, I am talking about the world cup but even before the famous sports event, the country is often associated with football. Having spent quite a bit of time there I know there is so much more to the Brazil. Home to the samba and of course Caipirinha, the country is filled with beautiful people and gorgeous beaches. The vastness and variations of the landscapes make Brazil a particularly interesting country to travel to, it was a tough call but here is my choice for 10 of the the most beautiful places to visit in Brazil….

Rio de Janeiro

A list of beautiful places in Brazil would not be complete without Rio de Janeiro. Everyone I know that has visited loves the place. The city offers something for everyone. Do you want to go hang-gliding? Then do it – the birds-eye view of Rio is hard to beat! Trekking? That is also a possibility. Fancy visiting one of the seven world wonders? Go ahead, but do set a couple of hours aside since the ride up to Christ the Redeemer takes a little while. Bored of hectic city life? Then take a tour to the famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema and then finish the day enjoying the nightlife in Lapa, a neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro which offers a bars and clubs which cater to all tastes.

Porto de Galinhas, Pernambuco

This beautiful place to visit in Brazil has been voted “Best Brazilian Beach” eight times in a row by readers of the Brazilian magazine Voyage & Tourism. Situated 70 kilometers south of Recife, the town was until the 90´s an isolated fisherman village which now it is accessible to anyone who is looking to relax and enjoy the amazing beaches the town has to offer. Snorkelling is a must here as only a couple of hundred meters out in the sea you will find a reef and when the tide is low, natural pools are created on the beaches behind the reef. In these natural aquariums you will find a stunning selection of colourful fish. Other activities include water sports, horse-riding, trekking, Capoeira and much more.

Lençóis National Park, Maranhão

Lençóis – located in the south of Brazil – provides a view that will leave you gasping for air. The national park is a “desert” unlike any other. The rain collects in the alleys between the sand dunes which result in that what could have been a desert is an area where the sand dunes are varied with turquoise lagoons as far as the eye can see. The lagoons are home to many different species of fish and one of the species stays dormant in the moist areas of the sand during the dry season only to surface when the lagoons once again emerge. The stark contrast between white sand dunes and crystal clear lagoons make Lençóis an experience a must see place in Brazil.

Pantanal, Mato Grosso do Sul

Pantanal is located in the Brazilian state Mato Grosso do Sul, except for small parts of the wetland that belongs to Bolivia and Paraguay. It’s the world’s largest wetland and the place to go if you are interested in wildlife. The open marshes make it easy to spot the animals and the unspoilt region of Pantanal doesn’t have a large human population which means the wildlife flourishes. The wetland offers beautiful landscapes as well as the chance to see a great variation of birds and other animals. You’ll get a chance to see reptiles as well as jaguars in their natural habitat.

Salvador, Bahia

Salvador is the first colonial capital of Brazil as well as one of the oldest cities of both North- and South America. Known to be Brazil´s capital of happiness, it offers numerous outdoor parties and the city´s street carnival is the largest in the world. The beauty of the city is partly due to its location by the sea but it is much more than that – it has a rich music and architectural culture and a historic area filled with colourful colonial houses and cobblestoned streets.

Chapada Diamantina, Bahia

The gorgeous National Park Chapada Diamantina takes its name from the steep cliffs in the region as well as to the diamonds that where once found here. Visiting the national park you will be provided a smorgasbord of beautiful views of the landscapes from different cliffs. You will see canyons, waterfalls, natural swimming pools, caves and much more. It’s definitely one of those beautiful places which will stay with you even after you leave.

Jericoacoara, Ceara

This is a remote little beach town located in the Ceara state of Brazil. You can get here by bus from Fortaleza to Jijoca, it’s not an easy journey but it is worth it! This paradise-like town has not yet been destroyed by tourism. The streets of sand, the beautiful beach, the kite-surfing, the breathtaking sun set views from the sand-dunes, the Capoeira at the beach, the amazingly huge and starry night-sky, the hammocks in the lagoon which are just a beach buggy ride away is just some of the reasons to why Jericoacoara is one of Brazil´s hidden treasures.

Ilha Grande, Rio de Janeiro

One thing you will never be short of in Brazil is stunning paradise-esque beaches. Ilha Grande is an island located in the sea outside the state of Rio de Janeiro where you will find tropical beaches that will tempt you to purchase your own pousada and simply enjoy the tranquil island lifestyle for the rest of your days. Previously a prison island, it offers good conditions for snorkelling with chances to see coral, tropical fish, whales and even penguins. The island, which has no roads or motorized vehicles, provides hiking trails to different beaches and villages. On the island you are likely to spot both monkeys and hummingbirds.

Fernando de Noronha, Pernambuco

Would you want to visit a Brazilian beach so beautiful that just the sight of it will make you gasp for air? Do you want to swim with stingrays, sharks and a variety of colorful fishes? Do you want to see dolphins, sea turtles and albatrosses? Well here you can! Fernando de Noronha is a group of islands that belongs to Brazil. The archipelago consists of 21 islands, islets and rocks of volcanic origin and this UNESCO World Heritage listed island is a paradise on earth for anyone who is interested in diving and animal life.

Iguazú falls, Paraná

I don’t think a list of beautiful places in Brazil would be worth the name unless Foz do Iguaçu was part of it. The Iguazú falls consist of more than 270 waterfalls of different sizes which border Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay are a truly amazing spectacle. If in Brazil (or any of the other bordering countries) do not miss the opportunity to see what is one of Mother Nature´s greatest expression of the beauty in our world.

The best quirky kid-friendly festivals in the USA

Travelling with children carries its own set of rules and offers its own style of adventure, and for the willing family, it can present some of life’s most intense challenges and satisfying moments. Whether you seek travel with your fledglings in order to maintain and feed your own sense of wanderlust or you want your kids to practically broaden their knowledge of the world, festivals are a great way to learn and experience some of America’s fascinating history and culture, while travelling near and far at the same time. Here are a handful of quirky festivals throughout the United States that are especially appealing to families with children.

1. Chicago Kids and Kites Festival, Chicago IL

If you’re looking for a kid-friendly excuse to travel to Chicago — Flights.com has some excellent fares — the Chicago Kids and Kites Festival more than fits the bill. Every May, kids, parents, and kite enthusiasts make their way to Montrose Harbor to check out large-form kites, face painting, sport kites, kite races, live entertainment, festival food, bountiful arts and crafts, and free kite kits so kids can design and create their own unique kite.

2. Chandler Chamber Ostrich Festival, Chandler AZ

Located in Chandler, Arizona, the Chandler Chamber Ostrich Festival is one of the strangest festivals you can attend, and your children will absolutely buzz with excitement at all it has to offer. Not only does the festival offer opportunities to get up close and personal with the world’s largest flightless bird, but there are ostrich races, pony and camel rides, a carnival, live music and much, much more. The festival caters to families with children by offering a special family pack with discounts, too.

3. Cracker Storytelling Festival, Tampa FL

Located just an hour away from Tampa, this Homeland, Florida festival takes place over two days in October, and the storytelling is of such high quality that everyone in your family will find themselves breathless and spellbound as each tale gets told. Go back in time for stories of yesteryear. Enjoy fascinating puppets and puppetry. Stories from cultures and lands less familiar will also be told. The event takes place in Homeland Heritage Park, a 5-acre park that’s also the site of a number of fascinating historical buildings from the late 19th century.

4. The 152nd Street Cultural Festival, New York NY

In celebration of National Puerto Rican Day, every year the Bronx hosts the 152nd Street Cultural Festival. This street festival and parade celebrates Puerto Rican culture and brings in almost 3 million spectators and features over 100,000 participants. Watch a stellar parade, eat amazing Puerto Rican street food, get your hands dirty at the arts and crafts booth, and dance to the sounds of authentic Puerto Rican music. If you’d like to take a trip to New York City with your little ones, this free festival is a great event to hit during your visit.

5. The Smithsonian Folklife Festival, Washington D.C.

During the early summer, the National Mall becomes a place where the celebration of the variety of folklife traditions throughout the world occurs. Each year brings a different group of people, craftsmen, performers, artists, and teachers from around the world who all share their way of life, love, religion, music, dance, food, and more with festival-goers. Hundreds of thousands of people visit The Smithsonian Folklife Festival each year for an experience of other cultures that is immersing, in-depth, exciting, and revealing. It’s a little like taking a tiny vacation with your children to a dozen different countries at one time.

6. Potato Days, Barnesville MN

Do you ever find yourself complaining that the only thing your kids will eat is french fries? Well, instead of resisting, why not take them to Potato Days? A celebration of the potato that’s unlike anything else you’ll find in Barnesville, Minnesota — or anywhere else for that matter. This festival features a potato sack fashion show, a potato peeling contest, mashed potato wrestling, potato sculpture, a potato eating contest, and a Miss Tater Tot competition. Of course, there are plenty of potatoes to be eaten, too, so your picky eaters will always have full bellies. 7. Elkfest, Jackson Hole WY

Take a trip to Jackson Hole, Wyoming for Elkfest, an annual celebration of all things elk-related. Enjoy a tour of elk country, a kids’ corner where your little ones can play games and learn more about the area and the elk, and plenty of food and live music. The highlight of the one-day event is the antler auction, where the Boy Scouts sell hundreds of shed antlers from the National Elk Refuge. People use them to make furniture, decorations, and even medicine.

The next time you hit the road or the skies with your kids, do so at one of these great All-American festivals, where everyone can enjoy learning, fun, and the idiosyncrasies of American culture.

In BIG Pictures: the hauntingly beautiful landscapes of Mongolia

The landlocked country in east-central Asia is almost its synonymous with remoteness. Bordered by Russia to the north and China to the south, east and west, Mongolia is a rugged, adventurous travel destination steeped in tradition, shrouded with mystery and populated with hardy nomads. Regular contributor Lee Hubbard was lucky enough to experience the beguiling country en-route to China on the Trans-Siberian railway journey. From characterful llamas to parched deserts here are the hauntingly beautiful landscapes of Mongolia in BIG pictures…