Archive for January, 2010

Travel Tip #166: Help Animals

Back in 2007, I took a trip to Sweden with some friends. While exploring the archipelago, I fulfilled a dream that I had carried with me for at least two weeks. I had previously decided that I would make my vacation a mission of hope. I would right a terrible wrong. I would return Swedish [...]

Travel Tip #20: Pack a Snack

Whether you’re on a flight, a hike or a walk through a city, it’s always a good idea to have a snack in your pack (plus, you know, it rhymes). Sure, you should try local foods and explore street carts and markets, but having some snacks from home will ensure that you can eat something [...]

Travel Tip #15: Pay Attention

Look over there! No, that way! Your other left!

Conan the Vacationer

I wrote a short piece for Budget Travel with suggestions on where Conan O’Brien should go on vacation (you know, since he has all that free time now). Then MSNBC picked it up. And today…it’s on CNN. I look forward to Perez Hilton drawing on my face by next week.

Crash & Learn: Chatty Cathy

If you close your eyes while you talk to your new floating friends, it almost feels as if you’re in a glamorous jacuzzi. It helps if you fart a lot. Source: US Airways A320 Safety Card.

Travel Tip #29: Pack Sunglasses

Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall, all you have to do is call…an optometrist. He’ll tell you that you can do plenty of damage to your eyes if you don’t protect them from the sun. Whether you’re on the beach or on top of a mountain, if you take on the rays, your eyes will pay. [...]

Travel Tip #13: Dress Comfortably on the Plane

No, this does not mean that you can wear sweatpants in public! I’ve addressed this before and won’t budge on it (same with Crocs). But, by all means, pack a change of clothes for the flight, wear your favorite hoodie and take off your shoes. Sleep masks are optional.

Travel Tip #4: Pick a Compatible Travel Companion

I’ve written about what makes a good travel partner in the past. And my friends over at NileGuide touched on some important aspects, as well. But I really cannot stress this enough: You and your travel companion need to form a cohesive team. You’ll be sleeping together. You’ll be eating together. You’ll be bikeskating together. [...]

Travel Tip #31: Be Patient

Not every part of your trip is going to be an adrenaline rush. In between drinking snake blood and hunting the most dangerous game, you’ll be idling away time in train stations, airports and bus terminals. Rather than get antsy or complain about schedules and itineraries, stay calm and enjoy the downtime. Twiddle your thumbs. [...]

Travel Tip #52: Pack a Hairbrush

Cowlicks are embarrassing.