When the summer comes around, so does the urge to travel. For some people, waiting for travel plans is too much of an ask. All that booking of flights and getting the time off from work and organizing your friends … it’s a lot of loose ends to twist together. This is where impulse can take over. Who needs plans when you have a car sat on your drive? You don’t need tickets. You don’t need to wait for a travel company to tell you when you can depart. And just think how much you’ll save by doing all the driving yourself instead of paying a pilot. What’s not to love?
Safety is paramount. Road trips are fun but car accidents are not. Before you leave, always make sure you know where to turn if you have a car accident. Research car accident attornies and keep a number to hand. This will save you time by the roadside in the event of an accident.
Don’t rely on your phone
Your phone is many things. It’s a map. It’s a booking tool for hotels. It’s a source of music. It’s brochures for places to go and things to see. But it’s also liable to break or run out of battery at the most inopportune moment. Always take paper maps or printed versions of directions as a backup, and always carry brochures of any places that you wish to see – if your phone is unavailable, you will need brochures to check the opening time, etc. (you may also want to keep a few CDs on board, in case your phone lets you down and you are stuck with nothing else to listen to but mind-numbing radio).
Your road trip schedule
This is the biggest thing. Plan everything. From stops for food and stops for fuel and stops for fun and stops for sleep, you need to know exactly where you are going and how long each part of the journey will take. This is because the open road may seem attractive at the outset, but you are in danger of losing focus and having a bad time if you do not have a schedule that maps out what you should be doing and when. As a general rule, try not to drive for much longer than 2-3 hours without a stop. This will help to keep you safe behind the wheel.
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International travel is a popular contender in people’s bucket lists. Revenge travel post-pandemic has motivated several individuals to list countries they want to visit before they die. While immersing yourself in a different culture and enriching your wisdom with knowledge from other nations is exciting, it also comes with heavy financial considerations.
Travel expenses transcend flight tickets and hotel accommodations, though these take up a considerable part of the budget. The other crucial concerns that must be prioritized are food expenses, land transportation, activities, and even souvenirs. When traveling interstate, these may require a meager and fixed amount you can easily budget. Traveling to another country with their unique currency is a different story.
Some factors, including conversion rate and transaction fees, must be accounted for, especially when using credit cards. Using credit cards offers convenience, but their foreign transaction fees can eat into your budget, typically charging 3% of the purchase amount in foreign currency. Thus, the best way to optimize your travel expenses is to use credit cards designed for travel. They usually come with zero transaction fees for foreign currencies.
In this article, we will compare the two crème de la crème among all these no foreign transaction fees credit cards – Amex Gold vs Chase Sapphire Preferred – and evaluate how they fare with their overall suitability for international travel.
The American Express Gold Card: A Culinary Approach to Travel
Coming in as a heavyweight contender in the premium credit card arena is the Amex Gold Credit Card. When traveling is a hobby you do only on special occasions, Amex Gold can give you so much more for your ordinary days. It shines with its generous 4x bonus reward points on your restaurant visits, takeout sprees, and everyday groceries.
On your travel days, Amex Gold also proves to be a reliable companion for your travel expenditures – especially for your gastronomic excursions. The whole American Express network has global recognition, with its card widely accepted worldwide. Using your card for your dining will even award you 4x bonus points and a 3x reward for flight tickets.
Beyond the global acceptance and generous award points, this travel credit card also offers a suite of premium travel benefits. From travel insurance, points transfer with their travel partners, and even a $100 credit for a minimum 2-night stay on their hotel collection to having access to their Global Assist® Hotline.
Their Global Assist® Hotline lets you enjoy your travel with peace of mind, knowing you will have safeguards for emergency situations. Their assistance covers a range of needs, including medical referrals, legal aid, and even lost passport replacement.
Here’s a link to a complete guide to all of Amex Gold credit card benefits:
https://fortune.com/recommends/credit-cards/american-express-gold-card-review
With this solid range of convenience in your hands, it is only fitting that this credit card comes with a hefty annual fee and high APR for a pay-over-time feature. If you look forward to lounge access for your pre-travel experience, you will also be in for a big disappointment, as the Amex Gold card does not provide any lounge access.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card: A Versatile Traveler’s Ally
Another premium travel card is the Chase Sapphire Preferred, enjoyed by many cardholders for its flexibility and generous travel rewards program. With their Ultimate Rewards Portal, you can earn 5x bonus points for your flights, hotel rooms, and other travel experiences. On some promotional periods, they even offer 5x bonus points on select theme park tickets available to purchase through the portal, including Universal Studios, Legoland, SeaWorld, etc. This is especially suitable for traveling families or those who enjoy theme park activities.
Nevertheless, on your off-travel days, you can still enjoy other perks, such as their 3x bonus points offer for online grocery purchases, subscriptions to streaming platforms, and even on your restaurant indulgence. Currently, the credit card also offers 5x bonus points on your Lyft rides, so be sure to maximize your commute.
The real perk that comes with the Chase Sapphire is its flexibility with transferring points. Their 1:1 transfer partners make all your earned bonus points worth the incurred expenses. Suppose your favorite hotel line is offering a great deal on premium suites with their hotels on a desired destination. They are offering it for a minimal price of 30,000 points plus applicable taxes and fees. With Chase Sapphire Preferred, you can convert your Ultimate Rewards Points into the rewards program of that hotel line to pounce on that great offer.
Find their comprehensive list of transfer partners in this article.
These great rewards also come with a price of $95 annual fee. They also do not offer any intro APR for new cardholders. Nevertheless, these financial sacrifices can be valuable with all the travel conveniences the card offers, which unfortunately can also be earned only when you book through their portal.
Overall, transaction fee concerns, although entirely erased by these cards, are just one aspect that completes the complexities of international travel. The overall cost-benefit analysis must be made on the basis of the card’s rewards program, annual fees, and other travel-related perks. The choice of a suitable credit card must be weighed on the basis of personal preferences, travel habits, and financial goals.
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Dubai is a well-known hotspot of tourists for the holiday destination. The city has very well transformed itself from desert to big shopping malls with mammoth aquariums, indoor ski -slopes, and sightseeing places like Burj Khalifa. This city gives you the pleasure to explore a lot many things apart from sightseeing water sports, camel riding, and sandboarding. You can also enjoy their traditional dance programs organized in the evening. There are some extremely lavish Dubai hotels to make your stay a comfortable one. We will let you know more about the most visited place in Dubai in this article.
Here are the most 7 visited place in Dubai:
1. Burj Khalifa
Dubai is known for its landmark building Burj Khalifa which is 829.8 meters and is one of the tallest buildings in the world. This comes amongst the most popular city points, and the visitors can take a trip to 124 the floor to experience the whole city from above. Imagine experiencing the city from a bird's eye along with the presentations and speed elevator, which shows up the 360-degree view from the one side of the desert to another bottom of the ocean. If you visit it during nighttime, you can enjoy the beauty of city light panorama with walkways of wind, beautiful world's tallest fountains, and garden.
2. Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall is the city premier mall, which is also the entry of Burj Khalifa and Dubai Aquarium. You will get plenty of entertainment ideas, including an ice-skating rink, gaming zone, cinema complex, and many more. You will also find endless shopping and eating options along with living musical and fashion concert events going on. If you plan your trip between January and Feb, then make sure not to miss the famous Dubai Summer surprises Festival.
3. Dubai Museum
Dubai Museum was built in 17887 for defeating the Dubai Creek. The walls are made up of traditional coral blocks that are held together with lime. The ceilings are constructed with palm fronds and mud, while the upper floor is held by wooden poles that replicate its beauty. In the past, it has a history of serving the ruling family, government, and prison but was restored in 1971 as the museum. The entrance depicts the beautiful exhibition of old maps with the expansion of the oil boom. The museum features weaponry, Emirati musical instruments, and about the traditional life, including pearl fishing and dessert.
4. Jumeirah Beach
The sandy white is amongst the top choices under the beach for Dubai visitors. You will easily find a beach view hotel surrounding it for a stay. The beach offers plenty of facilities which includes sun loungers, fancy restaurants, and water sports like jet skiing. You can also visit nearby spots to it like Majis Ghorfat UmAl-Shelf, which is a residence of late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed al-Maktoum. It has a beautiful décor that features the living standards of Dubai rulers.
5. Jumeirah Mosque
Jumeriah Mosque is one of the most beautiful Mosques in Dubai. It is an exact copy of Cairo's Al-Azhar Mosque, which is eight times its size. It depicts the Islamic culture and is couture beautifully with the detailing of stonework. The two minarets display the subtle details in the stonework and look attractive with the floodlights in the evening. There are various Arabic classes, lectures that help in fostering the Muslim faith.
6. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
You don't need to go far away for exploring this natural vista incorporating the Mangrove forests and wetlands of Dubai creek. This sanctuary is a destination of flamingoes that can be spotted during winters. You can see the beautiful pink birds wading through lagoons from the spots which have been set up for the bird watchers.
7. IMG Worlds of Adventure
This park is full of entertainment and thrill for both kids and adults. You can find variations of Marvel's iconic characters, dinosaur-themed rides, and rides with Cartoon Network. You can also experience Avengers battle Ultron, haunted house, and much more. This place has a lot to offer for people of every age.
Conclusion:
So these were amongst some most visited place of Dubai, but the list doesn't end here. There are many more things to discover in Dubai, which will thrill your experience. Dubai has lots of varieties to offer according to the taste of a different person. From beaches to a wildlife sanctuary and the world's best mall, you will love the visit to Dubai.
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Welcome to Lawrence, Kansas! This vibrant college town, home to the University of Kansas, is brimming with charm and character.
Often overshadowed by larger cities, Lawrence has managed to maintain a unique identity and local flavor that is truly captivating. Steeped in history and buzzing with creativity, this friendly Midwestern city offers a treasure trove of hidden gems and unique experiences just waiting to be discovered.
In this local's guide, we'll take you on a journey through some of the best spots in town, revealing the secrets that only the locals know. So, let's embark on our adventure and uncover the hidden wonders of Lawrence and the things to do in Lawrence KS!
Things To Do in Lawrence Ks
South Park
Located in the heart of downtown Lawrence, South Park is a beautiful, historic park that offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With a picturesque gazebo, lush greenery, and a children's playground, South Park is the perfect spot for a relaxing picnic or a leisurely stroll.
Lawrence Farmers Market
Open from April to November, the Lawrence Farmers Market is a must-visit destination for fresh, locally-sourced produce and handmade goods. Held in the historic downtown area, the market provides an authentic taste of Lawrence and a chance to support local businesses.
Spencer Museum of Art
The Spencer Museum of Art, located on the University of Kansas campus, houses an impressive collection of over 45,000 works of art. The museum features a diverse range of exhibits, from ancient to contemporary art, and offers free admission, making it an accessible and enriching experience for all.
Lawrence Arts Center
One of the fun things to do in Lawrence KS is the Lawrence Arts Center. This dynamic institution offers classes, exhibitions, and performances, showcasing local and regional artists. With a wide range of programming, there's something for everyone, from art enthusiasts to casual visitors.
Massachusetts Street
Often referred to as "Mass Street," this lively thoroughfare is the heart of Lawrence's vibrant downtown scene. With its unique blend of local shops, restaurants, and historic architecture, Mass Street is an ideal place to spend an afternoon exploring the local culture and flavors.
The Burger Stand
If you're craving a mouthwatering burger, look no further than The Burger Stand. This local favorite offers an array of creative, gourmet burgers, and delicious truffle fries and will be one of the best things to do in Lawrence KS. With its laid-back atmosphere and extensive beer selection, The Burger Stand is a must-visit for foodies and casual diners alike.
The Raven Bookstore
This charming, independent bookstore is a haven for book lovers. The Raven Bookstore offers a carefully curated selection of new and used books, along with a cozy atmosphere perfect for browsing. Don't be surprised if you find yourself getting lost in the stacks for hours on end!
Watkins Museum of History
The Watkins Museum of History, located in a beautiful historic building, is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of Lawrence and Douglas County and is one of the fun things to do in Lawrence KS. With engaging exhibits and interactive displays, the museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the area's past.
Clinton Lake
For outdoor enthusiasts, Clinton Lake offers a picturesque setting for a variety of recreational activities. From boating and fishing to hiking and picnicking, there's something for everyone at this beautiful, expansive lake just outside of town.
The Oread
Perched atop Mount Oread, this elegant boutique hotel offers stunning views of the University of Kansas campus and the surrounding city. With its luxurious accommodations, fine dining options, and unique rooftop bar, The Oread is a truly memorable place to stay.
The Granada Theater
The historic Granada Theater is a cornerstone of Lawrence's thriving music scene. This iconic venue hosts a diverse array of live performances, from local bands to national touring acts, and its intimate atmosphere ensures a memorable concert experience.
Ladybird Diner
For a taste of classic Americana, stop by the Ladybird Diner. This retro-inspired eatery serves up delicious comfort food, including homemade pies and all-day breakfast options. The welcoming, nostalgic atmosphere will make you feel right at home.
Final Fridays Art Walk
On the last Friday of every month, downtown Lawrence comes alive with the Final Fridays Art Walk. This lively event showcases the work of local artists in galleries, shops, and other venues throughout the area. It's a wonderful opportunity to experience the creativity and talent of Lawrence's vibrant art community.
Should You Move to Lawrance Ks?
Lawrence, Kansas, is a truly special destination, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that caters to all types of visitors. As we've explored in this local's guide, the hidden gems and unique experiences found throughout the city provide a genuine taste of what makes Lawrence so remarkable. Whether you're a history buff, art enthusiast, foodie, or just someone looking for a memorable getaway, this charming college town has something for everyone.
In addition to its many attractions, Lawrence is also a place where the friendly, welcoming spirit of the Midwest shines through. The locals are proud of their city and eager to share its hidden treasures with visitors. As you explore the town's diverse neighborhoods, bustling downtown area, and tranquil green spaces, you'll undoubtedly be greeted with warm smiles and genuine hospitality.
So, the next time you find yourself planning a trip, consider Lawrence as your destination. With this local's guide to hidden gems and unique experiences, you'll be well-equipped to uncover the true heart of this delightful Kansas town. Pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in Lawrence! If you are planning on living in Lawrence Ks you will need moving help from a professional moving company.
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