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Exploring Bali: Everything You Need to Know

Bali, a jewel island in Indonesian, has long been a magnet for travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and adventure.

Known as the “Island of the Gods,” Bali offers an eclectic mix of experiences, from its serene beaches to its bustling streets, and from ancient temples to vibrant nightlife.

If you are planning a visit soon, here’s the guide you need to read before getting there to make sure you make the most of your trip to this enchanting destination.

Let’s go!

Getting There

You will land in there only airport, Ngurah Rai International Airport, also known as Denpasar International Airport. Located in the southern part of the island, it’s the main entry point for international travelers.

Upon arrival, you can find a range of transportation options including taxis, shuttle buses, and car rentals to reach your accommodation. I recommend you download Gojek (which is the equivalent to Uber) before your arrival. It’s the most efficient and least expensive option.

Where to Stay

Bali, is a very big island that offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference:

  • Luxury Resorts: For those seeking opulence, areas like Nusa Dua, Seminyak and Kuta boast high-end resorts with private beaches, world-class spas, shopping, and fine dining restaurants.
  • Boutique Hotels: Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali, is known for its charming boutique hotels nestled amidst rice paddies and lush forests. Here for the culture and nature.
  • Budget Options: Backpackers and budget travelers can find affordable guesthouses and hostels in Canggu and Uluwatu. Which are also prime locations for surfing and have a more chill vibe.

Top Things to do

1. Beaches

Bali is renowned for their beaches, here are some of the top ones:

  • Kuta Beach: Known for its vibrant nightlife and surf-friendly waves.
  • Seminyak Beach: Offers a more upscale beach experience with trendy beach clubs and fine dining.
  • Nusa Dua: Perfect for families and those seeking a tranquil retreat.
  • Uluwatu: Famous for its dramatic cliffs and surf spots.

2. Temples

Bali, with its unique hindu culture is dotted with stunning temples, here are some to check out:

  • Tanah Lot: A picturesque sea temple perched on a rocky outcrop north of Canggu.
  • Uluwatu Temple: Offers breathtaking sunset views and traditional Kecak dance performances, located at the top of a cliff.
  • Besakih Temple: Known as the Mother Temple, it is the largest and holiest temple on the island.

3. Ubud

Ubud, located in the heart of Bali is a most visit destination when in Bali. It offers a more cultural and artistic side to Bali, and it is nestle in the jungle, so you will be surrounded by rice paddies and waterfalls.

  • Ubud Monkey Forest: A sanctuary for the playful long-tailed macaques.
  • Tegallalang Rice Terraces: Famous for their stunning green landscapes.
  • Art Galleries and Museums: Including the Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA) and the Blanco Renaissance Museum. Great to buy artesanies and souvenirs!

4. Adventure Activities

For outdoor lovers and thrill-seekers, Bali offers:

  • Surfing: For all skill levels.
  • Diving and Snorkeling: In areas like Amed and Menjangan Island, renowned for their vibrant marine life. Or you can take a short boat trip to nearby island like Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongang for amazing snorkeling opportunities.
  • Hiking: Mount Batur offers an unforgettable sunrise trek.
  • White Water Rafting: On the Ayung River, combining adventure with stunning scenery.

5. Cultural Experiences

Immerse yourself in Bali’s rich cultural heritage and enjoy the following:

  • Traditional Dance: Performances like Barong and Legong dances are a must-see. Sometimes you can see them at sunset inside their most popular temples.
  • Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare Balinese dishes using fresh, local ingredients.
  • Festivals: Time your visit to coincide with local festivals such as Galungan and Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence. They are unique and beautiful celebrations.

6. Culinary Delights

The food scene in Bali is really something else, from astounding and affordable fine dining experiences to their vibrant café scene. From delicious local Indonesian dishes to flavorful western cuisine, Bali has it all.

Get ready to eat some delicious food!

Practical Tips

  • Currency: The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR).
  • Language: While Balinese and Indonesian are widely spoken, you will easily get around with English.
  • Climate: Bali enjoys a tropical climate year round. The dry season (April to September) has the best weather as it is less humid and is the best time to visit.
  • Etiquette: Respect local customs, dress modestly when visiting temples, and always use both hands when giving or receiving something.

Conclusion

Traveling to Bali is a unique travel experience. A land where natural beauty meets cultural richness. Whether you’re looking to relax on sun-drenched beaches, explore ancient temples, or dive into thrilling adventures, Bali has something to offer every traveler.

With its warm hospitality and endless attractions, Bali promises an unforgettable travel experience that will leave you longing to return.

Enjoy your travels!

Travel

Essential Packing List for a Weekend Getaway: Be Prepared for Anything!


Weekend getaways are a fantastic way to recharge and create lasting memories. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing beach escape, a vibrant city adventure, or a rejuvenating mountain retreat, packing the right essentials can make all the difference between a smooth trip and one riddled with unexpected snags.

Let’s face it, sometimes the unexpected happens. Last summer, I was set for a mountain escape with friends when disaster struck just miles outside Denver. A rogue pothole left a rather unsightly dent in my friend’s car bumper. Thankfully, we found a reliable collision repair shop in Denver that helped us get the bumper repaired, getting us back on the road quickly and efficiently. Lesson learned: unexpected mishaps can occur even on short trips, so it’s best to be prepared!

Now, onto the nitty-gritty: packing essentials for a seamless weekend getaway.

Clothing:

Choosing the right clothing for your weekend getaway is crucial for comfort and enjoyment. Here are some key considerations:

  • Pack versatile pieces that can be easily mixed and matched.
  • Consider the weather forecast and planned activities.
  • Opt for comfortable, breathable fabrics.
  • Don’t forget essentials like a swimsuit for beach getaways or a warm jacket for mountain adventures.

Footwear:

Packing appropriate footwear is essential for exploring your chosen destination comfortably.

  • Pack comfortable shoes suitable for walking and exploring.
  • Include a pair of dressier shoes for evenings out or special occasions.
  • Consider packing sandals or flip-flops for beach trips.

Toiletries:

Packing essential toiletries ensures you stay fresh and comfortable throughout your trip.

  • Pack travel-sized versions of your favorite toiletries.
  • Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, lip balm, and insect repellent.
  • Pack any necessary medications and prescriptions.

Electronics:

Staying connected and entertained during your getaway often involves packing essential electronics.

  • Pack your phone, charger, and any other essential devices like a camera or tablet.
  • Consider bringing a portable charger for extended trips or areas with limited charging options.

Travel Documents:

Ensuring you have the necessary travel documents is crucial for a smooth and stress-free journey.

  • Pack your driver’s license or passport (depending on your destination).
  • Bring any necessary travel insurance documents.
  • Make copies of important documents and store them separately in case of loss.

Pro Tip: Packing for Different Activities

Here’s a quick breakdown of additional items you might need depending on your chosen getaway:

  • Beach Getaway: Beach getaways often require specific items to maximize your enjoyment under the sun.
  • Beach towel
  • Sunhat
  • Sunglasses
  • Beach bag
  • Cool bag for snacks and drinks
  • City Break: City breaks often involve a lot of walking and sightseeing, so packing accordingly is key.
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Umbrella or raincoat
  • City map or guidebook
  • Mountain Escape: Mountain escapes often involve hiking and outdoor activities, so packing the right gear is essential.
  • Hiking boots or sturdy shoes
  • Layers of clothing for changing weather conditions
  • Backpack
  • Water bottle
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent

Emergency Preparedness:

It’s always wise to pack a few essentials for unforeseen circumstances:

  • Car Essentials: Being prepared for unexpected car troubles can save you time and hassle during your trip.
  • Jumper cables
  • Tire pressure gauge
  • First-aid kit
  • Flashlight
  • Road flares
  • First Aid: Packing a basic first-aid kit ensures you’re prepared for minor injuries or ailments.
  • Bandages
  • Antiseptic wipes
  • Pain relievers
  • Allergy medication (if applicable)
  • Communication: Staying connected in case of emergencies is crucial.
  • Portable phone charger
  • External battery pack
  • Emergency contact information

Conclusion:

Packing for a weekend getaway doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following this essential list and tailoring it to your specific trip, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable adventure. Remember, even the best-laid plans can encounter unexpected bumps (like that pesky pothole!). 

With a little preparation and a positive attitude, you’re all set to create unforgettable weekend memories!

Travel

Are You Prepared for the Holidays?

As the holidays draw closer each year, do you feel like you make the preparations needed to get the most out of them?

While the holidays can be stressful at times, the goal should be to prepare for them as much as possible. When you do, odds are you will get more enjoyment out of them.

That said are you prepared when the holidays come calling to your world the next time around?

Get the Most Fun from the Holiday Season

In getting the most fun out of the holidays, here are a few things to think about:

  1. Have you made your plans already? – It is important in trying to enjoy the holidays as much as possible to plan accordingly. That said waiting until the last minute to make plans can lead to stress and more. So, take time weeks ahead of when the holidays officially kick off to see what it is you’d like to do. As an example, do you think a Disneyland Christmas would be a fun thing to do? If so, do not wait until the last moment to get tickets and more. By doing your research in advance, you can get info on tickets, accommodations if needed and more. Making plans for any holiday events no matter how big or small can make things better fall into place.
  2. Not letting money get in way – From travel and attending events to buying gifts and more, you could run up a big bill. With that thought in mind, think about working off a holiday budget if necessary. Doing this will lessen what you spend. It can also cut down on any worries you may have of running up a big credit card bill. A holiday budget should also focus more on spending cash and not the plastic. While you may well need a credit card for some things you buy, do not make a habit out of it. Using cash tends to make one spend less. That way you do not feel the pain when your credit card bill comes due.
  3. Putting stress in the rear-view mirror- Also make it a priority to not let stress get the better of you. That is in preparing and experiencing the holidays. Unfortunately, too many individuals do in fact let stress get the better of them. When this occurs, it can take all the fun out of the holiday season. So, think about what triggers your stress reactions and do your best to avoid them. Also be sure if you have any holiday travel plans to get as much work or school done before leaving. You do not want to be on your laptop dealing with work or studies. This would be when you’re supposed to be on holiday vacation having fun.
  4. Lean on past experiences – If you’ve had past pre-planning that worked, consider trying it again. This can be planning trips, getting your holiday tree, buying gifts and more. Sticking to a routine that has worked for you can make this holiday season as enjoyable.

In planning for the holidays this time around, will you be satisfied with the outcomes?

Travel

Make Getaway Planning an Easy Thing

Getting away from your home for some fun does not have to be an ordeal.

Yes, even if you have young children going with you, don’t fret that such times will be filled with chaos and anxiety.

By doing all you can to plan getaways ahead of time, there is less likelihood you will be all stressed out.

With that in mind, is it time for you to start planning a getaway?

What Steps Must You Take to Have Fun?

Whether going away only for the day or something longer, here are a few steps to keep in mind:

  1. Schedule far in advance as possible – One of the keys to increasing the odds of a smooth getaway is planning. Sure, you may be a little spontaneous at times and decide to up and go one morning. While that is fine, make sure you know what you want to do, what it will take to do it and so on. You do not want what should be a fun day to go down in flames. If you have a young child or children going with you, planning takes on added importance. That is due to their scheduling needs and more.
  2. Know what you will need – From the clothes you wear to how much money and more, do your best to plan out what you have to take. As an example, are you looking at a day or more visiting Disney World? If you are, know that you are visiting a theme park many people from all over the world love to see yearly. With that in mind, take the time to come up with a Disney World packing list. Such a list will allow you to have the right clothes, sunscreen, food or drink you are allowed to bring in and so on. By being better prepared, there is less of a chance your day will not turn out the way you want it to.
  3. Plan with young ones – Whether you have one young child going with you or a few, keep their needs in mind. That is as you go about making plans. The last thing you want is for one or more of your children to be unhappy. This would be for any large amount of time when you are on a getaway that is supposed to be fun. You have to remember that the needs of a child are different than that of an adult. As such, be sure you are ready. From when your child may need a nap during the day to what food and drink they often need, don’t go unprepared.
  4. Know what the weather forecast is – Finally, do your best to know what the pending weather forecast is going to be. Although you have no control over Mother Nature, a sense of what is in the forecast works to your advantage. For one, it will help you dress for the occasion. Two, you can know whether outdoor activities are a go or you may need to do more inside.

By being a prepared trip planner no matter how long gone, you stand a much better chance of enjoying your time away.

Travel

7 Reasons to Visit Yellowstone National Park

On 1 March, 1872, Yellowstone became the first natural area to be designated a national park in the United States. Since that day, millions of people have visited the park down the years to take in the awesome sights of its incredible natural bounty. As well as its fantastic diversity of plant and animal life, the park also sits on top of the one largest supervolcanoes on the planet, the energy form which creates some breath-taking hydrothermal features, such as hot springs, mud pots, fumaroles, and geysers.

There is so much to see and do on a trip to Yellowstone that it is simply a must for anyone visiting the States for the first time. However, if you want to feast your eyes on its wonders, you must make sure that you sign up for the ESTA visa waiver scheme before travelling if you are an EU citizen. (If you want to learn about whether you are eligible and how to apply, this ESTA guide is a great place to start.)

Without further ado, here are the top seven reasons that you should visit Yellowstone!

1. Geysers

It is incredible to think that Yellowstone contains up to 60 per cent of the world’s geysers. Of over 500 of the things in the park, without doubt the most famous one is Old Faithful. For many years now, Old Faithful has been spewing 3,000-4,000 gallons of piping hot water 130 feet into the air once every 35-120 minutes. It is a sight to behold, reminding us of our insignificance in Mother Nature’s grand plans.

2. Grand Prismatic Spring

Old Faithful may be more renowned, but no trip to Yellowstone would be complete without a photo of the Grand Prismatic Hot Spring. At 121 feet deep and 370 feet in diameter, this iridescent pool looks like the eye of the planet open wide. Its spectacular bands of colours result from thermophile bacteria that live in varying concentrations around the pool.

3. Wildlife

Yellowstone is absolutely massive. Covering an area of over 3,000 square miles, the park provides a habitat for a bewildering array of animal and plant life. Today, you can find many animals that have become extinct in many other parts of the country, including wolves, bears, bison, elk, sheep, deer, moose, antelope and many species of birds.

4. Hiking

The best way to get a real taste of Yellowstone is to hike. The park holds over 900 miles of trails that span diverse landscapes and topography. Pack some food, good walking boots and a tent, and set off for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure through terrain that changes from canyons and lakes to forests and valleys and back again.

5. Indian Tribes

Yellowstone has been an important cultural site for Native American tribes for thousands of years. A great number of tribes, including the Kiowa, Blackfeet, Shoshone, Coeur d’Alene, Bannock, Cayuse, Nez Perce, and Umatilla, used to come regularly to the region to hunt, fish, gather plants and obsidian for knives and arrowheads. Many of these peoples used the hydrothermal features for religious and medicinal purposes. Today, the park is an important archaeological site, and many ancient Indian artefacts have been unearthed over the years.

6. Yellowstone Lake

At an elevation of 7,733 feet above sea level, the spectacular Yellowstone Lake is the highest lake in North America. If this was not enough reason to visit, the beauty of the enormous freezing lake when it ices over in winter can give visitors the impression that they are looking out over an icy polar sea. When frozen, the lake is known to give off eerie singing sounds as the ice shifts as a result of changing temperatures. 

7. Artist Point

Located high up in the southern rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is the park’s most famous viewpoint, Artist Point. The viewpoint was originally named by Frank Jay Haynes in 1883 who erroneously believed that it was the spot from which artist Thomas Moran had drawn his 1973 sketches of the raging Yellowstone Falls that dominate the view. Although the sketches were later found to have been done from another location, the name has stuck to this day!

There are few places on this earth that inspire more awe than Yellowstone. If you are passing through Wyoming, Idaho or Montana, a visit to the United States’ oldest and most famous national park is a must. Make sure you plan your trip so that you can spend at least a couple of days in this marvel of the natural world.

Travel

The Affordable Ways You Can Travel Like a Celebrity

Most of us would love to live like a rock star. And we all wish we could afford to travel like Beyonce, but for most of us, it just doesn’t fit the budget. If only at least once we could experience what it’s like to live and feel like a celebrity. Good thing we found these four affordable ways to travel like your favorite stars without hurting your wallet.

Traveling gives us time to rethink, refocus and commune with nature, or simply be with the people we care about. But traveling to posh places is something we all wish to experience at least once in our lifetime. Why not get the best deals on your travel plan by checking out these tips:

  1. Sign up for Deals – Signing up for airline promos could save you more dollars. Airlines have all-year round deals, and you just need to know when they will release it. You can sign up for any exclusive deals on emails and SMS so you get instant updates when the airline announces promo fares. After getting that promo fare, always reserve a window seat for that perfect shot! If you wish to, you may also upgrade your seat to first class for that celebrity experience.

Hotels also have promotions. Usually, hotel vouchers are given during the off-peak parts of the season where there are fewer travelers. This is a way for them to keep customers coming in, and a chance for you to have that celebrity-class room. You can also sign up on their website to receive points and redeem them upon booking.

  1. Book an All-Inclusive Resort– Upon booking a room in a hotel or a resort, make it all-inclusive with breakfast, lunch and dinner plus other hotel amenities. Some hotels are giving away free wine or champagne to customers. This will give you more time to go and find the nearest café to dine in, plus you cover most of your costs up front. Celebrities do the same thing; they get all-in accommodations and simply focus on relaxing!

Speaking of relaxation, since this is only happening once in a lifetime, so why not treat yourself for an hour in the spa? Celebrities love going to spas for that perfect pampering and ‘me time’ experience.

  1. Go where the Stars Are – When planning a vacation, checkout where your favorite stars usually go. If Taylor Swift had a blast in Ibiza, why not book a hotel in Ibiza using the deals you signed up for? Be a wise, yet posh traveler. Make a checklist of the best possible celeb-places you can visit and save up for.

Another tip: you can also schedule your vacation during the awards seasons like the Oscars, Cannes, and more. This way, you will have greater chances of spotting all your favorite stars in one place! Don’t forget to bring your camera in case Leonardo DiCaprio passes by!

  1. Book a Cruise – Finally, when you want to splurge a little, and really travel effortlessly, book a cruise destination. You’ll have a week or two of celebrity-like and celebrity-life vacation where you can eat international cuisines, drink and party like a real celebrity, and enjoy some much needed relaxation. Choose a popular cruise destination where most stars go, find the best deals, book ahead, and enjoy! Since you’ve sacrificed and saved to enjoy your experience, make sure you take steps to protect your vacation and are prepared for emergencies, so you can focus on having fun!

Traveling like the celebrities should not really break the bank, all you need to make it a reality is a plan and these four tips. So start saving and go treat yourself!

Travel

Why Visit Disneyland Paris

Disneyland is easily the world’s biggest giant when it comes to theme parks. It’s a behemoth that’s been around for a very long time, and Disney is a household name that rarely anyone hasn’t heard about. Yet, Disneyland Paris – formerly known as Euro Disney – isn’t usually as well-known as its US counterparts. Visiting Disneyland Paris is always amazing, as it’s a destination that deserves a lot of praise, and you can easily avoid the queues by pre-buying your Euro Disney tickets.

The Rides Are Amazing

  • Sleeping Beauty Castle – a classic ride that everyone has heard about, Sleeping Beauty Castle is downright beautiful, as it’s one of those rides that you really can’t believe about until you’ve seen it with your own two eyes. It’s rare that a ride can achieve the splendor of a location from an original animated feature film to the level that this ride has.

  • Space Mountain – many of the regular fans will definitely be pleased with the way this ride has been made, since it’s quite faithful to the original, but a few elements have been changed so as for the ride to feel fresh and unique.

  • Rock n’Roller Coaster – a truly amazing ride that features a wide assortment of many popular and well-known Aerosmith tunes. There might not be a Hollywood studios rides in Disneyland Paris, but this is as amazing as it gets.

Better Transportation

It’s no secret that public transportation in Europe is generally better than in the states, and that’s absolutely the case with Paris. Euro Disney is incredibly easy to reach, as there are several public transport stations in the near vicinity of the entrance to the park, with the subway dropping you off right at the entrance to the park. There is no comparison to any other Disneyland park, especially when in some cases it takes a lot of time to reach the entrance.

Easier to Navigate

While there is something to be said about large parks with practically an infinite number of rides and attractions, there is something special about Disneyland Paris and its relatively modest size. It’s great that it doesn’t take an ungodly amount of time simply to move to a different ride, and you won’t tire nearly as much as you wouldn’t in any Disneyland Park in the states.

Smaller Crowds

Disney and Disneyland are incredibly popular in any corner of the world and there’s no exception in Paris. But Disneyland is much more popular in the states than in Europe so, naturally, there are bigger crowds in the US. Because of this, it’s so much better to go and see Disneyland Paris, as you’ll generally spend a lot less time waiting in lines, or having to maneuver between excessive crowds of people.

Disneyland Paris is definitely a fantastic destination, one that will have you coming back for more. It’s a park that is not only interesting and fun, but a park that will only get even better with time, as there’s practically infinite potential to have fun for anyone from all groups and ages.

Travel

Top Hacks If You Are Visiting Disney This Year

If you are planning on whisking the kids off for an amazing family holiday to California, Disneyland will no doubt be firmly in your sights. It is fair to say that taking the kids to the USA is not a trip which will be very kind on your purse, so making sure that you save money where possible is of course recommended. Thankfully, when it comes to Disney, there are many hacks which you can use to make sure that you don’t overspend, and that can help you to save money, the key is knowing where. We have some of the best money saving hacks for you, so read on before planning that trip to Disney.

Tickets

When it comes to buying entry tickets for Disney you can save a lot of money if you buy tickets online, which can help you beat the queues with Disneyland tickets through priority entry. Another option is to look in Costco, who very often have discounted Disneyland tickets just waiting for you. Don’t forget that kids under 3 years old do not need tickets for Disneyland.

When to go?

January and September are the quietest months to go to Disneyland, naturally if you have kids this may be tricky, but if there are no kids going, this is the best time for a quiet park.

Sit Down Meal 

When it comes to eating in Disneyland, it can get quite pricey so make sure that you book in for a sit down meal for lunch rather than doing so for dinner. The prices of the same meals are between 15-20% cheaper at lunchtime.

Character Meals

Kids will love sitting down with their favorite Disney character for a meal, but again, the costs can run quite high. Booking your character meal at breakfast however, rather than other times of the day, can save you up to 35%!

Bring Your Own

As long as you don’t bring glass into the park, you are more than welcome to bring your own drinks and snacks, so be sure to take advantage of it. It may be a pain in the first few hours when you are lugging it all about, but you can save money and by the end of the day that bag will be empty.

Fast Pass

The Fast pass is the best way to ensure that you miss the queues on the most popular rides, but not many know that you can reserve your Fast pass from 30 days before you go. Set your alarm for 7am, exactly 30 days before your visit, and get those Fast passes locked in. The best time to use your Fast pass, in order to get the most from it is between 12pm and 3pm, these are when the queues will really get out of control.

Stroller Tips

To save money on stroller rental in the park, order a cheap stroller online and have it delivered to your hotel in California. Doing this means you’ll have a stroller when you arrive which you can use in the park, and then you can discard it or donate it to someone when you are done.

Use these hacks and save plenty of cash on your Disneyland trip.

Travel

Australia: 10 things that surprise Americans

For any Americans who have not had a chance to visit Australia, it is very easy to start believing some of the common Australia stereotypes. Personally, I have heard a few outrageous ones such as Australians are constantly drunk. Another common one is that every Australian knows how to surf and they ride kangaroo to school.

It’s amazing how little most Americans know about Australia. Of course, the best way to learn more about a country is to visit that country. However, even for Americans who have heard or read a lot about Australia, there are still things that will surprise them bout the country. Find out also some abandoned places at Mysterious Heartland.

Here are 10 things about Australia that surprise Americans:

1. The C-word is not such a bad word

There are many words that Australians use that are not commonly used by Americans. Of course, you don’t expect American and Australian slang to be the same. What is likely to surprise you is how frequently Australians use the C-word. Well, the C-word is not such a taboo word for Australians when you’re around adult friends. Don’t ever use it in a business context though. There is a lot of other more entertaining Aussie slang out there for you to learn though!

2. Australians date one person at a time

Australian and American dating cultures are different in many ways. One distinct difference between the two cultures is that while an American can date several people at the same time, that is not the norm in Australia. Australians wait for one fling to be over before starting on another. Or at least they used to, but with the advent of Tinder who knows what happens now?

3. Free Wi-Fi is scarce

While virtually every cafe in America has free Wi-Fi, don’t expect the same generosity in Australia. For such an advanced country, this can be very surprising to many visitors. This is slowly changing as more and more businesses realise the importance of offering wifi but it is still far less prevalent in Australia than Americans are used to. So if you want to be online while sipping your coffee at a restaurant, make sure you have enough data on your phone just in case.

4. Narrow rich-poor gap

In America, there is a significant divide between the haves and the have-nots. That is l the case in Australia. Australians are more content to live their lives without worrying about being better off than the next person. Celebrity is also not as big as it is in America.

5. Not Everything is Poisonous

One of the most often repeated myths about Australia is half based in truth. Australia does have a huge variety of deadly poisonous snakes, arachnids, insects and sea creatures but it also has its fair share of non-poisonous fauna. Also though you do have to take care in rural areas, in urban environments most people take very few special precautions except for stamping on shoes if you leave them outside overnight.

6. You don’t need to tip in Australia

For an American who is used to giving tips all the time, you will be surprised to hear that tipping is not the order of the day in Australia. But there is a good reason for this. Workers in Australia receive wages that are enough for them to live off. On top of that, they receive benefits such as sick leave and a four-week vacation among others.

7. It’s weird to eat out alone

While it’s not a big deal to go out to eat or for a drink alone, in America, it’s not common to see an Australian in Australia sitting at a restaurant or a bar alone. It’s difficult to explain but that is just how it is in Australia.

8. Cash-only restaurants

Do you remember the last time you went to a restaurant in America that did not accept credit and debit cards? In Australia, you are likely to find a few of those here and there, particularly Thai restaurants for some reason. So if you want to save yourself some trouble, make sure you have some cash on you at all times or even just ask before you order. That said, the ATO has cash only restaurants directly in their crosshairs so maybe this slight inconvenience will disappear soon enough.

9. Friends are referred to as “mates”

Any American planning to visit Australia will need to find a way of adapting to the slang used there. “Mate” is the term used to refer to a friend. Almost every end of a sentence in Australia ends with the word “mate”. The word is used to convey friendliness between speakers.

10. Late night shopping and dining are not as common

Don’t assume that you can get anything you want at any time of the day in Australia. Most Australian businesses open in the morning and shut in the evening. In fact, you will rarely find businesses that operate up to midnight. So if you are used to the conveniences of having 24-hour outlets in America, be prepared to adjust a bit while in Australia.

Travel

Four Reasons Why Montana Is the Perfect State for an RV Road Trip

Although you can technically pack up the family for a road trip in any state, no state compares to Montana. Everyone deserves to check out everything this amazing state has to offer, even if it means renting an RV from Outdoorsy first. Here are four wonderful reasons why you should pack up your bags and invest some time into taking an RV adventure in Montana.

montana

Big Sky Country

Montana is known as Big Sky Country. That’s because it is known for its expansive spaces that allow you to soak in the big blue sky in all its glory. It can be so moving that it is often compared to the feeling one gets while gazing into the ocean.

Montana’s wide open spaces have also provided inspiration to musicians throughout the years. The song “Big Sky Country” was released in the early 90’s. A modern country band that was formed in 2013 also uses the term Big Sky Country as its band name.

 

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a must-see in your lifetime. Located in the northwest corner of the state, this huge park starts in Montana and continues into Canada.

In the summer, you’ll enjoy warmer weather, but the winter is equally beautiful and stunning. No matter what time of year you decide to RV through the area, you can choose from a number of park activities that include:

  • Hiking
  • Biking
  • Backcountry camping
  • Boating
  • Guided tours
  • Ranger talks
  • Fishing
  • Cross-country skiing

There are campgrounds that will allow RVs, but they aren’t recommended in some areas, so make sure you do your research before you pull into the park.

 

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is known throughout the country for providing an unforgettable outdoor experience. Although much of the park is located in Wyoming, there is plenty of park to check out in Montana.

As America’s first national park, you can expect to see sights you won’t see anywhere else. Whether you choose to stay in Montana or you decide to drive into Wyoming to check out the park in its entirety, there are plenty of wonderful sights to behold that include:

  • Old Faithful
  • The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
  • Yellowstone Lake
  • Grand Prismatic Spring
  • Norris Geyser Basin
  • Mammoth Hot Springs
  • And more

Yellow Stone River

If you’re more into water recreation than hiking and biking, make sure you swing the RV by Yellowstone River.

It has the impressive title as the last free flowing river in the lower 48 United States. It extends 670 miles to the Missouri river, undammed and untamed. Visiting this place makes you feel a bit like you’ve taken a step back in time.

Yellowstone River is the perfect place to fish, while floating down the river is a great activity during the warmest months of the year.

Montana is calling. What are you waiting for! Pack up the family, rent an RV, explore the best state in the country, and create lasting outdoor memories in this amazing state.