“Hi. We’re celebrating!” – Hotel tip

by Gadling Staff on

Whenever I travel, I make sure the hotel knows ahead of time that I’m celebrating!

I tell them that my husband and I are celebrating either our honeymoon, anniversary or birthday. Most nicer hotels, resorts or B&B’s will leave a little surprise in your room to make you feel special. I’ve had champagne, chocolates, baskets, fruit and even complimentary spa services awaiting our arrival. I’ve never had anyone ask for proof of the event so book away and celebrate!

[Ed’s note: this practice may involve some duplicitousness. Consider yourself warned.]

Make a mock newspaper – Souvenir tip

by Gadling Staff on

Traveling with family on a budget often doesn’t leave much money for souvenirs. As an alternative, create an edition of “Family Travel Gazette” — a mock newspaper highlighting all the adventures you had while on vacation.

Using cut-out pictures from brochures and photos taken along the way, assign articles to each family member, including editorials on the trip; weather reports; food reviews; on-the-ground interviews; and headline news. What a great way to encourage kids’ critical thinking and enhance their writing skills!

Once home, assemble all the articles and photos using a scanner and computer. Be sure to date the souvenir edition, and make copies for Grandma!

Pro tip: Alternatively, create a paperback or hardcover book of your trip, using a service like Fastpencil.

Make a talking diary – Traveling with kids tip

by Gadling Staff on

Give your children the task of collecting memories.

A fun way to do this is to set your child up with an audio recorder: the old cassette version can be found in second hand shops for only a few dollars. Bring lots of blank tapes and a set of headphones.

Articulating on tape everything they are noticing keeps them engaged in even the most mundane travel activities. Sightseeing takes an interesting turn when the child is encouraged to capture the moment. Preschoolers through elementary school age children love this — and so do worn out parents.

Bonus: having your child’s young voice on tape is a priceless treasure.

Ask for the upgrade – Hotel tip

by Gadling Staff on

When checking in, always ask for an upgrade. That question costs nothing and may result in a great room.

Always smile and never appear demanding. Asking the simple question of a room upgrade — and letting them know you understand it may not be possible — keeps the clerk in an accommodating mode.

Just a simple request of an upper floor or a room with a great view is a request the clerk can easily arrange. Alternatively, you may end up in a suite.

Upgrading guests costs management nothing (assuming the hotel is not at capacity) and creates goodwill.

Make the most of rush hour – Road trip tip

by Gadling Staff on

Taking a road trip can be loads of fun. However, navigating through unfamiliar places can be daunting. Add rush hour traffic to it, and the road trip can go from a blast to extremely stressful — fast.

Don’t get sucked in and stressed out! Use the time to include some extras in your trip. Don’t just sit in the car, sucking on fumes: Consider sightseeing, stopping for a bite to eat at a restaurant you’ve never been to, visiting a historic landmark, or taking a walk in the park.

Stops are inevitable on a road trip, so rather than get frustrated by them, use them wisely, and find rush hour relief.