Role play at dinner – Dining out tip

by Gadling Staff on

Vacations are all about having fun and getting a break from your normal life, right? Here’s a fun tip that can really give you and your family something to remember:

  • Select a rather nondescript, local(ish) restaurant.
  • Select a fun theme to play, such as “sophisticated snobs” or “silly southerners.” (Nothing offensive, just something different and in contrast to the normal clientele of the restaurant.)
  • Dress for the theme and have fun joking and pretending to be something you’re not!

Combine this with being courteous to the wait staff, and you’ll have an amazing dinner! Don’t forget to take photos!

[Photo: Flickr | GiddeanX]

Call at night for the most personalized service – Hotel tip

by Gadling Staff on

If you’re a night owl, and have a lot of questions about your upcoming hotel stay, the best time to call the hotel for details is around midnight. Because the hotel is likely to be less busy during these times, you will likely receive more focused service.

This may also a great time to ask questions about the surrounding city.

[Photo: Flickr | StephenMitchell]

Making multiple stops? Get a map of the airport – Airplane tip

by Gadling Staff on

When your airline trip involves multiple stops, a little research before you leave will reduce frustration during the time you switch from one plane to the next.

Visit the website of the airport you will be changing planes at and print out a map of the terminal. When faced with a short time to get from one concourse to the next you will find a map to be very helpful.

In addition to your investigation of the airport layout, you should also identify shops and restaurants that interest you in the event that your layover time becomes lengthy.

Pro tip: add the Gate Guru app to your smart phone.

[Photo: Flickr | James Cridland]

Jog at rest stops – Road trip tip

by Gadling Staff on

When you pull into a rest stop to refresh, include a 3-5 minute jog or brisk walk.

It helps relieve the stiffness from sitting in the car and gets the blood pumping. It also provides children an opportunity to run and scream.

When you finish, do a quick stretch. Now you can be awake and alert for the road.

[Photo: Flickr | MikeBaird]

Visit small-town bars – Road trip tip

by Gadling Staff on

One of our favorite aspects of road tripping is building in time to go “off route” to small town bars.

No matter how small, most towns have a townie bar. Walk in, count the number of heads that swivel around and stare until you pick a seat. Choose a seat at the bar and let the heads turn back to their normal position while conversation returns to local gossip.

Your benefit from a trip to a small town bar: a cold brew break and a slice of Americana right before your eyes.

[Photo: Flickr | Darwin Bell]