Dining out tip: sacrifice all for just one night

by Gadling Staff on

On my last trip to the Virgin Islands, I ended up in the best restaurant of my life. Of course the bill came out to $200, but the meal was so memorable that I was happy to sacrifice quality meals the rest of the trip.

Rather than spend in the middle lane day in and out on vacation, get a burger and a salad here and there and go absolutely nuts at the highest recommended restaurant in your location for just one night.

You may cringe when you see the bill, but it’s fun to dabble in life’s highest pleasures every now and then.

Check into a suite – Hotel tip

by Gadling Staff on

When booking accommodations, travelers should compare the price of a suite to the price of adjoining rooms. Suites are larger than standard rooms, often accommodate six or more people, and are frequently the same price — if not less than — two side-by-side rooms.

Larger families and small groups often find suites more spacious, more comfortable, and easier on the budget.

Challenge your family to a food “dare” contest – Dining out tip

by Gadling Staff on

We go on vacation to be someplace different. Yet many people eat the same old foods on vacation as they eat at home. On your next vacation, challenge your family to a food “dare” contest. Here’s how:

  • Go to a local marketplace or anywhere serving local foods.
  • Ask each member of the family to find one food for everyone to try.
  • Pick an outside area for a picnic and be sure to photograph the foods and the faces.
  • Whoever picks the best food item, wins!

The meal might not be tasty or balanced but it’s sure to be memorable.

Grab a book of matches before leaving the room – Hotel tip

by Gadling Staff on

When visiting a foreign country, especially one with an unfamiliar language, grab a book of matches from the hotel where you’re staying as soon as you arrive.

If you get lost in town during your stay, and you know just a little of the language, the book of matches will be a great way to show locals where you need to go, and have them direct you to the right place.

Traveling with jewelry – Packing tip

by Gadling Staff on

If you’re going on a cruise or traveling for a special occasion, you’ll undoubtedly pack a few pieces of jewelry. Finding a matching set of earrings in an overstuffed travel-size jewelry case can be frustrating.

To avoid this problem, follow these tips:

  • Pack each pair of earrings, necklace or bracelet in its own container.
  • Fill old film canisters or prescription pill containers half-full with dry rice grains.
  • Use each padded container to store delicate earrings in pairs, keep rings from being scratched, and prevent necklaces from getting tangled.