Fun for familiesWe know, river cruises have a reputation for skewing, let’s say, older. But in reality, there are several cruise companies that not only welcome families, but have created special trips just for them. For example, CroisiEurope’s Family Club allows children under 16 to cruise for free on Portugal and Venice trips and reduced price on Croatia journeys, and even includes a second cabin next door for a family of four (two parents with two children, 5 years and older). Dur

IcelandAccording to the Global Peace Index, Iceland is the safest country in the world; the European nation ranks right at the top of the charts for “the calm state of its society,” according to The Independent newspaper. Not only is Iceland peaceful, but it’s easy to get to and navigate as well; you can get direct flights from most major airports, and then rent a car or book a tour to see stunning natural wonders such as Gullfoss waterfall, Strokkur geyser, which erupts with s

Hungary: Half a bottle of red wineWhile countries on the continent are pretty expensive, Hungary is one of the cheapest places to visit in the European Union. In fact, a cheap half bottle of wine will run you only $1. Don’t miss these 16 bucket-list worthy destinations from around the world. The Philippines: A foot massageIn the province of Cebu in the Philippines, a 20-minute foot massage only costs $1. You can use the money you saved to enjoy the country’s other beauties, like its

Dubai, UAELove glitz, glam, and over-the-top luxury? Dubai, AKA the “City of Gold,” dazzles with its opulent hotels, grand spas, towering skyscrapers, and mega malls filled with designer outposts. (Not surprisingly, it made our list of the most popular destinations in the Middle East.) But a trip to this posh paradise doesn’t have to come with a premium price tag… that is if you go the second week in February, when rates drop by 58 percent.Adding to its accolades, Dubai i

1 / 10Four Seasons Sultanahmet in TurkeyOnce a Turkish prison, the Four Seasons Sultanahmet in Istanbul, at first glance, appears to be consistent with the lavish style of other locations within the high-end chain. But Sultanahment is different, once housing criminals within its now bright yellow walls. Touches here and there, such as the watchtowers which now serve as elevator shafts, remind visitors of the history that lies within. Situated close to landmarks including the Hagia Sophia and the

Earth HourEvery year, millions of people from different businesses, cities, and universities participate in Earth Hour. The lights are turned off for 60 minutes to help the planet combat climate change. The World Wildlife Fund puts on this environmentally friendly event, and it’s very easy to participate. Even though turning off all of the lights and electronics in your home for an hour won’t have quite the same effect as turning off all of the lights on the Golden Gate Bridge, every little bit

New Orleans Jazz & Heritage FestivalSure, you’ll hear plenty of jazz at this seven-day blockbuster Big Easy event, but the 2018 lineup also features Jimmy Buffett, Beck, Sheryl Crow, Aerosmith, and Cage the Elephant. Bring some folding chairs and enjoy the hospitality and Cajun cuisine. Check out the healthiest food you can find at the fair.Family fun: The kids’ tent offers youth programming all afternoon, including puppet shows and performances by youth choirs and bands.When: Ap

Faking an app glitchSome riders have reported a driver announcing midway through the trip that their app has gone offline, which means they need to receive payment in cash. After paying the driver, riders find their credit card on file has also been charged, meaning they have paid double, notes Jennifer McDermott, consumer advocate for personal finance website, finder.com. “A driver should never ask you to pay cash if you are traveling on a non-cash ride. Let them know you will not pay out

American Museum of Natural History | New York, New YorkIn 2014, the American Museum of Natural History in New York hosted its first adults-only sleepover. Fast forward a few years and the event is more popular than ever. Those fortunate enough to nab a coveted spot will delight in a champagne reception with live jazz music, buffet dinner with booze, fossil fact-finding by flashlight, plenty of time to wander, and cots for snoozing beneath the 94-foot-long blue whale model. The next grown-up slum

Grand Canyon National Park, ArizonaWords can’t do justice to the Grand Canyon—one of the most majestic and massive natural wonders of the world. This mighty chasm measures 277 miles long, 18 miles wide, and more than a mile deep. When it comes to spring break, set your sights on the South Rim (open all year). Everyone will enjoy hiking Bright Angel Point Trail. Afterward, grab a bite and shop for authentic souvenirs in Grand Canyon Historic Village.Here are 10 vacations that even your jade

Take a gym classGyms, fitness classes, active excursions, stairs and strolls. It’s easy to be active on a cruise ship these days. Janis Isaman is the owner of Calgary-based fitness studio, My Body Couture, and she admits that the onboard gym is a bore. Isaman challenges you to try out a new fitness class. Onboard ship fitness instructors realize most guests are new and won’t be in more than 1-2 classes, so tailor the class accordingly. And, don’t forget to browse these expert t

NicaraguaThere was a time when war and extreme poverty defined Nicaragua, but this nation has actually been at peace for almost 30 years. Today, tourism is booming, the economy has improved, and Nicaragua is considered one of the safest countries in Latin America, according to both the United Nations and a recent Gallup poll.While everyone is busy vacationing in nearby Costa Rica, visitors to Nicaragua can enjoy all that lush, tropical beauty without having to navigate hordes of tourists. Marvel

Naked guy testing the limitsOn a flight to Hong Kong, a flight attendant informed the pilot, Dan Boland, that a passenger had taken off all his clothes and was sitting buck naked in his seat. Boland instructed the flight attendant to tell the passenger he’d be arrested if he didn’t get dressed at once. The passenger called their bluff, waiting until landing to get dressed. Although he wasn’t arrested, we don’t suggest trying this yourselves.ⓘ Nice guys, but do we ne

Cruise tip: Bring duct tape (it helps with everything!)Duct tape can have a variety of helpful uses once you’re onboard. Use it to fix your broken suitcase, take lint off of a formal dress, or keep drawers from rolling open when the ship hits rough waters. Here are some more things you should always pack so that you’re ready for anything. Cruise tip: Book a lower deck room to avoid nauseaPrevent seasickness by booking an inside room on the lower deck, preferably in the ship’s center (this

Don’t wait till the last minute to bookTravel agent Marni Becker, Director of Cruise Sales for Protravel International in New York City, says that depending upon where you wish to travel—Alaska? Mediterranean? Caribbean? Baltic?—there is still some availability, but that the most popular itineraries, ships, and cabin categories fill up early. You’ll want to act fast if you want to book for travel this June through August. You still have time to book a summer cruise, she says, but, de

Weigh your carry-on before you leaveThis is especially true if you’re flying a cheaper airline. “Many low-cost airlines limit the total weight of your carry-on items,” Viktoria Altman of gotraveltipster.com says. “If you’re flying a low-cost airline, check these limits before you pack.” Then, if the total sum of your carry-on weight exceeds airline allowance, “buy additional bag allowance in advance, online, and at least 24 hours prior to departure,̶

Best cruise for families with kidsRoyal Caribbean tops the list for youngster-approved fun. “Especially its larger ships, such as Allure of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas, can’t be beaten for entertainment and kid-friendly facilities,” says Rob Clabbers, president of Q Cruise + Travel, a Virtuoso Agency. Wouldn’t your little ones be thrilled to see a magical ice-skating show or take a spin on a classic carousel?” Pint-sized fans of the Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, and

United States National ParksAmerica’s park system is a national treasure, but like all treasures, the jewels are highly sought after. According to the National Park Service (NPS), almost all of its facilities and activities can be booked beginning six months in advance. For example, to book a campsite for Labor Day (September 3 this year), you can make your reservation beginning March 3. (One notable exception is Yosemite National Park, more on that next).Prime lodging options at America&#

ParisWhat can you say about Paris that hasn’t already been said? From its iconic monuments—the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and Arc de Triomphe—and exquisite gastronomy to its artistic acumen and fabled fashion, it just has that certain je ne sais quoi. Picturesque and deeply romantic, it’s a place where couples sit hand-in-hand on the banks of the Seine, trade kisses under the arches of the Pont Marie, and picnic on the Champ de Mars. Can’t make it across the pond? Visit one of t

Blame the in-laws“I pulled away from the side of the road, glanced at my mother-in-law, and headed over the embankment.” Probably not the best route for family bonding. Check out these other 27 funny (but painfully relatable) family vacation stories.ⓘ Seeing is believing“I thought my window was down but I found it was up when I put my head through it.” Probably not the most effective way to think with your head. No warning“The other car collided with mine without giving me warning of its i