Category: Travel

You need to take a vacation, but it’s become more difficult to find the right time of year and the right domestic destination. Where do you want to? Keep reading.

This article will show you the U.S. cities in the Southeast that are travel-ready.

Weekend Getaways From Atlanta: Supply List

There are a few things you’ll need to pack to make our quick trip successful. 

• Affordable luggage/suit case
• Essential first aid kit
• Flash lights
• Cell phone battery pack

Once you’ve got the items you need, it’s time to think about traveling. If you’re hitting the road, make sure your car has what it needs.

If you’re flying, read our guide on how to find cheap fares.

Top Weekend Getaways From Atlanta

Did somebody say weekend getaway? Let’s take a digital tour around the South, shall we?

Charleston

Driving distance From Atlanta: 4 hr 37 min (307.0 mi) via I-20 East and I-26 East

Cheap Fares — Early June: Spirit Airlines: Airfare from $131

Charleston, South Carolina is only a four-hour drive from Atlanta and it’s worth the ride. 

Top Charleston events this Year:

• Charleston Bluegrass Festival
• Low Country Cajun Festival
• Sweetgrass Cultural Arts Festival

Savannah

Driving distance From Atlanta:3 hr 49 min (248.3 mi) via I-75 South and I-16 East 

Cheap Fares — Mid July: Delta Air Lines: Airfare from $219

Savannah, Georgia is only a four-hour drive from Atlanta and has many cool things to do. 

Top Savannah events this Year:

• Savannah Hemp & Arts Festival
• Tybee Wine Festival
• Savannah Jazz Festival

Houston

Driving distance From Atlanta: 11 hr 33 min (792.9 mi) via I-10 West

Cheap fares — Early July: United Airlines: Airfare from $179

Houston and Nola are sister cities in a way. Both of them are right off Interstate 10 and both are filled with people from New Orleans (a joke)!

Things To Do & See In Houston:

• Houston Zoo
• Galveston Beach
• Museum of Fine Arts
• Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo
• The Galleria
• Sam Houston Park

Augusta

Driving distance From Atlanta: 1 hr 54 min (136.9 mi) via I-20 East

Cheap fares — Mid July: Spirit Airlines: Airfare from $172

One of the most popular tourist spots in the South, Augusta has a rich music heritage (James Brown) and is known for cultural sports events (the Masters). 

Here are some things to do and see in August:

• Augusta Craft Beer Festival
• Elijah Beach
• Hickory Know State Park
• Papa Joe’s Banjo-B-Que Music Festival
• Westobou Festival

Jacksonville

Driving distance from Atlanta: 5 hr 6 min (345.6 mi) via I-75 South

Cheap fares — Mid June: Delta Airlines: Airfare from $152

Jacksonville, Florida is a eight-hour drive from Atlanta. If you start at 1 p.m, you’ll be in city limits by 6 p.m., just in time for dinner.

Here are some things to do and see in Jacksonville:

• Jacksonville Jazz Festival
• Neptune Beach
• Atlantic Beach
• Summer Volksfest
• Jacksonville Caribbean Festival

With COVID still a factor, many travelers are playing it safe by choosing to travel closer to home for the fall.

Find Cheap Flights From Atlanta

Before you decide on which city you’re going to, I’d strongly suggest that you search for cheap fares. The best sites to find affordable fares are:

• Google Flights
• Scott’s Cheap Flights
• Kayak.com

Final Word

Based on this information, you should ask yourself should you fly for the holidays. If you choose to, remember to always look for the cheapest fares.

Are you familiar with trip insurance? There are some good reasons you may need it if you’re concerned about an expensive trip you’re taking.

This article will trip insurance in a very detailed way, including why you should consider buying it for some types of travel.

What is trip insurance, you say, and why is it important as ever right now? This article is going to cover all that and then some.

Trip insurance: What You Need To Know Before You Travel

If you’ve book a cheap flight out of Atlanta or another city, the COVID vaccination rates will play a large role on not only where you can go, but if the country will accept you.

What Is Trip Insurance?

Because insurance companies are in the business of making money, trip insurance pays up to 75% of your travel costs.

That means you will lose 25%, but if you didn’t have any kind of trip insurance, you would lose 100% of your money!

3 Reasons Why You Should Buy Trip Insurance

Anyway, here are three reasons why you need to buy trip insurance right after you’ve booked your travel.

1. You Can Cover Yourself Late

Trip insurance is viable as long as you purchase it before your flight or disembarkation.

Trip Insurance can be purchased as late as the day before you travel. That means you could theoretically wait things out to see if they get better. Just don’t wait too late!

2. Cover Your Medical Expenses

If you have an accident or scary medical situation in another country, your bill may be sky high because your insurance doesn’t travel with you. You’ll be subject to the laws of the land.

The only way you can ensure that emergency medical assistance is covered is if you have trip insurance.

3. Have Peace Of Mind

Another reason you should purchase trip insurance is for peace of mind. Having a missed flight or cancellation can worry you to no end, if you let it. With trip insurance, you can rest easy knowing that you’re covered.

If there’s an earthquake, terrorist attack or you’re robbed or even lose your passport, trip insurance can protect you like no other.

Last Words

As a warning, one thing you don’t want to do is buy trip insurance from the airline, cruise line or tour operator you’re traveling with.

The reason is because those insurance plans are the worst. You need to buy from an independent trip insurer so that you’ll be impartially protected.

Happy trails and safe travels!

They say that when you’re in Rome, do as the Romans do. Well, let me tell you the Romans eat and drink with the best of them. If you’ve got a trip to the Eternal City planned, you’ll want to know where to eat.

Where To Eat In Rome

Rome has some of the best restaurants in Europe, including one of the best cuisines — Italian — in the world.

After a recent trip I had the privilege of taking to Rome, I’ve compiled this Rome Restaurant Guide to help you decide where to spend your hard-earned dollars or euros when in the city. Please note that I’ve also included the hours each restaurant is open as Rome’s eateries close at certain times during the day.

Rome is a city known for its delicious food, from traditional Roman dishes to modern culinary creations. Here are some places to eat in Rome that are highly recommended:

Ristorantes

For a more upscale dining experience, consider a ristorante. These restaurants often have a wider range of dishes and may offer tasting menus.

La Pergola

Via Alberto Cadlolo, 101, 00136 Roma RM, Italy | Open 7:30 PM — 11:30 PM

Located at the Rome Cavalieri hotel, La Pergola is Rome’s only three-Michelin-starred restaurant, offering gourmet dining with stunning views of the city.

Ristorante Aroma

Via Labicana, 125, 00184 Roma RM, Italy | Open 12:30 PM – 3 PM; 7 PM – 11 PM

Situated near the Colosseum, Ristorante Aroma offers fine dining with a focus on contemporary Italian cuisine and panoramic views from its rooftop terrace.

Enoteca Corsi

Via del Gesù, 87/88, 00186 Roma RM, Italy | Open 12 PM – 3:30 PM; 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM

Here’s what one reviewer says about Enoteca Corsi, which is a 5-minute walk from the Roman Capital Hill. “Amazing food with great wine. Typical service for an Italian restaurant. We did not have reservations yet we were seated, they do accept walk-ins as we arrived when they opened at 7:15pm. We enjoyed the atmosphere and stayed 2 hours eating our food. Highly recommend.”

Da Enzo al 29

Via dei Vascellari, 29, 00153 Roma RM, Italy | Open 12:15 PM – 3 PM, 7 PM – 11 PM

A popular trattoria in the Trastevere neighborhood, known for its authentic Roman dishes and welcoming atmosphere.

Roscioli

Via dei Giubbonari, 21, 00186 Roma RM, Italy | Opens 9 AM-11 PM

A combination bakery, deli, and restaurant, Roscioli is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its delicious Roman specialties.

Emma

Via del Monte della Farina, 28, 00186 Roma RM, Italy | Open ⋅ 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM; 6:30 PM – 11:30 PM

Located near the Campo de’ Fiori, Emma is known for its excellent pizza, made with high-quality ingredients and cooked in a wood-fired oven.

Antico Arco

Piazzale Aurelio, 7, 00152 Roma RM, Italy | Open ⋅ 12 PM to 12 AM

Nestled on the Janiculum Hill, Antico Arco offers creative cuisine in a charming setting, with a focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.

Trattoria Da Cesare al Casaletto

Via del Casaletto, 45, 00151 Roma RM, Italy | Open ⋅ 12:45 PM — 3 PM; 7:45 PM — 11 PM

Located outside the city center, this trattoria is known for its traditional Roman dishes, including pasta, meat, and seafood specialties.

Pipero al Rex

Via Torino, 149, 00184 Roma RM, Italy | Open ⋅ 12:30 PM- 2:30 PM; 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM

A Michelin-starred restaurant near Piazza Venezia, offering innovative cuisine by chef Luciano Monosilio, known for his creative approach to Roman classics.

Trattorias

What are trattorias? These are casual, family-run restaurants offering traditional Roman dishes. Look for trattorias in neighborhoods like Trastevere or near popular attractions.

Armando al Pantheon

Salita de’ Crescenzi, 31, 00186 Roma RM, Italy | 12:30 – 3 PM; 7 PM – 11 PM

Near the Pantheon, this trattoria is known for its traditional Roman dishes and historic setting. Reservations are recommended.

Taverna dei Fori Imperiali

Via della Madonna dei Monti, 9, 00184 Roma RM, Italy | 12:30 PM – 3 PM ; 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM

Situated near the Roman Forum, this trattoria offers a wide selection of Roman dishes and a charming outdoor seating area.

Da Felice

Via Mastro Giorgio, 29, 00153 Roma RM, Italy | Open 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM; 7 PM – 11:30 PM

Located in the Testaccio neighborhood, Da Felice is a family-run trattoria known for its Roman specialties, including pasta carbonara and cacio e pepe.

Hostaria Romana

Via del Boccaccio, 1, 00187 Roma RM, Italy | Open 12:30 PM – 3 PM; 7:15 PM – 11 PM

Situated near the Trevi Fountain, Hostaria Romana is a classic trattoria offering a variety of Roman dishes in a cozy setting.

Taverna Trilussa

Via del Politeama, 23/25, 00153 Roma RM, Italy | Open 7 PM – 11 PM

Another Trastevere favorite, Taverna Trilussa is known for its Roman dishes and friendly service. Reservations are recommended.

Pizzerias

Rome is famous for its thin-crust, crispy pizzas. Try classic Roman-style pizza at places like Pizzeria da Baffetto or Pizzarium.

Dar Poeta

Vicolo del Bologna, 45, 00153 Roma RM, Italy | Open 12 PM – 12 AM

Located in Trastevere, Dar Poeta is a cozy pizzeria known for its traditional Roman-style pizza and friendly service.

Pizzeria Da Baffetto

Via del Governo Vecchio, 114, 00186 Roma RM, Italy | Open 12 – 3:30 PM; 6 – 12 PM

Near the Pantheon, Da Baffetto is a popular pizzeria known for its thin-crust pizzas and casual ambiance. It can get crowded, so be prepared to wait.

Pizzeria Ivo

Via di S. Francesco a Ripa, 158, 00153 Roma RM, Italy | Open 6 PM – 12:30 AM

Located near the Vatican, Pizzeria Ivo is a favorite among locals for its classic Roman-style pizza and welcoming atmosphere.

Pizzeria La Gatta Mangiona

Via Federico Ozanam, 30-32, 00152 Roma RM, Italy | Open 7:30 – 11 PM

Situated in the Monteverde neighborhood, La Gatta Mangiona is known for its creative pizzas and high-quality ingredients.

Pizzeria Ostiense

Via Ostiense, 56, 00154 Roma RM, Italy | Open 6:30 PM – 1 AM

Near the Piramide metro station, this pizzeria offers delicious Roman-style pizza with a variety of toppings to choose from.

Where To Get a Quick Bite In Rome

Rome also has a ton of small eateries that you will pass just by walking or driving the streets. They include:

Bakeries: Start your day with a traditional Roman breakfast of cornetto (similar to a croissant) and cappuccino from a local bakery.

Outdoor Markets: Visit one of Rome’s outdoor markets, such as Campo de’ Fiori or Testaccio Market, for fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other local specialties.

Gelaterias: Cool off with some gelato from one of Rome’s many gelaterias. Look for places that make their gelato fresh daily for the best flavors.

Coffee Shops: Enjoy a classic Italian espresso or try a cappuccino at one of Rome’s historic coffee shops, known as “caffès.”

Fine Dining: If you’re looking for a special dining experience, consider booking a table at one of Rome’s Michelin-starred restaurants, such as La Pergola or Ristorante Aroma.

Final Bite

To Atlanta is one of the most convenient places to travel to and from. A large part of that is because Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is so accessible.

Not only is it the world’s busiest airport, but it’s state-of-the-art in every way. If you’re interested in traveling around Atlanta via car or even on scooter, here’s what to know.

More Articles Like This:

Traveling Soon? Check Out Our International Checklist

• How to Travel For Less On Your Next Trip
• How To Get A Cheap flight Out Of Hartsfield Airport
• Strategies That Work: How To Save On Travel
• 10 Travel Hacks That Save You Time And Money

Believe it or not, you can travel on a budget and do so in style without depriving yourself. All it takes is a strategy that you can put into practice before and during your trip.

This article will show you some real-life ways to save on travel this year. This steps are easy, simple to follow and money-saving.

5 Ways To Save On Travel This Year

The way to go about it is to really prioritize what you’re really trying to get out of your vacation. Are you trying to go snorkeling? Are the best bars and restaurants what’s important?

1. Make A List

Yes, make a list of your priorities and what you’re trying to do. This is the only true way that you’re going to be on a trip that makes YOU happy.

Put on the list what you expect and want in a hotel. Also include what you want to experience when it comes to nightlife, breakfast, lunch, etc.

Don’t travel without this essential list.

2. Search For Cheap Airfare

The key to cheap travel is to find flights that are affordable. All it really takes is for you to subscribe to sites that do all the hard work for you.

The sites that put extensive time into researching cheap flights are these:

• Scott’s Cheap Flights
• Secret Flying
• Dollar Flight Club
• Google Flights, 
• Momondo

Once you start getting flight deals emailed to you from these sites and those like these, you’ll be able to see the possibilities of where you can go for cheap.

But here’s what you’re going to need to do when you start looking at these flights and your schedule:

Be Flexible: The best travel deals are only as good as your availability.

Avoid Vacation Season: Airfares are highest during these times. Straight up.

Jump On It: If you see a great deal, do not procrastinate. It won’t last forever. It might even be a mistake fare. So you better jump on it.

Here’s how to get cheap flights out of Atlanta.

3. Don’t Be Picky

A major way that airlines and hotels make their money is by charging for upgrades and upselling you on things you don’t really need.

If you can fly in a Basic Economy seat, then that’s what you need to do. Remember, your goal ultimately is to save money.

Once you’ve selected a cheap flight, it’s time to turn your attention toward where you’ll stay. Again, you want a place that’s as cheap as possible.

4. Find A Place To Stay

The goal here is to find as cheap a hotel as you possibly can. The way to go about that is to sign up for sites that show you deals on lodgings.

These Sites Offer Hotel Deals

• Expedia
• Hotels.com
• Booking.com
• Agoda
• Trip

These Sites Let You Stay For Free

Nothing’s cheaper than free. Believe it or not, there are some great ways that you can stay in a place completely free of charge.

If you’re familiar with international housesitting, here are some sites to look at:

• CouchSurfing
• The Hospitality Club
• Global Freeloaders
• MindMyHouse

5. Eat Cheap In Another Country

Now comes perhaps the most difficult part: Eating cheap. You may want to splurge on food when you travel to a foreign country, but it’s best to be conservative.

What you DO want to do is make sure you experience the cultural cuisine (No McDonalds).

Instead of looking to try the fancy restaurants at a particular destination, make a day of trying nothing but street food and other outdoor vendors.

Another day you can try whatever the fast food is (hint: It’s healthier than the U.S.) or you could eat the country’s staple food, which is always cheaper.

Remember to drink plenty of water. In fact, that should be your primary beverage for most of your trip.

Final Thought

Airfares continue to rise at your favorite airlines, but that doesn’t mean you can’t save money on travel.

The main thing you want to do when it comes to cheap travel is that you want to live on their terms. It would be impractical to do otherwise.

Why not visit the city’s tourism office and get coupons? Inquire about special deals for tourists and other things that will help your wallet.

That way, you’ll be able to enjoy your cheap travel knowing that you saved money.

The blue waters in north Florida are calling your name and we know it. Jacksonville, specifically.

Jacksonville offers plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and kayaking in its many parks and waterways.

Here Are the Best Things To Do In Jacksonville

Jacksonville, Florida, offers a variety of activities for visitors and residents alike. Here are some cool things to do in Jacksonville:

Visit the Beaches

Similar to Atlanta’s beaches, Jacksonville is known for its beautiful beaches. Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach offer opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and beachcombing.

Here are the best beaches in Jacksonville?

1. Jacksonville Beach: This is the most well-known beach in the area, offering a wide stretch of sand ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and beach activities. The Jacksonville Beach Pier is a popular spot for fishing and enjoying views of the ocean.
2. Neptune Beach: Located just north of Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach is a quieter and more residential area with a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great place for a peaceful beach day or a leisurely stroll along the shore.
3. Atlantic Beach: Adjacent to Neptune Beach, Atlantic Beach is known for its natural beauty and wide beaches. It’s a popular spot for surfing and has a vibrant local community.
4. Ponte Vedra Beach: While not technically part of Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra Beach is located just south of the city and is known for its upscale resorts, golf courses, and pristine beaches.

Stroll Along the Riverwalk

The Jacksonville Riverwalk stretches along the St. Johns River and offers beautiful views of the city skyline. It’s a great place for a leisurely walk or bike ride.

The Riverwalk provides panoramic views of the St. Johns River, which is one of the largest rivers in Florida. You can enjoy the sight of boats and ships passing by, as well as the natural beauty of the riverbanks.

The Riverwalk passes under several iconic bridges that span the St. Johns River, including the Main Street Bridge and the Acosta Bridge. These bridges are architectural landmarks and offer great photo opportunities.

Along the Riverwalk, you’ll find various sculptures and art installations that add to the area’s beauty and cultural appeal.

Visit the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens

This museum features a diverse collection of art, including European and American paintings, as well as beautiful gardens overlooking the river.

The museum hosts special events throughout the year, such as art festivals, concerts, and community celebrations. These events often feature live music, performances, and hands-on activities for visitors to enjoy.

The museum’s café offers a scenic dining experience overlooking the gardens. Visitors can enjoy a meal or a snack while taking in the beautiful surroundings.

The museum has a store where visitors can purchase art books, unique gifts, and souvenirs related to the museum’s collection and exhibitions.

Check out the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals from around the world, and the gardens feature lush landscapes and beautiful plant collections.

The Jacksonville Zoo features the following animals:

1. African Elephants: The zoo is known for its African elephant exhibit, where visitors can observe these majestic creatures up close.
2. Great Apes: The Jacksonville Zoo is home to gorillas and bonobos, two species of great apes known for their intelligence and social behavior.
3. Big Cats: The zoo has a collection of big cats, including lions, tigers, and cheetahs, which are always popular attractions.
4. Giraffes: Visitors can often feed giraffes at the zoo’s giraffe overlook, allowing for a unique and interactive experience.
5. Birds: The zoo has a diverse collection of birds from around the world, including flamingos, toucans, and eagles.
6. Reptiles and Amphibians: From alligators to frogs, the zoo has a variety of reptiles and amphibians on display, showcasing the diversity of these fascinating creatures.
7. Exotic Mammals: In addition to the iconic species mentioned above, the zoo is also home to a variety of exotic mammals such as lemurs, meerkats, and red pandas.

Experience the Riverside Arts Market

Held every Saturday, this market offers a variety of goods from local artisans, including arts, crafts, and food.

You can also check out the Riverside and Avondale neighborhoods for some authentic city charm.

These historic neighborhoods are filled with charming shops, restaurants, and cafes. The Riverside Arts Market, held every Saturday, is a great place to find local arts, crafts, and food.

Take a River Cruise

Several companies offer river cruises along the St. Johns River, providing a unique perspective of the city and its surroundings. Here are some options you can take for a river cruise:

1. St. Johns River Taxi: The St. Johns River Taxi offers narrated sightseeing cruises along the St. Johns River, providing views of downtown Jacksonville, the Southbank Riverwalk, and other points of interest. The taxi service operates on a regular schedule, allowing you to hop on and off at various stops along the river.
2. Jacksonville River Cruises: Jacksonville River Cruises offers a variety of cruises along the St. Johns River, including sightseeing cruises, sunset cruises, and private charters. These cruises provide opportunities to enjoy the river’s natural beauty and learn about the area’s history and wildlife from knowledgeable guides.
3. Private Charters: Several companies in Jacksonville offer private charters for special events such as weddings, corporate outings, and private parties. These charters can be customized to fit your needs and provide a unique way to experience the river.

Final Word

Jacksonville features plenty of things to see and do — and you can go anytime of the year.

Depending on the time of year, you can catch a Jacksonville Jaguars NFL game, Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp minor league baseball game, or other sporting events.

The Riverwalk passes by several parks and public spaces, including Friendship Fountain Park and the Southbank Riverwalk Plaza. These areas provide green spaces where you can relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Final Word

Traveling is one of the best things you can do for your mental and physical health. And Atlanta is one of the most convenient places to travel to and from. A large part of that is because Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is so accessible.

Not only is it the world’s busiest airport, but it’s state-of-the-art in every way. If you’re interested in traveling around Atlanta via car or even on scooter, here’s what to know.

More Articles Like This:

Traveling Soon? Check Out Our International Checklist

• How to Travel For Less On Your Next Trip
• How To Get A Cheap flight Out Of Hartsfield Airport
• Strategies That Work: How To Save On Travel

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