One of the best parts about the summer is enjoying the extra hours of sunlight by hanging out with friends and listening to great music outside. No matter what type of music you enjoy listening to, there is probably a summer music festival out there for you. Festivals happen all over the world and all year long, depending on where they are held. However, summer seems to bring these festivals out in force. So, check out the festivals below, get outside, and enjoy the music.

Wakarusa Music Festival

This music festival in Ozark, Arkansas, will be happening soon, so if you are interested in attending it, you should purchase your tickets soon. Not only will you be able to enjoy live music outside, but you can participate in a costume parade, enjoy yoga every morning of the festival, learn to use a hoola hoop to focus your flow and movement, participate in a disc golf tournament, and enjoy a number of other activities. The festival takes place from May 30^th to June 2^nd. You will be able to see bands like Widespread Panic, Umphrey’s McGee, Dispatch, and many others.

Bonnaroo

As one of the most popular summer music festivals in the world, Bonnaroo gets a lot of press, so you might have heard of it before. However, you may not know what else goes on during the four-day festival. Bonnaroo, which takes place from June 13^th to the 16^th, provides festival-goers with a game lounge, chances to try new beers, a festival newspaper, a movie tent, art, a comedy tent, and a lot of other opportunities that are unique to Bonnaroo. This year’s lineup is huge and includes musicians and bands such as: Paul McCartney, Mumford & Sons, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, Wilco, and a lot of other great music. Chris, a blogger who runs I Love Bonnaroo, offers some advice on staying hydrated: “The 5 gallon jugs at the grocery store are cheap and easy to manage. We brought one for each person and added extra for the camp shower.” Make sure you stay hydrated in Tennessee’s hot summer air.

Rock Werchter

As an older and more established music festival, Rock Werchter takes place every summer in Belgium. This year, the music festival will take place July 4^th through the 6^th. What started as a small rock and blues festival in the 1970s has turned into a huge four-day event that has featured some of the world’s most popular music. While this festival does not offer as many additional activities as Bonnaroo, you will certainly have the opportunity to see some amazing bands and musicians. This year’s music line-up includes artists such as Green Day, The National, Sigur Ros, Vampire Weekend, and Kings of Leon. This festival is really worth the travel.

Snowy Mountains of Music

While this unique festival happens in Australia, it actually takes place in snowy mountain fields, which provides an extremely unique way to enjoy the live music. The festival will take place from June 7^th to June 10^th. At the festival, you will be able to take advantage of intimate acoustic sessions, get up and dance around to some flowing rhythms, and as always, enjoy some late night jam sessions. Some of the artists at this year’s festival include Between the Wars, The Brass Knuckle Brass Band, The Con Artists, and Rapskallion.

Belsonic

Held every year since 2008, Belsonic is an outdoor music festival that takes place is Belfast, Northern Ireland. The concert, while not as large as some others, has seen acts in the past such as The Flaming Lips, David Guetta, Vampire Weekend, 30 Seconds to Mars, and Paramore. The festival will take place from August 16^th to the 28^th this year, and you will be able to enjoy bands like The Lumineers, Bullet for My Valentine, and many others that have not yet been announced.

As you start searching for a music festival this summer, be sure you keep your options open. If you have been going to the same festival for years, then maybe it is time to branch out and try a new one. You never know what music you may discover.

The possible destinations for your summer vacation are almost limitless, and when you start reviewing your options, the choice can be difficult. The best way to begin is by deciding on a region of the country or the world that you want to visit. Have you thought about somewhere in the Caribbean? This region offers a range of vacation experiences, from all-inclusive resorts to activities like hiking and snorkeling. It all comes down to what you want to do, so make a list of the things you are looking for, and consider the following seven Caribbean destinations for your summer vacation.

Take a Cruise

If you end up having trouble deciding on one spot, then taking a cruise may be your best option. Traveling the Caribbean on a cruise ship means you are not tied down to one specific location. You can experience multiple destinations, meet a lot of new people, and take part in some amazing activities. From snorkeling to scuba diving, to playing golf to hiking Mayan ruins, a Caribbean cruise has something to offer everyone.

Cayman Islands

This island chain provides travelers with a beautiful setting for relaxation and exploration. For those interested in all-inclusive resorts and pre-planned activities, consider staying on Grand Cayman, the largest of the three islands. For those that are slightly more free-spirited and looking for less crowded areas in which they can explore and enjoy their time, then consider visiting Cayman Brac or Little Cayman.

Aruba

You might have heard of this majestic island but never really thought you would travel there yourself. However, if you love the beach or any ocean activities, Aruba is the place for you so consider a visit. Once on the island, you will find pristine white beaches and incredibly clear ocean waters. If you enjoy snorkeling or scuba diving, then you will be able to see some amazing ocean life, be able to get up close and personal with some coral, and have the opportunity to explore shipwrecks. Blogger Chad Bordes has this to say about a trip to Aruba: “Their license plates read ‘One Happy Place’ and I would have to agree.”

Puerto Rico

This United States territory is a great place to go to explore and relax. One of the biggest perks of traveling to Puerto Rico is that U.S. citizens do not need a passport to enter the country, and they do not need to exchange currency. Besides these conveniences, Puerto Rico offers beaches with 20-foot waves perfect for surfers and clear waters suited for snorkeling. The island itself is home to some fascinating history and historical places like El Morro, an old fortress, and contemporary ones, like Calle del Cristo, an art district with shopping, galleries, and restaurants.

Saint Kitts & Nevis

Looking for a more culturally minded trip? The islands of St. Kitts and Nevis provide travelers with wonderful cultural experiences and both of the islands are rarely ever crowded. In fact, the island of Nevis does not have even a single traffice light. Depending on the time of year you travel, you will find carnivals and festivals that all have something to do with islands. You will also find grayish-black sand beaches, which is rare for the Caribbean.

Antiqua

While almost every Caribbean island has a beach that everyone can enjoy, some argue that the beaches of Antiqua beat all others. Why? Antigua is home to 365 different beaches. While you may enjoy the food, sights, shopping, and culture that the island has to offer, you will fall in love with the beaches. With so many beach options, you are sure to find the perfect spot for your favorite beach activity.

Guadeloupe

Comprising two islands, Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre, the Guadeloupe Islands are diverse and have alot to offer travelers. The bigger island, Grande-Terre, is mostly flat and dry, but has high hills and luscious vegetation in the southern part of the island. Basse-Terre is even flatter and is home to banana plantations. Snorkeling and scuba diving are both huge attractions here, and you will find warm waters and calming trade winds on all of the beaches.

Your bags are packed, flights are booked, and you are ready for vacation. But, before you leave home and start enjoying yourself, have you thought about preparing your home for vacation? You may not have considered it before, but you really do need to take time to prepare your house for your absence.  Below are a few tips and actions to take before leaving for vacation.

Set the Temperature

Whether it is winter, summer, or somewhere in between, setting the temperature of your house can mean the difference of coming home to busted pipes or sweltering heat. Since you are not going to actually be there, you might be tempted to turn the heat or the air conditioning down really low, but that can be a mistake. If it is winter, you want to make sure that you leave your house warm enough that your pipes will not freeze and then burst. If it is summer, you do not necessarily need to be as concerned, but you also do not want to return home to find your house or apartment to be unbearably hot.

Clean

You may not be motivated to clean your house right before you leave for vacation, but cleaning before your trip will allow you to come home to a clean house. When you return home, most likely you will not want to clean up tossed-off shoes, wash any dishes, or organize bills and paperwork. By taking care of the cleaning before you leave home, you will be able to come home and relax before diving back into the full swing of things.

Double Check Your Locks

As you are leaving your house, make sure that all of your doors and windows are locked. The last thing you want to experience when returning home is finding out that your house has been broken into and some of your most valuable processions are missing. In fact, it may be a great idea to check all of your locks a few days before actually leaving, so that you have time to replace any locks that may not be functioning properly.

Throw Out Food

Something else you want to consider before leaving for your trip is to go through your fridge, freezer, and pantry and throw out any food that may go bad while you are away. Mostly, get rid of produce and dairy based products that have expiration dates on them. Be sure that you check everything that has the potential to smell or produce mold while you are away. Jolie Kerr, a writer for The Hairpin, says, “If you’ll be gone for more than a week, throw everything remotely perishable out. If your trip takes you out of town for less than a week, use your best judgment about tossing stuff.” If you do not throw out these foods, you risk returning to a house that reeks as a breeding ground for mold and bacteria. This would not be a pleasant welcome home!

Purchase Timers for Your Lights

Something else to consider is purchasing timers for your indoor lights. By setting up lights to be turned on at night while you are gone, you may help discourage potential break-ins. Light timers can be fairly inexpensive and can last a long time.

Set Your Security Alarm

The last action you should do as you walk out of your house is to set the security alarm. If you do not have an alarm, then skip this step, but for those that do have an alarm, this could be the last defense between your home and a robbery. While it will not necessarily happen, your house is much more vulnerable to a robbery while you are on vacation, so you should take every precaution possible.

What other steps or advice do you have for people preparing their house before traveling on vacation? Share your thougths with us on Twitter! @HCCMIS

Preparing for your wedding can be pretty stressful, and sometimes planning the honeymoon can add even more stress. However, by focusing on the excitement of discovering a new destination and your time away as newlyweds, your planning can turn from stress-filled to stress-free. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, here are seven honeymoon destinations for you to consider.

Thailand

Whether you are looking for a relaxing trip or an adventure, Thailand has a lot to offer. Home to some of best beaches and spas in the world, Thailand can be a great place for the newlywed couple. If you are seeking adventure on your honeymoon, then you can enjoy kayaking, hiking, and trekking though the jungle. There are several different tours that you can participate in, each designed to share the beauty and history of the country and its landscape.

Cook Islands

Composed of fifteen different islands and located between New Zealand and Hawaii, the Cook Islands offer a great place to honeymoon. Choose from twenty different hotels and resorts that all offer unique views and experiences for those that choose to stay here. Along with amazing food, shopping, and plenty of entertainment, you can expect beautiful beaches and plenty of opportunities to explore the islands by boat, four-wheeler, and four-wheel-drive vehicles.

Aruba

Named by Brides Magazine as one of the top honeymoon locations in the world, Aruba is a place where the sun shines almost every day of the year with temperatures in the 80s coupled with wonderful breezes. Choose from eight different beaches, one of which has been named in the top ten beaches in the world. Besides delicious food and fun shopping, you can expect to experience wildlife, go on jeep tours, relax at a spa, or enjoy the island from the water.

Jamaica

One of the most popular honeymoon destinations in the world, Jamaica is home to some of the best all-inclusive resorts. When you choose an all-inclusive resort, everything you could need or want will be easily accessible at hand. However, you also have the option to stay at a hotel or smaller resort. Do not worry, though, you will still have plenty of opportunities to go explore. Blogger Jane at In the Pink & Green had this to say about staying at a smaller resort: “There was a tour company that came to the resort with all different activities that you could sign up for, and although we enjoy just relaxing at the hotel, it was nice to get out and try some new things.”

Michigan

For those looking for a honeymoon that may be a little less traditional and away from the beach, Michigan provides some great places to visit and stay. Whether you are looking to stay in a city like Grand Rapids, Detroit, something quaint like New Holland, or a cabin out in the middle of nowhere, Michigan really has a lot to offer. Some of the country’s best wineries and breweries are located in Michigan, but that certainly is not all there is to do. If you enjoy hiking, swimming, kayaking, and other outdoor activities, then this might just be the place for you.

Costa Rica

Rising in popularity for several years now, Costa Rica is a vacation you will never forget. While many locations around the world provide newlyweds with a diverse offering of activities, none of them compare to Costa Rica. With pristine beaches, small towns, and jungles to hike through, Costa Rica is adventure and relaxation all rolled into one. If you decide on Costa Rica for your honeymoon, then you will want to make sure you visit at least one of the three hundred beaches and take a hike through Monteverde’s Cloud Forest.

France

If beaches are not your thing, and you do not care about the outdoors that much, then perhaps you should consider taking a trip to one of Europe’s premier destinations. Whether you make it to Paris or not, France is a diverse country that is home to excellent food, world class shopping, amazing cities, and wonderful people. Take a ride to the top of the Eiffel Tower, visit the small towns of Provence, or enjoy a stay at one of the many resorts along the French Riviera.

No matter where you decide to travel for your honeymoon, make sure you plan a trip that you will never forget. This is your time to relax and enjoy time well earned with your new spouse. Bon voyage!

Summertime means no school, warm weather, and plenty of family time. It also, for many families, means taking a fun family vacation. Of course, not every family vacation turns out as anticipated; we have all been on that trip that just does not go the way we expected, and someone gets upset. But family vacations are really all about being together. However, it does help if everyone is enjoying their time, which is why planning a fun family vacation is such a great idea. In order to help you out on your upcoming vacation, here are a few fun family vacation ideas.

Tanque Verde Ranch

If your family loves getting outside and spending time with animals, then you might consider taking a trip to Tanque Verde Ranch. While at the ranch, you will have the opportunity to ride horses and sample the life of a cowboy. The Ranch also offers a Kids Program, which provides riding lessons, opportunities to play tennis and go swimming, and provides arts and crafts activities. Things can get a little rough-and-tumble, so a blogger at phenomenalplace.com has this suggestion for visitors: “Remember to wear jeans or long pants, sun glasses and a hat secured with stampede string.”

Waikoloa Village

If your family loves the beach, and you are looking for a fun and unique way of experiencing the sun and sand, then staying that the Hilton Waikoloa Village might be a great place for you. Experience the resort’s 62 beachfront acres by taking tram rides, shopping, walking beach paths, swimming, or playing tennis. What brings a lot of families to the Village, though, is the interactive dolphin experience. During this experience, you will have the opportunity to touch, feed, play, learn about dolphins, and swim with the animals.

Grand Canyon

No matter where you choose to see the Grand Canyon from, it will be a sight you will never forget. While you might imagine this trip to be a little boring for your kids, no matter their age, you should know that once there, they will be impressed by the massive canyon. Once you have arrived, take in the endless scenic views, hike the trails, or take a horse- or mule-guided tour to the bottom of the canyon. If you choose to go this route, make sure you stay hydrated!

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg offers a lot of fun and entertainment for your entire family. Whether you choose to stay in a resort, hotel, or rent a cabin, you will find something for everyone. If shopping is must for your family vacation, then you will be happy to know that Gatlinburg offers many local shops with tourist items, and Pigeon Forge, located not far away, is home to a number of different outlet malls. If you are looking for adventure, then Gatlinburg has you covered. You will be close to the Smoky Mountains National Park, where you will find numerous hiking trails and horseback riding opportunities.

Gettysburg

The Battle of Gettysburg is considered the turning point of the American Civil War, and it remains a historically significant place for Americans today. The Gettysburg National Military Park may not sound like it has much to offer, but you would be surprised by everything you can do. The Park offers various ranger programs, guided tours, map- and audio-guided tours, concerts, and various summer events, which you can attend. If you are able to make it this summer, then you will be in for even more because 2013 marks the 150^th anniversary of the battle. A quick visit to the Visitor Center will get you started with your trip.

No matter where you decide to go with your family this summer, be sure to include everyone in the decision process. When you include everyone in your family in the decision-making, they will be much more willing to participate, and they will be more excited about the trip. Keep in mind that the places listed above are just suggestions, and you should look at several options before you actually make a decision about to where to go.

One of the best parts about taking a trip anywhere is exploring all of the delicious foods that location has to offer. Whether you are enjoying local delicacies or dining at the finest restaurants, the joy of culinary travel is something to which we can all relate. Undeniably, one of the food capitals of the U.S. is New York City. Appropriately nicknamed “The Big Apple” New York has much more to offer the veracious gourmand than just fresh produce. Where does one even begin? Luckily, our friend Sara Croft from Solid Gold Eats took a food filled excursion to the city and has come back with some great recommendations. Here are her top four picks of NYC culinary treasures that are not to be missed.

Katz’s Deli was my absolute favorite place. It’s the quintessential New York deli, where you’re rushed in and handed a ticket to order one of the giant sandwiches that are sure to fill you up after spending the day walking through the city streets. It’s packed with residents and tourists alike, all wanting their hefty corned beef on rye, like me. Of course when I said “no mustard” I got a raised eyebrow, but then I think the server must assume I am a tourist that just doesn’t how to do it the New York way. My piled-high sandwich was accompanied with a plate of perfect pickles. If I lived in the city, you’d have to pull me away from this place.

Who doesn’t imagine a dinner of French fries? I hesitantly entered Pommes Frites with a feeling that I’d need a pit stop on the way home for something else, as how in the world could French fries fill me up? Little did I know that I would be enjoying double-fried delicious French fries (or pommes frites, as they call them) in a large cone with three dipping sauces from which to choose. Parmesan peppercorn, Mexican ketchup and garlic aioli were my choices out of the over 2 dozen options. Pommes Frites has tables with holes so you can place the cone of fries in front of you, allowing your hands to be free for… eating.

New York makes you hungry. Whether it was all of the walking we did, or just my hunger to try new things, my appetite was never fully satisfied. That is, until I walked into Carmine’s Italian Restaurant. This family style Italian food is served on giant plates and divvied up among your party. You must try the Caesar salad and the olive oil and garlic pasta, as seen below. Buttery with huge cloves of roasted garlic, these delicious carbs will keep you going long into the night.

Bonus Tip:

When in New York, be curious. Don’t let small spaces trick you into thinking there’s nothing in that corner grocery store for you. Most places are small, so get used to it! I highly suggest visiting the Essex Street Market and the Chelsea Market, where you can purchase prepared foods or everything you need to create a meal at home (or in your hotel).

All of these restaurants are local treats, boasting a variety of delicious platters to try, but don’t let this be an exhaustive list of restaurants to visit while in New York. One of the best aspects of Sara’s trip is that she planned it according to her own tastes and her desire to try new things. Be sure to do the same! Create a unique culinary travel itinerary and explore New York, or any city, guided by your own taste buds and curiosity.

Check out Sara’s blog, Solid Gold Eats, for more of her culinary adventures and recipes!

Leisurely backpacking around Europe has become the dream of many young Americans. While there are many places to go, some people are drawn to the friendly culture and lively beer gardens of Germany. If you want to backpack around Germany but aren’t sure where to start, check out these suggestions for how to prepare, where to go, and how to save a few bucks while you’re there.

Preparing to Backpack

When planning your trip, there are a few things to keep in mind. Be sure to apply for your passport as early as possible; don’t leave it to the last minute! The U.S. Department of State says that the routine service takes about four to six weeks, and even the expedited service takes two to three weeks. Without your passport, all your backpacking dreams will be put on hold, so apply early. Applying for a visa also involves various fees, so work that into your backpacking budget.

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With the preliminary paperwork out of the way, next comes the question of whether to plan your route or to just wing it. There are pros and cons to each. Planning your route in advance can help you save a lot of money. You can book hotel rooms and hostels early and save money that way, as well as find festivals or events that you can plan to be in the town for. But what if you meet a fellow backpacker in the hostel who tells you about this really cool music festival tomorrow in Berlin, when you were heading to Frankfurt? The spontaneity of traveling without plans can lead to really cool and unexpected experiences that planned travel sometimes can’t match. In the end, this decision comes down to you. It may be helpful just to have a rough idea of the cities you’d like to visit, and then play it by ear once you’re there.

Don’t forget to brush up on a little bit of German before you go. While most young people in Germany learn English in school, you can’t always count on there being someone to translate. Learn a few common phrases, and it will help you immensely. Plus, people always appreciate it when visitors make an attempt to speak their language. It’s a nice gesture!

When packing, be sure to bring a money belt. Even if you don’t think you’ll use it, bring it anyway. You may change your mind when you’re riding on trains and see some unsavory characters. In general, don’t over pack. Usually people bring too much, when you can get away with bringing very little. Even if you find something you need, there are stores in Germany, so you can always pick it up there.

Best Backpacking Destinations

Really, your destinations in Germany depend on what you are interested in. Germany is an amazing country with lots of history and plenty of things to do, so if you want to see castles, then be sure to check out Neuschwanstein in Bavaria. If you’re really into cars, then go to Wolfsburg and check out the Autostadt, an amazing museum and car factory. You should also look into what festivals will occur during your trip. There are many food and music festivals during the summer, so look up where they’re being held and see which interest you the most. That can help you plan your trip. That being said, there are a few cities you shouldn’t miss.

Berlin is a no-brainer. The capital of Germany, and the biggest German city, Berlin is chock-full of museums, monuments, restaurants, bars, gardens, theatres, churches…there’s something for everyone here. Nomadic Matt, a travel blogger, gives a great tip for Berlin. He says “New Europe runs a long and informative walking tour that begins at the Brandenburg Gate and lasts 3.5 hours. It takes you through the center of the city, shows you all the highlights, gives you some history, and will help you orientate yourself.” These tours are free, so be sure to check it out. Munich is another must-see. Be sure to visit the Hofbräuhaus, the most famous beer hall in the world. There’s plenty to do here as well. Weimar is another great city with lots of history. People like Johann Sebastian Bach, Richard Wagner, Friedrich Schiller, Gropius, Kandinsky, Nietzsche, and Goethe lived here at one point or another, so walk the same streets as some of the most influential musicians, painters, and philosophers and see where they lived.

Saving Money

So you’ve prepared and figured out where you’re going, how do you save money? Well, if you are a student, be sure to bring your student ID with you. In Germany, many places will give you a student discount. Also, hotels can be expensive, so consider staying in hostels or even checking out couch surfing. Be aware though that hostels may charge you for towels and linens, so consider packing a towel and a sheet if you have room. Another good tip is to purchase single country rail passes, which can be much cheaper than buying the Eurorail pass.        

Well, there you have it! Soon you’ll be backpacking around Germany and having the time of your life. Happy trails!

The beautiful countries in Asia offer plenty of opportunities for an incredible backpacking experience. However, for first-time backpackers or backpackers unfamiliar with the area, planning your trip can be daunting. Here are some tips for preparing, suggestions for where to go, and how to save some money while you’re there.

Preparing to Backpack

When planning, be sure you check the visa requirements for the countries that you are planning to visit. Most countries in Asia will allow tourists from the U.S. to be there visa-free for thirty to sixty days, but some countries require you to carry a visa. Be sure to do your research so you won’t be detained due to technicalities. Along with a visa, be sure you apply for your passport early or apply to renew your previous one early. It can take anywhere from four to six weeks to get your passport, so apply early to be on the safe side.

When you select the countries you will be visiting, read up on all of the cultures you will undoubtedly encounter. You don’t want to accidentally offend anyone. Take an hour or so and research the culture, customs, values, religion, and basic phrases in the language(s). You will avoid potentially uncomfortable situations and better understand the people and your surroundings.

When packing for backpacking in Asia, there are a few things that you need to bring. Along with all the regular items, be aware that you will probably need to take anti-malaria medicine. Set up an appointment with your doctor to get all the information, and then be sure to bring the medicine! A word of warning from Simon Petersen, author of the blog Man vs. World, who says “I never suffered from any food poisoning – but traveller’s diarrhoea (or diarrhea) was an infliction I was forced to live with A LOT.” Be prepared for this and talk to your doctor. He may just recommend bringing over the counter remedies or prescribe you something. Also, be aware that you will probably need to bring light long-sleeved shirts, a hat, and plenty of sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.          

Best Backpacking Destinations

Vietnam is a beautiful country that is just recently becoming popular with tourists. Because of this, you can find beautiful and pristine hiking and outdoor activities, as well as plenty of nightlife in cities like Ho Chi Minh. An added bonus is the train network that is pretty well developed, as well as plenty of buses to get around on.

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Thailand is an exciting and vibrant country that begs to be explored by backpackers. Not only does it have spectacular food, gorgeous beaches, and amazing nightlife in big cities like Bangkok, but it’s also fairly inexpensive.

India is a large country with diverse locales to explore. The rail system is the second largest in the world, making it convenient to get around.  Check out the temples and monuments in Delhi, visit the hanging gardens in Mumbai, and definitely go drink some Darjeeling tea in Darjeeling itself.

A smaller country that isn’t as well known is Laos. This laid-back haven has plenty of amazing cuisine. It even boasts a national beer! Tubing on the Nam Song River is another great idea for the intrepid backpacker, so be sure to consider the slower-paced country of Laos.

China is a popular destination for tourists for a great reason: this country is awesome! With lots to see and do, Hong Kong is an indisputable great time for those who love the excitement of a big city. Don’t forget Beijing, and definitely go and visit the Great Wall of China!

Japan is an interesting country with juxtapositions of old and new. Tokyo is a wonderful example of modernity, with great architecture and some of Japan’s finest museums. If you’re looking for a taste of old Japan, visit Kyoto to see the shrines, temples, and gardens.

Saving Money

A few tips for those looking to save some money: hotels can get expensive, so check and see if there are hostels available. Don’t forget that some hostels charge for towels and linens, so consider bringing your own. In general, backpacking in Asia is fairly inexpensive, but bring more money than you think you need. Another thing to be aware of is that sometimes the “deal” that a local may offer you is actually a scam. It can be difficult to sort these out, so do some research into common tricks that are used in the country you’re visiting. When you’re traveling via train or bus, see if they have student discounts or multi-day passes; this can save you some money. Traveling overnight on a train or bus is also another effective money-saver as it combines travel and sleeping accommodations.

Backpacking in Asia can be a fun and varied experience. With lots of different and unique destinations, the continent’s many countries have a lot to offer backpackers. With these suggestions, you’ll soon be on your way to an exciting adventure. Happy trails!

There are many wonderful places to hike in the world, but sometimes it can be a little too scary to strike out on your own. The far-flung nooks and crannies of the world are beautiful, yes, but it can be difficult to find the best trails, and getting lost is always a concern. Guided hiking tours have become quite popular recently, and it’s no wonder since there are so many different options available.

What is a Guided Hiking Trip?

The name itself is fairly self-explanatory, as it is a hiking trip that you have a guide for. However, there are a few things to be aware of. Each guided hiking trip will be different, especially since there are many companies that offer them. There is a big difference between group and private tours or climbs. The prices are often cheaper for a group tour, but a private tour can give you a more personalized experience. You need to know your own hiking ability so that you don’t get left behind. If a tour is too physically demanding, your options may be limited once you start if you are doing a group climb. Usually, private climbs can adjust to your pace better, but it does vary from company to company. Be sure to do your research, and find a reputable guide with plenty of experience. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and don’t be afraid to ask for references! This is an experience of a lifetime, so you should make it the best one possible.

With hiking tours, you have many different destination options. Let’s examine a few of the unique ones around the world that you could take advantage of.

Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is a spectacular place to hike. This national landmark has many beautiful places to discover and sights to see: towering red walls, cascading waterfalls, vibrant flora and fauna. While the hustle and bustle of tourists may not be very appealing, rest assured that there are many places where you can still find solitude in the stunning landscapes offered by the canyon. There are many guide companies like The Wildland Trekking Company and Discovery Treks, but there are plenty of smaller local guides as well. Do your research, and find the guide and the trip that are right for you. 

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Tongariro Northern Circuit, North Island, New Zealand

Ever thought about hiking around an active volcano? This hiking circuit lets you do just that. Centered around volcano Mount Ngauruhoe in Tongariro National Park, you have a chance to hike plenty of trails and see some astonishing sights of nature. Although most of the trails do not go up the mountain, there are options for the two-hour hike up the side of the volcano that was actually featured as Mt. Doom in the Lord of the Rings movies. There are many brightly colored lakes and volcanic formations that are not to be missed. The 100% Pure New Zealand company offers a 3.5 day/3-night hiking tour all around the mountain. If you’re looking for more hiking after that, then there are plenty of tours nearby in the Kaimanawa Forest Park.

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

For the ultimate hiking experience, why not take a hiking tour of one of the world’s most famous mountains? Although this may seem daunting, Tim Ward, author of “Zombies on Kilimanjaro,” notes in his blog, “Kilimanjaro is technically the easiest to climb of the Seven Summits (the highest mountain on each continent). You don’t need ropes or special mountaineering gear, or even any previous mountain climbing experience. The youngest person to reach the summit was six years old, and the eldest (as of 2011), was 87.” So how about it? This is one of the greatest experiences that requires a guide, and while it is a splurge, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime type of splurge. Just think of the affirmation and achievement that you will feel once you are standing on top of the mountain that you just scaled. 

As you can see, there are many unique experiences out there for your guided hiking tour adventure. Having a guide helps you to get the most out of your vacation while easing worries about getting lost and allows you to just have fun. Be sure to check out these great locations, and have a blast on your hiking adventure!

The beautiful country of Italy has a plethora of walking and hiking trails for the adventurous traveler. If you’re looking for a great place to get close to nature, consider going to Italy for your next vacation. There are many trails for the amateur, as well as plenty of places for the serious, experienced hikers as well. Here’s a short introduction to what you need to hike in Italy, as well as looking at two of the best hiking spots for you to consider.

Preparing for Italy

So, what do you need to hike in Italy? Along with the regular hiking needs, like plenty of water, food and snacks, sunscreen and other necessities, hiking in Italy requires a few additional items. Like any hiking trip, make sure that you have a good pair of shoes and adequate equipment for the terrain. Be aware that some places in Italy may require special shoes, like Stromboli where one needs shoes with ankle stability to climb through the volcanic ash. Hiking in Italy is also unique in that there are often many different unmarked trails that branch off of the main trail. A good map—perhaps two or three—or a hired guide are definitely in order as you don’t want to get lost.

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Dolomite Mountains

These mountains, located to the south of the Italian Alps, were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009. The area has over 90,000 acres of land, with trails for every hiking level. There are many picturesque villages nestled in the rocky crags, as well as beautiful wild vistas overlooking alpine lakes, and many sights of the amazing landscape of these incomparable mountains. 

When planning your trip to the Dolomites, consider the timing of your trip. This may be the difference between having a great trip or just an okay experience. Madeline Jhawar, author of the blog Italy Beyond the Obvious, offers these tips for visiting the Dolomites: “I’d avoid August unless you prepare for higher prices and crowds. The Dolomites are a major tourist destination so, as with all tourist destinations in Italy in August, they get crowded and expensive. If you can’t do July, try end of June or the beginning of September.” 

The mountains also have many different trails, so be sure to map out your hiking plan before going. Hiring a guide is also a good idea, so consider checking out local tour companies like the Dolomite Mountains who can help you plan and execute your trip safely. If you do decide to go it on your own, consider buying a guide such as Walking in the Dolomites.

Cinque Terra

The Cinque Terra is a charming region on Italy’s Western coast. It consists of five small villages that cling to the cliffs overlooking the water. The Cinque Terra is usually considered one region as the villages are so close together that you can hike to them all in one day. They are all connected by a series of hiking trails, with trails for all levels of hikers. The Via dell’Amore (“Lover’s Lane,” basically) is one of the most famous routes to walk, an easy 20-minute stroll between two of the villages. The High Trail is the most difficult hike, which requires a guide or a very detailed map. This region is extremely picturesque, with plenty of beautiful views of the ocean, vineyards, and the five quaint little towns.

If you do decide to visit the Cinque Terra, check to see if you are going during the busy season. During the busy season, you will definitely have to book your rooms in advance. Remember that the five towns of Cinque Terra are Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore; sometimes hotels in nearby cities will claim to be part of the Cinque Terra, when in fact they are not.

The Dolomite Mountains and the Cinque Terra are just two of the many spectacular places to hike in Italy. These are quite famous destinations that offer opportunities for everyone from the beginners to the advanced hikers, so if you’ve never been hiking in Italy before, these two destinations are great ways to begin. Perhaps they will inspire you to come back and visit more of the amazing hiking spots in the gorgeous country of Italy. Happy hiking!