The Biggest Pros And Cons Of RV Travel

Do you love to travel but are tired of the annoyance caused by dealing with airport delays? Do you have pets and don’t want to leave them behind? Think that maybe a trip in an RV sounds like an exciting way to see the country?

If you like making your own schedule and creating your own unique adventures, then you should consider an RV trip.

RV travel is a growing trend. More people are traveling the country by RV than ever before. Many of the newer RVs are smaller and designed for single or twosome travelers. Design improvements make them as easy to drive as your family sedan.

Let me share some of the biggest pros and cons of RV travel with you.

A crowded airport. — Marius Dobilas / Shutterstock

Pro: RV Travel Helps You Avoid The Hassle Of Airports

Flying used to be a great way to travel. These days, airports have become crowded, lines are long, and the airlines pack you into planes like sardines in a tin can. The inconveniences don’t stop there. You must plan on arriving at least an hour and a half before your flight just to get through security.

Wouldn’t it be great to travel on your own time schedule? If you travel by RV, you can do just that. Forget long lines and taking off your shoes. Quit trying to pack your life into a carry-on. Bring along as many shoes and clothes as you want, and while you are at it, feel free to throw in those personal comforts from home. There are no rules that say you have to fit anything into a 3-ounce container when you travel by RV!

Con: It Takes Time To Get There

Traveling by RV allows you to be on your own schedule, but you will need to plan time to get wherever you’re going. Many experienced RV travelers will tell you to plan to drive no more than about 300 miles or four hours per day. You don’t want to arrive too exhausted to explore, do you?

Travel times can also be dependent on the type of RV you are traveling in. There are many options when it comes to the sizes and types of RV you can rent or purchase. The good news: You can pick one that you drive or one that you tow behind your car. In most states, unless you are driving a very large RV (over 45 feet) or towing one over 10,000 pounds, you won’t need a special license. Of course you will need to plan time for fuel stops, and sometimes weather can affect your travel times.

Plan your RV adventure to give yourself time to live life in the slow lane if you feel like it!

RV travelers in Redwood National Forest. — welcomia / Shutterstock

Pro: When You Travel by RV, You Get to Really Experience The Journey

When you travel by RV, you get to actually see the country, which isn’t the case when you’re flying over it at 20,000 feet. You’ll learn to appreciate the beauty and splendor of the color change of the leaves on the Blue Ridge Parkway and can experience the jaw-dropping magnificence of the Grand Canyon, even if you’re just passing through.

We’ve all seen pictures of these places. Wouldn’t it be much more fun to take your own pictures of incredible locations that you visit on your adventure? You can bring along all of your electronic gadgets and share pictures and videos of your travels along the way!

Con (Or Pro?): RV Travel Means You Control Your Own Itinerary

If you like to be in control of your travel time and locations, then this one is not a big deal. That said, if you are not a planner, you may need some help with this. RV travel does require that you plan your route, and depending on the time of year, you may need to make your park reservations in advance.

Most RV rental agencies offer trip planning advice and recommendations, so don’t let this one keep you from hitting the road, but do stick to a plan!

A man and his dog camping in an RV. — Sandor Gora / Shutterstock

Pro: You Can Bring Your Pets With You In An RV

Do you want to travel, but don’t want to leave your pets behind? One great advantage of RV travel is that you can bring your pets along with you. Many RV parks have dog parks, and kitties can stay comfortably inside. Most RV rental agencies allow pets for a small additional fee.

You will want to make sure to bring along a kennel or some way to contain your pet inside the RV.

Con: Not All RV Parks Are Pet-Friendly

Most national, state, and private parks do allow pets, provided they are on leashes and are well behaved. Some RV parks have restrictions on what type of dog breeds they allow, though. The most common RV park breed restriction we see is for pit bulls. A few RV parks have a strict no-dog rule. Cats are allowed in all parks provided you do not let them stray outside the RV.

While you are doing your trip planning, make sure you check websites or call ahead to ensure your pet is welcome.

Campers hanging out by their RVs. — Arina P Habich / Shutterstock

Pro: You’ll Meet Lots Of New Friends In RV Parks

People who travel by RV are generally very social. Don’t be surprised if you arrive at a new location and someone immediately stops by to invite you to happy hour or a potluck dinner.

This is a great way to make new friends and share stories of your adventures with like-minded travelers. Many of the people you meet will have a wealth of experience and can offer great advice for things to do or see that aren’t in the tour books.

You don’t have to worry about being too lonely, even if you are a solo RV traveler.

Con (Or Pro?): RV Travelers Enjoy Interaction

If you prefer solitude or are a little shy, other RV travelers may seem a little too friendly. Don’t let this put you off though, a gentle no thank you to their invites will be greeted with a smile and a wish for safe travels on your journey.

An RV traveling through the southern United States. — mariakray / Shutterstock

RV Travel Is A Great Way To See America On A Budget

RV travel can often cost less than air travel. According to a recent RV Industry Association (RVIA) survey, “more than 81 percent of respondents agree that traveling by RV can save 25 percent or more over other types of travel.” According to RVIA president Frank Hugelmeyer, “RVing is more popular than ever and the market remains hot as younger and more diverse people learn how RVing can fit their lifestyles. RVs offer unparalleled flexibility to enjoy many different kinds of vacations and outdoor recreation activities. Whatever the activity, RVs are a comfortable and convenient way to escape stress and spend time with friends and loved ones — without breaking the budget.”

You can normally rent an RV for as little as a weekend and as long as a month. Rates do vary greatly depending on the size of the RV and the season, but it can work out to be more cost-effective than staying in hotels. Plus, you can save money by cooking your meals in your RV’s kitchen.

Experience The Freedom Of RV Travel

Are you tired of the same boring travel itineraries, just seeing and not experiencing the journey? Do you yearn for an adventure that is custom made just for you? Do you want the freedom to go where you want, when you want?

Maybe an RV trip is exactly what you need to make more great memories! Packing for your first trip? Don’t forget the RV essentials: eight tools and gadgets you didn’t know you needed!

11 Excellent Hidden Gems In Saint Louis

Saint Louis is best known for its beer, baseball, and of course, its world-famous Arch. But there’s much more to the Gateway to the West than the Cardinals, Budweiser beer, and the fabulous and free zoo and museums. Here are 11 hidden gems you’ll want to add to your must-do list the next time you visit this iconic river city.

Aerial view of part of Tower Grove Park. — Steve Jett / Shutterstock.com

1. Tower Grove Park

When people think of Saint Louis parks, they usually think of Forest Park. That’s no surprise — the lovely and expansive green space hosted the 1904 World’s Fair and is home to the city’s zoo, art museum, history museum, and outdoor theater. The city’s second-largest green space is not nearly as well known, but it’s just as beautiful.

Tower Grove Park, located southwest of downtown, has served as a lush, Victorian oasis for Saint Louisans since its founding by merchant Henry Shaw in 1868. Tower Grove Park is the only public city park in Saint Louis to be managed by an independent board of commissioners. The board and the park’s dedicated staff members have worked tirelessly to keep this gorgeous spot beautiful and accessible to all for generations. Tower Grove Park features a vast variety of trees, shrubs, flowers, and lily ponds. The walking paths are dotted with statues, stone comfort stations, and brightly colored wooden pavilions. There’s even a stable where the park’s two equine residents, Moonshine and Sheffield, live. Tower Grove is the perfect place for a stroll, picnic, or Saturday-morning shopping excursion at the park’s farmers market. The park hosts a concert series and a Festival of Nations each summer, and it’s adjacent to the Missouri Botanical Garden, another stunning Saint Louis spot founded by Henry Shaw.

2. Cherokee Street

Saint Louis is home to a wonderfully diverse immigrant population; since its founding nearly 100 years ago, the city’s International Institute has helped bring thousands of refugees to the Gateway City. One place where you can see a thriving example of that immigrant culture is on Cherokee Street. This funky, vibrant stretch boasts a robust Latin American influence. You’ll find taquerias, Mexican bakeries, and plenty of hipster bars and breweries, along with antique stores and art galleries. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon, and as you can imagine, the area hosts one heck of a Cinco de Mayo celebration each year!

3. South Grand

For more international flavors, consider a foodie stroll along South Grand Boulevard. About 10 minutes west of downtown, this five-block stretch just around the corner from Tower Grove Park features an incredible array of restaurants and cafés founded by immigrants from all over the world. Consider stopping by several for one global course after another! From Middle Eastern (The Vine and Café Natasha’s offer incredible hummus and shawarma) and Vietnamese to Thai and even Ethiopian, you’ll find incredible eats on South Grand. And be sure to save room for dessert — Gelateria del Leone serves up scoops in incredible flavors, as well as coffee and pastries.

4. Compton Hill Water Tower

For a fascinating — and 10-story tall — history lesson, check out the Compton Hill Water Tower, located near the intersection of Interstate 44 and South Grand Boulevard. This impressive stone-and-brick column was constructed in 1898 to camouflage a 100-foot standpipe that was needed to help equalize dangerous surges of water pressure throughout the city. In 1929, new techniques to handle the pressure were developed, and the tower was no longer necessary. Over the years, it fell into disrepair. Not wanting to part with such an interesting and beautiful piece of the city’s history, area residents mobilized in the mid-1990s to fundraise for a renovation, which was completed in 1999. Today, you can climb the tower’s spiral staircase all the way to the top for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city. The tower is open on the first Saturday of each month and on full-moon evenings; admission costs $5 per person. After your climb, stroll through the gorgeous Compton Heights and Compton Hill neighborhoods nearby.

The Grove in Saint Louis, Missouri. — RozenskiP / Shutterstock.com

5. The Grove

Originally an industrial and commercial area that had fallen upon hard times, The Grove started its comeback in the 1980s when several LGBT-friendly businesses and nightclubs opened. One by one, the empty storefronts were replaced with hip eateries, bars, boutiques, and coffee shops, giving the neighborhood its current diverse and friendly feel. The district is home to more than 50 businesses in all, and it is worth a visit, whether it’s for lunch and shopping or dinner, drinks, and dancing. Highlights include Grace Meat + Three, a favorite nosh spot featuring down-home cooking; Everest Café & Bar, which serves amazing Nepalese fare; and Confluence Kombucha, which brews up artisan flavors of delicious fizzy, fermented tea, along with fresh vegetarian small plates crafted with locally sourced ingredients.

Soldiers Memorial in St. Louis. — Missouri Historical Society

6. Soldiers Memorial

You don’t have to be a battlefield history buff to appreciate — or be amazed by — the Soldiers Memorial Military Museum downtown. Construction of the memorial, which was designed to honor local service members who had made the ultimate sacrifice during World War I, began in 1935. The following year, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt visited Saint Louis to dedicate the site, and it opened to the public on Memorial Day 1938. In 2015, the museum underwent a multimillion dollar renovation funded by private donors, and it recently reopened with a new reflecting pool and fountain that represent the five branches of the military. New monuments in the area memorialize service members who died in subsequent conflicts, and exhibits describe and demonstrate what life was like for our country’s military men and women over the years. Admission to the memorial and exhibits is free.

Inside the Central Library. — Nagel Photography / Shutterstock

7. Central Library

For another peek into Saint Louis’s past, duck into the city’s gorgeous Central Library. Located downtown, the grand neoclassical building is the hub for the city’s public library system and has stood at this spot for more than 100 years. Steel tycoon Andrew Carnegie helped transform the city’s library system with a million-dollar gift in 1901; half of that money went toward the construction of the Central Library. After the recent $70 million renovation, the spot feels old and new all at once. Wander through the paneled reading rooms and marble halls, and be sure to check out the impressive staircase. If you’re a true architecture or history buff, consider a free guided tour of the magnificent space.

8. Campbell House Museum

To get an idea of what life was like in Saint Louis before the World’s Fair, head to the Campbell House Museum. It’s a fascinating time capsule of a place, with the Campbell family’s home and furnishings well preserved and displayed. Built in 1851 as the first home in an elegant, posh neighborhood called Lucas Place, the Campbell House was where entrepreneur Robert Campbell and his family lived from 1854 until 1938. Lucas Place is long gone, but the Campbell House Museum evokes the feeling of late 19th-century life right in the middle of downtown. Featuring everything from the family’s furniture and portraits to clothing, art, and letters, this place truly and vividly brings the history of Saint Louis to life. Museum admission includes a guided tour and costs $10.

9. Crown Candy Kitchen

If you’ve worked up a giant appetite while exploring Saint Louis, head to Crown Candy Kitchen. This institution opened in Old North Saint Louis in 1913, and it has delighted generations of sweet teeth ever since! Saint Louis’s oldest soda fountain maintains its old-fashioned vibe while serving up incredible sandwiches, malts, shakes, and famous World’s Fair sundaes. You might also be tempted by the candy counter right up front; each Easter, hundreds of Saint Louisans place their orders for chocolate bunnies and eggs here. You really can’t go wrong with anything on offer, but our favorite is the massive BLT finished off with the Newport hot fudge sundae (with lots of whipped cream and pecans!). You’ll walk out with a full stomach and a hefty dose of nostalgia.

Turtle Playground in Forest Park. — Forest Park Statues

10. Turtle Playground

Chances are you’ll head to Forest Park while you’re in Saint Louis, but be sure to channel your inner kid and check out the Turtle Playground on your way in. Created by the late Saint Louis sculptor Bob Cassilly, this area on the south side of Interstate 64 can be accessed via the Tamm Avenue overpass. This small pocket of Forest Park includes several concrete turtles designed and crafted by Cassilly. They vary in size and species, and they’ve become a favorite climbing course for visitors of all ages. Even if you’re not inclined to scramble about, you’ll appreciate the quirkiness of this special spot.

11. Soulard Farmers Market

Founded back in 1779, the Soulard Farmers Market is a terrific place to people-watch! Located just south of downtown, the market is open from Wednesday through Saturday each week. It features a Grand Hall with shops including bakeries, butchers, and cheesemongers. There are also outdoor stalls with a vast array of produce, flowers, and even artisan goods — including soaps and honey — during the summer months. On Saturday mornings, the place is a madhouse, but that’s when you’ll find the most variety, with dozens of vendors hawking their wares. Grab a coffee — or a cocktail — and shop for or sample some of the freshest foods around. Getting groceries here is a time-honored Saint Louis tradition, and the surrounding neighborhood features some of the city’s oldest homes, along with many terrific cafés, bars, and shops.

Planning a trip to Saint Louis? Here are 12 things you must do while you’re in the Gateway City.

Why People Live So Long On Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula

The rugged Nicoya Peninsula, the largest peninsula in Costa Rica, is located on the country’s northern Pacific Coast. With its multiple nature preserves, quaint beach towns, and stellar surf breaks, it’s a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.

But perhaps the most enchanting thing about this serene and beautiful spot is that it’s a so-called blue zone. Blue zones are areas where people regularly live to be 100 years old; National Geographic calls them “hot spots of longevity” where the world’s healthiest people are clustered. There are other blue zones in California, Italy, Greece, and Japan.

Here are some of the factors that make Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula a blue zone worth visiting.

A sunny beach in Costa Rica. — Thomas Ramsauer / Shutterstock

Warm, Sunny Climate

Due to the Nicoya Peninsula’s location in Central America, the area has an abundance of warm days with tons of sunlight. This means that the peninsula’s residents never have to worry about vitamin D deficiency. According to the Mayo Clinic, vitamin D is necessary for building and maintaining healthy bones. It can even help prevent some cancers! The weather also allows Nicoyans the opportunity to exercise outdoors for most of the year.

Healthy Diet

The Nicoya Peninsula’s water is the hardest in all of Costa Rica; that simply means it has the highest concentration of calcium. Maintaining a healthy calcium intake is linked to proper function of nerves, heart, and muscles as well as overall bone health. This translates to fewer hip fractures that could otherwise be devastating for an elderly population.

Besides the calcium-rich water, those living on the Nicoya Peninsula enjoy a number of other health benefits. They eat light dinners; incorporate plant-based foods like squash, corn, and beans into their diets; and have access to plenty of whole grains, veggies, and fruits.

Surfers on a Costa Rican beach. — LMspencer / Shutterstock

Strong Community Ties

Nicoyans are often good friends with their neighbors, which contributes to a sense of connectivity and purpose. It’s also common in the region for many generations to live under the same roof, which means familial ties are robust. Costa Rican centenarians report that regular contact with their children and grandchildren fosters an overall sense of belonging and provides much-needed community support. Additionally, a common history strengthens the community’s ties.

Regular Exercise

Another reason the residents of the Nicoya Peninsula live so long is that they are physically active throughout their lives. Many in the community have jobs that require lots of movement. The residents complete many household chores that require physical exertion, and they often stay active into old age. The warm weather in the region means that Costa Ricans can work outside almost any day of the year.

A beautiful waterfall in Costa Rica. — Inspired By Maps / Shutterstock

Plan De Vida

Another factor contributing to the long lives in Nicoya is a plan de vida. This simply translates to “reason to live,” and it inspires optimism in elderly populations. Costa Ricans possess a strong sense of purpose that results in longer-than-usual lifespans. This is part of the pura vida, or low-stress, laid-back lifestyle that the Latin American country is known for.

Visiting The Nicoya Peninsula

If you plan to travel to the area, consider flying into the Liberia International Airport. Otherwise, be prepared for a 4-hour trip from the capital city of San José’s airport. Depending on what you would like to do, the Nicoya Peninsula, and Costa Rica in general, can deliver on a number of itineraries. The area’s beautiful beaches are perfect for relaxing or enjoying water sports. Some serene spa and yoga properties have sprung up due to the focus on wellness in the famous blue zone. The Nicoya Peninsula is also known for its wildlife and natural resources.

Explore Florida’s Glowing Waters In A See-Through Kayak

Florida is home to beautiful beaches, stunning national parks and preserves, and amazing theme parks. Another thing Florida is home to? Glow-in-the-dark waters. An almost otherworldly glow-in-the-dark phenomenon happens off of Florida’s Space Coast and is one of the most surreal experiences anyone could have in the water. What’s even better than that? You can explore these unique waters from a see-through kayak!

To learn more about how to visit this natural anomaly and how you can encounter it in style, read on and be amazed by what’s in store for visitors of Florida’s waters.

What Is Bioluminescence?

Often referred to as “nature’s glow stick,” bioluminescence is one of nature’s magic tricks. Scientifically speaking, bioluminescence is “light produced by a chemical reaction within a living organism.” The term stems from chemiluminescence which is when a chemical reaction results in light being produced.

Why does this happen in Florida waters? Well, it’s linked to some of the creatures that dwell beneath the surface. Cone jellyfish (not actual jellyfish), which are jelly-like creatures, and dinoflagellates, which are bioluminescent plankton, illuminate the water after certain disturbances according to Coastal Living.

BK Adventure, a company that leads popular tours of Florida’s glowing waters, told Coastal Living, “The state is home to a bioluminescent bay that hosts more glowing plankton than almost anywhere else in the world.”

That’s right — with a touch of your hand, you can cause a bioluminescent reaction to occur in the water around you!

Get Around In A See-Through Kayak

You can explore these bioluminescent waters via paddleboard, or indulge in the more popular option: a see-through kayak. With each stroke of your paddle, you’ll witness the water lighting up in response, which makes for a more-than-dreamlike picture!

There are several tour options available and many companies to choose from. In addition to BK Adventure, Get Up And Go Kayak offers Florida’s Space Coast tours. Per the company’s website, they’re “Florida’s best-reviewed and original clear kayak company.” They offer tours in many areas including Florida’s bioluminescent waters. Reservations are required so be sure to book your tour before you go!

BK Adventure offers options from family rafting to sunset kayaking and clear kayaking through the bioluminescent water.

Visit Space Coast offers up a few tips for your bioluminescent adventure. Wearing covered but light clothing, packing a change of clothes in case you go into town afterward, and packing bottled water, snacks, and insect repellant are among their suggestions.

The Best Time To Go

The best time to see the water in its maximally bioluminescent state is from May through November. The brightest light displays will happen after 9 p.m. or later, but it’s suggested that you check the lunar calendar before planning your trip because the moon’s position in the sky has a lot to do with the strength of the bioluminescent reaction in the water.

“Typically, five days after the full moon on the darkest of nights, between July and September, are the best times to go,” according to Visit Space Coast.

While you’re planning a trip to Florida’s bioluminescent waters, consider checking out the best Florida beaches that typically aren’t ridiculously crowded for some equally stunning but more relaxing options!

Snorkeling Egypt’s Red Sea: What To Expect From This Incredible Experience

Does the thought of Egypt conjure images of pyramids, camels, and desert? We often forget that Egypt is much more than just Cairo and Giza, home to the country’s national museum, the sphinx, and pyramids — or Luxor and Aswan, home to the tombs of queens and pharaohs along with the monumental temples built in their honor. Egypt is also a country with an extensive coastline that skirts the Mediterranean Sea along its northern edge and the Red Sea on the east, while two fingers of the Red Sea — known as the Gulf of Suez and the Gulf of Aqaba — flank the Sinai Peninsula.

It was not our first time visiting Egypt when we traveled there in March 2019. We knew we wanted to try something beyond the traditional tourist draws. We both love to swim and particularly enjoy ocean swimming. We had done some snorkeling in other destinations and decided we wanted to experience the Red Sea coastline.

Heading on a snorkeling trip in the Red Sea? Check out our top picks for hotels in Egypt.

A Bit About The Red Sea And Egypt’s Eastern Desert

The Red Sea is the body of water located between the northeast edge of Africa and the countries of Saudi Arabia and Yemen. In a previous trip to Israel, we had the opportunity to do some snorkeling in the Gulf of Aqaba while in Eilat. Our memory of the beautiful, clear, azure waters and abundance of colorful fish made us eager to try snorkeling in this part of the world again. After much research, we concluded that the region along the eastern edge of Egypt from Hurghada to Marsa Alam was the best choice for our snorkeling adventure. Reading about the beauty and variety of corals along with the amazing and unique wildlife one might see, we curated our trip around this snorkeling destination.

Here’s a list of what to expect if you’re considering a trip to snorkel in Egypt’s Red Sea.

1. The Region Is A Popular Destination For Europeans

Unbeknownst to us, Europeans love this affordable coastal wonderland. Visiting when we did, we discovered this is a favored snorkeling, scuba diving, and sun-bathing destination for many winter-weary Europeans, and met many during our excursions. You can expect to be with groups for most any activity you decide to do. You will likely have to sign up for a group snorkeling trip, and there are many options depending on the type and length of trip you would like to take.

The Hilton Marsa Alam Nubian Resort. — Traci O’Brien

2. You Can Stay At One Of The Region’s Many Resorts

This region has been nicknamed the Red Sea Riviera, and its many resorts offer accessibility, convenience, and amenities that many smaller accommodations cannot. There are limited access points for boats to dock and limited beach access. Also, there was little surrounding infrastructure and no other food options available to us, so choosing an all-inclusive resort was almost a necessity.

We stayed at the Hilton Marsa Alam Nubian Resort and enjoyed our time there. We had a lovely, well-appointed room with a balcony and a view of both the Red Sea and one of the many pools on the property. Overall, the resort food was very good and there were a variety of dining options including a massive buffet for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Depending on where you choose to stay, you may want to research your dining options ahead of time, especially if you have special dietary needs.

A snorkeler in the Red Sea. — John_Walker / Shutterstock

3. Bringing Your Own Gear Is Recommended But Not Necessary

We chose to bring our own masks, snorkel, and fins, however, all this equipment is available for rent in most places. I rented a shorty wetsuit when we were out in open water and my husband decided he would be more comfortable renting one for our longer day out and was happy he did. That said, we felt better having gear we knew was reliable and available when the mood struck to head down to the beach and do some more snorkeling.

Aerial view of the Red Sea coast. — Elena Pavlovich / Shutterstock

4. Once Away From Shore, The Water Can Be Chilly And Choppy

This was a surprise to us. We consider ourselves to be proficient swimmers and have experience in open water, yet we were still surprised by the rough waters. We had quite a lot of chop the day we were taken out to view the dugongs: gentle, seagrass-eating, manatee-like creatures. The guide simply assumed we were good swimmers and, without any preamble, hustled us overboard and into the choppy sea.

We did take the all-day trip to Dolphin House reef, also called Sataya Reef, where the waters were much calmer since the area is protected by an atoll. Our group had a variety of swim and snorkeling abilities and experience and everyone seemed to manage well. If you are not a strong swimmer, consider the trips you want to take carefully or stick close to shore.

A beach along the Red Sea. — Traci O’Brien

5. The Beaches May Not Be What You Expect

The beaches we encountered were all managed properties that entailed entry fees or being a registered guest. These beaches are predominantly bare, rocky, and gritty sand beaches with little sun protection that get hot and windy. Most have some umbrellas that can be rented for an additional fee. The coastline is skirted with coral reef and, as you can imagine, for its protection, walking on it is prohibited, which means limited water-access spots.

A boat on the Red Sea. — Kostenyukova Nataliya / Shutterstock

6. To See The Region’s Wildlife, You’ll Have To Join A Group Boating Trip

As mentioned above, expanding your snorkeling territory or setting out to see dugong or pods of spinner dolphins necessitates joining one of the area’s many group boating trips. From our location, we had several options. We did not book anything in advance of our trip and this seemed to work out just fine. Waiting until we were on the ground meant we could talk with tour guides personally and discuss what we actually wanted to see and do. We used Blue Ocean Dive Center since it was conveniently located near our hotel. The crew there are very friendly and talkative and eager to get you signed up, so take your time and ask questions.

The tour packages we considered ranged in price from $40 to $60 per person and took anywhere from a few hours to a very long day (we took one nearly 12-hour day trip). We felt the expense and time invested in these trips was well worth the opportunity to see the unique dugong feeding peacefully and swim with a pod of spinner dolphins. Getting away from the shore and all the people did give us a chance to see a broader range of corals and greater variety of fish life, too.

Beautiful coral in the Red Sea. — V_E / Shutterstock

7. The Corals In The Red Sea Are Some Of The Most Beautiful In The World

As you glide along the massive coral walls and outcroppings just off the beach, the variety and abundance of wildlife is breathtaking. Pictures and written descriptions can never do justice to the natural beauty of this underwater wonderland. This experience surpassed all the places I have snorkeled in so far. The fish life was so abundant and colorful that I wanted to be able to suspend myself and just keep staring. Generally, we were content to access the coral wall along the shoreline from the beach, and our boat excursions were well worth it. There were also plenty of colorful fish and coral to see right from the beach. You might even get to see a turtle feeding nearby!

Aerial view of Hurghada. — Alex Saluk / Shutterstock

More On What To Expect (And How To Get There)

The weather in the area was warm (low to mid 80s) and windy. We were told it is windy most of the year, and unless you stay in a protected bay you are likely to experience wind, so be prepared!

In terms of getting there, there are two airports in this region. Hurghada has a larger international airport and Marsa Alam, which is further south, has a much smaller facility that can save you a long drive. For our trip to the Eastern Desert, we decided to go overland from Luxor and take the opportunity to see the desert. However, in the interest of saving time, we chose to return to Cairo by air from Marsa Alam.

Egypt is home to phenomenal feats of human engineering and spectacular natural wonders. We are happy we took the opportunity to visit Egypt’s Red Sea coast and snorkel her beautiful coral reefs. If you’ve never thought of Egypt as a snorkeling destination, maybe now you will.

Wondering where to see dolphins in the wild, or considering a volunteer trip to Africa to work with marine life? Or maybe you want to know how to visit the Sahara Desert. Read up to plan the active vacation of a lifetime!

7 Tips For Riding Amtrak Across The Country

Traveling across America on the rails can be an amazing experience. It forces you to slow down, settle in, and really relax. Chances are, you’ll make new friends, and you’ll marvel at parts of the country you can’t see from the interstate or from the window of an airplane.

Chicago skyline and in the foreground an Amtrak train. — Tony_Traveler85 / Shutterstock.com

We recently wrapped up an epic trip on Amtrak’s California Zephyr. The adventure started in Emeryville, California, near San Francisco, and ended in Chicago — it’s the longest route the train runs. We traveled about 2,400 miles and, all told, the trip took more than 60 hours to complete! We booked a bedroom (definitely the way to go on such a long haul), unplugged, kicked back, and marveled at the incredible scenery as we took the very long way home.

A few simple decisions we made went a long way toward ensuring our trip was an enjoyable one. Here are seven things you need to know before you embark on an overnight — or multiday — rail trip.

1. Clean Up And Clear The Air

While our bedroom was cozy and comfortable and had been cleaned the evening before by the Amtrak staff, we brought along a couple of important supplies to spruce things up during our journey. We wiped down all hard surfaces, including the sink and shower area, with antibacterial wipes. We also brought small essential oil-based room sprays to keep the air smelling sweet. It’s something to consider, especially since some rooms include an ensuite bathroom! The lovely scents made the small space much more bearable, and a lavender-based spray on our pillows at night helped us get to sleep while the train rocked and rolled down the tracks.

A burger meal with coffee served on Amtrak. — J. Jen Juno / Shutterstock.com

2. Don’t Skimp On The Snacks

When you purchase tickets for the sleeper car, all of your meals are included in the price. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served in the dining car, and for the most part, they are pretty tasty. However, you’ll be spending a lot of time in your room, and it’s a good idea to have your favorite snacks on hand in case you get peckish in between meals. That’s because grab-and-go options from the café car aren’t included in your fare, and honestly, they aren’t the most healthful. Do yourself a favor: Head to the grocery store beforehand and grab a bunch of your favorite snacks. We brought along raw almonds, some fresh fruit, turkey jerky, whole wheat crackers, and dark chocolate squares. Just make sure you opt for nonperishable items, since there is no refrigeration available on the train.

The lounge on an Amtrak train. — richard pross / Shutterstock

3. Remember To Bring Cash

If you’re like us, you rarely carry cash. Plastic is just so much easier, right? However, when you’re on an Amtrak train for a couple of days, a cash stash is essential! That’s because the people who take great care of you during your trip — your room attendant, who tidies up your room, and the dining car staff members who take your orders three times a day — should be tipped accordingly. Of course, this is based on the level of service you receive. That said, our staff was incredible, in terrific spirits and super helpful, so we absolutely wanted to show our appreciation. We gave $50 to our room attendant, who made sure we had plenty of bottled water, coffee, and juice whenever we needed it. He also pointed out interesting sights to us during the trip, including a stunning band of wild horses in the Nevada desert. We gave our dining car staff 20 percent of what each meal cost. It’s the right thing to do — these people work really hard, after all — so don’t be caught onboard without plenty of cash.

4. Play Games To Help Pass The Time

Part of the allure of a long-haul train trip is the fact that you’ll be traveling through amazing, jaw-droppingly beautiful terrain. We were so impressed by what we saw, especially the Sierra Nevada, Donner Pass, the Colorado River, and, of course, the magnificent Rocky Mountains.

However, the gawking will only last so long. You’re going to want to bring a few items along to help pass the time. Of course, a couple of great books are always at the top of our list. We downloaded our favorite podcasts in advance and brought a small Bluetooth speaker for playback as the world rolled by. We also brought several simple games, including UNO and Cards Against Humanity, that kept us entertained for hours, and an ordinary deck of cards turned out to be a terrific icebreaker. After lunch one day, a German couple we befriended in the dining car came back to our room for an impromptu and delightful card tournament.

The hours on the rails are long, delays can and do happen, and there was no Wi-Fi on the Zephyr (which made life interesting for my much-younger travel companion!). Make sure you’ve got entertainment options on hand so you don’t go batty when the scenery becomes pedestrian.

The Amtrak observation car. — Supannee_Hickman / Shutterstock

5. Check Out The Observation Car

What should you do when claustrophobia sets in or when you just need to stretch your legs? Head to the observation car for a change of scene! Most of Amtrak’s long-haul fleets include observation cars, which feature floor-to-ceiling windows. They are a great place to really soak up the scenery. On our trip, staff members, including the conductor, routinely pointed out landmarks via the intercom system. In the observation car, we watched as the land morphed from ocean bays to alpine meadows to rugged mountains to deserts and finally to farmland. It’s a great vantage point! Keep in mind, however, that there are a limited number of seats in the observation car, and you’ll likely be vying for them with the people camped out in coach. Our advice: Get there early, after breakfast, for your best chance at a seat with an amazing view.

6. Shower When The Train Stops

As I mentioned above, our room had a minuscule ensuite bathroom. While it was certainly more convenient — and obviously more sanitary — than sharing facilities or going without bathing for nearly three days, it did require a certain amount of planning and maneuvering to prevent an in-cabin disaster. That’s because trains can shift and sway — a lot! Another thing to keep in mind is that the lip of the shower is very shallow, and the water can slosh around. In the worst-case scenario, if there are big bumps, the water could flood the floor of your cabin. So, your best bet is to get a route map from your room attendant. Ask which stops will take more than 10 minutes. When the conductor announces those towns, resist the urge to stroll the platform. Instead, head to your shower for a stable, slip-free experience.

Amtrak dining car. — richard pross / Shutterstock.com

7. Don’t Be Afraid To Request Room Service

Keep in mind that when you go to the dining car, you’ll likely be seated across from strangers. While this is a terrific chance to make new friends from around the world (we met people from Germany, New Zealand, France, and Australia on our journey), there might be occasions when you’re not feeling as social and want to stay in your room. No worries! Just ring for your room attendant and ask for room service. Order whatever you want from the dining room menu, and a few minutes later, your attendant will be back with your food. It’s a great amenity, but it’s not widely advertised or discussed.

The best thing about this option is that you can enjoy a glass of wine or cocktail with that meal, straight from your own stash! That’s right — you can bring along your favorite vintage or spirit, but it has to be consumed in your room. This is a great thing, because while alcohol is available for purchase onboard, the selection leaves something to be desired, and it’s expensive. Another important thing to keep in mind: If you order room service, don’t forget to tip. This is a perk, and your room attendant should be rewarded accordingly. Bon appétit!