Do You Need An International Phone Plan?

So, you’re getting ready to travel internationally and you’re not sure whether you need to get an international phone plan or what it’s going to cost to ensure your phone is connected while you’re there.

In today’s digitally connected world, many of us appreciate having a phone as a navigation device, translator, or even a handy tool to share travel photos on the go as you enjoy your trip. While it’s nice to unplug from time to time, many travellers still feel the need to have access to a fully operational phone even if they’re intending to unwind during their travels abroad.

Do You Need An International Phone Plan?

Depending on where you’re going and how intense your itinerary is, you’ll want to evaluate if getting an international phone plan meets your needs. If you’re planning on lounging on a beach or relaxing at a resort, you can often get by simply relying on the hotel’s complimentary WiFi to check emails and do basic tasks.

If you need to make calls, you can use free services like Facebook messenger, Google Hangouts or even Facetime on Apple phones that allow you to use data to make calls.

If you’re worried about the availability of using a navigation app like Google Maps, you often can plot out your course using your phone while you’re hooked up to Wifi and the app will still be useable as you move to a new location.

woman using smartphone — Photo provided by Pexels

Work With Your Cellphone Provider

If you decide you’d benefit by having an international phone plan during your travels, you’ll want to do some research on your cell phone provider to see what options are available outside of Mexico and Canada.

Some providers do a package plan, while others have daily rates that cover a certain amount of phone data with contracted partners. Be aware, you’ll need to communicate the dates you’ll need coverage and be sure that your provider is aligned on coverage for dates in local time at your destination, not local time where you are currently based. International plans can go from $5 a day to upwards of $25 a day, so be sure to do your research.

Additionally, you’ll want to check your previous phone bills before you leave to understand your current usage and ensure you’ve purchased enough of a package to cover your needs.

How To Avoid Extra Phone Fees While Traveling

If you’ve paid for an international plan and it has a data cap, you’ll want to be mindful about your data consumption and still use WiFi whenever possible to keep your usage in check. One trick to ensure you’re not eating up your data: turn off push notifications and automatic synching. Does your phone regularly alert you when you have new emails? If yes, that means your phone is constantly using small amounts of data to keep your inbox updated.

If you didn’t purchase an international phone plan, you’ll want to be sure you select the option to “turn off cellular data” on your phone before you take off, and leave your phone in airplane mode when you arrive. You’ll still be able to access WiFi, but you’ll have ensured your phone isn’t racking up expensive data without your knowledge.

You also have the option to purchase a hotspot before you leave. If you don’t know what a hotspot is, it’s a small device that emits WiFi and can be purchased for as low as $50 online. You also can look into purchasing a SIM card at your destination, but this depends on how long you are traveling and where you’re headed.

Person taking picture of island with smartphone — Photo provided by Pexels

What To Do If You Get Home And Racked Up International Data Charges

You’ve probably heard horror stories from other travellers who didn’t realize how roaming charges are incurred — usually through checking social media and watching movies on their phone while abroad — sometimes racking up bills as high as $16,000.

If you made a mistake and didn’t realize you were using data outside of your plan, you often can make some headway by calling your cell phone carrier and negotiating for a lower rate. While this tactic isn’t a sure bet, it doesn’t hurt to give them a call and work towards a win-win solution, as this tactic has been reported to work for a variety of consumers. So, it doesn’t hurt to call and negotiate!

Before you leave for your next international trip, you’ll want to do your research to ensure you have the right plan for you and that your phone settings reflect the plan you’ve chosen — being cautious of any apps running in the background that can eat up your data without you realizing it.

With a bit of research and checking to ensure your phone is functional, you should be all set for a fabulous trip, free of any unexpected fees in the process.

10 Alternatives To AirBnB

Sometimes, you just want to vacation like a local — living in someone’s house, eating at the spots the locals eat at, walking around like you live in the place. And by all accounts, the market leader for booking your vacation hideaway from a homeowner in the area is AirBnB.

But there are alternatives out there to AirBnB, and some of them may be even better for you and your vacation plans in the long run. The vacation rental market accounted for more than $23 billion in sales in 2012, a whopping one fifth of that year’s lodging market! And there are plenty of options out there to find that perfect vacation rental if AirBnB isn’t quite your cup of tea.

1. Booking.com

Booking.com is probably best known for its hotel booking database, but you can also reserve cabins, homes and vacation chalets. You can even rent an apartment for the weekend, if you’d like. The added bonus is being able to book your flight, car rental and other trip needs at the same time. It’s a quick trip planner’s dream.

“They often have properties listed that you can’t find on other sites for lesser-known areas,” says Patti Maghamfar of the travel blog One Road at a Time. “Also, what we appreciate is that only people who have stayed at a property can access the reviews. We also like the site’s rating system.”

Sales representative booking.com — Wikimedia Commons

2. VRBO – Vacation Rentals By Owner

VRBO is the site for vacation home owners to list their vacation homes for rent on their own. Similar to AirBnB, the site lists vacation spots worldwide. Properties list bathrooms, bedrooms, minimum stay requirements and amenities — as well as cancellation and payment policies. While each home is different, more than 25,000 of the vacation spots listed on VRBO allow pets, and many provide baby and kid amenities. You deal directly with the home owner, so you know exactly what you’ll be renting.

3. HomeAway

With more than 2 million homes in more than 190 countries, HomeAway has something to offer that will fit any destination or budget. Once you create your free profile, you can look at properties, message the home owners, make a reservation and even pay for the property online. And through its partner site expedia.com, you can find all sorts of activities to book on your trip as well.

4. FlipKey

Owned by TripAdvisor, FlipKey is the vacation rentals version of the travel giant website. With more than 300,000 vacation rentals worldwide, the site has a bit of a clunky interface, but makes up for it with its small start-up feel. From Atlantic City to Zephyr Cove, FlipKey has a vacation rental that is an affordable alternative to a hotel room.

5. TurnKey Vacation Rentals

Unlike VRBO and AirBnB, renters deal with a TurnKey representative instead of the owners. TurnKey property managers see to it that every rental guests request is met, and deals with future bookings and any other amenity requests. Property owners and managers can rest at ease knowing their property is safe and their guests needs are being taken care of. All guests must be 25 years of age or older, though.

6. FaithStay

Like other vacation rental sites, FaithStay allows guests to rent rooms or homes from individuals. But FaithStay puts the emphasis on the Christian faith of both the traveler and the homeowner. The site lets guests rent from other Christians in order to stay in a like-minded place, as well as further their Christian journey and fellowship with other believers. For the homeowner, the site provides a way for the money raised from the rental to be tithed directly to the homeowner’s church or favorite mission. Travelers using the site say it is the best way they know to connect with other Christians as they travel and to feel comfortable and safe in their surroundings.

People reading the bible — Unsplash / Cassidy Rowell

7. VayStays

VayStays is another online vacation rental marketplace that aims to standardize vacation rentals. With quality properties in highly coveted destinations around the world, VayStays provides professionally managed and fully verified rental locations for travelers. Specializing in locations like the Caribbean, the U.S. and Mexico and Central America, VayStays has more than 20,000 luxury properties from which to choose. Also, the site lets you book instantly via credit card, so you know your reservations are secure.

8. GameDayHousing

Started in 2006 by the same guys who started VayStays, GameDayHousing is focused on sports fans who travel with their team. Tired of sleeping in their cars, or crashing on friends’ couches, the creators of GameDayHousing purchased a home in South Bend, IN to stay in during game day weekends and avoid skyrocketing hotel prices. The group soon purchased more rental properties and began leasing them out on game days.

Now the online site rents weekend stays in people’s homes near sporting events. Renters pay for their weekend, and money is held in escrow until the weekend stay is completed in order to ensure the guest has a great experience. Their satisfaction guarantee and commitment to working with the renters and homeowners is a bonus for those looking to book a vacation rental on a game day. And the site offers a full refund or a chance to reschedule the weekend if a sporting event is cancelled or rescheduled.

Sports fans clink beers — Unsplash / Drew Farwell

9. CouchSurfing

Yeah, it’s the vacation rental site for millenials. CouchSurfing has more than 400,000 properties and connects 14 million travelers and locals across 200,000 cities. Once “surfers” sign-up, they are connected with locals who open their homes to travelers. The site also provides travelers with access to free events in the area where they can connect with other travelers in the same city. Locals can connect with other hosts in their own city before setting out on an adventure to crash on other people’s couches. The site guarantees you will be able to connect with “friends you haven’t met yet” all over the world.

10. Home Exchange

Like the movie “The Holiday,” users on Home Exchange swap houses with other travelers to live like a local in a new city. With more than 65,000 properties listed, you can connect and switch homes with other users all over the world. The site requires that you purchase a membership and use their service, but they do that to verify members and properties. For those who are okay with staying in someone else’s home but not with having someone stay in theirs, the site offers a rental option as well.

If you don’t want to stay in a hotel and you don’t want to use AirBnB, you still have plenty of options. We hope this article helped you find the one that’s best for you. Happy trails!

6 Countries With Surprisingly Good Food

We all know authentic Italian food is to die for, that the French can set a table, and that Pad Thai in Bangkok will knock your socks off. But there are plenty of countries that don’t come to mind when you think about world class cuisine, even though they should.

Here are 6 countries with surprisingly good food. With any luck, this article will make you hungry for travel.

1. Georgia

The republic, not the state — although I’m sure they have good food in Atlanta as well. Georgia is a relatively small nation in the Caucasus, but its culinary traditions are ancient. Influenced by Eastern European and Middle Eastern culture, Georgia’s proximity to the old Silk Road also provided access to spices from far afield. Georgia also has one of the oldest viticulture practices on earth.

“I was surprised at how good the food (and wine) were in the Republic of Georgia,” says Fred Zalokar — mountain climber, marathon runner, and travel blogger at FredZalokar.com.

While every region in Georgia has its own idiosyncratic dishes, Fred has some overall recommendations. “The best thing we had was khachapuri, a bread dish with cheese and egg. It is one of the best things I’ve eaten anywhere in the world. Lobiani is a pastry pie filled with beans, and mtsvadi is their version of grilled meat on a stick. Last but not least are khinkali, traditional Georgian dumplings. You can get them filled with anything: mushrooms, ground beef, even potatoes. Yes, dumplings filled with potatoes!”

While Georgian meals tend to be meat-heavy, you will also find vegetarian options.

Plate of Georgian food, Tbilisi — Georgia’s culinary tradition stretches back into the mists of time.

2. Croatia

Croatia has really exploded as a tourist destination in recent years. The Adriatic has always been popular with yachters, but the walled Medieval city of Dubrovnik has become one of the most over-visited places on earth thanks to Game of Thrones.

What many people don’t know, however, is that Croatia has a rich and diverse food scene to offer visitors as well. Regionality is key here, since the country is, well, ahem Balkanized. Along the coasts, you’ll find the cuisine is heavily influenced by Italian and Greek sensibilities, while inland dishes tend to be more garlicky and traditionally Eastern European.

Terri Weir of Tumbleweed Tourists recommends the Börek — stuffed pastries — and notes that she had some great Italian (and Italianish) food in Croatia.

“They do interesting things with pizza (think tartar sauce),” she says, “and I had a sandwich there I wish I could duplicate. It had ham, sausages, boiled eggs and I can’t remember what else but it was fantastic. The bread in Croatia is amazing. And the cheese!”

3. Singapore

Singapore is famous as an ultra-modern island/city/nation-state — and for some of its outlandish laws. As a city of immigrants, it offers a wide array of food options — from Southeast Asia, India, China, and elsewhere. And that’s a very good thing, because Singaporeans love food!

That probably goes some way to explaining why Singapore has some of the best casual dining in the world. If you’re looking for hot eats, hit up a hawker center — collections of food stalls sort of like food courts. The stalls serve up food influenced by Singapore’s vibrant street food culture.

Lea Cramer of Fine Dining on Discourse can’t recommend the hawkers strongly enough.

“You’d be surprised by how good the food is at a Singapore hawker stall,” she says. “The food is fresh, hot and there is something intrinsically fascinating about exploring native food. If you are in Singapore and find yourself at a hawker stall, check out all things ramen. You can get any kind of ramen for any sort of palate. Dozens of stalls put their own spin on their signature noodle bowls. It’s hard not to just eat your way from one stall to another.”

Ramen and dumplings in a bowl, hawker food Singapore — Wikimedia Commons

4. Scotland

Scottish food is much maligned in the popular imagination, especially haggis (sheep’s innards minced and served wrapped in the animal’s stomach). But Carmen Edelson of Carmen’s Luxury Travel is here to defend highland cuisine.

“When people think of Scotland, I’m sure their food isn’t the first thing that comes to mind,” she says. “But I enjoyed amazing farm-to-table cuisine throughout the country. People really care about where their food comes from here.”

Traditional Scottish food is very much based on local produce, since importing foreign spices and foodstuffs was expensive, although there are also French and continental influences.

Carmen was particularly impressed by the fresh fish. “I’m also a fan of seafood so I loved all of the fresh salmon,” she says. “You haven’t lived until you’ve had scrambled eggs and smoked salmon for breakfast in Scotland!”

5. South Korea

Korean food isn’t quite as famous as that of some other Asian countries like Japan and China, but it’s extremely tasty. The traditional set up is a combination of rice with meats and vegetables. (If you’re a vegetarian, you’ll have just as much fun as your carnivorous friends.) The flavors are playful — ginger, red chili peppers, soy sauce, garlic — and kimchi (fermented cabbage or other veggies) is generally served alongside main dishes.

“Meals are prepared from fresh ingredients and chopped into bite-size pieces,” says Connie Pearson of There Goes Connie. “Seasonings are light. Every diner is given its own bowl of rice, then the other dishes are passed among the group while you sit on heated floors (after removing your shoes). Be sure to carry plenty of plastic forks in your bag if you’re not proficient with chopsticks. You might choose to pass on the octopus, but if you go in October, the pear apples are amazing. You won’t have to worry about heavy desserts. They seemed to me to be almost nonexistent.”

6. Portugal

Portugal doesn’t get as much attention as it deserves for its cuisine. Both on account of its traditional eats and its concentration of high quality restaurants, this small Iberian country deserves more love from gourmet eaters. If you love fish, Portuguese food will definitely please you. (Being a maritime nation has its benefits!) Portugal also benefits from its former empire, which have injected its food with a wide range of spices and influences.

According to Cindy Baker of Travel Bliss Now, the must-visit Portuguese cities for food are Lisbon and Porto.

“The one thing you must have is a pastel de nata, a custard tart that was invented in a monastery,” she says. “Of course, you can’t eat just one… In Lisbon, most tourists line up at Belem, but my favourite is Manteigaria. It’s where the locals go. The fish is very fresh in all of the restaurants and you should also try the octopus. The food and wine are excellent and surprisingly affordable.”

Food for thought? We certainly hope so. There’s something to make your mouth water in every corner of the world.

10 Things To Do On Your First Trip To Madrid

After studying abroad in Andalusia for six months, I was pretty bummed when I found out I had been placed in Madrid to teach for a year. I didn’t want to be in a big city, and I feared that living in Spain’s capital would, due to its size, inevitably result in a lack of authentic Spanish culture, the main reason I wanted to return to the country in the first place. Let’s just say that I couldn’t have been more wrong. After all, Ernest Hemingway didn’t call it the “most Spanish of all cities” without reason.

Though, in my opinion, it’s true that Madrid isn’t as Spanish feeling as some other cities in the south such as Sevilla and Granada, it makes up for this with its diversity and animated spirit.

They say that New York is the city that never sleeps, but let me tell you, Madrid takes the cake. That’s probably why it’s slogan is “Madrid, me mata,” translating to “Madrid, it kills me.” You can party until dawn in Madrid, an activity referred to by Spaniards as la madrugada, meaning to stay out all night until the sun comes up.

There are endless things to do in Madrid, but if it’s your first time traveling to the Spanish capital, be sure to try some (if not all) of the things listed below to get a true feel for this incredible city.

10. Visit the Royal Palace

One of Madrid’s most majestic and historical structures, the Royal Palace, or Palacio Royal de Madrid, is the official residence of the Spanish royal family, though it is only used for state ceremonies.

The Royal Palace in Madrid is Europe’s largest royal palace by floor area, stretching 135,000 square meters and containing 3,413 rooms.

On Wednesdays and Saturdays when weather permits, travelers can witness the changing of the guards. Visitors are welcomed to visit the Royal Palace from Oct. to Mar. from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Apr. to Sept. from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The Royal Palace’s nearest Metro stops are Ópera and Plaza de España.

Madrid's Royal Palace (Palacio Royal) — Madrid’s Royal Palace (Palacio Royal). Photo Credit: Alexandra Mahoney

9. Dine at the world’s oldest restaurant

According to the Guinness Book of Records, Madrid’s Sobrino de Botín is the world’s oldest restaurant, in continuous operation since 1725.

At the beginning of the 20th century, Botín was a family-owned restaurant run by the González family, with only one operating floor and seven employees, including Amparo Martín, her husband Emilio González, and their three children. After the Spanish Civil War, the couple’s sons Antonio and José assumed control of the business and made it what it is today.

When dining at Botín, be sure to try the restaurant’s famed roasted suckling pig (cochinillo asado) and roasted baby lamb (cordero asado).

The world's oldest restaurant, Sobrino de Botín. — The world’s oldest restaurant, Sobrino de Botín. Wikimedia Commons

8. Take the Calle Cava Baja challenge

Before I even explain what it is, I must warn you that, if you decide to take on this challenge, do so at your own risk!

Madrid challenges its visitors to partake in the Calle Cava Baja “tapas crawl,” an activity you’ll likely only hear about through locals. The challenge dares only the bravest souls to eat one tapa and have one drink at every tapas bar on Madrid’s famous Cava Baja street in La Latina neighborhood near Plaza Mayor.

Cava Baja street is known for housing Madrid’s best tapas. From classic tortilla española (potato omelet) to famed Basque pintxos, Cava Baja street is Madrid’s go-to tapas hub. Give yourself a big pat on the back if you’re able to complete the tapas crawl without hitting the floor first!

Calle Cava Baja in Madrid, Spain — Tapas abound at Calle Cava Baja. Wikimedia Commons

In Europe, I think one of the most affordable and beautifully underrated cities is Madrid. For a capital city, the prices are fabulous. The streets are colorful, charming, and everything you’d expect from a European destination. The people are very friendly, and while there’s not as much to see from a tourist standpoint compared to other Spanish cities like Barcelona, there is this special energy in Madrid. The restaurants are also incredible and I could spend all day walking around Retiro Park or visiting their famous museums like the Prado, Thyssen and Reina Sofia!

Carmen Edelson, Carmen’s Luxury Travel

7. Spend a day at Retiro Park

Similar to New York’s Central Park, Madrid’s Retiro Park, or Parque del Buen Retiro, is a great place for a picnic, people watching, street performances, a leisurely rowboat ride in the park’s pond, or a glass of sangria.

Hanging out in Retiro Park is an especially popular pastime during the city’s spring and summer months, filled with locals lounging in the grass, playing music and having a midday bocadillo, or baguette sandwich.

Retiro Park is also home to the Crystal Palace, a glass structure built in 1887 on the occasion of the Exposition of the Philippines.

Woman walking through Retiro Park, Madrid, Spain — Retiro Park is a popular hangout spot among locals and expats alike. Photo Credit: Alexandra Mahoney

6. See the sunset at Templo de Debod

Madrid’s Templo de Debod (Temple of Debod) is an ancient Egyptian temple dating back to the 2nd century B.C. that was dismantled and rebuilt in Spain’s capital city as a thank you to the country for helping save Egypt’s Abu Simbel temples.

Sunset is the best time to visit Templo de Debod, in order to see the temple’s stunning reflection at dawn. Decorative motifs and the temple’s history, scale models, videos, and audiovisual material is projected on the walls to help visitors understand the significance of this magnificent monument.

Sunset at Templo de Debod, Madrid, Spain — Sunset is the best time to visit Templo de Debod. Photo Credit: Alexandra Mahoney

5. Have a fancy cocktail with a view at Círculo de Bellas Artes

A favorite local activity is to watch the sunset during the spring and summer months. The rooftop terrace at Círculo de Bellas Artes, a private, non-profit cultural organization founded in 1880, features the most spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of the city and the picturesque Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range.

Visitors can gaze upon Madrid’s Gran Vía and the Metropolis Buiding down below. The rooftop terrace is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., offering a variety of cocktails, beer, and wine. Entrance to the 7th-floor rooftop terrace is €4.

View from atop Círculo de Bellas Artes, Madrid — Views atop Círculo de Bellas Artes. Photo Credit: Alexandra Mahoney

4. Gaze upon some of the world’s finest art

While Madrid is home to several world-class art museums, Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía and Museo Nacional del Prado are its two most noteworthy.

The Prado Museum is widely recognized as having one of the world’s finest collections of European art, dating from the 12th to the early 20th centuries. Visitors flock to Prado Museum specifically to catch a glimpse of Diego Velazquez’s Las Meninas and El Greco’s The Nobleman with his Hand on his Chest.

It comes as no surprise that the Reina Sofía Museum is best known for housing Pablo Picasso’s mural Guernica.

Woman sitting on bench, viewing paintings in the Prado Museum, Madrid, Spain — The Prado Museum. Photo provided by Pexels

3. Stroll through Puerta del Sol & Plaza Mayor

Christmas tree in Plaza del Sol — Puerta del Sol houses Madrid’s largest Christmas tree during the holiday season. Photo Credit: Alexandra Mahoney

Sprinkled throughout Madrid are a myriad of vibrant and famous central plazas, specifically Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol.

Located just a few short blocks from one another, Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol are great for an afternoon coffee, people-watching, street performers, shopping, and restaurants.

Both plazas are particularly stunning during the holiday season, and Puerta del Sol is home to Madrid’s largest lighted Christmas tree.

Art displays in Plaza Mayor at Christmas, Madrid, Spain — Plaza Mayor is especially breathtaking during the holiday season. Photo Credit: Alexandra Mahoney

2. Taste test amazing Spanish food at Mercado de San Miguel

With more than 100 years in operation, Madrid’s Mercado de San Miguel is located in the heart of the city and first opened its doors as a wholesale food market. Today, Mercado de San Miguel is one of the world’s leading gastronomic markets, with everything from the nation’s freshest Iberian ham to octopus (pulpo) from Galicia.

With more than 30 different stands throughout the market, visitors are invited to head to Daniel Sorlut to try four different types of specialty oysters, Morris for the best meats and seafood, and Horno de San Onofre for endless delectable sweet treats.

Mercado de San Miguel, Madrid — Mercado de San Miguel. Photo Credit: Alexandra Mahoney

1. Watch Real Madrid play at Santiago Barnabéu Stadium

If there’s one thing Spaniards love, it’s a good fútbol match. Spain has a number of prominent soccer teams, namely Real Madrid C.F. and FC Barcelona. If you’re really lucky, you can catch an El Clasico game between the two rival teams held a few times each year. Be ready to spend, though; El Clasico tickets can cost up to €1,000, or $1,130 U.S.

Attending a Real Madrid game at Santiago Barnabéu Stadium is one of the most exciting local experiences travelers can indulge in when visiting Madrid. Get ready for some good rival fun, friendly shouting matches, and lots of “olé, olé, olé,” chanting.

We hope this piece inspired you to put Madrid on your list. Happy trails!

11 Things To Do In Vietnam

From top to bottom, Vietnam is a country with endless opportunities for exploration, both in its quiet hill tribe towns and in its bustling metropolitan cities.

From the country’s vibrant capital city of Hanoi in the north to its pristine beaches in Southern Vietnam, we’ve highlighted 11 spectacular things to do that can’t be missed when visiting this uniquely diverse Southeast Asian country.

Northern Vietnam

1. Ha Long Bay

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay is a popular tourist destination in Quang Ninh Province in northeast Vietnam, known for its emerald waters and thousands of soaring limestone islands covered by rainforests.

Situated in the Gulf of Tonkin, Ha Long Bay features nearly 1,600 islands and islets, forming a spectacular landscape ideal for photo ops. The area’s many islands remain practically untouched and uninhibited by humans, mainly due to the precipitous nature of the terrain.

In Vietnamese, “Ha Long” translates to “descending dragon,” the reason the bay is also referred to as the “Bay of the Descending Dragon.”

Boats sailing in Ha Long Bay — Ha Long Bay. Photo provided by Pexels

2. Hanoi

Known for the millions of motorbikes zipping through the streets with what seems to be a total lack of traffic regulations, Hanoi is Vietnam’s chaotic and vibrant capital city, a great place for nightlife, some of the best pho in the nation, and an abundance of educational and historical experiences.

According to VietNamNet Bridge, Hanoi will have 6.1 million motorbikes by 2020, 7 million by 2025 and 7.5 million by 2030. Hanoi’s motorbike prevalence and hectic traffic is by far the city’s most manifest character trait.

While in Hanoi, be sure to indulge in its many cultural landmarks, such as Ho Chi Minh Museum, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Hanoi Temple of Literature.

3. Sa Pa

A lesser-known Northwestern Vietnam destination, Sa Pa is a small town in the Hoang Lien Son mountains, home to various hill tribes such as the Hmong, Tay and Dao that make up much of the population.

Known for its vast and lush rice paddies, Sa Pa is a popular trekking base that overlooks the terraced rice fields of Muong Hua Valley.

Go backpacking in Cat Cat Village, take a suspended cable car ride to Fansipan Peak, or visit the town’s Notre Dame Cathedral, built by the French in 1895.

Sun rising over rice paddies with mountains in the distance, Sa Pa, Vietnam — Sa Pa. Pixabay / Kenznguyen

Central Vietnam

4. Golden Bridge, Ba Na Hills, Da Nang

With its grand opening in June, Da Nang’s Golden Bridge in Ba Na Hills is stunning travelers from around the world. Its a unique architectural curiosity not to be found anywhere else in the world.

Two enormous stone hands extend toward the sky from below, as if they were holding the bridge itself. The structure soars 3,280 ft. above sea level, with the hands representing the “giant hands of Gods.”

Golden Bridge is a 150-meter pedestrian bridge and this year was named one of TIME‘s “100 Greatest Places.”

5. Hoi An

Known for its limitless, colorful strung lanterns, lengthy canals, and its well-preserved Ancient City, Hoi An is situated on Vietnam’s central coast, a former port city known for its blend of cultures.

When walking through Hoi An, travelers can see the history etched in the city’s architecture, with remnants of wooden Chinese shophouses, ornate Vietnamese tube houses, the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge and French colonial buildings.

When traveling to Hoi An, don’t miss out on An Bang Beach, Fukian Assembly Hall and Phung Hung Ancient House.

Ben Kaplan of Green Global Trek agrees that Hoi An is one of the most beautiful places in the world.

“The combination of Chinese and Colonial French architecture is simply beautiful,” Kaplan says. “The yellow and blue town sits at the edge of a beautiful river that connects Hoi An to local islands that can be visited on the back of a scooter. Every street corner is an opportunity for aesthetic exploration. The high quality food markets and street food culture just adds an irresistible layer that make Hoi An the easiest claim to ‘most beautiful and affordable city’ that I have not only visited, but lived in for 5 months. Just go. Now.”

Woman standing by canal in Hoi An, Vietnam — Hoi An is known for its hanging lanterns and canals. Unsplash / Katherine McCormack

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

6. Cu Chi tunnels

Saigon was Southern Vietnam’s former capital before being captured by North Vietnamese troops in 1975 and subsequently renamed Ho Chi Minh City. It is now the country’s most heavily populated city with approximately 8.4 million residents.

A historical city, Ho Chi Minh is webbed with an immense network of connecting underground passages known as Cu Chi tunnels. The Cu Chi tunnels are part of a much larger network of tunnels spread throughout the country that were dug by communist guerilla troops known as the Viet Cong in order to combat better-supplied American and South Vietnamese forces during the Vietnam War.

The Cu Chi tunnels combine as a great history lesson and day trip from Saigon, an experience not to be missed during any visit to Ho Chi Minh City.

7. Ben Thanh Market

Located in Saigon’s District 1, Ben Thanh Market is a large marketplace and one of the city’s earliest surviving structures.

An important symbol of the city, Ben Thanh Market was developed from informal markets by 17th-century street vendors near Saigon River.

Travelers visiting Ben Thanh Market will get the change to purchase traditional ao dai garments, local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs, Vietnamese art, and authentic cuisine.

8. War Remnants Museum

With exhibits relating to both the Vietnam War and the first Indochina War involving French colonists, War Remnants Museum’s permanent exhibits feature 66 photos, 20 documents and 153 historical artifacts.

The museum is dedicated to cherishing the memories of the Vietnamese people’s great heroism in their struggle against foreign aggression.

Entrance into War Remnants Museum is 40,000 VND, or $1.70 USD, and free for children 6 years old and younger.

Evening rooftop views of Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. Photo Credit: Alexandra Mahoney

Vietnam’s Beaches & Luxury Resorts

9. Phu Quoc

A Vietnamese island off the coast of Cambodia in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc is known for its pristine white sand beaches and five-star resorts.

Salinda Resort Phu Quoc Island is a five-star boutique resort dedicated to providing outstanding hospitality, featuring 121 luxury rooms, suites and villas designed in a contemporary style.

This top-notch Phu Quoc resort also features various restaurants and bars, a swimming pool, boutique shop, Salinda Spa, a health club, business center and Kid’s Club.

10. Nha Trang

Known for its beaches, diving sites and offshore islands, Nha Trang is a coastal resort city in southern Vietnam stretching along Tran Phu Street, packed with world-class resorts, seafood restaurants and a promenade.

Set on Nha Trang Bay, Evason Ana Mandara Nha Trang is a chic, five-star luxury beachfront resort with close proximity to Long Son Pagoda and the Vinpearl Cable Car linking to Hon Tre Island.

As Nha Trang’s only beachfront resort, Evanson Ana Mandara Nha Trang features 74 guesthouses with beautiful views of the water and touches of elegant Vietnamese decor.

11. Mui Ne

Mui Ne is a beach resort town in Southeast Vietnam along the South China Sea. Mui Ne features a long, palm-lined stretch of sand with steady wind conditions, making it a hub for windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing and other water sports.

One of Mui Ne’s only five-star resorts, Anantara Mui Ne Resort features several pool villas surrounded by tropical gardens and encompassed by the resort’s lagoon.

When visiting Mui Ne, be sure to visit the Red Sand Dunes, Mui Ne Harbor (Suoi Hong) and Muine Fishing Village.

Rowoboat tied to dock in the water at sunset, Phu Quoc — Phu Quoc. Pixabay / quangle

We hope you take us up on some of these suggestions if you’re planning a trip to Vietnam — though, of course, this isn’t an exhaustive list by any means! Happy trails.

5 Restaurants In Branson, Missouri For Upscale Dining

Casual attire is the standard in Branson, Missouri. Casual eateries, family restaurants and diners dominate its extensive choices for eating out, but there are also excellent places for upscale and fine dining. Try one of these 5 restaurants for an elegant dining experience where, in most cases, your casual attire is still welcome.

1. Black Oak Grill

Located in the north end of Branson Landing, the Black Oak Grill serves hearty Midwest fare with a modern twist. Wood beams create a relaxed rustic atmosphere. Large windows and a patio provide views of Lake Taneycomo. The restaurant is named for the black oak tree which can be found across the American landscape.

The menu offers a wide variety of choices that include sandwiches, steak, fish, burgers, salads, ribs, meatloaf, pot roast, chicken, and small plates. The bar features wine, beer, and cocktails. Try the signature Black Oak Punch, made with Pinnacle Sherbet Vodka, Voga Moscato, lemonade, ginger ale, and a splash of cream.

2. Level 2 Steakhouse

Level 2 Steakhouse, located in the Branson Hilton Convention Center Hotel in downtown Branson, features 28-day aged corn-fed Midwest beef and fresh produce. Steaks are seared in a 1600-degree infrared oven, which quickly sears the outside and produces a tender steak. Choose filet mignon, ribeye, Kansas City strip, or Wagyu beef direct from the farm in Highland, Missouri. The varied menu of sides includes roasted garlic whipped potatoes, Parmesan and truffle salt steakhouse fries, grilled asparagus, creamed spinach, and sauteed mushrooms.

Patrons are given a choice of one of five signature steak knives to dine with for the evening. After dining at the Level 2 Steakhouse five times, you become a member of the Kut Klub. Your name is engraved on one of the Signature Knives for your personal use on future visits.

For non-steak lovers, Level 2 Steakhouse also serves chicken, pork, and responsibly harvested fresh seafood. Deserts include cheesecake, chocolate cake, crème brulee, fresh berry tart and the signature Missouri Butter Cake, a moist buttery cake served with ice cream, berries, crème anglaise and whipped cream.

Choose the Level 2 Steakhouse for a romantic dinner or an elegant end to a day of shopping and sightseeing.

3. Dobyns Dining Room at Keeter Center

The student-run Dobyns Dining Room at the Keeter Center on the College of the Ozarks campus features farm-to-table American cuisine in a lodge setting. The College of the Ozarks is a Christian liberal arts college known as Hard Work U because it provides the opportunity for full-time students to work at campus jobs or industries in lieu of paying tuition fees. The hosts, servers, cooks, and bakers at Dobyns Dining Room are students at the college. Many are enrolled in Culinary Arts or Hotel and Restaurant Management.

The menu, which changes seasonally, features items from the college’s farms, organic vegetable gardens, and mill. Agriculture students produce the dairy, beef, pork, fruit, and vegetables used in the kitchen. Prime rib, pork pomodoro, corn meal trout, rosemary peach glazed flat iron steak, pistachio, and bacon chicken chop, house-made pasta, and Southwestern quinoa are just a few of the items on the menu. Be sure to include a scoop of ice cream with your dessert choice. (The ice-cream is made fresh daily by students using cream from the college’s dairy farm.)

Enjoy your dining experience at Dobyns Dining Room early, since the restaurant closes at 8 pm. It is also open for lunch. Its award-winning Sunday brunch is a local favorite. Note that the restaurant does not serve wine or other alcohol. Student entertainment is provided Thursday through Saturday evenings and at Sunday brunch.

4. Osage Restaurant and Buffalo Bar

The Top of the Rock Ozarks Heritage Preserve, located seven miles south of Branson, opened in 2014. Sitting at the highest elevation in the county, the resort overlooks the Ozarks Mountains and Table Rock Lake. It was designed by Johnny Morris, founder of Bass Pro Shops, using the natural landscape as a guide and with concern for sustainability.

The Osage Restaurant at Top of the Rock offers a spectacular dining experience with sweeping views of the Ozarks landscape and high-end American cuisine. Rotisserie Roasted All Natural Chicken is a signature dish. Other items on the menu include steak, buttermilk fried chicken breast, charred rack of lamb, and pan seared halibut. You might want to try Gooey Butter Cake or Ozarks Mud Pie for dessert. Note that appropriate resort attire, which means collared shirts for men, is required. The cozy Buffalo Bar, located on the lower level of the restaurant, offers many of the same menu items as well as wood-fired pizza.

A special treat at the resort is its signature Sunset Ceremony, where a traditional bagpiper plays in the background as the sun sets on Table Rock Lake.

5. Chateau Grille

Chateau Grille at Chateau Lake Resort Spa & Convention Center, located ten miles from downtown Branson, also offers stunning views of Table Rock Lake. Its award-winning cuisine features creatively prepared steak, pork, chicken, quail, and seafood using local, organic or sustainably grown products, all elegantly presented. Chateau also boasts an extensive wine list. Live piano music accompanies dinner on Friday and Saturday nights.

For a truly unique experience and an epicurean adventure, book the Chateau’s exclusive Chef’s Table. At the time of your reservation, the Executive Chef provides custom menu-planning for your dinner party of up to 18 people. Your five-course gourmet meal will be paired with fine wine servings.

We hope these higher-end food options in Branson will give you food for thought while you plan your next trip! To learn more about Branson, check out our list of 11 Unique Down-Home Branson Restaurants, or 10 Things To Do In Branson, MO Besides Seeing Shows.