Basic Tips For Haggling When You’re Overseas

Haggling can save you some serious coin (if you’re good at it), and when you’re traveling on any kind of budget, that’s a pretty big deal. Still, haggling in other countries isn’t quite the same as it is in the States. And it’s not always optional; in some countries it’s considered pretty gauche not to have a little back and forth.

Here’s your handy guide to your next tourist negotiation.

1. Haggling Is A Sport

Some people are afraid to engage in haggling for fear of offending someone, but remember, it’s not about fighting with the person. Often times, vendors in locations like Thailand, Morocco, etc. have been haggling all of their lives. Not only does this mean they won’t be offended by it, it means that they’re very, very good at it.

It’s important to realize that, using the sports analogy, these people are pros. They’re the LeBron’s, the Crosby’s, the Brady’s of haggling. You likely aren’t in the same vicinity, or perhaps even the same realm as these people.

Know who you’re competing against and that they know exactly what they’re doing! Forget about winning and just try to get the best deal you can.

2. Keep It Light And Easy

You’re on a vacation, so don’t make haggling stressful or aggressive. Keep a smile on your face, be friendly, and don’t be too bold.

Many pro-hagglers consider it to be similar to flirting. There’s a give and take and a building of rapport throughout the process. It’s OK to joke and put some familiarity into the negotiations, in fact, it might even help you come out with bigger savings!

3. Know The Product

It’ll be an uphill battle if you’re not familiar with the item or service you’re negotiating for. By doing some preliminary research, you’ll know what questions to ask, comparisons to make, and things to look for in determining if it’s a worthwhile purchase.

Quality can vary greatly from vendor to vendor, so by being knowledgeable of the item you desire will enable you to look for any flaws or issues. You also might be able to talk the vendor down by drawing comparisons to similar products others are selling for cheaper.

4. Get Your Game On And Be Aloof

Give your opponent as little to work with as possible. Basically, keep your cards close to your chest from the second you approach. Go as far as to act disinterested, like you don’t really care if you buy now, later, or never or from this vendor or someone else. If you’re a card player, you know the importance of a good poker face, and it’s equally important when you’re haggling.

That also means that you should be prepared to walk away. Not only will this save you from getting suckered into a bad deal, it’s also a great final negotiating tactic. Many find that the second they start to walk away, the real offers start to come out.

5. Know Your Limit

Part of walking away is knowing your limit. It’s best to set a limit as to how much you’ll pay for something and then stick to it firmly.

When you have set rules before you get to the negotiating table, it won’t require any second thought to immediately dismiss or accept a vendor’s offer. It will also show them that you mean business and that you’re not open to being convinced!

6. Bundle Items Together

Consider creative offers, i.e. ask if they’ll drop the price if you buy a few items. This will likely get you at least somewhat of a discount and will allow you to quite literally walk away with more than you bargained for.

7. Don’t Negotiate Against Yourself

Your first offer should always be low, but any self-respecting vendor will likely reply with mock horror and say that price is way too cheap. They might ask you to make another offer, and psychologically speaking, you’ll be more inclined to go significantly higher on your second offer due to their reaction. Don’t be fooled!

The vendor is trying to make you negotiate with yourself, but take control of the negotiations by forcing them to come back to you with an offer. If you provide all the numbers, you’re making their job way too easy.

8. Don’t Go Too Far

It’s easy to get carried away when you’re in the midst of a fierce haggle-off. It’s fun when it’s light and there are no hurt feelings, but when it gets too serious and aggressive, it becomes a fight, and usually for insignificant reasons. Don’t become so obsessed with winning that you ignore a good deal in pursuit of an even better one, especially if it’s minor.

At the end of the day, what matters most is getting what you want for a fair price, and feeling happy. Traveling is meant to be fun, and so is haggling! If you follow these tips, you’ll have an edge in your negotiations and a better chance of walking away pleased with the deal you got — but remember always to have fun!

5 Cool Things To Do In Pittsburgh

If you’re visiting Steel City, you’ll want to consider including these cool things on your itinerary.

1. Step Into The Future At The Robot Hall Of Fame

If you think you need a pulse to be famous in 2018, think again! Whether you’re a fan of technology or just science fiction, the Robot Hall of Fame in Pittsburgh is here to say: these are the droids you’re looking for.

The Carnegie Science Center’s roboworld section is the most extensive collection of robotics on exhibit in the world, and this is where you’ll find the Hall of Fame. It combines both fictional robots from some of the most beloved films and TV shows, along with real machines that served as seminal technological advancements in their day. Since 2003, the goal of the Hall has been to recognize and represent innovation within the robotics industry — as well as our fascination with machines-as-characters.

On the fictional side of things, some past honorees that you’ll find in the Hall of Fame include Disney’s WALL-E, C-3PO from Star Wars, and Gort from The Day the Earth Stood Still. On the real side, you’ll see revolutionary machines like the Roomba and BigDog. There’s even an interactive component at the science center that allows you to operate some robotics on your own.

Not only is this an amusing way to spend a few hours in Pittsburgh, with robotics becoming even more prevalent in our day-to-day lives, it’s an exciting (or terrifying?) glimpse into the future that will leave you with lots to think about.

2. Have A Drink At Church

Drinking in church is usually a no-no, but at this church-turned-brewery, you’re encouraged to take your medicine by the pint!

The Church Brew Works has converted the historic St. John the Baptist Church into a massive beer hall. St. John was abandoned in 1993, but three years later, the brewery performed lengthy renovations to turn this place of worship into something that would be a little more beer-friendly. The building still retains its ornate decorations and stained-glass windows, and at first glance, you might again think you’re in a church. After a few beers, though, you’ll realize that you’re not!

They’ve won many awards for their brews, so besides taking in the unique unusual aesthetic of a church-pub, you’ll find something great to drink as well.

Downtown Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh: the old juxtaposed against the new. Unsplash / Vidar Nordli-Mathisen

3. Check Out A Bicyclist’s Heaven

Bicycles have been around since the early 1800s, and so, of course, they have a considerable history. Pittsburgh’s Bicycle Heaven will give you the full walk-through (pun intended) of the bicycle’s backstory, from its inception to the present day.

With over 3,000 bikes on display, Bicycle Heaven has become the world’s largest bicycle museum. It even includes famous entries like Pee Wee Herman’s bicycle, plus two more floors worth of exciting relics and memorabilia.

If you’re a fan of bicycles or history, Bicycle Heaven is worth a visit. It’s also a functioning bike shop, so if you get a flat tire while you’re in town, stop on by!

Bicycle Heaven, Pittsburgh — Bicycle Heaven

4. Ride The Monongahela Incline

There’s something about funicular railways. These old-timey hill-climbing tramways always feel like romantic odes to the past, and Pittsburgh has a noteworthy one in the form of the Monongahela Incline.

Borrowing from their European culture, immigrants came up with the idea of building a funicular in Pittsburgh during the late 1800s. That makes the Monongahela Incline the oldest funicular in continuous operation, and it still provides visitors with access to the peak near Monongahela River. From there, you’ll see incredible views of the downtown skyline.

With so few of these funiculars still functioning in the United States, it makes sense to check out one of the oldest and most famous of the whole bunch!

Monongahela Incline. Flickr / TheSeafarer

5. Visit The Center For PostNatural History

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) have gotten a pretty bad rap lately, but the science behind their engineering is pretty impressive. The Center for PostNatural History (CPNH) is an alternative museum that showcases life-forms that have been intentionally modified by genetic engineering performed by scientists.

Almost invisibly, this science has played an important role in modern society, being used to reduce malaria parasites in mosquitoes, create sea monkeys, and produce spider-silk protein that can be used as kevlar-type bulletproof protection. It’s pretty fascinating stuff, and the CPNH has been collecting and cataloging this information so that its rich history doesn’t vanish — and so that the public can better understand how genetic modification works.

A wide assortment of specimens have been showcased in the museum, and there are also interactive videos that visitors can engage with.

If you’re very much anti-GMO, rest-assured that the CPNH passes no judgment in favor or against GMOs, it merely records it all for historical purposes and the edification of visitors. Visit the center and see for yourself how vast and diverse GMOs can be and perhaps you’ll be able to better determine how you feel about it all!

Of course, we’ve just scratched the surface of things you can do in Pittsburgh. But we hope we’ve given you a few ideas about how to spend your time in the ‘Burgh.

The 7 Fastest-Growing Destinations May Surprise You

If you want to check out some of the coolest up-and-coming travel destinations before everyone else jumps on the bandwagon, here’s where you want to go according to recent travel trends!

1. Sierra Leone

Every year, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) records travel statistics and predicts trends, and this year, they recorded a surprising destination with the biggest uptick in visitors: Sierra Leone.

From 2015 to 2016, the number of visitors to this small West African nation increased by 310%, perhaps partially due to the fact that the country was declared Ebola-free in 2015, but also due to the fact that it’s a spectacular destination with a lot of wonderful attractions on offer.

Between the beaches, friendly locals, and peaceful villages, Sierra Leone is a great destination for travelers seeking an out-of-the-way vacation.

South Africa is a prime competitor of Sierra Leone, and it drew over 10 million travelers in 2016 while Sierra Leone drew in only 75,000. It’s got a long ways to go, but we think it might continue to grow in popularity with more adventurous travelers! It’s just… you know, tough to shake Ebola.

2. Egypt

Egypt has sadly earned the reputation of a dangerous destination in the past few years, since the fallout of the Arab Spring effectively swept a military junta into power. But under this admittedly repressive regime, violence has continued to decrease and tourism has started to pick up once again.

There’s no doubt that there’s a lot to see and do in Egypt — the Great Pyramids or taking a camel ride — and with a 51% increase in tourism last year, it seems like the tide is finally turning in Egypt’s favor.

It might be time to consider this as a viable option once again, especially since so many of us have the Pyramids on our bucket lists.

Check out our top choices for hotels in Egypt.

Egypt, desert, camel — Unsplash / Mariam Soliman

3. South Korea

Despite the nearby dictator in the north, South Korea has seen a 30% increase in visitors in recent years, reaching a grand total of 17.2 million in 2016.

Much of South Korea’s modern splendor has escaped notice for years. But with secret paradises like Jeju, a Hawaii-like island with breathtaking beaches, hiking, underground cave exploration, and majestic volcanos, it’s no wonder that tourism has continued to thrive. The capital, Seoul, is one of the most happening cities in the world, packed full of exciting activities, luxurious lodging, and fine dining.

Get on board with South Korea and you’ll be part of a rising wave of savvy travelers that see the next big thing coming. And, hey — with Kim Jong-un making friendly noises in the North, this may soon be an even safer and more attractive destination than it is now!

Seoul, South Korea — Unsplash / Oleksii Khodakivskiy

4. Moldova

Moldova received the third-fewest visitors out of all European countries in 2016, but it has actually seen significant increases compared to its past numbers. For some, the fact that it still has a relatively low tourist count is actually a selling point.

There’s some really interesting Soviet-style architecture to be seen in Moldova’s capital, Chisinau, and history buffs will also appreciate the over 2,000-year-old monastery complex, Orheiul Vechi. Bird-watchers will also have their hands full, with upwards of 300 species to admire.

Wine culture is growing rapidly in Moldova, which hs some of the largest wine cellars in the world. And, really: do you need a better reason than wine to go for a visit?

Lavender field, Moldova — A lavender field in Moldova.

5. Iceland

If you’re on Instagram or Facebook, you’ve likely seen at least a few posts from friends or friends of friends who have visited Iceland recently. It’s still in the minority compared to major tourist destinations, but the number of visitors increased by 35% from 2015 to 2016. In fact, Iceland has become so popular with travelers that the government hasinstituted a tourism tax in an attempt to stop the tide.

June through August are the most popular times of year to visit Iceland with more daylight hours and warmer weather, but the year-round hot pools are always a treat. Reykjavik is a lovely city with great (albeit often expensive) dining and there are lots of activities to fill a well-priced Iceland trip, and there are still many deals to be had!

6. Kiribati

Kiribati is a diamond in the rough, and one that few have even heard of. Only 5,000 people traveled to this South Pacific island chain in 2015, but that’s an increase from the previous year. And there are many reasons we’ll likely see that number continue to increase in the coming years.

One reason is the micro-nation’s plentiful coral atolls, islands encircled by coral reefs, which make Kiribati a diver’s paradise. Visitors might have to string together activities on a few of the islands to fill out a week or longer trip, but there’s plenty to do and see in Kiribati, and not many people competing for the views… yet!

7. Madagascar

If you’ve seen the movie of the same name, perhaps you have an idea of the plentiful wildlife to be found on this island nation of the southeast coast of Africa, and that is indeed a big selling point for visitors. Dozens of lemur species and more than half the world’s chameleons are to be found here. Madagascar is considered “megadiverse” by Conservation International.

It’s the fourth largest island in the world, and you’ll likely spend the majority of your time exploring all the natural splendor it has to offer.

You might be surprised by some of the places that made this list. Some may be worth your time, and some may not. But the larger point is that there are always new and exciting destinations catching the imaginations of travelers the world over. This time next year, the list may look completely different. It’s a big and beautiful world after all!

10 Facts You Didn’t Know About Sedona, Arizona

These 10 facts about the small desert town of Sedona are no mirage; this locale holds a ton of secrets waiting to be discovered. This western travel destination has a little adventure for everyone.

Fall leaves in Sedona, Arizona. — John Earl Webb / Shutterstock

1. It’s A Top-Spot For Fall Foliage

Sedona has changing leaves that will make you believe you have been transported out of the desert. Although the northeast is home to the most amazing foliage the eyes can see, Northern Arizona has a few tricks up its sleeve every autumn. Sedona trails that are above an elevation of 8,000 feet experience some of the most picturesque fall foliage you can find anywhere in the country, and it’s one of the area’s best-kept secrets.

Take a walk up one of the town’s trails to view the contrast of the golden aspens against the desert landscape. Drive through Oak Creek Canyon, a stretch of land between Sedona and Flagstaff to see leaves in vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Visit between September and the middle of October for the best fall foliage viewing experience in Northern Arizona. You won’t want to miss this unreal desert show every fall.

Bikers on a trail in Sedona. — meunierd / Shutterstock

2. The Canyon Walls Have A Deep History

Every geological component of this desert town is simply breathtaking, and the red rocks are not the only star. The canyons that line this Arizona hotspot are definitely a sight to be seen, and they hold a very distinct and timeless piece of history. These vast gorges are made up of nine layers of different types of stone, dating back millions of years, allowing these canyons to tell centuries of stories.

Vibrant sandstone, limestone, and basalt stone make up these massive landmarks, and all three types of stone represent different time periods and fascinating geological processes. The layers of limestone and sandstone were formed by sand dunes, and mud blown by the wind, while the bottom layer of basalt was formed by volcanic eruptions that took place over 14 million years ago. These colorful canyons are sure to catch your eye, and the history of these geological forces is sure to inspire.

Want to get up close and personal with the best of Sedona’s rock formations?

Travel writer Stacey Wittig told TravelAwaits, “Sedona is a mecca for day hikers. With over 89 named trails in the area, Sedona’s iconic red rocks draw hikers from around the world.”

“All trails are rated for difficulty from Double-Black-Diamond mountain biking routes like Hangover Trail to easy rambles like Margs Draw, where grandchildren [can] experience the wonder of red rock scenery. Other trails lead to archaeological sites or historic cabins.”

Phoenix resident and Sedona regular Emily Blosser said one of her favorite family-friendly hikes is Submarine Rock.

“The rock that you end up climbing on really does look like a submarine. It’s an easy hike, too.”

Last time we went, there was someone playing a flute on top of one of the rocks. It echoed across and made you feel like you were in another world.

Hikers overlooking Sedona. — Nikolas_jkd / Shutterstock

3. The High Elevation Causes Mild Winters

Although Sedona is nestled in the heart of the Arizona desert, it isn’t blistering hot year round. This Southwestern small town has an elevation of 4,500 feet, which equates to a break from the intense heat during the winter months.

Tourists take note: winters are generally mild, with the average high temperature in January being 51 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 21 degrees Fahrenheit. A definite break from the average high of 95 degrees Fahrenheit in July. Sedona also has an average of more than 300 days of sunshine per year, which is more than the state of Florida expects on a yearly basis. Florida minus the humidity? Sedona has weather that can do no wrong.

Cowboys in Sedona, Arizona. — Alena Vezza / Shutterstock

4. Classic Western Films Were Born Here

Far from the bright lights and big city, Sedona still managed to make its mark on American cinema. It’s no surprise that the bright red rocks against the dry, desolate desert make for a great Hollywood backdrop. This desert town became Hollywood’s hottest set during the 1940s and 50s when actors such as John Wayne made cowboy films a smash hit. The town of Sedona has been the set of endless Western films, most notably Billy the Kid and Broken Arrow.

Elvis Presley, James Stewart, Henry Fonda, and Robert De Niro are just a handful of successful actors that have put Sedona on the map through the silver screen. Sedona is strikingly beautiful, and it wasn’t long before Hollywood began cashing in on this dreamy desert location. One glance at the landscape and you won’t question why cowboys have called Sedona home.

A javelina in Arizona. — Tina Andros / Shutterstock

5. It’s Where The Javelina And Peccary Play

Okay, so technically, javelina and collared peccary are the same thing: bristly, pig-like animals native to the Americas. According to the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, they can be found in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona, and south throughout Mexico, Central America, and even northern Argentina.

The good news for animal-loving vacationers headed to Sedona? You can witness spunky wild javelina at different spots around town, including a favorite restaurant, aptly named Javelina Cantina.

Erin Maxon of With Dog She Travels told us Javelina Cantina “has something for everyone. For those looking for a great Mexican meal, this is a stop you have to make while in Sedona. The surprise comes when you actually see wild javelina over the patio deck bathing and napping in the sun.”

Kids, dogs, and adults alike spend time holding onto the railing just to see these hogs up close and personal. Talk about dinner and a show!

Javelina Cantina offers Tex-Mex favorites, sandwiches, burgers, and even a few vegan options. Note that while you should enjoy your meal to the fullest, the Arizona Game and Fish Department warns people not to feed javelina or other wildlife. In 2018, multiple people were bitten and a herd of javelina–yes, they roam in packs–attacked a woman’s dog. Respect the wildlife!

A Pink Jeep tour in Sedona, Arizona. — Pink Adventure Tours

6. You Can Live Out Your Off-Road Trucking Fantasies

Sedona’s rugged environment might just inspire your inner adventurer to come out and play. If a hike isn’t going to cut it for you but mountain biking seems like a bit too much, Michael Anderson of Passport Explored, who visited Sedona in 2016, has the perfect alternative: an off-road Pink Jeep tour.

What an experience! It’s quite thrilling to be driven through the desert in one of those Jeeps. The best part is that they stop at stunning viewpoints along the way so that you can take pictures of the beautiful Arizona desert.

A Pink Jeep tour can be an excellent way to get out and enjoy nature, even if you or someone in your group has limited mobility. According to a Pink Jeep Tours rep, their Jeep tours can accommodate guests with mobility issues, “as long as they or someone in their party can get them in and out of the vehicle on their own. They also need to have upper body mobility strength to be able to hold themselves up.” Note that different levels of confidence and ability are required to participate in tours that involve hiking, boating, or helicopters.

Maxon of With Dog She Travels also recommended Pink Jeep Tours and credits responsible off-roading with the preservation of much of Sedona’s wilderness.

7. You Can Get A Five-Star Hotel For A Three-Star Price

Booking accommodations might seem slightly–or altogether–less exciting than Sedona’s majestic vistas and Wild West history. That said, it’s an essential part of any vacation, and another reason Sedona is a truly luxurious destination.

According to data from booking site Hipmunk, Sedona is one of 20 U.S. cities where you can book a five-star hotel for a three-star price.

Which high-end accommodations should you consider? Well, according to Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2018, Sedona’s Enchantment Resort and Mii Amo were among the top 20 resorts not only in Arizona, but the entire Southwest.

8. You Can Get Hands On At An Operating Trout Farm

If you’re traveling with a mixed-age group, a trip to Sedona’s Rainbow Trout Farm could be the recipe for a day well spent. This interactive attraction–open seven days a week, weather permitting–is located in the breathtaking Oak Creek Canyon river gorge.

Admission to the farm’s quaint grounds is just $1 per person and includes bait and fishing equipment, so no need to lug anything with you. There are also barbeque pits, picnic tables, and plenty of shade trees.

Employees will clean your catch for 50 cents, and for an extra dollar you can purchase a grill kit that, per Rainbow Trout Farm’s website, includes “lemon, butter, salt, pepper, plate, fork, napkin, and foil.” You can also purchase soda on site and bring your own food and drink.

Of course, there are more “authentic” fishing experiences around Sedona, but this tucked away place is perfect for hassle-free memory making.

A woman meditating in Sedona. — Tom Tietz / Shutterstock

9. The Scenery Has Healing Properties

Mother Nature definitely spent a little more time perfecting this Western locale. Sedona’s red rock formations and endless geological wonders have made it a prime location to become one with the environment and with yourself. The scenery is even said to have healing powers, which is why yoga retreats and other wellness and spiritual experiences have become popular attractions around the area.

The landscape is believed to contain energy-healing vortexes, which attract those looking to make a life-changing pilgrimage to one of the most beautiful places in the United States. Even if you aren’t looking for some sort of spiritual awakening, the beauty of this desert destination is sure to bring you joy and uplift your mood. Take a hike among the red rocks or schedule a tour of the surrounding canyons, Sedona is anything but ordinary.

Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park in Sedona. — Autumn Sky Photography / Shutterstock

10. You Can Visit A Stupa And Peace Park

Joy Musacchio of Stillpoint Aromatics and Alexandra Tran of Schimiggy Reviews both recommend a visit to Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park.

Musacchio said it’s “a free destination in Sedona that feels like stepping into another world,” and went on to share that “the beautiful Buddhist shrine is a place for meditation, prayer, or simply connecting with a sacred space. All our more than welcome. Light walking trails offer plenty of opportunities to see wildlife–especially birds.”

Her suggestion:

Bring some water and plan on spending at least an hour exploring. It’s stunning just before sunset, when the setting sun paints the surrounding cliffs in a thousand different colors.

For a mindful snack before or after your stupa visit, Tran suggested Sedona’s farm-to-table ChocolaTree.

“The food is organic and so delicious! They also have a cute patio area that allows dogs and gives you an opportunity to practice aerial yoga if that’s your thing. Get the chocolate milk. It’s so delicious!”

Sedona may be a small town in the heart of the desert, but it doesn’t lack vibrancy or secrets. Discover the best that Northern Arizona has to offer by learning more about this desert gem. You won’t be disappointed, and you’ll leave absolutely mesmerized.

*Updated March 2019 by Linsey Stevens

9 Things To See And Do In Vancouver

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, quirky attractions, or something in between, you’ll find it in Vancouver. Here’s a list of nine things to see and do in Canada’s gateway to the Pacific. But, of course, this is just for starters!

1. Gastown Steam Clock

The Gastown Steam Clock is one of only a few working steam clocks left in the world, and it can be found in Vancouver’s Victorian city of Gastown. The clock was built in 1977 by Raymond Saunders and Doug Smith. Every quarter hour, you can hear the clock whistle and watch it shoot out steam; every hour is marked with a louder sounding of the whistles. There are only six such working clocks left in the entire world, and this one might just be worth a little bit of your time.

2. The Museum Of Anthropology

The Museum of Anthropology can be found on the University of British Columbia’s campus. If you want to really get to know Vancouver, you have to start at the very beginning, and that’s what you’ll get with this museum. It tells the story of the peoples who settled in the area over 10,000 years ago and showcases both ancient and contemporary history that really helps to elucidate the city’s roots.

Vancouver's Musesum of Anthropology totem pole — Vancouver’s Musesum of Anthropology. Wikimedia Commons

3. Stanley Park

Stanley Park is Vancouver’s oldest and largest urban park. You can walk along the Seawall and take in the scenic views of the mountains that rise out of the sea behind the city, survey the water, the sky and the trees that grow along the lush coastal inlets. There are plenty of hiking trails to choose from, as well as beaches and historical landmarks. And, on top of all that, Canada’s largest aquarium can be found here as well — The Vancouver Aquarium. You could plan a whole day in Vancouver just around this park.

4. The Digital Orca

This public art piece is a must-see for anyone who visits Vancouver. The Digital Orca looks like a giant Lego killer whale leaping right out of the ground — or right out of an Orca-themed video game. This unique landmark was created by the famed novelist and artist Douglas Coupland and was installed in 2009.

5. VanDusen Botanical Garden

There is so much to do at the VanDusen Botanical Garden. It is home to one of only six Elizabethan hedge mazes in North America. which is composed of 3,000 pyramidal cedars that were all planted in the fall of 1981. Besides the maze, the garden covers over 50 acres and showcases different plants from all around the world. The Bloedel Conservatory is also found here and is the highest point in all of Vancouver. It contains three separate climate zones under one roof — tropical, subtropical and desert — and is home to over 500 different plants, as well as 100 free-flying exotic birds.

6. Vancouver Police Museum

The Vancouver Police Museum is where you need to go if you’re trying to uncover Vancouver’s dark side (and, alas, there is a dark side). It houses around 20,000 different objects, including counterfeit currency, police uniforms, photographs, and confiscated firearms and other weaponry. The museum also offers a themed tour called “Sins of the City” that explores the history of prostitution, murder, and bootlegging in Vancouver. It all began as a celebration of the Police Department’s centennial anniversary in 1986, but has since blossomed into an intriguing, sobering exhibit on the other side of Vancouver.

7. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

This traditional 15th century Chinese garden can be found in the middle of Vancouver’s Chinatown. It is rich with colors, winding paths, seasonal trees, and is many koi fish. The garden was created as a collaboration between Canada and the People’s Republic of China, and it hosts a variety of events including regular yoga and tai chi lessons, as well as several festivals throughout the year.

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen was the founder and first president of the Chinese Republic, and the garden is named in his honour.

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. Flickr / mayanais

8. Jimi Hendrix Shrine

A shack in Vancouver has been transformed into a shrine to, of all things Jimi Hendrix, making it a site of pilgrimage for any and all music lovers. What it lacks in size it makes up for in authentic Hendrix memorabilia. Photos, guitars, vinyl records and concert flyers can all be found inside. You can also see letters from Jimi to his grandmother, and get a genuine look into what his family life was like. The owner of this shrine, Vincent Fodera, is currently planning to add a 32-foot statue of Hendrix to the grounds.

9. Deep Cove

Deep Cove is located in the District of North Vancouver and is the ideal spot to spend your day if you love the outdoors. Ocean kayaking is a popular pastime in the city, and Deep Cove is the best and safest place to do it. While you paddle up Indian Arm, you’ll be able to take in the scenic forest surrounding you, and maybe even get a glimpse of a few creatures who call those forests home. Besides kayaking, you can also enjoy some baked goods at Honey Doughnuts or go for a hike on Quarry Rock.

This is really only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to things to do in Vancouver, British Columbia. This Canadian city is the perfect spot for a family vacation or weekend getaway.

The 7 Best Travel Wallets For 2018

Whether your priority is style, security, or size, one of the wallets from this list is sure to be just what you’re looking for.

1. The YaY Wallet

If you’re looking for something small, affordable, and made in the USA, the YaY wallet should be right up your alley. It’s made of stretchy, woven elastic, and comes in dozens of different designs, ranging from understated to downright funky, and it features double stitching for durability. If you can’t decide which design to go for, you can certainly afford to experiment with more than one, since the wallet only costs $9.99. This little wallet doesn’t have RFID blocking, but if you’re looking for a small, utilitarian wallet, the YaY Wallet will fit the bill nicely.

2. Zoppen Multi-Purpose Document Organizer And Wallet

This travel wallet by Zoppen packs a lot of features into a relatively small package. Among other things, this tri-fold wallet offers a smartphone pocket, passport pocket, zippered pocket, key holder, and even a SIM card pouch. It is made of polyurethane leather and faux suede and features RFID-blocking shielding to keep your information safe. There are plenty of colors to choose from, and Zoppen manages to cram all these benefits into a wallet that has a footprint of 7.5″x5″x1″. Costs range from $11.99 to $16.99 depending on which color you select.

3. Tarriss RFID Neck Wallet and Passport Holder

Sometimes, you’ve just got a lot of stuff to carry, and you want to keep it safe. In that case, this neck wallet by Tarriss is sure to please. You can wear it over your clothes for ease of access, under your clothes to keep your goodies stashed away, or even folded up to become a more traditional travel wallet. There’s even a breathable backing for those who choose to wear it under their clothing. It’s durable, versatile, comfortable, and thanks to its RFID blocking capabilities, secure. It’s only $16.97 and ships free within the United States.

Tarriss travel wallet — Tarriss Travel Gear

4. Agilisk Travel Wallet And Document Organizer

If you’re the designated pack mule of your traveling party, this wallet by Agilisk should give you the storage capacity you need. This wallet can hold up to nine credit cards and four passports, along with all the other odds and ends you need to lug around. It is made out of quality nylon and has an RFID blocking liner. The built-in side strap helps keep your wallet by your side, and ease of pocket access was a major consideration in the design. You can wear it around your neck, across your body, or on your shoulder. It costs $24.99 and comes in black, blue, or red.

5. Seawhisper Travel Clutch

Made of high-density waterproof nylon, the Seawhisper Travel Clutch is an ideal choice for those of us who refuse to let a little rain keep up from exploring. This clutch features four passport pouches, making it a solid option when traveling with a family. There are also 10 credit card slots, a spot for cash, and a zippered pocket for your most precious items. The detachable strap allows you to hook this wallet to your belt, backpack, or wrist. It comes in a variety of vibrant colors and offers RFID blocking and a lifetime guarantee. For $15.99, this travel wallet is tough to beat.

6. Active Roots Security Belt

While not a traditional travel wallet per se, the Active Roots Security Belt deserves mention for being streamlined and inconspicuous. No, this belt can’t hold your passport, or even a credit card. That’s not its intention. It’s designed to hold your money, and maybe a key. It could hold a copy of your passport, at least, which could come in handy. Unlike traditional money belts, this belt is slim and unobtrusive. It keeps your money hidden in plain sight, keeping it safe from pickpockets and muggers. It costs $21.95, and you might like it so much that it becomes your everyday belt.

7. Pacsafe RFIDsafe V50

Pacsafe offers an assortment of travel equipment, with their priority being security. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that the strongest asset of the Pacsafe RFIDsafe V50 is security. As the name suggests, if offers RFID blocking, and the detachable strap is constructed of difficult-to-cut Dyneema webbing, which means you can attach it to your belt or backpack without fear of a strap-slashing thief cutting it loose. It is made of nylon and boasts five card slots. No, it won’t hold your passport, but it’s stylish, light, compact, and it will keep your cash and cards protected. It costs $24.95 and comes in three color options.

When it comes to choosing a travel wallet, the options are endless. The wallets from this list will keep your items safe, meaning you won’t have to worry and can focus on having a good time, wherever you may roam.