The Best Travel Credit Cards Of 2018

You can’t leave for vacation without a trusty credit card. But which company will you choose? Some credit cards offer perks designed explicitly for savvy travelers, while others are aimed squarely at savings. Here are eight of the best travel credit cards for 2018.

1. Capital One Venture

Capital One’s best travel card is simple: you earn double miles for every purchase, every day, without having to concern yourself with restrictions, categories or promotions. There is a 50,000 point sign-up bonus for those who spend $3,000 within the first three months, and the $95 annual fee is waived for the first 12 months.

Even though the rewards are simple and straightforward, card members can boost to 10x miles if they book hotel rooms through hotels.com. Tthe rewards also do not expire and are easily applied with a statement credit.

2. Chase Sapphire Preferred

New card members received 55,000 points – a $1,155 value – for signing up after spending $4,000 in the first three months. Chase adds some unique benefits that other travel cards lack, such as:

Earn double points on Uber, rental cars, trains, tolls, and airport parking.
Car rental insurance.
Trip delay insurance.
Baggage delay insurance.

3. American Express Platinum

One of the top premier travel rewards cards, the American Express Platinum is all about luxury and convenience. With this card, members can get 5x rewards for flights booked directly through the airline or Amex Travel. The same 5x applies to stays at eligible hotels booked through Amex.

As a platinum member, you also have Uber VIP status, which grants you a $15 monthly Uber Credit. Direct cash benefits also include a $200 yearly airline fee credit. Neither of these bonuses fully offset the $550 annual fee, but other amenities, such as access to American Express Global Lounges and use of American Express’s concierge services may be desirable for those looking for the ultimate in travel convenience.

4. Chase Ink Business Preferred

One of the top business travel cards, Chase Ink Business Preferred is ideal for those whose work takes them all over the country (or globe). Like other cards, it boasts a massive signup bonus, but it also boosts rewards to 3.75x on travel, shipping, internet, and advertising purchases.

5. Discover it Miles

If you are looking for a cheap and straightforward entry into travel rewards, then Discover’s it Miles card may be of interest. There is no annual fee, ever. Cardmembers earn 1.5 miles for every dollar, unlimited and unrestricted – with no categories. As a bonus, Discover will match your first year’s miles and, for the first 14 months, your APR is 0%. (Note that the zero percent APR does not apply to balance transfers.)

But while the card may lack certain benefits, it compensates with its simplicity and unique features, such as the ease of account freezing in the event your card is misplaced or stolen.

6. United Mile Plus Explorer

If you routinely travel by air and are loyal to a particular airline, you may be interested in one of the many branded airline miles rewards cards. United’s Mile Plus Explorer card, for example, provides a lot of frequent flier benefits. With United’s travel card you get:

Free checked bags, which could save you up to $100 per trip;
Priority boarding;
Two passes to United Clubs at the airport.

Rewards are comparable to other travel cards, but focused on airline purchases. Airfares earn double miles, and if you opt for the business card, these double miles get extended to restaurants, gas stations, and office supply stores.

There is no annual fee for the first year, and there is a signup bonus of 50,000 miles after spending $3,000 during the first three months.

7. Citi ThankYou Premier

Citi’s travel rewards card also gives users 50,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 within the first three months. The card has a $95 annual fee, which is waived for the first year. Citi’s advantage is in its tiered reward multiplying. Cardmembers receive triple miles on travel expenses such as gas purchases, airfare, hotels, car rentals, ridesharing, public transportation, tolls, and parking. For all dining out and entertaining, the card provides double rewards. All other purchases earn 1 mile per dollar. The points are unlimited and they don’t expire.

You can also use the points for online shopping at Amazon.com and BestBuy.com, and they can be redeemed to purchase gift cards through Citi’s Thankyou.com portal.

8. Bank Americard Travel Rewards

If you’re already with Bank of America, it makes sense to look at its travel rewards. Although the initial rewards are modest at 1.5x miles, customers with additional banking or investment business with Bank of America or Merrill Lynch can qualify for preferred rewards that can translate to as much as 2.625x.

Also, Bank of America offers bonus 10% customer points and an extra 20,000 points for online sign ups.

If you travel often, travel smart. These cards are a best investment for anyone with a little wanderlust. Just pick the one that suits your needs, and get ready to reap the benefits!

NEXUS: The Handy Frequent-Traveler Card

Since 2008, citizens of the United States and Canada have been required to present a passport or a resident card as proof of citizenship when crossing the border in either direction. This requirement slowed down travel, but a Nexus pass makes crossing the U.S.-Canadian border easier than ever. Here’s how!

1. Fast Border Processing

The United States and Canada share over 5,000 border miles, the longest continuous land border on earth. And since both countries share a common language (except for French speakers in Quebec) and, to a certain extent, common culture, there are many reasons to visit each other. Several U.S. cities are close to the border, such as Detroit, Seattle, and Niagara Falls, and their residents often enjoyed frequent, no-hassle trips across the frontier before stricter border requirements were enacted. Now, border lines and delays can make even short shopping trips unpleasant.

The Nexus card aims to speed up travel at these crossings. At 21 designated sites along the border, Nexus cardholders will find special travel lanes that expedite the process of driving across. In these lanes, travelers only have to scan their Nexus cards at a proximity reader, and only have to proceed through visual inspection if instructed to do so. Note that everyone in your car must possess a Nexus card in order for you to take advantage of these lanes.

2. Expedited Security Lines At Airports

The Nexus card provides advantages for air travel as well. Just as border crossings can quickly get congested with travelers, airport customs lines can slow down your trip considerably.

Similar to the TSA Pre-check, Nexus provides for timelier travel processing when citizens of the US or Canada are traveling by air to either country. Travelers with Nexus can access special lines with faster processing, and potentially even reduced screening protocols. Those entering either country at airports can access self-serve kiosks to process entry rather than waiting in line. At the kiosk, processing is simple, and includes scanning your card and performing a biometric scan of your irises. Also, entry on the U.S. side will often require you to scan your fingerprints for access.

Keep in mind that Nexus kiosks are not available at all airports. Smaller airports usually do not feature these kiosks, so if you often travel between Canada and the United States via smaller airports, you might not see a huge benefit to the card.

Man sleeping in airport terminal — Unsplash / Jay Wen

3. Declarations Forms Are Processed More Quickly.

While possession of a Nexus card does not exempt you from the requirement to declare goods at the border, processing is streamlined at the Nexus border crossing lanes and airport self-service kiosks. When crossing into either country, Nexus holders can make an oral declaration to a Customs officer in certain circumstances rather than going through a detailed interview or laborious paper process. At an airport, Nexus card holders can complete the appropriate customs declarations form and drop it at the self-service kiosk, or simply note the declaration through the Nexus system. Be aware: in airports that don’t have kiosks, or where kiosks are out of order, Nexus card holders are required to proceed as non-card holders.

4. Nexus Is A Second Government ID

For those looking to strengthen their identity protection, a Nexus card is also a second form of government-issued photo identification. This second form of ID can be helpful for those applying for a passport or for travel visas to certain countries, where government-issued picture IDs carry higher quality points. Also, some states have passed stricter identification requirements in line with the Department of Homeland Security’s Real ID requirements.

US passport on top of American flag — Pixabay / cytis

5. The Application Process Takes A While, So Apply Soon

To get all these benefits, you need the card, and although the application process is relatively easy, it can take some time. Normal processing time is eight to ten weeks, but backlogs of applicants at certain times of the year can cause further delays. Your application must be approved by both the U.S. and Canada, so some additional hurdles are involved. You can apply through the Global Online Enrollment System, which serves to speed the process as much as possible. The application fee is $50 (Canadian or U.S. dollars) and requires an interview as well.

Who cannot apply? The Nexus information website lists the following as disqualifications for membership:

You are inadmissible to Canada or the United States under applicable immigration laws;
You intentionally provide false or incomplete information on your application;
You have been convicted of a serious criminal offense in any country for which you have not received a pardon (for U.S. background checks you may be questioned about your full criminal history, including arrests and pardons, which may exclude you from NEXUS);
You have a recorded violation of customs, immigration or agriculture law; or
You fail to meet other requirements of NEXUS.

While international travel between the United States and Canada likely will not return to the free-flowing borders of the past anytime soon, the Nexus card is a giant step forward. It facilitates your travel and shortens the lines that can make departures and arrivals unpleasant.

Looking for more ways to improve your next trip? Check out Trusted Traveler Programs: 5 Facts To Make Travel Simpler.

5 Tips For Planning A Volunteer Vacation

A volunteer vacation is an ideal way to spend your time once it’s your own again. You can give back even as you relax and enjoy yourself. Still, there are a few things to consider before you go out on any humanitarian mission.

1. Figure Out Where You Want To Go

Volunteer vacations can take you practically anywhere in the world. It depends entirely on where you want to go. Keep in mind that this is an opportunity to see the world while giving back in some way. It’s sort of an exchange. There’s nothing wrong with staying near to home – goodness knows that you can do good things no matter where you are. However, this is also your chance to visit China, the Ivory Coast, Belize, or any other place you’ve always wanted to see. You’re still taking a vacation, so don’t feel as though you have to limit yourself to a staycation. Every city, country, and continent in the world needs help in some way, if not many ways.

2. Decide How To Give Back

You can volunteer to do practically anything, provided that it’s in your wheelhouse. You may not want to volunteer for Doctors Without Borders if you’re trained as an accountant, but there are still ways to provide healthcare and medical aid to under-served communities. In general, it’s best to volunteer to do things about which you’re knowledgeable and passionate.

Do you love animals? Look into volunteer programs geared toward nature reserves, animal care, or similar concerns. Share your skills with children and students if you have experience in teaching. Research the opportunities in which you’re most interested to find out what’s available.

3. Ask Around And Get Referrals

You’re going somewhere you’ve presumably never been, doing something you’ve likely never done. It’s imperative to ensure that everything is on the up-and-up. Once you have a few companies or groups on your short list, try to get in contact with travelers who have already gone on vacations with them. If possible, talk to folks who went on holidays similar to the ones that pique your interest. Blogs, review sites, and discussion boards provide a treasure trove of unbiased information, as well.

Regarding individual vacation packages, you need to ask about the accommodations you can expect, as well as the food. On a practical note, discover the nature of your tasks, what you’re responsible for, and the details of the materials and tools provided by the vacation company.

More broadly, learn about the countries you want to visit. Research the local culture. Consider taking language lessons well in advance of your trip. It’s much easier to help someone when you speak the same language, and it sends a genuine message to the people you help.

Do your due diligence in checking out each company you consider, as well. You don’t want to travel with a shady group. Far too many scams make people think they’re doing something good when in reality you end up paying for a fraudulent vacation.

Sadly, we can’t simply count on the character and motivations of people and organizations who claim to be charitable. A little research goes a long way.

4. Don’t Forget The Details

In addition to learning as much as possible about the culture and customs of the region you intend to visit, you need to think about the weather, the climate, and the types of activities you’ll do there. That all has an impact on what you have to pack, and thus what you have to buy before your trip. It’s unlikely that you’ll need much in the way of formal wear, but you do need to protect yourself against things like sunburn and malaria.

You also need to consider what kind of vacation you expect. This is different from deciding on a way to volunteer. Some people want to mix sightseeing and traditional tourist activities with their volunteer work. That’s a lovely idea, and there are sites geared toward travelers just like you. Popular volunteer tourism companies, such as i-to-i, for example, have packages that combine the two.

The exact location of the project is a crucial detail, too. Specifically, ask whether you’ll work in the city or a rural area. You also need to know the breadth and length of the project. Some are a few days long, some are a few weeks, while still others may last a month or more. You don’t necessarily have to stay for the whole duration, but you’ll still need to know the information.

5. It’s Not Cheap

This is not to put you off the idea of volunteer vacations. But they aren’t more or less expensive than traditional holidays. Like anything else, cost depends on where you go, where you stay, and how long you’re there. Domestic getaways aren’t as much as a trip that takes you to another continent.

However, there’s a misconception that you don’t have to pay anything to go on a volunteer vacation. That’s somewhat understandable. Some travelers don’t understand why they have to pay to do work for other people. Even so, you’re responsible for airfare, accommodations, food, and other essentials. To that end, a volunteer vacation isn’t any different from a getaway based entirely on tourism. The feelings of accomplishment, fulfillment, and pride you receive from giving back to a community or group that needs help are priceless.

Unfortunately, all the things it takes to get you there still require cold hard cash.

10 Unique Rooms Only Found At The Madonna Inn

Alex and Phyllis Madonna opened this famous motor inn in San Luis Obispo, California in 1958. After it burned down, they refashioned their namesake into the smorgasbord of eclectic style that’s made it a California icon. Here are some of the more unique rooms you’ll find at this one-of-a-kind establishment.

The American Home Room at the Madonna Inn. — Madonna Inn

1. American Home

The Madonna Inn isn’t shy about its stone features, and the natural stone fireplace at the center of the American Home room is no exception. Tastefully appointed with lavish furnishings, a soaking tub, and a patriotic (mostly) red, white, and blue color scheme with golden accents, the American Home is one of the stateliest, most handsome rooms in the inn, and certainly one of the least ostentatious.

The Jungle Rock Room at the Madonna Inn. — Madonna Inn

2. Jungle Rock

One of the best examples of the inn’s use of natural stone, this room pairs the natural beauty of the jungle with comfortable, simple furnishings. Natural stone walls and rock showers are paired with animal prints and textured wood throughout, all beneath a sky-blue ceiling canopied with vines, leaves, and tree branches. You’ll feel like you’re sleeping beneath an Amazonian canopy, but mercifully, without the mosquitos.

The Highway Suite at the Madonna Inn. — Madonna Inn

3. Highway Suite

Before he was the owner of the inn, Alex Madonna was a construction magnate, and this room pays homage to his history in thag industry. Apart from its relatively simple furnishings, the suite features pictures from various construction job sites that Madonna was worked at before the creation of his inn. From the room’s balcony, you can catch a glimpse of nearby Alex Madonna Highway, a local stretch of U.S. 101, from which the chunks of stone that make up the room’s central fireplace were taken.

The Golfer's Room at the Madonna Inn. — Madonna Inn

4. Golfer’s Room

A room inspired by – you guessed it – a golf course, with smooth green walls contrasting against the rough brick accent, natural wood furnishings, and a winding tile trail throughout. This room also features a roll-in shower for easy access, and its own private walled patio with stone fireplace for outdoor relaxation, which, unlike golf, is not an acquired taste.

The Cabin Still Room at the Madonna Inn. — Madonna Inn

5. Cabin Still

This room’s decor and furnishings powerfully recall the bootlegging days of Prohibition. The room’s natural stone walls and flooring create a rustic atmosphere, but the real talking points are the replica copper boiling tank near the bed, and the copper still in the bath.The room also features wood paneling reminiscent of the barrels used to store bootleg liquor, in addition to one of the Madonna’s trademark rock showers. Unfortunately, the still and boiler are just replicas, so attempting to brew whiskey in the room is strongly discouraged.

Bit of Solvang Room at the Madonna Inn. — Madonna Inn

6. Bit Of Solvang

This room’s moniker hearkens to the nearby Solvang, California, (“Sunny Field” in Danish) and its historic restaurant “Bit o’ Denmark.” The room live up to its namesake, with its Danish-inspired decor and the blue and yellow color scheme of a bright, sunny day, detailed in delicate patterns reminiscent of Denmark’s hand-painted china. If the room gives you a hankering for a danish, mercifully, you’re not far from the inn’s bakery, where they prepare them fresh daily.

The Just Heaven Room at the Madonna Inn. — Madonna Inn

7. Just Heaven

“Just Heaven” is exactly what it sounds like – a sky-blue paradise adorned with cheeky golden cherubs in flight. Tastefully decorated in the French style, the room is made extra special with a winding staircase that leads up to a private viewing tower. With its top-floor location up against the backdrop of the hillside, the tower offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside, while letting in plenty of natural sunlight.

The Wilhelm Tell Room at the Madonna Inn. — Madonna Inn

8. Wilhelm Tell

You may know him as William, but in his native Switzerland and at the Madonna Inn, he’s known as Wilhelm Tell, a folk hero known for shooting an apple off of his son’s head (and less well-known for assassinating a tyrannical lord). In keeping with the legends of Wilhelm Tell, this room is splashed with bright apple red, contrasting with its natural stone walls, while the lead glass windows are detailed with scenes from his famous life story. Brush up on some folk history before falling asleep in the room’s king-sized bed.

The Yahoo Room at the Madonna Inn. — Madonna Inn

9. Yahoo

This room has nothing to do with the tech company, instead drawing its inspiration from the early pioneer days. The centerpiece is the authentic buckboard wagon bed, complete with four wheels and a driver’s seat (although you’ll have to bring your own whip). The furnishings are otherwise rustic wood worthy of any cowboy, and the natural stone Madonna employs throughout the rest of the inn. It also features a bathroom door reminiscent of an outhouse, but thankfully, has an actual toilet behind it!

The Old Mill Room at the Madonna Inn. — Madonna Inn

10. Old Mill

If you’re on your way down to Disneyland, than the Old Mill room is a great place to set the tone. Its storybook appointments include a lovely hand-painted mural of a river that segues into a replica of a water wheel and mill, which in turn propels the animated figures that live inside. Thankfully, none of them sing “It’s a Small World,” but the theatrics of the room are perfect for the young at heart.

For more information about the Madonna, room pricing, or to see more of their 110 themed rooms, you can visit their website!

How To Explore Okefenokee Swamp

Located in Waycross, Georgia, at the headwaters of the Suwannee and St. Marys Rivers, Okefenokee Swamp Park is an impressive National Wildlife Refuge — a vast collection of islands, lakes, jungles, forests, and prairies on the Florida-Georgia line.

The Okefenokee Swamp National Wildlife Refuge stemmed from a non-profit corporation which was eventually chartered as the Okefenokee Association Inc., under the laws of Georgia. The Okefenokee Swamp Park opened its doors officially on October 8, 1946. Nearly a quarter of a million dollars was poured into this very unique community project, which the Okefenokee Swamp National Wildlife Refuge calls “the most unique community project on record.” The end goal of the project was to make the park “one of the most appealing tourist attractions in America” and they managed to do exactly that.

At nearly half a million acres, visitors to Okefenokee Swamp can participate in interpretive exhibits, wildlife shows, boat tours on Indian Waterways, and visits to Pioneer Island, all while observing animals in their natural habitats.

Here are nine ways you can explore Okefenokee Swamp Park.

The observation tower in Okenfenokee Swamp. — N. Riley / Shutterstock

1. Adventure Walk To Observation Tower

Traveling along Okefenokee’s newest pathway, New Low Walkway, visitors will enjoy the half-mile journey on the park’s original boardwalk, initially lost in the 2007 Big Turnaround Fire. You’ll get to see the swamp’s vast ecosystem up close from the boardwalk, which is located directly on top of the swamp. New Low Walkway will lead you to the 90-foot observation tower, which will afford you a bird’s eye view of the wetlands below.

If you’re planning to visit Okefenokee Swamp soon, you should head to the attraction’s website to take a close look at the warning notice and guidelines. The liability forms necessary for anyone planning to take to the boardwalk are accessible there as well.

2. Guided Boat Tours

Hop on one of Okefenokee Swamp Park’s guided boat tours to get up close and personal with the swamp’s native plants and wildlife. Don’t worry: This guided boat tour will also give you the chance to climb the 90-foot observation tower for a panoramic view of the swamp.

Prices range from $22 to $27 for a 45-minute limited boat excursion. Group tours are also available, and allow you to experience the guided swamp boat tour with friends and family at a discounted rate. The size of your group will determine the time allotted for your tour. To participate in a group tour, you must have 12 or more people, with one person paying. Reservations are required for 20- and 45-minute group excursions.

Keep in mind that all boat tours depend on the swamp’s water levels. There are no refunds due to weather conditions. Availability of group tour boats is subject to change without notice.

3. Cypress Cove Annex

Okefenokee Swamp is the perfect place for hosting any large event. The Cypress Cove is a venue at Okefenokee Swamp where large private events can be held. Family reunions, birthday parties, and holiday parties are just some of the events that can be held at Cypress Cove — and the list goes on!

The venue can comfortably seat 200 guests within a climate-controlled environment. Cypress Cove includes a fully equipped kitchen with an outdoor cooking area for grilling. Rental fees are based on the day of the week and time of day you plan to host your event: $200 Monday through Thursday and $250 for Friday, Saturday, or Sunday.

Daytime business meetings of five hours or less Monday through Thursday are $125. For all other events, you’ll pay the full day rate of $200. Reservations for the venue can be made up to twelve months in advance.

A bonus to this unique venue is that parking is free of charge and guests can enjoy tours of the park grounds at a discounted rate!

Alligator in Okenfenokee national wildlife refuge in southern georgia. — Nina B / Shutterstock.com

4. Georgia’s Natural Wonder: Plants And Animals

The Okefenokee Swamp is home to a variety of wildlife and in many ways is a true wildlife refuge. The wildlife seen in the swamp are seen their natural habitats and all inhabitants are protected by law. This Southeastern swamp is unique in being one of the few places in America that offers such a wide variety of wildlife, including 34 types of fish, 40 mammal species, 60 amphibian species, and 50 reptile species.

Beyond wildlife, the swamp is home to several natural wonder plants as well. These plants are special because unlike plants eaten by animals, they eat the animals. The Okefenokee Swamp has a variety of carnivorous plants that are a great interest to many who witness them. Carnivorous plants that thrive in the swamp include the pitcher plant or fly catcher, bladderwort, and sundew.

Taking some time to view and gain more knowledge about these natural wonders will enliven your Okefenokee Swamp experience.

5. Natural Wonder Special Programs

Okefenokee Swamp is famous for its alligators, cypress trees, and incredible history. The swamp is even recognized by the United Nations as a wetland of international importance because of its wildlife diversity. You can learn all about the swamp’s wildlife with these two special programs.

“Eye on Nature” is an educational offering for all ages. You will learn all about the animals that live in the Okefenokee swamp during this 20 to 25 minute presentation, which can be viewed all year round.

“Can I See?” gives visitors the opportunity to check out a variety of wildlife from several observation areas. Don’t forget your camera! You’ll get some great shots of the park’s animal denizens, such as otters, black bears, and alligators!

6. Seasonal Light Show

Take a train ride through the park and enjoy a fabulous display of lights during the Christmas season! Listen to your favorite Christmas tunes throughout the trip and tour the park exhibits afterward! Santa can even be spotted during certain times of day during the light show — making Okefenokee Swamp the perfect place to take the kids or grandchildren to tell Santa their Christmas lists. Check out more details and a full schedule.

7. Pogo Possum Exhibit

Pogo Possum was created in 1943 by none other than the witty and brilliant Walt Kelly himself. After Kelly’s six-year career with Disney Studios, he returned home and began illustrating a series of comic books which featured a “furred and feathered” bunch of creatures who lived in the Okefenokee Swamp. Pogo made an appearance in approximately 500 papers and 14 countries and a whopping number (nearly 300 million copies) of books centered around Pogo and his swamp friends have been sold since he debuted.

After Kelly’s death, his widow, Selby, continued the comic strip, but it was finally discontinued after 26 years in 1975. In 1987, the City of Waycross was granted permission to adopt Pogo as their goodwill ambassador. The city brought Pogo home to Okefenokee, where you can now visit the Pogo Exhibit. In January of 1989 Pogo made a full return with effort from the New York Times and the Kelly family. The Okefenokee exhibit features Pogo and his “swamp critter friends” roaming around serving up playful jokes about the social and political highs and lows of the 1980s.

8. Board The Swamp Train

All aboard the Swamp Train! Visitors can hop aboard the The Lady Suwannee, a 36-gauge replica steam engine built by Cummings Locomotive, and feel like they’re traveling back in time.

The Lady Suwanee’s track was installed by B.R. Moore Construction Company and completed in the winter of 1999. The railroad track began giving out tours of the swamp in the spring of 1999.

The 1.5-mile railroad system at the Okefenokee Swamp Park serves as a mode of transportation for the visitors, circling part of the Okefenokee Swamp. Those who hitch a ride will enjoy a stop at Pioneer Island, where they can experience exhibits focused on early American history.

9. Visit Oscar The Alligator’s Skeleton

In 2007, one of Okefenokee’s longest-standing residents passed away. Oscar the alligator was a 100-year-old gator who once resided in the Okefenokee Swamp. Oscar was described as being a dominant male, but a very docile creature. Unlike most alligators, Oscar was not known to show aggression. Due to his overprotective nature, his only issues came about when other males tried to intrude on his territory or his many girlfriends.

Put back together bone by bone by Don Berryhill and Jim Brewer, Okefenokee now features an educational exhibit that showcases Oscar’s full-scale skeletal structure. This informative exhibit is a testament to Oscar’s century of life, and the extraordinary anatomy of the great American alligator. Soon, guests who visit Okefenokee Swamp Park will have the opportunity to see hundreds of Oscar’s offspring roaming the park waters — a less morbid but more dangerous legacy.

Okefenokee Swamp Park is a beautiful destination that the whole family can enjoy. The park has become one of the most well-known wilderness areas in the United States, featured in many Hollywood movies and TV shows. At Okefenokee Park, you can immerse yourself in the history of the continent — from the legacy of Native Americans who hunted and fished here to the European settlers who came to call the swamp home.

If you’re planning a visit to the beautiful Okefenokee Swamp Park, be sure to check out admission prices and camping and hotel accommodations in Waycross, Georgia.

Road tripping through the South? Don’t miss these 15 hidden gems in Savannah, Georgia, or some of the best places to eat before you head south to the swamp.

*Updated by Traneah Ford June 2019.

Photo Credit: MilesbeforeIsleep / Shutterstock

Photo Credit: Stacy Funderburke / Shutterstock

8 Must-Visit International Zoos For Animal Lovers

Almost every major city in the world has a zoo. At their best, zoos provide a home to animals in need, bring us closer to the natural world, and inspire appreciation for our cousins in the animal kingdom. Here are some zoos you should definitely hit up if you happen to be in the neighborhood.

1. Wellington Zoo, New Zealand

The Wellington Zoo originally opened in 1906 as New Zealand’s very first zoo. It is dedicated to preserving species that are native to this isolated string of islands. That includes the endangered national bird, the Kiwi, as well as Sumatran tigers, the miniature Sun Bear and other animals from the wider Pacific rim. In total, the zoo covers 32 acre; more than 500 animals call it home. The staff are committed to maintaining comfortable, sustainable habitats for the animals in order to ensure they live as happily as possible. As a result, the zoo is frequently recognized for its use of green technologies and sustainable resources when it comes to animal handling.

2. Berlin Zoo, Germany

The Berlin Zoo and its aquarium are home to over 17,000 individual animals. It is the oldest and still the most-visited zoo in Germany. The zoo was originally created from the personal menagerie of King William IV of Prussia, but many of those animals tragically did not survive World War II. However, a pair of lions, some hyenas, a bull elephant, almost a dozen baboons, and a chimpanzee did survive, and the zoo continued to thrive. More natural enclosures and conservation efforts, as well as gifts from foreign dignitaries, helped turn the zoo into what it has become today: one of the most popular attractions in all of Berlin.

Planning a German excursion? Check out From ‘A’ To ‘Zeppelin’: 15 Things To Do In Germany.

3. Warsaw Zoo, Poland

The Warsaw Zoological Garden is a scientific zoo located along the Vistula River. Covering about 40 acres it’s home to over 4,000 animals from 500 different species. An interesting fact about this zoo is that it once served as a hiding place for Jews and other escapees of the Warsaw Ghetto during the Nazi occupation of World War II. The zookeepers of the time, a husband and wife team named Jan and Antonina ?abi?ska, were responsible for saving the lives of hundreds of Jewish people, and were later recognized by the state of Israel for their good deed. The Zookeeper’s Wife, a movie about the ?abi?skas, was released in 2017.

The Warsaw zoo was temporarily closed during the war, but it reopened in 1949 and has been one of Europe’s most popular zoos ever since.

4. Beijing Zoo, China

The Beijing Zoo was established in 1906 during the late Qing Dynasty. The first animal to occupants were monkeys, parrots, and an emu. It is now home to 950 different species, many of them rare species native to China that you aren’t likely to see anywhere else in the world. This includes giant pandas, Chinese alligators, Chinese great salamanders and South China tigers. More than six million people visit the Beijing Zoo every year. Like many of Beijing’s other parks, the grounds are designed to resemble classic Chinese gardens.

Thinking about visiting China? Check out Fulsome & Forbidden: 11 Things To Discover In China.

5. Philadelphia Zoo, United States

The Philadelphia Zoo was the first public zoo in the United States. It was chartered by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in 1859, but the American Civil War delayed the opening, pushing it back to 1874. It opened with around 1,000 animals and an original admission price of 25 cents. It is now the home of one of the best primate exhibits in the world. The exhibit includes many rare species, including Silverback gorillas, Sumatran orangutans and gibbons.

6. Basel Zoo, Switzerland

The Zoo Basel, formerly known as the Basel Zoological Garden, is a nonprofit zoo located in downtown Basel. It is both the oldest and largest zoo in Switzerland, hosting over 600 different species. Some of the rare animals you will find living here include the Pygmy hippopotamus, okapi, and Indian rhinos. Basel is known as the site of the first birth of an Indian rhino in captivity. Their rare breeding program is also reputed to be one of the most successful in the world.

7. San Diego Zoo, United States

The San Diego Zoo covers 100 acres and shelters around 4,000 individual animals from 650 species. It is known for being a pioneer in creating open-air, cageless exhibits that aim to recreate natural animal habitats as accurately as possible. You can see many exotic creatures here, such as giant pandas, leopards, koalas, elephants, and Chinese alligators. The zoo’s botanical garden has more than 700,000 plants, and you can get a bird’s eye view of the entire park by taking a ride on the Skyfari Aerial Tram. The zoo also hosts a conservation and research institute.

8. Melbourne Zoo, Australia

The Melbourne Zoo, officially known as the Royal Melbourne Zoological Gardens, opened in 1862 and is the oldest zoo in Australia. It was modeled after the London Zoo and is home to over 320 different species. This includes species that are native to Australia as well as their cousins from all around the world. Their Australian exhibit includes kangaroos, koalas, wombats, echidnas and more!