12 Completely Free Things You Can Do In Boston

Free is great, but at some point, your time is worth more. The best part of the experiences below? You get the benefit of both. These are some of the most scenic and historic places in Boston, but they’ll cost you little-to-nothing to see. If you spend a day, seeing some awesome, free sights, you’ll feel better about staying in that fancy hotel room or splurging on lobster dinner.

Inside the Boston Public Library. — Elijah Lovkoff / Shutterstock

1. Boston Public Library

From the moment your feet hit the first steps leading to the Boston Public Library, you know it’s a special place. The arched windows and red tiled roof with green copper cresting are just a glimpse of what awaits you in the McKim Building.

Once inside, you’re surrounded by beauty, from the floor to the ceiling. This library is home to an impressive collection of tomes, but also fantastic works of art.

The marble staircase is guarded by two marble lions. Murals decorate the second-floor hall. The arches and detailed ceiling are simply gorgeous.

The McKim Building’s biggest surprise is possibly its peaceful interior courtyard. The arches and walkway are almost an exact replica of the Cancelleria Palace in Rome.

Free, one-hour tours are offered at various times throughout the week. Check the schedule when planning your trip.

The Boston Public Garden. — ESB Professional / Shutterstock

2. The Public Garden

From the indoors, to the beautiful outdoors. Boston is home to the oldest public botanical garden in the country. Surrounded by tall buildings and adjacent to Boston Common, you can stroll the paths of this city oasis.

The Public Garden is home to some very important and permanent visitors. Near the corner of Beacon and Charles Streets, you’ll find Mrs. Mallard and her eight ducklings, from Robert McCloskey’s Make Way for Ducklings.

From mid-April through mid-September, you can take a peaceful spin in a Swan Boat on the lagoon. This experience isn’t free, but it’s close enough at less than four bucks a person. The boats are seasonal, operating from mid-April through early September.

A free concert at the Hatch Shell in Boston. — James Kirkikis / Shutterstock

3. Hatch Shell

The Hatch Shell, on the Charles River Esplanade, hosts free outdoor concerts and movies in the summer.

The location is best known for its 4th of July celebration, when the Boston Pops rolls out real cannons for Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture. But, there are other events throughout the summer with far fewer people.

Free Wednesday night concerts at the Hatch Shell are performed by the Boston Landmarks Orchestra. Free movies are shown on Friday nights in June, July, and August.

There are also other performances throughout the summer and the events schedule is usually released in mid-to-late spring. Just bring a blanket, something to eat and drink, and enjoy a free night under the stars along the beautiful Charles River.

4. Shakespeare on the Common

This free event is also limited to the summer, usually mid-July through early August. As you can tell by its name, the great works of William Shakespeare are performed on Boston Common in the heart of the city.

The performances are presented by the Commonwealth Shakespeare Company and take place at the Parkman Bandstand. They begin at 8 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and 7 p.m. on Sundays.

The Freedom Trail in Boston. — James Kirkikis / Shutterstock

5. The Freedom Trail

This is the ultimate in free things in Boston because not only is the self-guided walking tour free, but so are several of the stops along the 2.5-mile trail.

Boston Common in Massachusetts. — Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

6. Boston Common

The route starts here in is the oldest public park in the country, and of course, it’s free. Frog Pond, which is in the park, is known for ice skating in the winter. While the skating will cost you about $20 for admission and rentals, watching others glide around the pond is always free.

The Massachusetts State House in Boston. — Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock

7. Massachusetts State House

Free tours of the Massachusetts State House are offered on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. throughout the year. The tours last between 30-45 minutes. You’ll see the House and Senate Chambers, learn about the buildings architecture, and discover the meaning behind the Sacred Cod. Even though it’s free, you do need to reserve your spot.

Park Street Church in Boston. — Roman Babakin / Shutterstock

8. Park Street Church

This is the church where William Lloyd Garrison delivered his first major antislavery address in 1829. It’s also where America or My Country ‘Tis of Thee was performed for the first time. The song was written by the church’s organist. You can take a look inside from mid-June through late August, Tuesday-Saturday from 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. The church is also open for Sunday services.

King's Chapel in Boston. — Hannu Aaltonen / Shutterstock

9. King’s Chapel

This is the site of New England’s first Anglican Church. The bell, still used today, was recast by Paul Revere in 1816. Guided tours are offered several times of day, starting at the top of the hour, but the days of the week do vary depending on the season.

Every Tuesday, King’s Chapel hosts a free recital starting at 12:15 p.m. The recitals last between 30 and 40 minutes and feature a variety of performing artists. While the tours and recitals are free, there is a suggested donation for each. All donations from each recital go to the performers.

Faneuil Hall in Boston. — f11photo / Shutterstock

10. Faneuil Hall

This is the site of the country’s first town meeting and where Americans first protested the Sugar and Stamp Acts. The National Parks Service operates Faneuil Hall today, which still hosts political and civic events. The visitor’s center is open year-round. Ranger-guided talks take place several times a day when the Great Hall is open.

Old North Church in Boston. — Jorge Salcedo / Shutterstock

11. Old North Church

“One if by land, two if by sea.” This is the church where lanterns were hung to signal how the British were advancing in 1775. The actual steeple has been rebuilt because of damage from two hurricanes. You can start your tour with a short presentation about the church and then look around at your leisure. It’s free, but a donation is suggested. There are also daily guided tours from March-December, which cost $6 per person.

Bunker Hill Monument in Boston. — Jorge Salcedo / Shutterstock

12. Bunker Hill Monument

This is the site of the first major battle of the Revolutionary War. Today, you can climb the 294 stairs to the top of the monument, which is dedicated to the Battle of Bunker Hill. A museum, located across the street from the monument grounds, displays artifacts from the actual battle. Both the monument and museum are free. The site is part of the Boston National Historical Park and is located in Charlestown.

How To See Machu Picchu Without Climbing

This majestic view of Machu Picchu, one of the ancient wonders of the world, comes with a cost. To reach the pinnacle from which the picture was taken requires a four-day trek through perilous terrain. Although the famed ‘Inca Trail’ is the road most traveled by, there are less strenuous options.

If you don’t feel like climbing into the clouds on foot, you’re not alone. But what are your alternatives if you want to explore the wonders of Inca Land?

A bus or train from Puno or Cusco can to take you to the town of Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu town) at the foot of Machu Picchu, where some may join the rugged trail to the peak. For people with average mobility, a shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes to the peak is available and runs on a frequent schedule for under $20 round trip. You will find walking around the peak (shown above) brisk but doable if you are comfortable with stairs.

The Machu Picchu peak is a national park and has an admission fee as well as timed entry in order to manage the crowds. Single-entry or multi-entry passes can be purchased in the town where the shuttle buses depart.

If photography is important to you, it may benefit you to visit the peak both in the morning for sunrise and again at sunset. The view changes and reveals differing, yet amazing sights. Also note that fast moving clouds can obscure your view, so if you only plan on visiting the park once, you may have to “wait” a while to get the perfect photo.

The altitude of the town is under 7000 feet, while the peak is just around 8000. For comparison, this is the same air pressure you would experience on a commercial airline flight. Precautions for altitude sickness can be taken, but are not necessary for most for this adventure.

From Machu Picchu, one of the most spectacular views is to Huaynu Picchu shown above. You will see dozens of brave hikers attempt the winding path up the taller peak. Many of them have just completed the 4 day “Inca Trail”, claiming this beautiful trophy as their prize. But the photo opportunities are best from Machu Picchu.

The Machu Picchu town lies a bit more than 1000 feet below the peak and serves as a gateway for tourists and locals to the ancient jewels of the mountain. Welcoming restaurants, shops, and cafes line the streets, as do accommodations of varying qualities. The river that runs through town is fed by mountain water and hot springs. Therapeutic hot baths are a welcome respite for hiking (or non-hiking) tourists. The river is one of many tributaries to the mighty Amazon.

While Machu Picchu is a fantastic destination for many, while in Peru, why not also check out Cusco, or Puno (on Lake Titicaca). It will add a few days to your trip, but it will also grant a much fuller picture of Peru’s beauty.

The mountain city of Cusco is one of the highest altitude major cities in the world. At 12,000 feet, a much more active approach to manage altitude sickness is advised. Nonetheless, the cultural and historical activities in the city make it worthwhile for a one or two day stop.

Slightly more out of the way, Puno (the town on Lake Titicaca) is also definitely worth the jaunt. The altitude here is even higher than Cusco, at 12,500 feet, making it the most elevated large lake in the world. Check out the Uros floating village, where friendly locals will show you their spectacular homes on the water.

Cliffs in Miraflores District, Lima, Peru

While Lima, Peru is the probable gateway for most visitors, it has a lot to offer in itself. Plan to spend a few days here after your long flight, and be sure to check out some of the neighborhoods and the dramatic coastlines. Short flights from Lima can take you either to Cusco or Puno to see Peru’s Andes mountain range.

Most people traveling to Peru (from the United States and Canada) will not need a visa to travel, but will need a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity. Many people who have made the trip spend a week or two to explore this South American beauty, but shorter or longer trips can be planned.

Going On Safari? Here’s What To Expect

An African safari is a bucket list item for many nature and animal lovers. Those who do get to go consistently say they’ve experienced the trip of a lifetime. Making a few major choices up front will help ensure the same is true for you: choosing where to go, understanding what you should expect to see, knowing what to bring, and how to prepare for an African excursion. We’ll outline each of those for you here.

Watching elephants on a safari. — bumihills / Shutterstock

The Big 5

Many have heard the expression “The Big 5,” which refers to the five types of game animals hunters in the “old days” used to trawl for.

Nowadays, the shooting is done exclusively with cameras, as it is forbidden to bring firearms on almost all safaris, and, in most cases, the animals are protected by strong anti-poaching laws. However, photography is strongly encouraged, as is having up close encounters (without touching) the wildlife.

The Big 5 include the lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and rhinoceros. Many game reserves in Africa have all five and many, many more mammals, reptiles, and birds to see. When choosing a safari, you should make sure the animals you’d like to see are in fact likely to be there (spoiler alert: There are no tigers in Africa).

Most safaris last more than a day, ranging from two to five days on average. In order to ensure you get the most out of your experience, you should go for a multi-day tour. Although safari guides are experienced and often know where various species like to hang out, it is difficult to predict exactly where they will be at any given time, which makes the search all the more exciting.

A camping spot on a safari trip. — africa924 / Shutterstock

Where To Go

The choice of where to go involves three decisions: which country, which game reserve, and which resort or accommodation style. Let’s break these down…

Many countries in Africa have wonderful wildlife reserves where safaris are offered. The best countries include: Tanzania, Botswana, Kenya, Zambia, South Africa, and Namibia. Of course, there are other countries too, but these are a good start and the highest-rated by visitors.

Choosing your country can and should be influenced by how you’ll get there, vaccination requirements, and available infrastructure. South Africa is a very good choice due to major and notably modern international airports, lower vaccination requirements, and a relatively well-developed infrastructure (in the unlikely event you may need serious medical attention).

Choosing a game reserve will depend more on what you’re looking for. If you’re interested in a quick experience and would like to combine your trip with a visit to major attractions like Victoria Falls or the Cape Town wine region, there are game reserves in or near those destinations. Hwange National Park near Victoria Falls and Inverdoorn Game Reserve near Cape Town are examples.

If you want the full immersive experience, nothing comes close to Kruger National Park. It is the largest and likely most complete in terms of wildlife. Because it is a national park (actually spanning the borders of three countries), it has somewhat stricter rules regarding game drives. Tourist jeeps are required to stay on the roads for the safety of the animals and tourists. Some private game reserves such as Sabi Sand Game Reserve have more relaxed rules and allow game wardens to bring you closer to the animals. Sabi Sands is attached to the southern tip of Kruger Park and has an open border, so the animals in both areas are the same.

Accommodation ranges from “glamping” style tents (well-equipped tents with shared outdoor bathrooms) to more luxurious cottages that include air conditioning and ensuite bathrooms. Most safaris are sold as a package which includes: park entry, two or three daily guided game drives, and full meal service. It is not possible to wander around on your own and you must always be with a licensed and trained game warden. This is for your safety and protection of the wildlife.

Safaris can range from $700 to $1,200 per night (based on double occupancy) depending on the reserve, the resort, and the accommodation level.

Tourists encounter lions on a safari. — GUDKOV ANDREY / Shutterstock

What To Expect Every Day

If you book a multi-day safari, each day will be structured similarly.

Early wake up times allow for tourists to get hot coffee or tea (expect good quality) and a hot breakfast. Some days may only include a quick morning snack to take advantage of sunrise. If this is the case, a full breakfast is usually scheduled for when you return from your first game drive.

Most days will have a morning and an afternoon drive into the park. Some evening drives, depending on your location, may take advantage of sunset and certain animal behaviors. You will likely be sharing an open-air jeep with between 4 and 10 other travelers. There will usually be a driver and a spotter at the front of the jeep. They are there to find animals and keep you safe. It’s important to listen carefully to instructions and rules to help ensure the safety and enjoyment of the group. The spotter will usually carry a firearm for rare emergencies, but will almost never take it out.

You may be able to hike into certain areas of some parks, but it’ll be nothing too strenuous, and it’s always optional. Most people can enjoy a safari regardless of their mobility, but be sure to inform your tour provider in advance if you need special accommodation.

You can expect your days to be full of adventure, and your evenings full of celebration. Meeting new people and sharing stories (or photos) of the day is common. Drinks are readily available (only after the last game drive), but are usually above and beyond the cost of your package.

Tourists encounter a leopard on a safari. — Villiers Steyn / Shutterstock

Photography

Since the only things you can take home from an African safari are memories, you are encouraged to bring a camera. If you’re not a professional photographer, that’s okay. Don’t worry about bringing too much bulky equipment — leave that for the pros!

If you think you need a zoom or telephoto lens to capture a great picture of a big lion, you’d be mistaken! You will likely be 15 to 50 feet from most of the animals, so moderate zoom is all you need. Most of the photos will be daytime shots, so there’s no need for a flash (which is actually forbidden). Tripods are also not likely needed unless you’re taking photos from the resort lodge, as there is not really a good place to use one from the jeep.

Leaving the jeep (even to get a good photo) is never allowed. The best advice is to have a camera that you have used before so that you are familiar with the important features. Smartphone cameras from the last year or two have excellent cameras for daytime photography, so it may be possible to “get away” with that and still impress your friends with high-quality photos.

When sitting in the jeep, you’ll have to be courteous to others so that everyone has an opportunity to point and shoot. Most of the time, everyone has the chance to take a great picture. But be careful with selfie sticks: they may not be allowed on the game drive, as objects protruding from the jeep can appear to taunt the wildlife. And you don’t want to taunt the wildlife, do you?

Tourists encountering zebras on a safari. — AdangRuj / Shutterstock

What To Bring

You are definitely going to want clothing you can layer, rain gear, sun protection, a hat, and several pairs of closed-toe shoes. Wearing light earth-toned colors is preferred, as it attracts less attention from the animals.

Bring any toiletries and homey comforts you can’t do without because you won’t find a Walmart or Western drug store on your safari. Pack your medications in your carry-on along with a change of clothes. Your camera — along with extra batteries and a charger as well as a universal power plug adapter to charge your gadgets — is a must. Even within Africa, electrical outlets in different countries are not standardized.

In addition to your required bug spray, don’t forget a high SPF for your face and arms. It’s possible most of the year to wear shorts on daytime drives, but long pants are recommended if you’ll be bush walking. Night drives tend to get chilly very quickly, so bring along a sweater or a light jacket.

Check the government website of any country you’ll visit for visa requirements. Many countries have a visa waiver program, but not all, and this changes from time to time. You will need to carry with you (preferably at all times) your passport (valid for at least 6 months past your last day of travel) and your yellow inoculation card.

A cheetah on top of a safari jeep. — Pedro Helder Pinheiro / Shutterstock

Health And Safety

Depending on which country you visit and at which time of year, you will definitely have to take precautions for your health and safety. At least six months before your trip, you should check the government travel website to find out which vaccines you’ll need. Your doctor can also find this information if you tell them specifically which countries you’ll be in and for how long. Possible vaccines you may need include yellow fever, typhoid, cholera, hepatitis A and B, rabies, MMR, and prophylaxis for malaria. You will need to bring a “yellow inoculation card” on your travels to prove to local authorities that you are not at risk of carrying disease into or out of African countries.

Every traveler is responsible for bringing any medications they may need for the trip. It’s important to bring an extra supply in case you’re delayed for some reason. Access to medical facilities in Africa is different than in North America or Europe.

Mosquito repellent is seasonally required, but if you’re going in spring, summer, or fall (remember the seasons in the southern hemisphere are opposite from the north!) you should definitely have strong mosquito repellent rated for high risk areas. Most accommodations will provide mosquito netting over beds as an added precaution.

All of the food and drink provided on the resort is geared to foreign tourists and is safe to consume. That said, any time you’re off the resort, or in bathrooms, consider the water unsafe to drink.

Check your health insurance to make sure it includes travel coverage, or purchase separate travel health insurance. Many safari packages will require proof of this.

Tourists encounter elephants on a safari. — Andrzej Kubik / Shutterstock

Special Considerations

Choosing a time of year to go on safari is important. The best months for wildlife viewing are April to September. The weather is better at the beginning and end of this period in terms of temperatures and the chance of rain. Choosing the latter half of that time will ensure shorter grass on the savanna (it will have all been eaten) and easier access to more animals. If you’re lucky enough to be around for the “Great Migration” toward the end of that time, you’ll enjoy watching millions of animals moving to where water and food are available. November is a quieter time to go, and pleasant weather and fewer crowds are a benefit.

When booking your travel to Africa, there are plenty of good airline choices. Airports in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Nairobi are desirable for their regularly scheduled and Western-style flights. From one of those airports, you can expect a shorter domestic flight or a bus transfer. Have your safari tour book these transfers for you, or be fully aware of the details if you do it yourself. Renting a car and traveling on your own is discouraged, as there is little or no highway infrastructure to most game reserves. You should expect a several-hour, intermittently bumpy ride. Note that smaller domestic flights may have more strict luggage restrictions than international flights.

While in Africa, consider taking advantage of one of the other wonderful attractions for a few days before your safari. This will allow you to adjust to the time change (and season change) and reduce the risks caused by flight delays.

You will likely pay for your safari using a major credit card. Bringing cash is advised only for emergencies (don’t bring more than a couple hundred dollars), but do change some money to the local currency prior to your trip for tipping. Although this is not required or expected, it is certainly appreciated. A guideline for your driver and guide would be $10 a day (local currency equivalent), a few dollars per day for your accommodation staff and restaurant staff. Most resorts will have a communal tip jar to be shared among the staff.

Want to learn more about going on a safari? Check out How To Choose The Best Safari.

12 Essential Tips for Traveling Overseas

Doing research and preparing for a vacation in a foreign country can be the difference between a great time and a terrible time. It only takes a couple hours to “know before you go” on many important topics which will be invaluable to you on your journey. Check these out:

1. Travel documents

If you are travelling to another country, you will near;y always require a passport or equivalent to enter and return home. Make sure yours is valid for at least 6 months past the last day of your travel, and make a photocopy of the picture page to keep in a separate location. Other travel documents you should have handy (with you) are your printed itineraries, tickets, tour vouchers, inoculations certificate (where applicable), medical insurance (either a printout of your travel policy or your base policy if it covers you), and trip insurance (this is helpful in the event your baggage is lost, as trip insurance usually helps in these cases). Keep these together in a small sealable folder.

2. Medical considerations

Some countries and regions will have vaccination requirements. Check with your doctor, or government websites, for each country you plan to visit. Make sure your inoculations are up to date and you can prove it. Always bring extra medication that you may need in the event that your trip is unexpectedly extended. Some medications are hard to get in foreign countries. Check with your doctor if there are restrictions in your destination for any of your drugs. Most of the time, you’re required to have a prescription for your drugs. The bottle label is enough as long as it has your name, the name of the drug and a valid prescription number on it.

Currency exchange booth at San Francisco International Airport. — Kenishirotie / Shutterstock.com

3. Currency

If possible exchange a small amount of currency in advance at your bank. It can sometimes take a few days to get the foreign currency, but is worth the wait compared with airport rates. Buy enough for a few taxi rides and tips. It is best to pre-pay for as much as possible from home, as you can benefit from travel and return policies offered by your credit card. Also, exchange rates on your credit card tend to be the best you can get. Avoid airport currency exchange booth or “Bureau de Change” places as they typically have the worst rates. Travelers checks are not popular anymore, so they are not recommended. Bring at least 2 credit cards if you can, but call them in advance to advise of your planned itinerary. Avoid buying more local currency than you need, as it may be difficult to return it at the end of your trip (in some countries). Also, it’s not a good idea to carry “too much” cash at any time, both for safety reasons and the fact that in many countries, carrying more than a few thousand dollars’ worth across borders may be restricted.

4. Pre-planning

Having a detailed travel itinerary is always best wherever possible. Divide your days into thirds (morning, afternoon, evening), and jot down where you plan to be, and what you will be doing. This will help ensure you have things like tickets and transportation, and make it easy to let your friends and family know your whereabouts.

Sometimes you just want to wing it; this can be safe and fun in some places, but not all. Check the international travel advisory on the US or Canadian government websites for all your destinations to get an opinion before you “wander”. Pre-planning can add safety and comfort to your trip as well as managing your expectations.

5. Travel to and from

Booking flights may seem pretty easy, but there are some important things to consider. For example, if your plans require you to be at a specific place by a certain time, consider traveling a day in advance (and booking an extra hotel night) to eliminate risk that your flight is late. Also, jet-lag is a pretty real phenomenon. Some people experience its effects more than others. Having an extra day to adjust before starting your adventure can be very helpful. Flights going east to west and red-eye flights tend to be the worst for this. It’s a good idea to have the international phone numbers for all the airlines you’re using noted on your travel documents in case there are changes. If possible, set up alerts for your flights on your phone so you’ll be aware of changes in advance.

Sign with direction to car rental. — IJzendoorn / Shutterstock.com

6. Travel within

If you plan to rent a car where you’re going, be sure you have your license and insurance. Note that some countries also require you to have an international driving permit before they will rent a car to you. It is wise to check to see if there are major differences regarding which side of the road to drive on and speed limits (miles vs. kilometers). If you’re using public transportation or taxis (or ride-sharing services like Uber), make sure you understand if they will be able to pick you up from the airport. Spending a few minutes figuring out how to get from your hotel, to an outing, and then back to the airport will minimize frustration.

7. Important things to bring

When traveling to a new place, especially if it’s unfamiliar, you should bring things you need but may not be able to get. The most obvious are prescription drugs and toiletries. Non-prescription medications for headache, cold, and stomach problems are a smart choice too. If you bring brands you recognize, it saves you from having to figure out which local products are best. Next on the list is an adapter to charge all of your electronics. Check the government travel sites to see which countries use which adapters – they’re not all the same. Sanitation may not meet your expectations everywhere you visit. It’s a good idea to bring a small hand sanitizer and a pack of wet-wipes.

Stack of traveling luggage in airport terminal and passenger plane flying over sky. — stockphoto mania / Shutterstock.com

8. Language

If you travel to a country whose citizens do not speak English as a first language, it’s safe to assume that many locals will not understand you if you speak (or yell) in English. People usually have some degree of knowledge of the English language in major tourist destinations, but the more you can prepare yourself by learning a few key phrases in the native tongue, the better off you’ll be. You may find that locals provide better service if you at least try to communicate in their language. Even if they reply to you in English, more often than not, people will appreciate your efforts. Bring a pocket phase dictionary or get an app installed on your phone to help with basic translations.

9. Local customs

Paying attention to local customs can be fun and educational. From tipping to handshakes, you can learn some of the key customs of many nations on American or Canadian government travel sites. Take a few minutes to review these before travelling to get even more out of your trip.

10. Local laws

It’s also a very good idea to browse the country profiles for your destinations on the US, Canada or UK government travel sites to understand unique local laws. You might be surprised, for example, to find out that chewing gum in public in Singapore is a fairly serious crime. This is an easy 5-minute lookup that can save you a lot of trouble. Visit your government’s travel advisory website.

11. Communication

Communicating with your loved ones while you travel not only adds comfort, but also safety to your trip. Check with your mobile phone provider before you travel to make sure international calling and data are enabled. Most providers will offer you a travel package to reduce your roaming fees. It’s a good idea to understand what’s included in the package and not to exceed that usage to avoid a surprise on your bill when you return home. Some destinations do not have access to cellular communications (such as Antarctica or very rural places). Devise a plan to communicate on days you know in advance you’ll be near cell-towers to prevent your relatives and friends back home from worry about you.

Safety box with electronic lock in Interior modern of the bathroom. — jannoon028 / Shutterstock.com

12. Securing your belongings

The best advice to protect the most valuable items on your trip is simply not to bring them. Lots of jewelry, cash, or unnecessary electronics just adds to your security risk. Protect what you do bring by keeping it on your person (without it showing) or locking it in your hotel safe. For higher value items, you’re better off bringing it to the hotel lobby where they often have a safe, and get a signed receipt for your items. Hotel room safes are a good idea, but they can be defeated by clever employees or burglars. Avoid using your back pockets or open purses as they attract pick pockets.

9 Once Dangerous Destinations That Are Now Safe To Visit

When a particular region or a whole country acquires a bad reputation, it can take a long time for the stigma to wash away. Tell your friends you’ve booked a romantic city break in Transylvania, and they might start to wonder whether you sleep in a coffin and have nightmares about garlic bread.

But the most infamous destinations can also be the most scenic and rewarding. Sadly, beauty and trouble often go together. Be sure to check with the United States Department of State — or your country’s equivalent — for specific travel advisories before finalizing any travel plans just to be safe as political climates can change quickly.

We should also remember that time can heal all things. A terror attack or civil war doesn’t necessarily render an area permanently off-limits for tourists. In fact, there are plenty of places you wouldn’t have visited ten years ago that are now surprisingly safe and open for business.

In that spirit, here are nine formerly dangerous destinations.

1. Medellin, Colombia

The city of Medellin was, and perhaps still is, synonymous with Pablo Escobar, the notorious cocaine kingpin whose gang took their name from the city itself. Throughout the 80s and 90s, Escobar’s cartel dominated the area, making tourism a dicey proposition.

But Medellin has actually changed a lot since the Narcos days. Nestled on the slopes of the Andes, the city has constructed a network of ‘metrocables’ to carry its 2.5 million residents from barrio to barrio, all while offering a stunning view of the Aburrá Valley below. Known for its mild climate, bounteous gardens, and annual flower festival, Medellin has blossomed into a symbol of modern Colombia’s aspirations.

2. Myanmar

Myanmar (or, as I like to call it, “the artist formerly known as Burma”) was under the thumb of an oppressive military junta for fifty years. During the second half of the last century, it was often described as the most isolated country on earth after North Korea. However, circumstances improved greatly when the junta lost its power in 2011.

Since then, a growing number of tourists have had the opportunity to take in the spectacular Buddhist temples and pagodas from Myanmar’s distant past. To be sure, Myanmar is a bit off the beaten path and suffers from lack of infrastructure. But if you want to feel like you’ve travelled back into the mists of time, it may be worth the sojourn.

NOTE: The current government has endured severe criticism in recent months over its treatment of the Rohingya, a Muslim minority group who are being systematically driven from their homes into neighbouring Bangladesh by the Myanmar Army. Myanmar may be safe for you, but it may not be safe for your conscience until this crisis has ended.

Colombo in Sri Lanka. — Colombo / Madrugada Verde / Shutterstock

3. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, an island nation off the southeast coast of India, has not traditionally been a place you go to “get away from it all.” Between 1983 and 2009, the country was ravaged by a brutal civil war between the government and the separatist Tamil Tigers.

Since the war ended, Sri Lanka has emerged as a trendy new destination. It boasts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, as well as verdant wildlife preserves – particularly attractive if you’re a birdwatcher or an elephant lover. If you prefer to snorkel or go whale watching, you can visit the seaside town of Trincomalee.

4. Iran

This one might surprise you. Relations between the West and Iran have often been contentious; it even made President George W. Bush’s famous “axis of evil.” It can be all too easy to think in stereotypical terms that Iran is a hotbed of fundamentalism, and unwelcoming to foreigners.

But Iran has actually been opening itself to tourists in recent years. In 2014, they promoted their country to travellers with the encouraging slogan “You’re invited.” In 2015, Rough Guide actually named Iran their #1 destination. Considering that Iran offers everything from ancient ruins to desert treks to skiing, it might just be worth a spot on your bucket list.

For up-to-date information on safety in Iran, visit the U.S. Department of State’s Iran Countries and Areas page.

5. Belfast, Northern Ireland

From 1968-1998, Belfast was the epicenter of ‘the Troubles’, the bloody 30-year conflict between the Irish Republican Army, Ulster loyalists, and the UK government. During this time, terror attacks were all too common in Belfast, with some parts of the city being virtual no-go zones. The result was more than 50,000 casualties across three decades.

But things have improved quickly in Belfast. The historic Victorian and Edwardian colonnades have now been joined by new restaurants and bars. On the site where the RMS Titanic was constructed more than a hundred years ago, the city has developed a bustling cultural district fittingly called the Titanic Quarter. You can also visit a castle, spend an afternoon at a museum, or go for a walk and take in the city’s haunting political murals.

6. Kibuye, Rwanda

For many people, the word Rwanda means one thing: genocide. In 1994, as many as a million civilians were murdered by militias while helpless UN peacekeepers looked on. But this tiny, landlocked East African nation is also blessed with remarkable natural beauty – and, nowadays, with relative stability.

One of its most underrated attractions is the town of Kibuye, which sits on the banks of Lake Kivu, one of the African Great Lakes. The hills around this beach resort are perfect for biking, and offer striking panoramic views of the lake. A stay in Kibuye also puts you within driving distance of two national parks.

Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. — Victoria Falls / David Cuhney / Shutterstock

7. Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe has been a pariah state since 2000, under the erratic and ineffective leadership of Robert Mugabe. The country saw deteriorating rule of law, over 50% unemployment, and unimaginable inflation (we’re talking billions to buy a loaf of bread). Is it any wonder tourists have stayed away?

But now, after 37 years in power, Mugabe has been removed, and some degree of hope has returned to the country. Maybe foreign visitors will return as well.

After all, Zimbabwe should be a natural hotspot for globetrotters. Its attractions include Victoria Falls, one of the greatest wonders of the natural world. This mile-long veil of water by itself ought to draw millions of visitors a year on its own, and hopefully it will again.

8. El Salvador

This small Central American country on the Pacific coast suffered through decades of incompetent government, civil war, assassination, and chaos, from the 1930s right through to the 1990s.

Today, the situation has stabilized considerably. Crime is still a problem in El Salvador, particularly where gangs are concerned. But in the countryside, travellers will find a lush, diverse country, dotted with volcanoes. The locals have therefore made an effort to promote ecotourism; if you want to go green, you should consider El Salvador.

Angkor Thom in Cambodia. — Angkor Thom / karinkamon / Shutterstock

9. Cambodia

Cambodia’s modern history has been blotted by memories of the Khmer Rouge, the radical communist party that ruled the country from 1975-79, killing as much as 25% of the population in the process. It was only in 1993 that Cambodia was able to fully separate itself from this troubled past.

Cambodia remains poor, with much of the population living on less than $1 a day. But in beauty and history, it is rich beyond measure. Cambodia boasts white beaches, hike-able mountains, and must-see sites like Siam Reap and Angkor Wat.

For more info about dangerous travel destinations, take a look at the 11 Most Dangerous Tourist Attractions or the 10 Most Dangerous Cities In The World.

How To Prepare For A Disney Trip

One thing you don’t want to do during your trip to Walt Disney World is wing it. You also don’t need a military-style plan. But let’s face it, a trip to see Mickey and his friends isn’t cheap. Some pre-planning will make sure you get the most for your money, enjoy yourselves, and still allow for some spontaneity. Here are our best tips to prepare for your Disney adventure.

1. Set Your Budget

Tickets and lodging will be your biggest expenses, but tickets are cheaper the more days you book. When picking your room, you can stay on or off property and there are several price points with both options.

Food can also be costly especially if you plan on dining at a sit-down restaurant every day of your stay. You can pay for a dining plan and it may be worth it, depending on your dining style.

And, of course, you must get there. Will you drive or fly? Just one more thing to weigh when deciding your budget.

Disney's Magical Express bus. — WDWNews.com

2. Create A My Disney Experience Account

This is the place on the Walt Disney World website where you will book everything. It’s a great place to figure out how much things cost.

You can also see if there are any deals that work for you. Your tickets, lodging, dining and FastPasses all link to your My Disney Experience account. Make sure someone in your party downloads the My Disney Experience app. You can use it during your trip to check wait times, make or change your dining reservations, book additional fast passes, and check your photos if you purchase Memory Maker.

3. Book Your Lodging

This decision comes down to whether you want to stay on or off property. In general, off property is cheaper, especially for larger groups. There are hotels, condos, and homes for rent.

On property, some of the value and moderate resorts are more affordable than you might think. They also have great themes, and it allows you to be totally immersed in the Disney experience every moment of your vacation. If this is where you decide to splurge, the deluxe resorts offer some great options. Who wouldn’t want to wake up to a giraffe outside their window?

One tip: Disney Vacation Club members have access to excellent rooms at the deluxe resorts. There are agencies which rent the time DVC members can book at a much cheaper rate than you can reserve through the resort. Some members also sell specific times they’ve booked on websites like ebay.com and redweek.com.

The monorail outside of Epcot. — Matt Stroshane / WDWNews.com

4. Create A Plan

Ideally, you’re doing this more than six months out. Pick which parks you will visit on which day. My Disney Experience will have the park hours.

Do you plan to attend Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party or Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party? Both mean late nights, so you won’t want to plan an early morning the following day.

Another tip: don’t plan on being at Epcot on a Saturday night during a festival. It’s the time when the locals go, and it’s usually crowded. Most importantly, if you’re going for a week, give your group a day to rest, recharge and enjoy your resort. Having a basic plan this far out may not seem necessary, but it will help you when making dining and FastPass+ reservations.

5. Make Dining Reservations

You can book dining reservations 180 days before your trip and for some of the most popular spots, you’ll need to. Cinderella’s table is one of the most difficult reservations to get. Be Our Guest is another. You’ll also have the best choice of times if you plan ahead.

One thought here: eat at off times and enjoy shorter lines for the rides during traditional lunch and dinner times. Also, don’t forget about the restaurants at the resorts and Disney Springs. There are a lot of great options!

This is also why you want to have a plan. You’ll want to book Cinderella’s table or Be Our Guest for the day you plan to be at Magic Kingdom. Also, a lunch reservation at Epcot doesn’t make sense for the day you spend at Animal Kingdom. You get the idea.

The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. — Matt Stroshane / WDWNews.com

6. Make Fastpass+ Reservations

This one is key. This allows you to skip the line and practically walk onto any ride. It’s available to anyone with a ticket.

If you are staying on property, you can make your picks 60 days out. If you are staying off property, you can book 30 days before your arrival. This is the best way to get on the most popular rides without a long wait.

You get three picks for each day you have a ticket. At Magic Kingdom, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Peter Pan’s Flight, and Space Mountain are among the most popular. At Epcot, there aren’t a lot of rides, but there are three that have the longest waits: Frozen Ever After, Soarin’, and Test Track.

The opening of Pandora at Animal Kingdom has changed the FastPass+ landscape there. Avatar Flight of Passage always has the longest wait. Na’vi River Journey is also popular, but the wait usually isn’t as long as its neighboring ride. Kilimanjaro Safaris and Everest are other popular choices. At Hollywood Studios, Toy Story Mania! is really popular. Tower of Terror, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster and Star Tours also have longer waits.

Many of these options are called “Tier One” rides and you’ll only be able to use one of your FastPasses for them, so decide which one you want to ride the most before your window to book opens. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Peter Pan’s Flight, Toy Story, and Soarin’ are my favorite rides in all of the parks and are great for all ages! One key tip, try and book your FastPasses earlier in the day because once you’ve used your three, you can use your app to book more for that day.

7. Check Out Any Special Events

I mentioned two of the special events earlier. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween party and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas party are two specially ticketed items. There are also festivals that don’t require an extra ticket like the Food & Wine Festival, Festival of Arts, Flower & Garden Festival, and Festival of the Holidays — all at Epcot. There are events associated with these festivals that cost extra, but there’s also a schedule of special performances that are free.

Taking photos in Disney World. — Matt Stroshane / WDWNews.com

8. Order Memory Maker

Moms and Grandmas, this one is for you! No more pics without you in them. When you look at the cost, it may seem like an unnecessary expense, but the Photo Pass photographers take shots that you simply won’t get with your camera. It’s what they call “extra magic.”

Stitch, Tinker Bell, Kion and other characters, as well as objects like balloons, join you in your photos. All available ride photos are also included and if you have a magic band, pictures and videos from certain rides, like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, will pop up with you in them.

It’s fun to end your day looking through your photos on your My Disney Experience app thanks to Memory Maker. If you don’t want to purchase this option, the photographers in the parks will take pictures with your camera, so you can still get some great shots.

9. Check The Weather

This one probably doesn’t need a lot of explanation. But anyone who thinks Florida is just fun in the sun, is mistaken. Many areas of the country claim the saying, “It’s not the heat, it’s the humidity”, but I’m pretty sure the person who said it first was in Florida. Add in an afternoon shower and just know you need to be prepared for the extreme heat, rain and even cool weather if you’re traveling in the winter.

Souvenir shop in Disney World. — Matt Stroshane / WDWNews.com

10. Buy Disney Gift Cards

This is an interesting way to save money or simply pre-pay for your vacation. You can use these for dinner or souvenirs. And, for example, if you buy them at Target and you’re a Red Card holder, you save 5% on your purchase. It’s not a lot, but every little bit helps.

11. Consider Being An Annual Passholder

This may seem like an extravagant or unnecessary purchase, but it may make sense for one person in your party to become an annual passholder. Considering the cost of your tickets and if you plan to buy Memory Maker, you may be close to the price of one adult passholder ticket. If you’re off property, factor in the $20 a day you’d save on parking. You also get discounts in the stores on Walt Disney World property and at some restaurants.

In the end, you may come out ahead or break even. Again, the biggest factor is the cost of your multi-day ticket.