Long Flights: Avoid These Foods & Drinks at All Costs

Advice abounds on how to keep your sanity and health intact on long-haul flights.

There are dozens of suggestions, from travel-centric health products to tips from physicians on how to stay healthy 35,000 feet in the air.

Overwhelmingly, one of the focuses is diet.

Experienced travelers and doctors alike know that plane cabins aren’t great for our health. The air is stale, the food is subpar, and the pressurized cabin can do tricks on your gut.

If you’re facing a flight that’s longer than a few hours, what you ingest directly impacts how the first day or two of your trip will go.

Unfortunately, finding good food and healthy drinks in airports and on planes is a notoriously difficult thing.

In general, passengers on long flights need to be conscious of things like salt content, acidity, potential bloating, and dehydration. But what foods and drinks do travelers actually need to avoid?

When researching this article, I’ve come across some pretty strange advice—including avoiding chewing gum. I don’t think a single stick of chewing gum will cause any bloating. I’m also suspicious of avoiding food and water altogether on a six-hour flight.

Let’s take a more measured approach to eating and drinking before and during long flights. I’ve got recommendations on what you should try to avoid, as advised by flight attendants, doctors, and experienced flyers.

Before you fly, avoid these foods and drinks…

Carbonated drinks

Changes in air pressure can cause some people to experience added bloating and gas while in the sky. If you’re someone who gets the Boom-Booms (let’s go with that), avoid carbonated drinks before your flight. These drinks can actually do more damage when drunk right before boarding, creating adding pressure and bloating in your gut.

Red meat & fried foods

Foods that are high in fats, oils, and carbs can cause some serious heartburn during flights. Similar to carbonated drinks, you should have a good understanding of how your body handles these foods. So if you’re already prone to heartburn, then cross both off your list of pre-flight meals.

In addition to heartburn, you might also notice the effects of all that salt. If you’re prone to dehydration, eating red meats and fried foods can also lead to issues like swelling and fluid retention.

Alcohol & caffeine

Both alcohol and caffeine are diuretics, meaning they’ll dry you out and dehydrate you. Though caffeine isn’t as serious of an offender as alcohol, you might notice headaches and nausea when drinking either. At worst, you might even deboard your flight feeling hungover. Talk about a bad way to start a vacation.

If you really don’t think you can cut out that cheeky pre-flight wine and/or cappuccino, then try to drink a serving of water between each drink. That should help partly mitigate the dehydrating effects of these drinks.

On the flight, avoid these foods and drinks…

Avoid the water—including coffees and teas

In case you didn’t know, the water served on planes is egregiously disgusting—as in, the ‘e’ in egregious stands for E. Coli.

That’s because drinking water in planes is stored in tanks that aren’t part of the standard cleaning routine. In other words, they’re even dirtier than all those ice machines you’re told to avoid at restaurants.

Unfortunately, that means you shouldn’t be having tea or coffee offered by the flight attendants. Keep bottled water with you at all times. Or, if you prefer to carry your own water bottle, refill it before the flight.

Foods that cause bloating

Foods that cause bloating… sounds pretty vague. Again, it’s up to you to know your body.

Usually, the culprits here are legumes, nuts, and fibrous veggies like cauliflower and broccoli. This might be confusing, as we’re used to doctors pushing us to eat more of these food groups. (They’re high in fiber.)

But remember that note on air pressure—it can easily cause gastrointestinal distress. If you notice that your gut struggles to digest a certain food, skip it—even if it’s one of the healthier options.

Salty treats—including Bloody Marys

Dehydration, as you might have noticed, is a big issue while flying. Salty treats (and drinks) exacerbate all the existing risks of dehydration.

The more dehydrated you become, the more prone you are to headaches, fatigue, and even brain fog.

So if you’re in the mood for a snack on a plane, you’re better off going for a sweet selection. But don’t overdo it, either, as high sugar content can also throw off your digestion.

Alcohol in general

Yet again, we have a dehydration culprit. Alcohol, like high-sodium snacks and drinks, can suck the moisture from your body.

But that’s just one of the threats when it comes to having wine or whiskey on a flight.

In addition to dehydration, you also face risks related to cabin pressure. It tends to intensify the effects of alcohol, which can send you into a stupor. One that you wake from with a pounding headache.

Raw fruits & veggies

Avoid raw fruits and veggies provided by the airline. (You’re more than free to bring your own; more on this below.) The reason behind this is the bacteria and contaminants floating around that airplane.

Compared to other foods, it’s easy for fruit and veggies to go bad—putting you at a higher risk of getting a stomach bug while 35,000 feet in the air.

Should you pack your own meals and drinks?

This is probably the most robust solution to eating well on a long flight.

Again, the advice above is pretty general—only you know how your body and gut respond to different foods and drinks, especially when in a dry-as-hell and pressurized airplane cabin.

If you’ve noticed that a particular food group does you well before a long flight, then stick to what works. Make it beforehand and bring it with you. (No tuna fish sandwiches, please.) While you might not finish everything you bring, you’ll at least be in control of what’s available to you.

US Baseball Culture: Which Teams Do It Best?

Baseball is a distinctly American pastime.

Sure, Japan and South Korea also have booming professional baseball leagues. Sure, the NFL’s Super Bowl and NCAA’s March Madness command more viewers than the World Series.

But when we’re talking about deep-seated American pastimes, baseball is the nation’s de facto sport.

Want to know just how deep our relationship with baseball runs? During WWII, the US military designed its grenades to be the same size, shape, and weight as a baseball. (It’s called the BEANO T-13 for anyone interested.)

Despite the fact that our grenades were inferior to German weapons, our soldiers regularly outmaneuvered their enemies. Even the least athletic Americans soldiers had some experience tossing the ball around—and that intrinsic sense of aim was enough to offer an upper hand in combat.

Excuse the extreme example.

Most Americans probably grow up adjacent to baseball, like I did.

My brother pitched his way into a college career. My dad is good friends with an MLB announcer. My mom is still an Ozzie Smith fangirl. A few of my high school friends went on to join Team Fredbird. I was a fan photographer for the Mets at one point.

We named my childhood dog Mac after Mark McGwire.

The twist? I’ve never liked baseball that much. Still, it’s a pretty significant part of my identity, especially during my childhood.

It’s made me curious—which teams fit the bill as part of the classic American dreamscape of baseball? Did I really grow up inside an MLB utopia?

Let’s take at five of the most ‘classic’ American baseball teams. My ranking metrics are based on the club’s duration, how ingrained it is into a city’s identity, and the team’s overall social impact.

St. Louis Cardinals

Est.1882

The signs are clear: I did grow up inside a baseball utopia. And, in case the Ozzie Smith and Mark McGwire references didn’t give me away, I’m from St. Louis, Missouri.

So, what makes the St. Louis Cardinals so special?

First, they’re one of the oldest and most winning teams in the league. Most of those World Series wins came decades ago—so I won’t overhype the Cardinals’ performance.

Still, the team is competitive enough. And the Cards are also deeply ingrained into St. Louis’s identity. The city lost its NFL team in a grand, greedy way. (Thanks, Stan.) On top of that, the city’s economy has been in decline steadily for decades.

Compared to other major league sports, baseball tickets are affordable—and that means locals in St. Louis show up. In short: Busch Stadium and the Cardinals are a longstanding and positive image of St. Louis, and fans are proud of that.

Philadelphia Phillies

Est.1883

The Philadelphia Phillies are one of the US’s longest-running sports franchises in any league. Most importantly, they’ve stuck to their city from day one.

That’s a vital note here, as it catapults Philly culture into the stratosphere. While the team lacks the silverware to be one of the ‘best’ in the MLB, they consistently sell a high number of tickets.

One of their more unique contributions? Mascots. The Philadelphia Phanatic is an absolute menace. I know more sports fans are into Grizzy these days, but the Phanatic has been around longer (and it’s also won more battles in court).

In 1978, the Phanatic became one of the first over-the-top mascots in professional US sports, changing the nature of the game for fans forever.

LA Dodgers

Est. 1883

Ranking the LA Dodgers on this list goes against this ranking system’s focus on loyal franchises. As you probably know, the Dodgers were originally a Brooklyn team.

They didn’t pack up and move west until 1957—at which point the team’s identity changed quite a bit. But it’s worth pointing out that the Dodgers made waves in baseball in both cities.

The 1947 Dodgers team (still in Brooklyn) revolutionized the MLB by drafting Jackie Robinson. This marked a new era in sports—one that the Dodgers continued in Los Angeles.

In 1981, they brought on a rookie pitcher from Mexico, Fernando Valenzuela. That helped spur interest in baseball from Mexico and the Caribbean—an impact that is felt throughout the league today thanks to its growing number of international players, especially those from the Caribbean.

New York Yankees

Est. 1901

Love them or hate them, the New York Yankees are the face of baseball around the world. And they’re not the worst fit considering the sheer number of World Series titles the franchise holds (27).

Though they share New York City with the Mets, there’s a definite champion in terms of stats and revenue. (It’s the Yankees.)

Even in terms of away games, the Yankees bring a solid crew of supporters with them. That’s almost unheard of in the baseball world with so many games scheduled each season. But superfans aren’t an uncommon sight at Yankees games.

Even in terms of global cultural impact, the Yankees aren’t just leading the MLB—they’re one of the US’s most iconic brands. I’ve seen Yankees gear sold in just about every country in the world, including hats, jerseys, and even socks.

Photo by Clark Van Der Beken on Unsplash

Boston Red Sox

Est. 1901

In Boston, baseball culture is huge. Its stadiums regularly sell out big games in all four major leagues—a unique trait for any US city.

In terms of baseball, the focus is on Fenway Park, which first opened its doors back in 1912.

Though the grounds have since been reconstructed numerous times, those original features haven’t been destroyed. In other words, there’s a concerted effort from the Red Sox organization to maintain its connection to the past.

Similar to St. Louis, its baseball team has been an important part of its identity for a long time—and that culminates in an especially satisfying fan experience. From the Green Monster to the local Fenway-Kenmore neighborhood, the entire gameday routine is highly beloved.

5 of the US’s Longest-Running Peach Orchards

Americans love a good orchard.

The very first orchard was planted by Europeans in New England back in 1665. Unsurprisingly, it was an apple orchard—a common sighting across the US almost four hundred years later.

Farther south, however, the focus has historically been on peach-picking.

Georgia, for example, is well-known for its peach production. Even to the extent that locals call themselves ‘peaches’ and the state symbol is (however informally) a peach.

But Georgia isn’t the only southern state to obsess over these fuzzy fruits. In nearby Florida, South Carolina, and North Carolina, locals also maintain dozens of peach orchards. While most are focused are large-scale production, that’s not the case across the board.

Americans don’t just love planting orchards and reaping their fruits. We like picking them fresh ourselves.

These pick-your-own peach orchards dot the south—and some have been around for well over a century. Let’s take a closer look at the US’s longest-running peach orchards from down south.

Dickey Farms est. 1936

Musella, Georgia

Welcome to Georgia’s oldest continually running peach packinghouse. The packinghouse, which is still standing on the grounds, was constructed back in 1936 to pack the orchard’s produce.

Over a century later, Robert L. Dickey’s descendants are still running the operation.

Over the years, they’ve innovated quite a few parts of the peach growing, picking, and packaging process. For example, Dickey Farms pioneered a hydro-cooling system for its picked peaches, slowing the ripening process.

Today, Dickey Farms offers farm tours, strawberry picking, retail, and more.

Lane Southern Orchards est. 1908

Fort Valley, Georgia

Enter one of Georgia’s oldest and most prolific orchards. For well over a century, Lane Southern Orchards has been churning out peaches. Today, its farmlands are spread over 11,000 acres, which also includes pecan fields.

The size of the farm should clue you into this orchard-picking experience: it’s larger-than-life.

Rather than a rustic, old-school experience, you can expect added amenities like apple picking, pumpkin patches, and a corn maze in the autumn. You can even order their products online.

Fishers Orchard est. 1930

Greer, South Carolina

Aren’t convinced that Georgia is the end-all authority on peaches? That’s fair enough.

If you’re in South Carolina, you’ll have plenty of options in terms of peach-picking. One classic choice has been around for decades: Fishers Orchard.

Not only do they offer a massive pick-your-own orchard, but you’ll be able to sample multiple kinds of peaches. 21 distinct types, to be exact. And thanks to a handy guide on their website, you can easily target whichever type of peach tickles your fancy.

Stribling Orchard est. 1765

Farrowsville, Virginia

The original apple orchard on the current Stribling property was planted all the way back in 1765—but we’re talking about peaches, and we’re talking ongoing orchards.

Still, I’ve left the date because this pick-your-own orchard is located in the exact same spot as the original.

The original orchard fell into disrepair centuries ago. It was reworked and replanted in the late 1800s thanks to an increase in demand for apples and, later down the line, peaches. The first peach trees were planted in the 1930s.

Today, Stribling Orchard reflects this long and diverse history. In addition to picking apples and peaches, you can also pick pumpkins in fall, shop around the bakery for sweet treats, and even sample locally-grown beef from Stribling’s Markham location.

Pearson Farm est. 1885

Fort Valley, Georgia

At Person Farm, you’ll experience the culmination of five generations of peach and pecan-growing.

It doesn’t get any more Americana than this—the Pearson Farm website says its success falls back to ‘good soil, hard work, honest dealings, family, and faith’.

You can visit the orchard—or order your peaches straight from the farm. I’ve never seen this on offer before, and it’s caught my intrigue: pay around $50 for a box of fresh, hand-selected peaches straight from Pearson. No visits needed.

Kentucky Derby: Dress Code, Rules, & Other Tips

The Kentucky Derby is one of the most interesting events in the US.

From an equestrian standpoint, it’s the first leg of the US Triple Crown. This prestigious title includes three races: the Belmont Stakes, Preakness Stakes, and Kentucky Derby. Only three-year-old thoroughbreds who win all three will be named a Triple Crown champion.

To say it’s a tough feat would be an understatement.

Since the three-part race was established in 1875, only thirteen horses have managed to become Triple Crown champions. The last came in 2018 with jockey Mike Smith and horse Justify.

But most Americans know the bare basics about the Kentucky Derby: it’s hosted in early May just outside Louisville, Kentucky at Churchill Downs. And people like to dress up.

In fact, the races are only one reason that attendees flock to the grounds.

So, what else are these 150,000-odd visitors on the hunt for?

Similar to a trip to the Casino di Monte Carlo in Monaco, there’s a certain je ne sais quoi at the Kentucky Derby. It’s a blend of excitement, high fashion, and unforgettable sights. You might even spot a few celebs on the grounds.

But there’s a lot you might not know about this prestigious and well-known event.

If you’re heading to the Kentucky Derby anytime soon, check out the guide below. I’m covering the derby’s dress code, along with other unspoken rules and tips for having a great day.

Yes—smart attire is a must

The Kentucky Derby’s official dress code is ‘smart attire’, which is beautifully open-ended. But what does that actually mean?

Vineyard Vines, for example, is a well-known smart attire brand. They’re an official provider of Kentucky Derby apparel, which paints a pretty good picture of the smart attire Churchill Downs is talking about.

Think: khakis, boat shoes, and other college prep-adjacent looks.

Hats and gloves are also an important part of the getup for women. You don’t need to show up with a highly ornate hat or a set of silk gloves. In reality, the fancy dress for women (and men) is largely a callback to the early days of the race.

Decades ago, the Kentucky Derby was a high-profile affair. Hats, in particular, were worn to delineate social class and to showcase extravagant wealth and style. Today, it’s strictly for fun. So don’t be afraid to get a little funky with your hat. (Just be smart about it.)

Dress codes differ based on which section you’re in

High-end sections in the grandstands have stricter dress codes. In fact, almost every section or private suite in the grandstands has a distinct set of rules.

If you’ve somehow cozied your way into one of these exclusive zones, make sure you know the specifics of its dress code. Most visitors, however, will be heading for the Infield.

The Infield is the grassy area surrounding the racetrack on flat ground. This is a highly casual zone. And by highly casual, I mean most attendees in the Infield are sitting in camping chairs and using Porta-Potties as bathrooms.

Find your crowd

With 150,000 in attendance, the Kentucky Derby hosts almost as many guests as major music events like the Coachella Music Festival and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.

What I mean is that you’re going to encounter different types of spectators at the Kentucky Derby. Some of them have absolutely zero interest in the race. Others are there strictly to watch winners be crowned across the derby’s 14 total races.

If you’re attending with a small group, then spend some time finding your ‘crowd’. You won’t want to find yourself right in the middle of a binge-drinking session of the Infield. (Unless that’s your thing!)

Take it easy with the mint juleps

Speaking of binge-drinking… we need to talk about the mint juleps.

If you’re heading to the Kentucky Derby, then you need to try this Louisville staple. Not only are mint juleps sweet and refreshing, but they’re also made with Kentucky’s tastiest bourbon whiskeys.

That being said, I’ve read quite a few locals warning attendees to take it easy on the juleps.

Similar to a Long Island iced tea, they’re full of booze. Obviously, drink the mint juleps—you’d be missing out if you didn’t—but slam a few glasses of water between each serving. The Kentucky Derby is a marathon, not a sprint.

Don’t forget about the concerts

That takes me to my next point. The Kentucky Derby has slowly evolved into a weeklong festival—known as the Kentucky Derby Festival.

As outlined above, you can see 14 races, which include the main thoroughbred event for the Triple Crown. But you can also enjoy all the rest of the events… and there are many to choose from.

There’s a massive parade that goes through Louisville, a fashion show from Dillard’s, family-friendly scavenger hunts, and bourbon tastings—just to name a few.

So, if you’re going to the Kentucky Derby, the horse race is only one element of the overall experience. Pace yourself accordingly.

Keep those bet slips small—and learn the lingo

Live events aside, you’re going to have the chance to bet on the outcomes of the races.

If you’re familiar with sports betting, you might get a little confused. Betting on horseraces is different than professional leagues.

There are no moneylines, no over/unders, and so on. If you want to wager on the outcome of the races (an across-the-board bet), then go for it.

But do a little research beforehand. You’re going to hear a dizzying amount of advice from hardcore bettors, so it would help to have an understanding of the basics.

Have your ID on you

In case you couldn’t tell by my description of the Infield, it’s going to get a little hectic there.

But that doesn’t mean it’s a total free-for-all. Churchill Downs has a pretty crack security team that’s dedicated to maintaining a fun and appropriate atmosphere.

That being said, you might be prompted at any point in time to show your ID. It doesn’t matter whether you look over the legal drinking age—if you have an interaction with security, that will be one of their first requests, so keep your ID on you.

Have a meeting point—cell service is spotty

With 150,000 spectators stuffed into a small area, it’s no surprise that cell service tends to be spotty throughout the grounds. If you’re traveling with a group, then you might want to set up a time and place to meet in case you’re separated.

Tuscany vs Amalfi Coast: Key Differences

Just about everyone dreams of visiting Italy.

Whether wandering amid Roman ruins or exploring the reach of the Republic of Venice, it’s a rite of passage for many travelers from around the world.

Unfortunately, Italy is home to more than a few tourist traps.

Venice is renowned for being overrun, while Rome also has a reputation for scams and crowds. Given the cultural relevance and popularity of its cities, this isn’t going to change anytime soon.

And it doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy your time in Italy.

If you’re willing to venture off the beaten path a tiny bit more, you can find dozens of memorable villages, scenic drives, delicious meals, and other adventures dotting the countryside.

Two popular regions for similar travels are Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast. The former is its own region in Italy’s central-west mainland, while the latter is a small coastal zone in the Campania Region.

You’ve likely heard of Tuscany before. From movies like Eat, Pray, Love to Under the Tuscan Sun, it’s regularly mentioned in pop culture.

The Amalfi Coast, on the other hand, you may have seen thanks to trending villages like Cinque Terre. (Also, the Amalfi Coast is blowing up on TikTok.) The fact that the entire Amalfi Coast is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site doesn’t hurt its image, either.

But which should you visit if you’ve got a trip to Italy scheduled? Is there a major difference between Tuscany vs Amalfi Coast?

Let’s explore the key differences between these distinct areas.

Amalfi is smaller than you think

As I outlined above, Amalfi is one small coastal portion of the Campagna region. It runs along a small peninsula, defined to the west by the cliffside town of Positano and to the east by Vietri sul Mare.

It’s only 25 miles long. That’s right—all that social media hype covers a tiny stretch of coast that incorporates a total of thirteen towns.

If you didn’t face any traffic on its coastal roads, you could clear the entire Amalfi Coast in just over two hours.

What does that mean for travelers? You might not be able to milk a full seven-day trip on the Amalfi Coast if you’re a busybody. But if you want to hike up your legs and unwind with beautiful coastal views, you’ve found your answer.

Tuscany puts a strong emphasis on ‘High Culture‘

Amalfi has a flashy reputation for hosting the rich and famous—starting as early as the 1400s. (More on this below.)

But Tuscany is more renowned for its impact on culture. Not just any culture, but what anthropologists and historians call ‘High Culture’.

High Culture usually refers to works of art and intellectual pursuits, specifically those that were influenced and sponsored by Europe’s upper aristocratic classes. In Tuscany, that’s a callback to the Renaissance and the highly impactful thinkers who came from cities like Florence.

Remember the Médicis, the family that basically funded modern European thought? Tuscans. Leonardo da Vinci? Also from the region and a town called Anchiano. Amerigo Vespucci, the explorer whose surname bore the term America? Tuscan.

Galileo Galilei, the scientist who discovered the earth was round? Tuscan.

Michealangelo? Tuscan.

Pinocchio, beloved doll and liar? You guessed it. Tuscan.

I could keep going, but I think you get the point.

Tuscany is home to award-winning wineries

Tuscany’s impact on art and science can’t be understated. But you might find that locals are more likely to delve into a conversation about fine wines, instead.

Wine is treated just as carefully and respectfully as art and science around Tuscany. There are a total of 52 local wines with DOC and DOCG verifications from this region.

Tuscan wines are made from Sangiovese grapes and Vernaccia grapes, creating delectable wines like Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, Vernaccia di San Gimignano, and dessert wines like Vin Santo.

But don’t forget to try the new ‘Super Tuscan’ wines, a new breed born in the 1970s. Unlike the official DOC/DOCG wines, these are made outside the label previews. In the industry, they’re known as ‘cult wines’.

Amalfi beaches are world-class

No, you won’t find any sprawling white-sand beaches in Amalfi.

That being said, they’re renowned for their clear and blue-tinted waters and rocky shorelines. So long as you’re okay sharing space with other beach-goers, you’ll be able to soak up the sun on some of Europe’s best beaches.

If you’re worried about dropping off the map, head to Maiori Beach, which has plenty of tourist amenities, from bathrooms to rented cabanas. If you want to skip away from the crowds, check out Minori Beach, Erchie Beach, or Duoglio Beach.

Amalfi was part of Europe’s ‘Grand Tour’

Overwhelmingly, Amalfi is associated with luxury and fine living.

If you’ve seen this area shouted out on social media recently, there’s no surprise why. It’s a highly picturesque stretch of coastline—and, more importantly, it’s been on the radar for the ultra-elite for centuries.

From the 1600s to the 1800s, European dynasties regularly sent their ‘of age’ young men on Grand Tours. These Grand Tours served as rites of passage for men before entering adulthood when they would marry and inherit the family business. (I also imagine they involved a lot of riff-raff.)

The Amalfi Coast was a prime ground for Grand Tour travelers, particularly those from Northern Europe. Though most Grand Tours ended during the mid-1800s, Amalfi retained its reputation and association with the upper classes.

If you travel there, you’ll notice that ongoing legacy.

FAQs

Which is more expensive?

Generally speaking, you can find deals on hotels and tours in both areas. However, given its longstanding association with the upper classes, Amalfi’s baseline tends to be quite a bit higher. Remember, Tuscany is larger, meaning you can find tourist amenities that suit your needs more readily than in Amalfi.

When is it best to go to Tuscany vs Amalfi Coast?

April and May, along with September and October, are considered Italy’s shoulder seasons. That means that you’ll have better weather and encounter fewer crowds during these months. Keep in mind that Tuscany and Amalfi are both subject to extreme summer heat when temperatures might climb into the 90s (without air conditioning at many establishments).

Can you do both on the same trip?

Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast are located close by, meaning those who are renting cars, taking trains, or even flying around Italy can easily get from one to the other. In short: yes, you can do both on the same trip. But it’s best to do both on longer vacations instead of weekend trips.

How much time should you spend in Tuscany vs Amalfi Coast?
The answer depends entirely on what you want to do. As outlined above, the Amalfi Coast is better for those who want to lounge around the beach and enjoy the scenery. Tuscany, on the other hand, might involve a lot of museum visits and cultural tours.

If you want to see all that both regions have to offer, you’ll need to put more time aside to explore Tuscany, especially considering you might spend a handful of days in Florence, Pisa, and Lucca alone. Amalfi, on the other hand, can be experienced in a few days.

Traveling to the Olympics? Follow These Dos & Don’ts

It’s almost time for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris to kick off.

As usual, the Olympic Games have brought with them a bevy of interesting headlines.

This time around, there’s added concern about political protests in France’s capital and, more importantly for Olympians, the cleanliness of the Seine. (Back when Paris won the bid, a fully swimmable Seine was a huge part of France’s proposal.)

Such stories tend to swirl in the weeks before the opening ceremony.

But if you’re actually attending the 2024 Summer Olympic Games, then you’re probably more focused on the logistics of attending. Though it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, figuring out the finer details of spectating the Olympics live can be a stressful experience.

As with big headlines, that’s also nothing new.

As early as the very first Olympic Games (as in, all the way back in 776 BC), attendees were often in a mad scramble to get the most out of their experience. They battled hefty crowds, fought for a glimpse of the action, and celebrated (or wept) with the masses.

Today, many of the same challenges remain.

These can be especially stressful for spectators who are attending to watch a loved one perform. Not only are they nervous about finding their seats and getting there on time, but they’re also anxious on behalf of their beloved athlete.

In other words, the Olympic Games are a hectic but riveting experience.

If you’re heading to Paris this year (or Italy in 2026), then read through this guide on how to have a seamless trip. It’ll help you get the most out of your Olympic Games experience while dodging a few headaches.

Plan a year out—at minimum

Getting tickets for the Olympic Games is hard enough. But with an estimated 15 million people heading to Paris this year (you read that correctly—15 million), you’re not just looking to nab a ticket.

You also need to book a hostel, hotel, or private rental immediately. If you’re traveling in or out of the host city via train, also book those transportation tickets immediately. The same for car rentals.

This is the world’s most-attended sports event. You’re going to be competing with travelers from around the world for basic amenities. Get ahead while you can.

Don’t forget about smaller events

Host nations regularly put on a wide and diverse range of free events for locals and spectators. The idea is to bring together this global community of athletes and sports-lovers.

This year, Paris has opened the doors (figuratively) for visitors to do things like cheer on marathon runners, watch the Olympic torch relay, and visit celebration venues around the city for free. If you’re attending the Olympics, make sure to indulge in these smaller events.

Additionally, you might want to put some time aside to explore the city. While not all Olympic host cities have the prestige of Paris, don’t assume that you’ll have access to the standard reel of museums and tours. They might shut down or have different operating hours to account for the crowds.

Remember—other Olympic spectators will also be looking to check out the Eiffel Tower, hit the catacombs, and more.

Book a room based on location

When you’re booking lodging, focus on location—nothing else.

Olympics insiders recommend staying close to the venue that you’ll be attending most often. But not too close—then, you’ll be swamped with other attendees.

Look to stay around a twenty or thirty-minute walk from the venue. That way, you won’t be hamstrung by slow transportation… and you also won’t be surrounded by other spectators constantly.

Bring some hometown swag

You’re going to be surrounded by millions of passionate sports fans. Many are chatty and amiable, interested in making friends. If that’s your vibe, too, then plan ahead.

I suggest bringing a few items that represent the USA—or even your hometown. Many visitors make friends with other attendees and exchange souvenirs from their countries.

These don’t need to be formal items. American Olympic spectators in the past have reported trading things like Budweiser hats, Statue of Liberty postcards, and similarly informal items.

Olympic pins are also a big deal and a classic option for long-time attendees.

Keep digital & physical copies of maps

Maps are a big deal at the Olympic Games—and you need to seriously pay attention to them.

Many cities block off roads, avenues, and certain forms of transportation in order to better manage crowds and host specific events. In other words, just because you have Google Maps, it doesn’t mean it’s reflecting last-minute changes from the host nation.

Recurring Olympic spectators recommend printing and waterproofing maps. When you receive your tickets, you should also receive official maps from the Olympic Committee. These are your north star.

Save them on your phone, of course—but keep them handy physically, too. You never know when your smartphone will run out of battery. (And your battery pack, too.)

Prep for security lines & slow transport

With 15 million in attendance, I don’t need to expound on how many lines and crowds attendees face. Just be prepared for two extra-numbing factors: security lines and bus transportation.

The Olympic Committee charters buses to help ferry around athletes and spectators. They’re effective… but they’re slow. That’s why I recommend lodging in an area that minimizes the amount of bus trips you’re taking.

The same for security lines. These events are locked down just as much as an international airport. Expect delays.