How to Visit a Whiskey Expert’s Top 2 American Distilleries

I don’t consider myself a big drinker—but that changes when I hit the road.

Travel is the perfect time to explore new delicacies and push our palates to new limits, which includes trying out unique brews, special liquors, and more.

While many places around the world don’t have a particular affinity for alcohol (usually for religious and cultural reasons), some destinations are actually well-known for their specialty liquors, brews, and cocktails.

Some cocktails, like the piña colada and sex on the beach, are specifically associated with travel that revolves around sun, sand, and swimming.

Off the top of my head, I can name my favorite drinks that are associated with specific regions and cities; Poland’s soplica, a brand of flavored vodka, and Spain’s obsession with Vermouth—particularly here in Catalonia where I live.

But the most ingrained booze experience I ever had was in Ireland. Irish whiskey is a big deal for a few reasons—and I don’t have the time to dive deep into that legacy right now. From its history to its modern production methods to its economic impact, it’s important.

The world’s most popular and well-known distilleries can be found in Ireland, along with Scotland—and they regularly drive tourists across the Pond, eager for a taste of the Real Deal.

That being said, plenty of Irish and Scottish immigrants made their way to the United States and into Appalachia. Sheltered in the hollers of Kentucky and Tennessee, they set up their stills and founded the United States’ bourbon and whiskey legacies.

Though American whiskey isn’t as highly regarded as its Irish and Scottish predecessors, some whiskey experts hold American distilleries in high regard.

In fact, the founder of The Whisky Masters, Daniel Ufland, has two spots listed in his list of the Top 10 Whisky Distillery Tours Around the World.

Here’s how to visit Ufland’s two American selections, Jack Daniel’s Distillery in Lynchburg, Tennessee, and Maker’s Mark Distillery in Loretto, Kentucky.

Visiting the Jack Daniel’s Distillery

Lynchburg, Tennessee

With almost 8,000 reviews and a five-star rating from TripAdvisor, it’s not hard to see why Ufland listed Jack Daniel’s Distillery Tour as No. 5 on his list. You get a pretty full-scope view of the start of Jack Daniel’s, including the historical conditions that led to distilling in a dry county.

But history is just the tip of the iceberg.

When you take the tour, you also get to explore the headquarters of this booming company. You can see how they distill Jack Daniel’s whiskey and even take a closer look at the 114 barrel house where its mash liquor is aged to perfection.

So, how can you visit?

The catch? Lynchburg is nearly eight hours away from Nashville, the closest hub, by car. That means it’s not exactly a cute little day trip down south.

If you’re heading to Nashville and are hell-bent on taking the tour without driving yourself insane (get it?), you can also look into tours that take you to Lynchburg—some include other whiskey-tasting stops, which make it worth your while.

Visiting the Maker’s Mark Distillery

Loretto, Kentucky

Fun story time: I went to an all-girls Catholic high school in St. Louis, Missouri that was founded by the Sisters of Loretto—the very same Catholic order that founded this town in Kentucky. A little ways north sits the town of Nerinx, which my high school was named after.

Unfortunately, they didn’t serve Maker’s Mark whiskey at my high school—though I did make up for lost time in my early twenties.

Weird factoids about my life aside, Maker’s Mark Distillery produces the US’s most well-known bourbon. Despite the fact that this is a global brand, its bourbon whiskey is still produced in small batches.

And its tour offerings let you explore Maker’s Mark at your own pace.

The traditional distillery tour dives deep into the bourbon’s history, along with its modern distilling techniques. But I’d personally go for an event like the Burns Night Supper, which draws on the legacy of Scottish poet Rabbie Burns. Think: haggis, bagpipes, poetry, revelry, and bourbon.

On top of these memorable offers, you can also go on a whiskey creek walking tour, explore the farm, learn more about how bourbon is produced, and more. I had no idea whisky distilleries could be so artisanal.

So, how can you visit?

Loretto is reachable from Louisville and Lexington, making the Maker’s Mark Distillery Tour a little more accessible than Jack Daniel’s. The drive from Louisville takes just over an hour; the drive from Lexington is more like an hour and a half.

That makes it easier to bundle in a day trip to and from one of these hubs. Just make sure that you’re not slamming bourbon during the tour if you plan on heading back home.

Personally, I’d just hang up my hat for the night. And possibly the next day, depending on how much bourbon I drink.

6 Destinations in Europe That Are Perfect for Solo Travel

Solo travel is having a bit of a heyday.

Some of this points back to the rise of transformational travel. On the hunt for more meaningful experiences, many jet-setters are shedding their social groups to foray into the unknown all alone.

On the other hand, some people prefer solo travel because it’s more affordable and lets them stay agile—especially for shorter trips.

In other words, while solo travel tends to be more immersive and exciting, it can also be exhausting, overwhelming, and even risky.

The most important part of planning a solo trip is getting your destination right. The larger the city, the easier it is to find suitable lodging, take advantage of public transportation, and find more varied experiences, from bar-hopping to museum tours.

With its almost unending list of visitable cities, Europe is one of the first stops for solo travelers from the United States.

But where should you go if you’re relatively green at solo travel?

I’ve got suggestions based on my own unexpectedly spectacular visits, along with suggestions from my well-traveled digital nomad friends. These cities make it easy for you get around (including to and from the nearest airport), explore the city on foot or via public transportation, and rub elbows with locals and travelers alike.

European destinations that are great for solo travelers

Great for splurging: Dublin, Ireland
Perfect for saving: Krakow, Poland
Avoid the crowds: Hamburg, Germany
Eat like royalty: Valencia, Spain
Venture into the unknown: Helsinki, Finland
Drool over the views: Ljubljana, Slovenia

Top European cities for solo travel

Great for splurging: Dublin, Ireland

My first impression of Dublin went something along the lines of, Wow, these are New York City prices. I was quickly swept up in the city’s grungy but gorgeous vibe, so I didn’t have the time to complain about those prices.

But they caught up to me, which is why I’m suggesting Dublin for travelers who are ready to splurge a bit.

With a pretty cloistered downtown area and an easy-to-use tram system, Dublin is a top spot for visitors. Some locals are also happy to chat at the city’s many pubs, which can go a long way in introducing you to the real lifeblood of this city.

Here’s where to stay in Dublin and what to do.

Perfect for saving: Krakow, Poland

Krakow should be the first place you visit in Poland. Unfortunately, much of the country’s historic districts were leveled during World War II, effectively erasing centuries’ worth of architecture and history.

That’s not the case in Krakow, which was spared from much of the destruction.

Krakow’s old district is the stuff of fairytales. The architecture is distinct, while the little squares and plazas are full of character. Solo travelers can uncover delight after delight. It’s also a friendly city and highly accessible by foot, letting you settle in without too much confusion.

Here’s where to stay in Krakow and what to do.

Avoid the crowds: Hamburg, Germany

Want to delve deep into German identity without running into the wasted youth of Berlin’s party scene and the more uptight norms of Munich? Head to Hamburg.

While Berlin is usually rated as the world’s best solo traveler destination (and for good reason), you’ll have a more intimate cultural experience in Hamburg.

The city has plenty of mom-and-pop shops, along with an industrial history that can be felt in its architecture and winding canals. With plenty of public transportation and an underground scene that reflects those Berlin sensibilities, you’ll be able to get lost—just not in a crowd of tourists.

Here’s where to stay in Hamburg and what to do.

Eat like royalty: Valencia, Spain

You can eat like royalty throughout Spain and Portugal—it’s hard not to, in fact. But in Valencia, you’ll have a front-row seat to some of the peninsula’s best eats.

This is the hometown of paella—but you can also find seafood specialties, classic Spanish dishes, and plenty of local favorites.

Aside from eating like royalty, you also have access to the same basic range of amenities that people flock to Barcelona for. I’m talking about gorgeous historical sites and districts, art museums galore, and stunning city parks and beaches. (Seriously—skip Barcelona and go to Valencia.)

Here’s where to stay in Valencia and what to do.

Venture into the unknown: Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki is the capital of Finland, renowned for its condensed streets and unique architecture. It’s perfect for solo travelers who want to take a look at lesser-known Europe (similar to Krakow and Ljubljana, below), offering an unforgettable experience during any season.

In summer, you’ll have added hours of daylight to enjoy the midnight sun while you explore Helsinki’s museums and restaurants.

In winter, by contrast, you’ll get all the best of the northern lights and that it’s-dark-early hospitality. It’s also the sauna capital of the world if you like warmth and glowing skin.

Here’s where to stay in Helsinki and what to do.

Drool over the views: Ljubljana, Slovenia

I have strong feelings toward Ljubljana—to the point that I don’t want to recommend it here lest it be overrun with tourists.

It’s already quietly become a top choice for solo travelers thanks to its affordability, safety, and views. It’s also home to some 50,000 students, making it a top choice for younger travelers.

Those views are the big focus, though. Slovenia is blanketed in stunning forests and mountains, which surround Ljubljana. Though this capital city is tiny (which makes it easier to get around for solo adventurers), it’s also picturesque as hell.

There’s a river that cuts through the city, bringing to mind Venice, while its ancient architecture makes you feel like you’re walking through a Game of Thrones set.

Here’s where to stay in Ljubljana and what to do.

Top 7 Picks: Best Chinese Food in San Francisco

Manhattan’s Chinatown is one of the best hubs of Chinese-American culture—not just in New York City, but nationwide.

During my tenure in Brooklyn, I regularly went to Chinatown for bottomless mimosa dim sum offers (the best way to fight a hangover) and to traditional doctors for cupping, herbal concoctions, and other affordable treatments (TCM is amazing).

But if we’re ranking American Chinatowns, San Francisco comes out ahead thanks to its history, legacy, and modern standing.

San Francisco is home to the US’s oldest Chinese hub, which formed in the 1840s during the start of the Gold Rush. With tens of thousands of Cantonese arriving, Chinatown quickly evolved from a cultural center to a bona fide neighborhood—one that you can still explore today.

The area covers over twenty square blocks in the heart of the city. If you’ve visited, you’ve probably walked some of its streets—and you’ve definitely noticed its culinary legacy.

While it’s hard for me to say this because New York City Chinese food is close to my heart, the best Chinese food is found in San Francisco—at least, according to most authorities.

Here’s where to find it in Chinatown and beyond.

Best Chinese food in San Francisco

Mister Jiu‘s

The US’s only Michelin-starred Chinese restaurant is located in San Francisco. This one-star selection comes from Chinese-American chef Brandon Jew.

Mister Jiu’s offers an upscale look at Cantonese dishes—a direct callback to the first Chinese who immigrated to San Francisco during the Gold Rush. Expect a blend of both modern and traditional dishes, taking you straight into the heart of Canton… and San Francisco.

Old Mandarin Islamic Restaurant

A Chinese-Islamic restaurant? Yes, they’re out there! China’s western regions are home to Muslim populations known as Uyghur. (Like Cantonese Chinese people, Uyghur people have their own culinary, linguistic, and historical roots.)

This casual dining establishment specializes in Uyghur dishes like lamb skewers shanks, along with extra-spicy side dishes.

China Live

Dubbed one of the most beautiful restaurants in the city by Eater, the visual appeal alone might get you through the door.

But what will keep you eating at China Live are those specialty dishes from head chef George Chen, including special boa dumplings and iterations of Peking duck. Just be prepared to wait for a table—this is a top pick for locals and tourists alike.

Z&Y Restaurant

Want to take a long, hard look at your spice tolerance? Head straight to Z&Y, one of the longstanding staples in Chinatown.

You’ll get a front-row taste of some of the best eats from Szechuan, a region of China that’s renowned for its spice levels. Along the way, sample braised ox tail, creamy prawns, and diced meat with sour bean. It’s pure tradition at Z&Y.

Dumpling Home

Slightly outside the Chinatown hub is one of the best dumpling eateries in the country. Dumpling Home is celebrated for its buns and dumplings, including famous xiaolongbao eats that melt in your mouth.

If you’re a little new to the Chinese palate, this might be a good jumping-off point for your American tastebuds!

Golden Gate Bakery

I rarely think a meal is worth waiting in line for (I’m impatient and I’m not picky about food), I’d happily throw away an afternoon at Golden Gate Bakery.

This low-key bakery is renowned for its egg tarts, which are advertised as the ‘best egg tarts outside of Hong Kong’. Inspired by English custard tarts from the island’s colonial era, it’s a fusion food that brings on the best of both worlds.

Yank Sing

My final suggestion specializes in dim sum—which is one of my favorite ways to share a meal with friends.

Dim sum is sort of like tapas, meaning you can enjoy a wide range of small dishes, which is also a callback to San Francisco’s Cantonese heritage, as dim sum originates in Canton. Yank Sing is a slightly more upscale eatery that lets you feast on the tastiest and freshest dishes in the Cantonese cookbook.

Beyond the Euro: Which Currencies Do You Need in Europe?

When Americans head to Europe for the first time, we’re usually focused on Schengen.

The Schengen Zone is a group of European countries that no longer have border control. US citizens heading into Europe without a visa have ninety days allotted in the Schengen Zone before their time is up.

Here’s where it gets a little tricky when it comes to currencies—

You’d think that every country in the Schengen Zone would also use the same currency as part of the European Union. In reality, those three factors (being in the EU, being part of Schengen, and using the euro) are distinct.

Not all EU countries are part of Schengen—and some Schengen Zones aren’t part of the EU—and some countries use the euro without being part of either.

If you’re going on a trip that involves crossing European borders, make sure you know what tender to use and in which countries. Just because a country is part of the European Union, it doesn’t mean they use the euro. Let’s dig in.

First up: the EU and the euro

The European Union is full of surprises—and the surprise that keeps on giving is currency. The euro is used by 26 countries around the continent; on top of that, there are another 23 currencies used locally. (You probably can name a few, from the British pound to the Swiss franc.)

So, what’s with all the crossed wires between currencies? And why would a country join the European Union and not the eurozone? (The eurozone = countries that run on the euro.)

Some countries in the European Union run on domestic currency because their current tender is weaker than the euro. Before a country can join the eurozone, they must be economically compatible. Officially speaking, they must meet the Exchange Rate Mechanism.

Poland and Hungary, for example, are part of the EU but use a local currency. (Hungary is preparing to switch over, in case any finance buffs want to follow that process live.)

To complicate things even more, some countries that aren’t in the EU still use the euro, including many micro-states like Andorra, Monaco, the Vatican, and San Marino.

What a crazy little continent. Now that I’ve jumbled your brain, let’s simplify things with a few lists.

Which countries use the euro?

If you’re heading to Western Europe, you’ll probably only need to use the euro. Currently, 20 out of the 27 European Union nations use the euro.

Countries that use the euro:

Austria
Belgium
Croatia
Cyprus
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Ireland
Italy
Latvia
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malta
Netherlands
Portugal
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain

Which countries in the EU use another currency?

Remember—just because a country is part of the European Union, that doesn’t mean they’re using the euro. As mentioned above, some countries need to improve their economic standing before joining the eurozone, such as Poland and Hungary.

On the other hand, some countries might have an economy that’s too strong to join the eurozone, as with Sweden. Additionally, they may want to maintain monetary independence from the European Union. Denmark, for example, uses both a local currency and the euro.

Keep a lookout for these countries that are part of the EU but don’t use the euro (just yet):

Bulgaria (lev)
Czech Republic (koruna)
Denmark (krone—Denmark also uses the euro)
Hungary (forint)
Poland (złoty)
Romania (leu)
Sweden (krona)

Which non-EU countries use the euro?

Some countries in Europe aren’t part of the European Union but have still adopted the euro. These are the smallest nations on the continent—and even the world. Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, the Vatican, Kosovo, and Montenegro all accept the euro despite not being part of the European Union.

What other currencies should you know about in Europe?

Importantly, some countries that you would assume are part of the EU might not be. Norway and Switzerland have never joined the European Union. Famously, the UK exited the European Union a few years back.

Keep in mind that you can’t actually use euros in these popular countries:

The UK uses the pound, including Northern Ireland
Switzerland and Lichtenstein use the franc
Norway uses the krone
Iceland uses the krona

How to Nail a Valentine’s Day Escape—Without Leaving Home

I have a travel confession… I’ve never gone on a Valentine’s Day trip.

Not even a weekend getaway. Not even a train ride into the mountains. Definitely not a jaunt across Europe.

Valentine’s Day trips are usually foregone for bigger romance milestones, like anniversaries and birthdays. After all, who can fork over a few thousand for a cute romantic trip once a year? Even if the money isn’t the problem, finding the time and energy might be—especially in the dead of winter.

But let’s not forget one of the unsung heroes of travel: local attractions.

Obviously, setting off to a tropical island in the Caribbean or a historic city in Europe is a hard travel experience to beat—but it’s easy to go blind to the wonders that surround us. If you haven’t played tourist in your hometown in a while, this is the prime time.

Want to make your sweetheart feel special without heading to the airport? You’ve got more options than you think.

How to nail a local Valentine’s Day adventure

Look for day trips using booking platforms you usually only use on vacation

Day trips are your best friend for DIY Valentine’s Day getaways.

Look for a fitting option on whichever platform you normally use for booking tours while on vacation, whether TripAdvisor or GetYourGuide. A half-day tour gives you time to bundle other adventures into the day, while a full day trip lets you get farther out of town.

Keep a lookout for tours that are geared toward couples. Some guides offer Valentine’s Day specials, too.

Don’t forget about smaller experiences

Can’t find a day trip that sparks your interest? Don’t forget about smaller experiences, too.

Remember, the idea is for you to play tourist in your home town (or in a city nearby). If you’ve never gone to ‘that’ museum or visited ‘that’ attraction, now is the time.

Once again, if heading to an art museum or a major landmark doesn’t get the job done for you, then don’t forget about one of the latest trends in tourism: photoshoots.

Just about every tour booking platform now has a guide offering tours in photo-worthy spots—and many have experience nailing the shot.

I’ve also had great experiences in cooking classes. Me and my partner have made pierogis in Poland, gnocchi in Milan, and even arancini in Sicily. They’re fantastic choices for first dates, too.

Or if cooking isn’t your thing, look for experiences with private chefs. It’s hard to go wrong there.

Do the same for fine dining and spas in your area

If booking an experience with a private chef isn’t an option, then head back to the streets. It’s common for fine dining establishments and spas to roll out special menus and services for couples.

While you might already have a few places in mind, platforms like TripAdvisor can help you uncover a gem or two. Instead of heading to the ‘things to do’ section on TripAdvisor, go to the ‘restaurants’ tab.

I can’t promise that you’ll find a romance-themed menu, but you might be able to find a lesser-known steakhouse, Italian restaurant, or tapas-style eatery.

Take advantage of local hotel deals—and don’t forget about casinos

Want to bundle in a slumber party? Love it. Again, all you need to do is play tourist.

How do you normally find hotels when you’re heading on vacation? If you’ve got any travel rewards bonuses burning a hole in your back pocket, now might be a great time to put them to use.

If you’re looking for last-minute deals, you can also shop around for hotels on HotelTonight or head to the flash offers on booking sites like Priceline and Booking.

Last-minute deals are usually high-value—but they come with fine print, so don’t book unless you’re positive you can stay the night.

One of my oddball suggestions is to look into local casinos, too. While you might need to walk through a smoky casino floor, these establishments usually offer hefty savings when they want to fill their rooms. Many also offer Valentine’s Day specials, from couples’ spa treatments to deals at their on-site restaurants.

5 Signs You’re Ready to Splurge on Luggage

Spending big on a suitcase is one of the last things travelers usually think about.

I was squarely in this camp for my first decade of jet-setting. With so much to do and so much to see and so many miles to cover, I didn’t pay much attention to my baggage.

So long as it survived my latest adventure, that was all I needed.

As I get older, I’m more interested in investing in quality equipment than ever before.

In my lifetime, international travel has gone mainstream—and that means travelers like me are more spoiled than ever before. From handy little gadgets that make long flights more bearable to high-tech apps that ease the stress of jet lag, we’ve got plenty of options at our fingertips.

Still, shelling out hundreds for upscale luggage is a tough sell. As travelers invest more heavily in their experiences (from fine dining to adventure tours), there’s less emphasis on splurging on luggage.

Still, all that tech and all those experiential adventures don’t chalk up to much if you can’t get from Point A to Point B with your luggage in tow.

If you’re thinking about splurging on luggage, consider this your sign to whip out that wallet—especially if these five signs speak to you.

5 signs you’re ready to splurge on luggage

Sign #1: Your trips are getting longer

Here’s my sage advice on what separates a cheap suitcase from a luxury one: long-term functionality.

In my experience, a higher quality piece of luggage is easier to manage for longer trips. Because they’re made with higher-quality material, you’ll notice that they’re easier to clean, unload and then re-pack, and even keep secure.

While almost any suitcase can handle a trip to an all-inclusive resort, a great piece of luggage that’s manufactured with leather, aluminum, and polycarbonate will stand up better on a multi-country jaunt around the world.

Sign #2: You’re a pro at packing

This might sound needlessly lush, but packing a high-grade suitcase is a lot easier than a bargain version.

Once again, those high-quality materials make every part of the travel journey more seamless. In this case, pricier luggage also comes with added perks that soothe your expert-packing sensibilities.

I’m talking about features like integrated straps, removable compression bags, and even charging banks. These not only make packing easier but also make the re-packing experience better. As an added bonus, higher-quality materials don’t absorb smells as much, meaning your luggage stays fresh for longer.

Sign #3: And at airport stuff

If you’ve also got your airport routine down-pat, it’s probably time to up your luggage game.

Here’s what I mean: If you consistently give yourself enough time to get through check-in and security, then roll up to your gate relaxed, I recommend looking for a high-quality piece of luggage.

While those 360-degree wheels from a top-tier brand enable you to sprint through the airport to catch your flight, you shouldn’t pay more for a bag that you’ll probably scuff anyway

Do you see what I’m saying? If you’re still racing through the airport, you’re probably still dinging up your suitcase. And that’s no way to treat a Carl Friedrik piece.

Sign #4: You’re comfortable with tech

If you’re going to throw over $500 at a top-notch suitcase, then you should be at least okay with technology.

Why is that? Most experienced travelers with high-quality luggage use Apple AirTags or similar technology to track their beloved suitcases in case it’s lost or stolen.

Geo-tracking devices are just the tip of the iceberg. Many high-quality brands also offer removable battery packs, built-in scales, and even features like telescoping handles. To get the most out of your big new purchase, you should be comfortable with basic tech like this—and know how to use it to its full capacity.

Sign #5: You’ve had your old luggage for years—and it’s not destroyed

From tossing to dragging to berating, our poor suitcases are the first to experience our impatience when we hit a bump in the road—literally or figuratively. (They also need to survive rough handling by an airport’s ground crew, but that’s beyond our control.)

If your latest piece of luggage has survived the ups and downs of travel without you scuffing or otherwise damaging the item, then you’re probably ready to splurge on a nicer piece. (You’ve earned this!)