Hey there, I’m in the EU, holding both a US passport and an EU passport. When I book car rentals on local (EU) websites, I’ve noticed that the prices are way cheaper and often come with full insurance coverage included. Some folks might doubt this, thinking there could be hidden fees or taxes, but trust me, I’ve got plenty of experience in this department.

Once, with Hertz, they initially said the rate wasn’t for Americans, but when I explained that I live abroad, they were cool with it. Another time, with Avis, I only had to show my foreign passport, not my foreign driver’s license. However, I’ve become a bit cautious lately because it seems like some companies are becoming stricter. For example, Hertz now explicitly states that their rates are not for US citizens or those holding US licenses.

I’m curious if anyone out there has recent experiences with this issue and can recommend a car rental provider or even a third-party booking site. I usually prefer booking directly, but I’ve heard great things about some third-party sites like Sunnycars.

I’m also considering playing it safe by booking a reservation with free or low-cost cancellation options, just in case there are any hiccups when picking up the car. Maybe I’ll even schedule the pickup for an hour later, that way I can cancel if needed before the actual pickup time. Any advice or suggestions would be awesome. Thanks in advance!

By the way, right now, I’ve got a reservation with Dollar because their booking terms don’t specifically mention restrictions on using my US license. And I also noticed that Sunny Cars has a clause allowing rentals for folks residing abroad but holding US licenses.

Hey there, I’m living the life of a digital nomad after an early retirement from corporate IT/telecom. I’ve ditched all my stuff and have been floating around since I retired. It’s a bit unpredictable – I often don’t know where I’ll be in a few weeks. Technically, I’m based in the US (currently using a virtual address in Miami just for doctor visits) but I don’t actually live there. As Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeroes put it, “home is wherever there is you.”

I like to think of myself as a ‘last century American’ or maybe just an Earthling or MilkyWayaan. I’m not really feeling the vibe of the craziness happening on both sides of the fence these days. Over the past year, I’ve traveled through Japan, then hit up London, Prague, Bratislava, and Budapest. Right now, I’m hanging out in Australia and New Zealand. But come late October, I need to head back to Miami for some doctor appointments. After that, who knows where I’ll end up next?

In my travel history, I’ve checked out places like Morocco, Spain, Portugal, Ireland, England, Chile, Peru, Belize, Guatemala, and a good chunk of Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. For my future destinations, I’m eyeing places like Costa Rica, Vietnam, Singapore, Buenos Aires, and the Greek Islands. I’m all about soaking up the sun, so any suggestions for places where the daytime highs are over 50°F and the nights don’t dip below freezing are welcome.

Life as a digital nomad is all about embracing the unknown and going with the flow. It’s about freedom, exploration, and connecting with different cultures and people around the world. So, if you’ve got any tips on where I should head next or if you’re out there living a similar lifestyle, hit me up. Let’s swap stories and maybe even cross paths somewhere along the way. Cheers to the adventure!

Hey there! So, my fiancée and I are tying the knot next July and we are on the hunt for the perfect honeymoon destination. We’re not exactly seasoned backpackers, but we’re also not looking to blow all our savings on a fancy 5-star resort. I work in construction and she’s a teacher, so we’re not rolling in dough, but we do want a nice mix of luxury and affordability. I’m a total geography nerd and love hiking and wildlife, while she’s all about beaches, snorkeling, and spa days. We’re envisioning a trip that includes a bit of everything – rainforests, volcanoes, hot springs, snorkeling with colorful fish, and of course, some chill time on the beach and at the spa.

Costa Rica seems like a dream destination with its mix of beaches, rainforests, and adventure activities. However, word on the street is that it’s not the cheapest country in Central America. Since neither of us speak Spanish, that’s another factor to consider. We’ve got around 10 days to 2 weeks for our honeymoon, so we want to make the most of it without breaking the bank.

We’re open to suggestions and recommendations for other destinations that tick all the boxes for us. If you know of any hidden gems that offer a mix of adventure and relaxation, we’re all ears! So, hit me up with your best honeymoon ideas – we’re ready to make some unforgettable memories together. Let’s make this trip one for the books!

I’m currently in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, planning to stay for 2-3 months. While the city is great for Spanish schools, meeting locals has been a challenge. Despite speaking Spanish fluently, I’ve only managed to connect with 3 people in 2.5 weeks. The city, with a population of 180,000, lacks social events accessible to newcomers. Although this isn’t my first time abroad and I don’t regret coming here, I doubt I would return. I’m seeking a Spanish-speaking city where I can easily make local friends who only speak Spanish. Avoiding friendships with fellow foreigners is my goal, as I prefer immersing myself in the local language. Lima seems promising due to its vast size, but I’m curious about others’ experiences in making friends with Spanish-speaking locals. How challenging was it? Any advice on safe areas in Lima, especially at night? Which neighborhoods should I steer clear of?

I recently wrapped up my annual multi-week holiday, exploring the lovely cities of Perth, Adelaide, and Melbourne in Australia. Usually, I jet off abroad for this break, but with the Aussie dollar not looking too hot, I decided to keep things local this time around. I picked Perth and Adelaide since I’d only had brief work trips there before, and Melbourne, a city I visit a few times a year, to delve deeper beyond its city center without feeling rushed. The trip was a blast, and here’s a rundown of my adventures.

Let’s talk logistics – the trip spanned two and a half weeks, with 4.5 days each in Perth and Adelaide, and a full week in Melbourne. Accommodation-wise, I bunked in a cozy hotel in Subiaco, Perth – a prime spot that’s close to the city center with excellent public transport, yet much quieter and more charming than the CBD. In Adelaide and Melbourne, I opted for apartment hotels in the central areas, ensuring a comfy stay throughout.

Now, onto the fun stuff – I have quite a diverse range of interests, from history and art to military history, and even scouring for vintage clothes and books. Luckily, all three cities had plenty to keep me entertained.

In Perth, Fremantle Prison and the West Australian Shipwrecks Museum were definite highlights, offering unique insights into the region’s past. The Aviation Heritage Museum and the revamped WA Museum Boola Bardip were also must-visit spots. Not to forget the vibrant neighborhoods of Mount Lawley and Subiaco, brimming with fantastic cafes and shops.

Adelaide, on the other hand, wowed me with its Art Gallery of South Australia and the South Australian Museum, both showcasing rich cultural treasures. Port Adelaide’s well-preserved historic charm and the unique experience of visiting the Adelaide Zoo, home to Australia’s only pandas, made for memorable excursions. And let’s not overlook the bustling Central Market and the eclectic Norwood district, perfect for some leisurely strolls and shopping sprees.

In Melbourne, the National Gallery of Victoria and the Potter Museum of Art stole the show with their impressive collections. The Royal Australian Air Force Museum was a hidden gem, albeit a bit tricky to access, while exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Brunswick, Fitzroy, and Collingwood added a touch of local flair to my visit.

Transport-wise, I was pleasantly surprised that all my Qantas flights ran smoothly, despite my initial skepticism.

Hey, so I’ve been into this whole one-bag travel thing for a bit, especially for shorter trips. But now I’m thinking of going on a three-month test run for some serious long-term travel, mostly in urban areas. Skiing is a huge part of my life, and I definitely want to hit the slopes during my travels. My trusty ski jacket is a goretex beast that also moonlights as a rain poncho and windbreaker. I’m super keen on taking it with me.

But here’s the pickle – my bag is a tiny 25L one, and when I roll up my jacket, it hogs up like a third of the space. That leaves me no room for essentials like my laptop, eyewear, hat, and a teeny first-aid kit. So, I’m stuck pondering if there’s a smarter way to fold up my jacket that doesn’t involve it swallowing everything else in my bag. Or should I just Marie Kondo some of my stuff? Here’s a rundown of what I’m currently packing:

**Clothes:**
– 1 pair of yoga pants (great for layering in chilly spots)
– 1 pair of jean shorts
– 1 pair of Decathlon tech shorts (doubles as workout gear for warmer days)
– 1 pair of Decathlon tech pants
– 2 tank tops
– 2 t-shirts
– 1 oversized button-up (multi-use as a dress or to spice up the tank tops)
– 1 thermal underlayer
– 4 pairs of undies
– 5 pairs of socks
– 2 sports bras
– The bulky ski jacket
– 1 light fleece (my go-to layer for most days)

**Toiletries:**
– Electric toothbrush
– Toothpaste
– Hairbrush
– Bar of soap
– Bar of shampoo

**First-aid:**
– Compresses
– Disinfectant
– My meds in three pill sheets

**Eyewear:**
– Contacts
– Contact solution
– Sunglasses
– Eyeglasses

**Electronics:**
– Laptop
– Phone (my sidekick)
– Earphones (for tunes on the go)
– Power bank for both phone and laptop
– Laptop charger
– Type-A to Type-C power cord with a wall adaptor

**Miscellaneous:**
– Hat
– Sunscreen
– Sharpie

So,

Hey there, fellow travelers! Let me share my go-to travel essential: the Lululemon metal vent tech t-shirt. Now, I’ve tried my fair share of t-shirts on the road, but this one takes the cake for me. It’s versatile, comfy, and just ticks all the boxes.

First off, let’s talk about functionality. This shirt is a champ when it comes to handling sweat. Not only does it wick away moisture like a pro, but it also magically hides those pesky sweat stains. And let me tell you, that’s a game-changer when you’re on the move.

Now, let’s address the fit. As a 30-year-old guy, I appreciate a good balance between snug and loose. The Lululemon tee nails it with a fit that’s tailored around the arms and chest while giving some breathing room around the midsection. It’s the Goldilocks of t-shirt fits – just right.

One of the best things about these shirts is their durability. I’ve taken them on countless trips, and they’ve held up like a champ. With just three of these bad boys in my bag, I can go for months without needing to swap them out. Plus, the odor resistance is top-notch, so I can rock them a few times before they need a wash – a real lifesaver on long journeys.

And let’s not forget about drying time. These shirts dry in a flash, whether I’ve been caught in a downpour, worked up a sweat, or it’s just laundry day. It’s like they have superpowers or something.

I’ve had my Lululemon shirts for over four years now, and they’re still going strong. When I’m not jet-setting around the globe, you better believe these bad boys are my go-to gym shirts at home. They’re just that good.

Now, I’m curious – what are your favorite travel tees? Got any recommendations that can give my Lululemon faves a run for their money? Let’s swap stories and tips – after all, sharing is caring when it comes to finding the perfect travel gear.

Hey everyone, so I’ve been dealing with this excruciating pain in my left ear whenever I’m on a plane and it starts descending. It’s seriously unbearable, even with the fancy custom-made earplugs I got. I’ve tried all the usual tricks like yawning and chewing gum, but nothing seems to make a difference. I used to get a ton of ear infections, which makes me think something’s off with my eustachian tube.

I’ve been traveling for years and have experimented with all kinds of earplugs, both regular and designed for flying, but I’ve still had this persistent pain. It’s actually gotten worse over the past decade. The sensation is like a sharp knife twisting and stabbing in my ear, with these extra painful jabs every now and then. The takeoff isn’t too bad, but once that descent starts, it’s like torture.

I went all out and got these custom-made airplane earplugs from a reputable brand, specifically molded to fit my ear canal perfectly. But sadly, I didn’t notice any improvement in my left ear compared to the cheap regular ones. So, I’m at my wit’s end here and could really use some advice.

If anyone out there has experienced something similar or knows what might be going on, please share your wisdom with me. I’m desperate for some relief during those dreaded plane descents. Thanks a bunch in advance!

Hey everyone, so I’ve been collecting some intel on how airlines handle seating when you’re on the same itinerary but don’t purchase tickets together. Here’s what I’ve gathered so far:

Delta: There’s some pretty sketchy stuff going on with Delta recently. It used to be cool, but now they’re all about that separation game. I had one flight where we ended up in two middle seats even though a third of the plane was empty. Another time, we were separated, but when they opened up some extra seats, we got put back together. Then, on a different flight, they tried to split us up again but got caught out by some standby passengers who got seated together before us. Sneaky, Delta, very sneaky.

Virgin Atlantic: Good news here – they’ve got your back. You and your crew will be seated together, no problem.

Alaska Airlines: Not much data on these guys, but from what I’ve seen, they tend to keep groups together. So far, so good.

Sun Country: These guys are the real MVPs. Almost every time, they’ve got us sitting side by side. And bonus points for keeping those flights nice and full.

United: Mixed bag with these guys. I haven’t flown with them much, but it feels like they’re more likely to split you up. Not cool, United, not cool.

BA: Oh, BA, why you gotta play us like that? Lots of reports of intentional splitting, and I’ve heard stories of gate agents going out of their way to separate folks just to see if they’ll pay to sit together. Not cool at all.

So, that’s the scoop on a few airlines. Anyone else got some juicy stories to add to the mix? Let’s crowdsource this thing and crack the code on who’s keeping us together and who’s tearing us apart.

So, I’ve been checking out a bunch of flight comparison websites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, Flightlist, and a few others. One thing that really caught my eye is the cool feature that lets you see how flight prices vary depending on the day or month you choose. For example, Skyscanner’s setup with the calendar view and bar chart is pretty neat. Now, here’s my current dilemma: I’m trying to book flights for me and another person from Frankfurt, Germany (FRA) to any airport in Tokyo (TYO), but I’m not trying to drop the price of a small used car on this trip.

I’ve come to rely on this feature that shows me the daily flight prices, but there’s one big thing missing as far as I can tell: the option to filter out specific airlines from these charts. Does anyone out there know of a website that offers those daily flight price charts like Skyscanner or Google Flights but with the ability to exclude certain airlines? The reason I’m on the hunt for this particular feature is that the cheapest flights from FRA to TYO are with Air China, which takes a route through Russia. Just like how some folks are uneasy about flying Boeing planes, even though the chances of something going wrong are pretty slim, I’m not too keen on flying over Russian territory.