Although the country is relatively safe, the U.S. State Department currently has a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution warning level for Sweden. Here’s what you need to know before you go.

Why Does Sweden Have an Elevated Travel Warning?

The State Department recommends exercising increased caution in Sweden due to terrorism, stating, “Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Sweden. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.”

When traveling to Sweden, the State Department advises following basic safety precautions, such as:

• Remaining aware of your surroundings in crowded public venues and popular tourist locations
• Following the instructions of local authorities
• Staying informed with local media
• Enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) before your trip
• Preparing an emergency plan

Pickpockets

As with most major cities, pickpocketing can be an issue in Sweden’s urban areas. Popular spots like Gothenburg’s Östra Nordstan shopping center, Stockholm’s Old Town, and crowded public transit are frequent targets. To stay safe, keep a close eye on your belongings and secure them at all times.

Taxi Scams

Sweden is a notoriously expensive country, and unfortunately, taxis are a very pricey way to get around. You could wind up paying even more than you expected, however, if you fall victim to a taxi scam. Some taxi drivers will take a longer route than necessary or tell tourists that the meter is in euros (rather than Swedish krona). 

Taxis must have a sticker on the passenger side window that clearly shows an average price. Check this before agreeing to a ride to make sure you’re getting a fare rate. It’s best to stick to the major taxi companies in Sweden, which are less likely to overcharge you.

If you want to take the guesswork out of your fare, Uber is available in Sweden. However, it can often be more expensive than a taxi. Sweden has an extensive public transit network that’s usually the fastest and most affordable way to travel.

Health & Safety

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all travelers to Sweden be up-to-date on all routine vaccinations. Tick-borne Encephalitis (TBE) is also a danger in Sweden. TBE is “highly endemic” in regions around Stockholm, including the Stockholm Archipelago, Malaren Lake, Uppsala, and Sodermanland. If you’re planning outdoor activities in warm weather in these regions, wear protective clothing and use insect repellent. Check yourself thoroughly for ticks at the end of each day.

The post Warnings and Dangers in Sweden: Is Sweden Safe? appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Besides the obvious (wine tasting, skiing, hiking), Chile offers isolated beaches, gorgeous hot springs, wildly distinct architecture, a diverse food scene, and much more. These are the best things to do in Chile.

Follow the W Circuit in Torres del Paine National Park

Located toward the bottom of Chile, the wild and remote Torres del Paine National Park feels like the end of the world. This park is packed with stunning scenery, from the iconic jagged peaks surrounding the brilliantly colored Mirador Las Torres to the sprawling Grey Glacier. 

Fortunately, there’s a simple way to see the highlights of Torres del Paine—all you have to do is follow the well-trodden W Circuit, a popular hike that starts at the east end of the park and traces its way through the mountain valleys before finishing in the west. Opt to camp along the way or retreat to luxury hotel rooms at night. 

Chase Down the Churches of Chiloe

If you’ve seen one old cathedral, seen them all, right? The extraordinary wooden churches of Chiloe Island (16 of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites) will topple your preconceptions with their unorthodox constructions, bright colors, nontraditional symbolism, and intricate interior woodwork. Most of the churches are readily accessible, others far more remote, but the journey to each of them is part of the fun.

Some of our favorites (Tenaun, Castro, Chemchi) shake up the status quo with blue, yellow, and purple facades—an abrupt and beautiful clash of color with the deep-green countryside of the island—and each one offers its own unique architecture and interiors. Chiloetnico, based in the island capital of Castro, offers several eco-sensitive church excursions, including by bike, but it’s fun to drive around to many of them as well.

Meet Chile’s Renegade Winemakers

Chile produces some of the New World’s best (and most affordable!) wine, so it’s unsurprising that tasting is on most folks’ itineraries. But while the majority of oenophiles head toward some of the country’s most well-known wine regions—the Maipo, Colchagua, and Casablanca Valleys—you should head a few more hours south to the up-and-coming Maule Valley, about 224 miles below Santiago, where a group of renegade winemakers is producing extraordinary wine while bucking traditions around every turn.

What’s great about tasting here (besides the lack of lines) is that a lot of these independent-minded boutique winemakers run the show every step of the way, from hand-harvesting the grapes right down to pouring the wines for you (and, in our case, even running down to the cellar and labeling a few purchased bottles themselves). There are No tasting rooms, wine clubs, or winery-branded backscratchers—just fabulous face-to-face experiences with the winemakers. Get Your Guide offers a variety of tours to the area, so you don’t have to worry about driving.

Meet Penguins in Southern Patagonia

There are plenty of places to spot adorable penguins in Chile, so narrow it down by deciding which type of penguin you want to see. If you’re hoping to visit the King Penguin (the second largest penguin species after the Emperor), head to the aptly named King Penguin Park, the only place in South America where these majestic creatures live. 

If you prefer more pocket-sized penguins, head to Punta Tombo, home to South America’s largest Magellanic penguin colony. 

Kayak Through Misty Fjords

One of Chile’s best private parks is Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park, founded by American conservationist (and co-founder of The North Face) Douglas Tompkins and his wife, Kristine McDivitt Tompkins. It protects a more than 994,000-acre patch of pristine Patagonian landscape along the Pacific coastline. Multi-day sea kayaking expeditions are a major attraction in the park, which is full of steep green fjords, waterfalls, sea lion colonies, natural hot springs, and gorgeous snow-capped scenery.

Take a Cooking and Wine Course

Chilean cuisine isn’t as famous worldwide as some of its neighboring countries’ food. Once you land, you’ll discover what you’ve been missing out on—and there’s nobody better to introduce you to the delicacies found here than chef Pilar Rodriguez, who runs her namesake Food & Wine Studio in Chile’s Colchagua wine valley.

Neither a full-blown cooking course nor a wine course, Rodriguez’s offering concentrates on the marriage between the two. Her ceviche alone is worth the 2.5-hour trip south from Santiago, but it doesn’t get much better for foodies than a day with Pilar surrounded by the gorgeous vineyards of the Colchagua.

Channel Your Inner Robinson Crusoe

Way out there, more than 400 miles off the coast of central Chile, the volcanic Juan Fernández Archipelago remains a new frontier. The group of three islands, a national park, was made famous as the spot where castaway Scotsman Alexander Selkirk toiled away for years in Daniel Dafoe’s “Robinson Crusoe.”

The sleepy fishing village of San Juan Baptista is the only town and is located on Robinson Crusoe Island. From here, you can set out for the island’s main attractions: world-class scuba diving and excursions to observe the Juan Fernandez fur seal, the only native mammal in the vicinity. Diving, trekking, kayaking, and fishing trips can be arranged in San Juan Baptista.

Follow the Pablo Neruda Trail

Fans of Chile’s most beloved poet, Pablo Neruda, can retrace his steps from one home to the next. Start with his Santiago property, La Chascona, a hideaway he had built in Barrio Bellavista to escape to with his mistress, Matilde Urrutia (who later became his third wife). In Valparaiso, 75 miles northwest of the capital, there’s the five-story La Sebastiana, where Neruda enjoyed stunning ocean views complemented by the city’s colorful houses dotting the hillside. The poet’s largest home was a seaside getaway in Isla Negra, 53 miles south of Valpo, which houses the majority of his treasured possessions.

Today, all three homes function as living museums. For fans of the poet’s romantic prose, it’s total Neruda immersion. 

Best Time to Go to Chile

With its vast north-to-south expanse, Chile has no single climate. Still, October and November are springtime and tend to be the most pleasant time of year in many parts of the country. High season in the Lake District is November through March, the Southern Hemisphere’s spring and summer. 

Winter here can be cold and overcast, but the skiing is excellent in the mountains. The weather is variable year-round in Patagonia and generally best from September through April. Some places, such as national parks, may be closed in the winter. It is sunny and warm year-round in the Atacama Desert to the north. Easter Island enjoys tropical warmth all year.

Chile on a Budget

You’ll be unlikely to find a bargain from mid-December through February or in the middle of July. The exception is Santiago, as locals leave the city in the summer, making for better hotel rates. Rural hospedajes rent out rooms for cheap. City residenciales, or boardinghouses, offer a room, shared bath, and communal kitchen. (Beware: Many lack central heating.) More comfortable accommodations range from remote hiking lodges to sleek urban hotels. Restaurant meals are pricey, as is fresh food in the market, but beer and wine are bargain-priced. Public transportation is also a deal, including buses and the subway in Santiago.

Original reporting by Kevin Raub

The post Chile Travel Guide: What to Do in Chile appeared first on SmarterTravel.

This is a country that’s still slightly wild. Home to everything from snakes to crocodiles, it’s important to remember that Australia’s unique creatures aren’t just tourist attractions but powerful animals that deserve space and caution. Don’t let these precautions discourage you, though. They’re simply a guide to help you experience one of Earth’s most extraordinary destinations with confidence and peace of mind.

Water Dangers

With over 10,000 beaches, Australia has plenty of places enticing you to take a dip. However, the safest Australian beaches for swimming are the ones with lifeguards, so look for a patrolled area before you dive in. 

Tourism Australia advises following these safety tips for swimming in the ocean:

• Swim between the red and yellow flags on beaches with lifeguards and surf lifesavers.
• Look for the beach signs at the entrance to the beach; they have lots of local information and will explain to you the meaning of the signs placed on the beach.
• Never swim alone
• Never swim under the influence of alcohol or after a big meal

Additionally, watch out for rip currents in the water. Avoid spots where waves are not breaking, as this can be a danger sign. If you are caught in a rip current, do not try to swim against it. Swim perpendicular to the rip until you are free. 

Australia is home to several nasty species of jellyfish, including some that can be deadly. If you are told to get out of the water because they have been spotted, get out immediately. Be sure to look for flags or warning signs at beaches that warn of jellyfish dangers. If you are stung by a jellyfish, remove the stingers by gently scraping them off with your fingers. Pour fresh, warm water over the affected area. 

Crocodiles are a danger in many parts of Australia. Never swim, wade, or go near a body of water (including rivers and swimming holes) unless you know that the area is safe. 

Land Creatures

Australia is also home to many dangerous land creatures. A significant number of the world’s most dangerous snakes are here. Wear long pants and closed-toed shoes when walking in the bush, and watch where you step. 

Spiders are another danger to watch out for in Australia, as the country is home to several of the world’s most dangerous species. Funnel spiders are particularly dangerous. They come out after periods of rain and burrow in things like shoes. Always shake out your shoes, clothes, or bedding particularly if you had them outside.

Sun Exposure

Australia has a very thin ozone layer, so the sun’s rays are much stronger here. Even if you’re just out for an hour, slather yourself with sunscreen to avoid a painful burn. Remember that Australian summers can be some of the hottest in the world. Bring a hat and enough water with you everywhere to avoid heat exhaustion and sun poisoning.

The post Australia Warnings and Dangers appeared first on SmarterTravel.

To highlight this issue, real estate website KeyCrew analyzed Airbnb listings in 84 cities to identify the worst offenders. Columbia, South Carolina, stands out with the highest fees in the nation, with service fees and cleaning charges adding an extra 40.78 percent to the total cost. For example, a five-night stay priced at $505 will add an additional $207 in fees.

On average, across all cities in the U.S. that were surveyed, the combined service and cleaning fees for a five-night stay amount to about $250.

If you’re looking to minimize fees, consider booking a vacation rental in California, where you’ll find the lowest Airbnb fees as a percentage of the total cost. In Santa Rosa, for example, fees will add on an extra 22.16 percent. However, keep in mind that rental prices in California tend to be higher overall, so you’ll still end up paying quite a bit in fees. 

The Worst Cities for Airbnb Fees

The Cities With the Lowest Airbnb Fees

The post The Worst Cities for Airbnb Fees appeared first on SmarterTravel.

However, there are a few common mistakes that many travelers make that can easily ruin their trip. To avoid these easy missteps, the travel experts at VIP Santorini gave us their best tips for what not to do on a Mediterranean cruise. 

Editor’s Note: This story was sponsored by VIP Santorini

1. Not Factoring Tendering Time at Ports

If your cruise ship arrives in a port at 11 a.m., you can schedule plans onshore starting at 11:05 a.m. Wrong. Many Mediterranean ports are too small to accommodate large cruise ships directly. Instead, passengers will have to take smaller tender boats to get to shore, which can add extra time for disembarkation and boarding. Be sure to allocate this additional time into your schedule. 

2. Booking Large Bus Tours in Small Towns

We can’t think of a worse way to see a charming Mediterranean village than through the windows of a large tour bus that barely fits down the town’s quaint, narrow, cobblestone streets. Most destinations you’ll visit on a Mediterranean cruise are best explored on foot or with a smaller group. If you sign up for a big bus tour, you might be packed in with 50 or more people and feel rushed. You’ll have to stick to a strict schedule and won’t be able to enjoy the charm of small towns—you’ll miss out on small restaurants and might not be able to visit attractions that can’t handle large groups.

Instead, book a private or small group excursion with a local tour operator who can take you to the hidden gems the large group tours bypass.

3. Falling into the Cruise Ship Excursion Trap

If you book your excursion through the cruise line, avoiding the mega-bus tours mentioned above is hard. A private or small group tour booked with a local provider like VIP Santorini will be better value and provide a better and more authentic experience. However, many cruisers are deterred by the fear-mongering warnings from the cruise line about long waits or missing the boat if they book independent excursions.

Don’t let the warnings scare you off—just make sure you allow plenty of time to get back to the ship before it departs. If you’re afraid you won’t make it off the boat in time for your tour, consider upgrading your ship reservation to a premium class for priority disembarkation.

4. Choosing the Wrong Itinerary 

Although the appeal of a Mediterranean cruise is that you get to see lots of different destinations in one trip, you want to be able actually experience those destinations. So, if you’ve always dreamed of visiting Santorini, don’t choose a cruise itinerary that only stops there for a few hours. You’ll feel rushed and like you didn’t get a true taste of the destination. Make sure you read the cruise’s itinerary carefully before booking, and look for cruises with full-day stops (i.e., the ship will be docked from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.) at the destinations that are most important to you.

5. Not Eating Off the Ship

One of the perks of traveling on a cruise is the all-you-can-eat buffet, but save some stomach space for dining off-ship. Shipboard meals are convenient, but tasting the local cuisine is an essential part of travel you don’t want to deprive yourself of.

When you’re onshore, visit local restaurants and markets to immerse yourself in the authentic food culture. VIP Santorini recommends trying the following Mediterranean classics:

• Greek salad
• Olive oil
• Cheese
• Wine
• Spirits, including ouzo or raki

6. Packing the Wrong Shoes

Visiting many Greek destinations, including Athens and the islands, involves significant amounts of walking. You’ll need to be prepared for cobblestone streets, steep hills, and uneven pathways. If you’ve packed uncomfortable shoes or flimsy flip-flops, you won’t be able to explore as much as you hoped and might wind up back at the ship earlier than planned, nursing blisters or sore feet. 

Pack comfortable shoes that are well-broken-in and can handle uneven terrain and many miles. 

Bonus Insider Tips: Santorini & Athens

The experts at VIP Santorini have years of on-the-ground experience across the Mediterranean. Here are their insider tips for visitors to two of the most popular Mediterranean cruise destinations, Santorini and Athens.

Santorini Travel Tips

The old port in Fira, Santorini, is separated from the main town by a steep climb, so be prepared. There are three main options to get from the old port into town:

1. Cable car: Quick and efficient, but expect lines during peak hours.
2. Walking: It is a steep climb up over 600 stairs to reach the town from the old port. Be prepared for a strenuous workout, and also expect to share the stairs with donkeys.
3. Donkey rides: A controversial choice that animal welfare advocates advise against.

Walking in the Villages

Narrow cobblestone paths connect the picturesque villages of Oia, Fira, and Imerovigli. Exploring these iconic towns means navigating many stairs and uneven surfaces. Take your time, wear breathable clothing, and carry water, especially in the summer heat. 

Recommended Service in Santorini

For a reliable and excellent experience in Santorini, consider using VIP Santorini. They offer tailored tours and transfers, allowing you to explore the island’s stunning landscapes and traditional villages comfortably and at your own pace.

Athens Travel Tips

Athens is a mix of ancient ruins and bustling urban streets. Walking to landmarks like the Acropolis, Plaka, and Monastiraki markets requires stamina.

Tips for Visiting the Acropolis:

• Wear comfortable shoes with good grip—some pathways around the ruins can be slippery.
• Morning visits are less crowded and cooler, making the climb more enjoyable.

Key Items to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes (preferably closed-toe for uneven paths).
• Sun protection: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
• Refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Light layers: The weather can vary between sunny afternoons and breezy evenings.

The post 6 Mistakes Not to Make on Your Mediterranean Cruise appeared first on SmarterTravel.

How to Know if You Might Get SSSS on Your Boarding Pass

If you’re going to get SSSS on your boarding pass, there will be a few red flags that might alert you that the designation is in your future. 

1. You’re not allowed to check in online. Not being able to check in online isn’t always a warning signal, especially for international flights, when you may need to check in in person and show your passport. However, if others you’re traveling with are able to check in online and you’re not, it’s a sign that you may be getting the SSSS designation. 
2. The airline sends you advance notice that you need to check in with an agent at the airport. 
3. You can’t use the airport kiosks to check yourself in and are directed to speak to an agent.

What Happens if You Get SSSS on Your Boarding Pass?

If you get SSSS on your boarding pass, you’ll need extra time to get through security. You will have to go through additional security screenings before being allowed to board your flight. 

After checking in, you’ll likely be escorted to a private room to have your bags thoroughly searched. You may also receive a pat-down, be swapped for explosives, and have to go through a metal detector.  

If you have a connecting flight, the SSSS designation may follow you on each leg of your trip, so be prepared to undergo additional screenings before boarding each flight. 

SSSS and TSA PreCheck or Global Entry

You can still get SSSS on your boarding pass even if you’re a TSA PreCheck member. Unfortunately, if you have been selected for SSSS, you won’t get the TSA PreCheck designation on your boarding pass and must go through the regular security line. 

However, if you receive the SSSS designation on your ticket on a return trip to the United States, you will still be able to go through the Global Entry lane as normal if you’re a member.

Why Did I Get SSSS on My Boarding Pass?

A TSA spokesperson tells SmarterTravel, “In some cases, passengers are randomly selected for additional screening.” It may just be bad luck that you’ve been selected. However, certain travel behaviors, like flying alone, buying a last-minute or one-way ticket, or traveling to certain destinations, raise a red flag on your booking. “Security measures begin long before passengers arrive at the airport,” says a spokesperson for the TSA. “TSA works closely with the intelligence and law enforcement communities to share information.”

The post What Does SSSS Mean on a Boarding Pass? appeared first on SmarterTravel.

If you get bored lying on the beach for your entire vacation, St. Lucia is the Caribbean island for you. Sure, there are plenty of romantic St. Lucia hotels and picture-perfect sandy beaches with shady palm trees for you to lounge under, but when you tire of that, there are plenty of other things to do in St. Lucia —including rainforests to explore waterfalls to swim in, and mountains to climb.

Go Jungle Biking

When you think of mountain biking, you probably don’t think of the Caribbean—which would be a mistake. Thanks to St. Lucia’s diverse terrain, it’s actually become a destination for serious bikers, who come to test their skills on Bike St. Lucia’s 12 miles of private trails.

Located on the grounds of Anse Mamin, a former plantation, Bike St. Lucia has trails for literally everyone—including people like myself, who have never mountain biked before, or for professionals like Tinker Juarez, a champion bike racer who trained here. This is one of the best ways to get off the beaten path in St. Lucia and get deep into the rainforest.

Explore Historic Pigeon Island

Pigeon Island National Landmark used to be an island, but it was connected to the mainland with a causeway in 1972. A former military base and rumored hiding place of pirate treasure, the island’s rich history is best explored with a knowledgeable guide who can take you through the park’s fascinating ruins and the twists and turns of trails scaling the park’s two peaks, Ford Rodney and Signal Peak.

Don’t skip out on the more challenging trek up to Signal Peak—hikers who push through will be rewarded with crystal clear, 360-degree views of the surrounding Rodney Bay. If visiting Saint Lucia in May, make a stop at Pigeon Island as it turns into a mainstage for the annual Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival. 

Taste Authentic Cuisine at the Beacon Restaurant

You’ll be drawn into the Beacon Restaurant by the amazing views (the restaurant’s patio has a sweeping panorama of the Pitons that’s hard to beat from anywhere on the island), but you’ll stay for the authentic St. Lucian cuisine. This locally run restaurant serves up a hearty lunch buffet that will give you a chance to try all the famous foods that you’ve heard about—from the national dish of green fig and salt fish to St. Lucian-style macaroni and cheese. Complimentary fresh juice accompanies the buffet and is a great opportunity to taste tamarind juice.

Hike Gros Piton

The Pitons, two volcanic formations that rise over the Caribbean Sea, are St. Lucia’s most iconic landmarks (they’re even part of the country’s flag). Once you’ve stared at them long enough, you’ll likely be inspired to climb at least one of them, especially once you hear that it only takes an average of two hours to climb up and another two hours to descend the taller Gros Piton.

You’ll need to hire a guide and purchase a permit to hike Gros Piton, both of which you can do without a reservation at the base of the mountain. The earlier you start your summit, the better, as the heat and humidity only get worse as the day goes on. This is a moderate hike that most people with a good level of fitness can do with minimal gear—the most important thing to bring is plenty of water.

Walk the Tet Paul Nature Trail

Bring your camera to the Tet Paul Nature Trail, which is one of the best things to do in St. Lucia if you’re looking for great photo opportunities. This is a very easy walk on a well-kept trail that can be completed in about half an hour—the most challenging part is the “stairway to heaven,” a set of steep stairs that reveal one of the best views of the Pitons at the top.

The trail winds through a working organic farm, through a historic traditional house, and past many native plants, which your guide will point out to you. (If you’ve never seen how a pineapple grows, you might be surprised!)

Swim in Toraille Waterfall

The Toraille Waterfall is easy to get to—just a quick two-minute walk from the road—which is why I was surprised to find hardly anyone there when I visited. If swimming under a waterfall is on your bucket list, this is the place to do it—it’s easy to wade into the cool waters, and you can stand up under the pounding falls for an impromptu back or shoulder massage if you like. I stopped in here just after completing a very sweaty hike up Gros Piton, and it was like diving into heaven.

Discover Anse Mamin Beach

Anse Mamin feels like a well-kept secret. Most visitors flock to Anse Chastanet resort’s bigger, more developed beach, but if you follow the somewhat hidden path from there, you’ll emerge onto a second, quieter beach—Anse Mamin. Although the beach huts and lounge chairs are only for resort guests, all beaches in St. Lucia are public, so you can bring your own towel and chair and relax here for the day, even if you’re not staying at the hotel.

A secluded sandy beach in St. Lucia might not be where you’d expect to have an amazing burger, but the one served up for lunch at the Jungle Beach Bar & Grill is famous on the island (and for a good reason).

Attend an Island “Jump-Up”

The Gros Islet Street Party is one of the most popular jump-ups on the island, an all-night celebration that has packed the streets of Gros Islet every Friday for the past fifty years. The theme of the evening is music, dance, socialization, and food, with vendors selling everything from the freshest seafood to classic Saint Lucian barbeque. The party is usually a mix of locals and tourists, and local guides are available to take you to the hottest spots. 

Take a Lushan Country Life Tour

Interested in learning about St. Lucia’s rich cultural history? If so, a stop at Lushan Country Life is a must. This family-run tour is one of the best educational things to do in St. Lucia, taking you through the island’s past before offering up samples of the local fruit growing on the farm, as well as other homemade dishes.

Take a Volcanic Mud Bath

You’ve heard of a drive-in movie theater, but how about a drive-in volcano? The sulphuric mud baths in Soufriere are touted as the world’s only drive-in volcano, as visitors can drive their cars right up to the sulfur springs in the heart of the mountain. The volcanic mud is said to ease skin conditions and help detoxify the body. And if you’re worried about an explosion, don’t be—the Soufriere Volcano is officially dormant. 

Carol McPherson contributed to this article.

The post The 10 Best Things to Do in St. Lucia appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The approved categories of travel are:

1. Family visits

2. Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations

3. Journalistic activity

4. Professional research and professional meetings

5. Educational activities

6. Religious activities

7. Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions

8. Support for the Cuban people

9. Humanitarian projects

10. Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes

11. Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or informational materials

12. Certain authorized export transactions

American travelers to Cuba may not stay at certain government-owned hotels that can be found on the U.S. State Department’s restricted list. Financial transactions are particularly complicated, as U.S. credit and debit cards typically don’t work in Cuba, requiring careful advance planning for expenses.

Breaking these travel regulations can result in significant penalties, including fines of up to $7,500.

Weather

If you’re planning on traveling to Cuba, be extra cautious during hurricane season, which is from early June to the end of November. “American citizens who are planning to be in Cuba during hurricane season should consider the potential dangers and inconveniences associated with hurricanes and should devise an emergency plan before a storm’s arrival,” warns the U.S. Embassy in Cuba. “Regions affected by hurricanes and tropical storms may experience widespread damage to infrastructure and serious shortages of habitable accommodations, food, water, and medical facilities.”

November through April is the best time to visit Cuba. You may want to avoid visiting from May to around the end of September when temperatures can be very high. Sun exposure is also a concern. Be sure to pack lots of sunscreen when visiting, as it is not readily available to purchase in Cuba. 

Crime

As in any country, crime is a concern in Cuba. “Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, purse snatchings, and car break-ins, is a threat for tourists in Cuba,” advises the U.S. State Department.  “Also, violent crime, including armed robbery and homicide, sometimes occurs in Cuba.” Keep your cameras, wallets, purses, passports, and other valuables close to your body when on the beach or walking through Havana. 

Driving

Driving in Cuba is an experience. You can rent a car, but it’s expensive and can be hazardous. Most rental car agencies are government-owned, which can be a problem for American citizens. 

Driving in Cuba can be dangerous and difficult. Road signs are rare, as are lights. The drivers don’t always have headlights, and potholes are everywhere. Unless you’re an experienced driver with nerves of steel, renting a car may not be the best option. It’s easy to instead hire a car and driver, even for multi-day trips, so you don’t have to worry about driving yourself. 

Supplies

Due to ongoing sanctions and trade restrictions, it can be difficult to find basic medications, supplies, and food to purchase in Cuba. Be sure to pack everything you will need during your trip, and don’t count on being able to buy anything you forgot. Bringing extra essentials to donate will be greatly appreciated by locals. 

Payment

Travelers will not be able to use American debit or credit cards in Cuba, so bring plenty of US Dollars to exchange. 

Power Outages

Power outages, both planned rolling blackouts and unplanned outages, are common occurrences in Cuba. Pack a flashlight with plenty of batteries, along with portable chargers for your phones and electronic devices. 

The post Cuba Warnings and Dangers: Can U.S. Citizens Visit Cuba? appeared first on SmarterTravel.

What are the Northern Lights?

The northern lights are caused by energized particles from the sun entering the Earth’s upper atmosphere at high speeds. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) offers a more scientific explanation of the northern lights, saying, “When a solar storm comes toward us, some of the energy and small particles can travel down the magnetic field lines at the north and south poles into Earth’s atmosphere. There, the particles interact with gases in our atmosphere resulting in beautiful displays of light in the sky. Oxygen gives off green and red light.”

The Best Places to See the Northern Lights

The best places to see the northern lights are northern destinations with minimal light pollution, clear skies, and dry weather. 

Iceland

You don’t have to venture too far outside the brightly-lit downtown area of Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavik, to see the northern lights. Within the city itself, you’ll find Perlan, a famous Icelandic observatory rising 61 meters above Reykjavik. The glass-domed top structure offers a warm indoor spot to wait for the light show.

If you weren’t lucky enough to spot the Aurora at Perlan, the planetarium has an immersive northern lights video show that’s the next best thing.

Alaska

Alaska is by far the best place in the United States to see the northern lights. Although the northern lights can be seen statewide, the best places to see them in Alaska are the Interior, Arctic, and Southcentral regions due to their locations under the auroral oval. 

If you’re based in Fairbanks, we recommend booking a northern lights guided tour, which will take you away from city lights. These tour operators monitor weather conditions and aurora forecasts and take groups to spots where there’s the best chance to see the lights. Choose one of the tours that allow you to book a multi-day window instead of a specific date—that way, you’re not locked into a tour on a night that ends up being rainy or cloudy.  

Canada

If you want to see the northern lights in summer, you can actually view them during all four seasons in Canada (but you’ll have the best luck from December to March). Destination Canada recommends the Northwest Territories as the best place in Canada to see the northern lights. In the Northwest Territories, the aurora is visible on an average of 240 nights per year. 

Hoping to spot the lights in the Edmonton area? Sign up for this free email alert that will let you know if there might be an aurora that night.

The Faroe Islands

Some of the most spectacular auroras in the world can be spotted on the Faroe Islands. These far-flung islands, located between Iceland and Norway, are difficult to reach, but their remote location helps with the northern lights viewing, thanks to minimal light pollution.

The peak season for aurora viewing on the Faroe Islands runs from late October to early March.

Sweden

You can see the northern lights from anywhere in Sweden, but for the most brilliant auroras, go north to Swedish Lapland. This isolated swatch of land offers pitch-dark nights and crisp conditions that are optimal for the lights. 

The best time to see the northern lights in Sweden is between 6 pm and 2 am, and the colors are generally most vivid between 10 and 11 pm. 

Norway

Statistically, the best time to see the northern lights in Norway is during March, April, September, or October. Visitors in the winter months will also have a good chance of seeing some aurora activity. 

One of the best methods for hunting the northern lights is by boat, as you’re away from land (and light pollution). In Norway, plenty of companies offer overnight northern light cruises that cross the Arctic Circle, guaranteeing stunning scenery during the day (even if the aurora spotting is not guaranteed). 

Greenland

Want to see the northern lights on your summer vacation? Head to Greenland, where the Aurora Borealis can be seen as early as the end of August. (However, late September is when the northern light season really kicks off.)

Greenland’s position as the northernmost country, along with minimal light pollution and hundreds of clear sky days each year, make it one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights. 

Scotland 

If you’re hoping to see the northern lights in the United Kingdom, it makes sense to head north to Scotland. Northern Scotland lies at the same latitude as parts of Norway and Alaska, making it one of the best spots to see the lights. 

For a magical experience and the best chance to witness the ‘Mirrie Dancer’ as the northern lights are nicknamed in Scotland, go to the Trotternish Peninsula on Skye, which is home to nine Dark Sky Discovery Sites.

The Best Time to See the Northern Lights

Since the northern lights can only be seen after dark, September through April are the best times to see them. The northern lights occur year-round but are not visible to the human eye when the sun is out—In many northern destinations, the days are too long in the summer to create dark enough conditions to see the phenomenon.

The best time of night to see the northern lights varies by destination but is generally between 10 pm and 2 am. 

Northern Lights Tracker

Find out where you’ll have the best chance of seeing the northern lights by using a northern lights tracker like this one from the National Oceanic And Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The tracker shows a short-term forecast for auroras around the world.

5 Tips for Seeing the Northern Lights

1. Find a viewing spot with an unobstructed view toward the north
2. Time your trip for when the moon is least visible (a full moon will diminish your ability to see the northern lights)
3. Avoid light pollution
4. Plan a multi-night trip so you have better odds of seeing an aurora 
5. Ask your hotel reception to call your room and wake you up if the northern lights occur

The post Where Can You See the Northern Lights? appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Want to have that same experience every time you walk in your front door at home? We tested out a variety of fragrance methods, from candles to diffusers, to find out which were the best at making our home smell like a five-star hotel. Try out our picks and feel like you’re on vacation every day.

Hotel Collection Studio Pro Scent Diffuser

Bring the smell of a five-star hotel to your home with Hotel Collection’s Studio Pro Scent Diffuser. This compact diffuser uses a cold-air technology that converts fragrance oil into a dry nano-mist that makes the scent consistent and long-lasting. It’s also much safer than a candle since there’s no flame or smoke to deal with (just a beautiful fragrance). Despite the diffuser’s small size, it can easily scent your entire apartment or house.

Pair the diffuser with the brand’s wide range of scents that are inspired by hotels across the globe, from The Edition Hotel New York to the 1 Hotel Miami Beach.

Jupiter Smells Rich Mykonos Candle

Your house may be hundreds of miles from the beach, but it can smell like you’re on an exotic vacation in Mykonos with Jupiter Smells Rich’s candle. Notes of wild orchid, jasmine, lemon blossom, vanilla, and sandalwood conjure up an island getaway.

This luxury candle is made from 100 percent soy wax and has an all-natural beeswax-coated wick to ensure a clean burn. The scent will linger throughout your house long after you’ve blown out the flame.  

Noho Home Reed Diffuser

A diffuser is one of the easiest and safest ways to make your home smell like a hotel. A diffuser is a small vial of scented liquid that disperses the fragrance through wooden reeds. Unlike a candle or plug-in, you can just open up a diffuser and forget about it.

Our favorite diffuser is Noho Home’s Puakenikeni Reed Diffuser. Perfumed oil is housed in a beautiful vessel that efficiently distributes fragerance via reeds. When the scent starts to fade, simply flip the reeds to refresh the smell. We love the Puakenikeni scent, which is designed in Hawaii and inspired by the puakenikeni flower.

Enviroscent

Worried about what you’re breathing in with all of the artificial air fresheners on the market? Enviroscent does things differently, with a focus on making its scents cleaner, healthier, and safer. All of its products use pure fragrance oils in concentrated form (with no additives) and are packaged using renewable and recyclable minimal-waste materials. Scent your space via the stix + stand diffuser, a car vent clip, or a spray.

No matter which method you choose, it’s all flameless and liquidless to eliminate danger and mess. There are many delectable scents to choose from, including a blend of lavender tea and honey, which smells incredibly relaxing and delicious.

Hillhouse Naturals Candle and Diffuser

For a fragrance that will fill your house and last a long time, look to Hillhouse Naturals. This company was founded by a mother/daughter duo who make the products (with the help of a team of women) on their family farm. They use local ingredients, most of which come straight from the farm. Hillhouse Naturals’ diffusers last for an average of three to four months, which is significantly longer than most other diffusers on the market. The soy candles also burn longer than regular wax candles and don’t have the dangerous chemicals that can be found in mass-market candles.

You’ll find plenty of unique scents here, including travel-themed varieties like the lakeside diffuser, which smells like “spectacular sunsets upon fresh cool waters” and conjures up past waterfront vacations.

Scentfill

Scentfill offers a healthier alternative to traditional plug-ins. The company makes refills that are designed to fit into Air Wick oil warmers but are made with 100 percent plant-based and natural oils rather than chemicals. The fragrances are much more complex and luxurious than what you’d find from a drugstore plug-in—choose the Relax Blend with lemon, lavender, and eucalyptus to make your home smell like a high-end hotel.

Most scents will last between 30 and 60 days if the warmer is set to low, and the refills are reasonably priced at $5.77, making this an affordable option for home fragrances. 

Asakuki’s 5-in-1 Aromatherapy Device

Enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy and a humidifier with Asakuki’s 5-in-1 Aromatherapy Device. This ultrasonic essential oil diffuser has a large 500-milliliter water tank that allows the diffuser to run for 10 to 15 hours at a time. An auto-off safety will switch off the diffuser when the water runs out, so you don’t have to worry about monitoring it. The Asakuki’s fan is ultra-quiet, so you won’t even notice that it’s on.

Use your own essential oils with the diffuser to create the perfect custom scent for your home. 

Lavender Linen Room Spray

Lavender is one of the most calming and relaxing scents and will help give your home that hotel spa smell. Spritz this lavender linen room spray on your pillows, and it may just help you improve your sleep as well.

Once you start to associate the smell with sleep, you can even pack the room spray and take it with you to help you sleep better in unfamiliar hotel rooms. 

Skandinavisk Candles

For the ultimate hygge experience, light a candle from Skandinavisk. This company takes inspiration from Scandinavia to create unique fragrances like Hav (sea), Lykke (happiness), and Koto (home). Each candle is beautifully designed around a theme, like the Nordlys candle (Norwegian for northern lights), which comes in a painted glass holder that looks like the sky.

The candles will scent a mid-sized room for up to 45 hours, and the glass can be reused as a plant holder or decorative vase once it’s empty.

The post How to Make Your Home Smell Like a Hotel appeared first on SmarterTravel.