Vayama Travel Blog

Time to Study the World

By Max Milano *

This year American students are ready to hit the road and see the world. Savvy students have discovered the cultural benefits of international travel and that just a few weeks of foreign travel can be more educational than months in the classroom. We have compiled a list of the top five summer destinations trending with US students booking on Vayama for the summer of 2012.

1-Morroco
Just a short ferry trip from southern Spain, Morocco appeals to students for its inexpensive hotels and food, beatnik cachet, exotic medinas (markets) and the chance to pick up some Arabic. Casablanca has the real Rick’s Cafe (based on the movie Casablanca), Marrakesh offers the largest medina in Morocco and Tangier the opportunity to stay at the hotel where William Burroughs wrote Naked Lunch.

The Real Rick's Cafe in Casablanca

Find flights to Casablanca, Morocco for less on Vayama.

2-Turkey
Istanbul, Turkey is an open air history classroom. The old capital of Byzantium and of the Ottoman Empire is virtually dripping with over 2000 years of history. Straggling both Europe and Asia, this forward looking but yet traditional city has much to offer students, from Turkish Baths to Turkish delights. Student travelers can also head down to Turkey’s Aegean coast to enjoy some of the best beach resorts in the Mediterranean without having to pay Eurozone prices.

Book flights to Istanbul, Turney for less on Vayama.

3-Shanghai:
Go east young man (or young woman). With global economic power shifting eastwards, American students will do well for themselves by familiarizing themselves with China’s most exiting city. Shanghai is a thriving megalopolis where east meets west and China’s nouveau riche party and shop. Shanghai’s 24/7 activity, 1930’s European architecture and 21st century high tech glass towers, will give students travelers a crash course in liberal economics. Also a great chance to pick up some mandarin, the new up and coming language of business and commerce.

Shanghai: Go East

Fly to Shanghai for less on Vayama.

4-Buenos Aires
Don’t cry for me Argentina. Buenos Aires’s air is very good indeed. With international students from all over the world, the capital of Tango is one of the best places to learn Spanish on a budget and still enjoy the affordable sophistication of a world capital. Buenos Aires channels a bit of New York, Madrid, Milan and Paris. The city speaks Spanish with a Neapolitan accent and displays a lively southern European vibe. During the months of July and August, student travelers can head up to the Andean ski resort of Bariloche for skiing and apre-ski galore, or drive south to Patagonia to admire the majestic blue glaciers and sub-arctic wildlife (including killer whales and seals).

Buenos Aires: A bit of Paris and a Lot of Tango

Find flights to Buenos Aires for less on Vayama

5- Thailand
Thailand is the epicenter of budget travel. A perfect place for students travelers. Thailand is exotic and laid back and extremely cheap for travelers on a budget. Bangkok’s Koh San road offers everything your average student traveler would need: From budget hotels to cheap eateries and travel agencies selling low cost flights to Phuket (Thailand’s party island) or nearby countries like Vietnam, Cambodia and Singapore.

Find cheap flights to Bangkok, Thailand on Vayama

* Max Milano is the Author of  “The Mechanicals of Recoleta”Available at Amazon

“Women are traveling alone all over the globe. It’s an excellent way to get to know yourself and these four destinations a little better.”

By Kristin Zibell of Takeyourbigtrip.com*

Kristin Zibell

In the metropolis of Mumbai, where close to a million people a day ride the local trains; there is a ladies-only train. I learned this when I stood waiting on the platform and heard a polite voice with an English accent announce over the address system that, please, remember the next train is for women only and would the gentlemen, please, refrain from getting on it. Such is the importance of the safety and protection of women in Mumbai, that there is an entire train just for them.

In my two years of traveling around the world as a solo woman traveler, I’ve had experiences that have made me happy to be on the road as a lone gal – like the heartfelt conversation I struck up with a doctor on that lady train – and ones that have made me cringe- I’m talking to you guy in Aswan, Egypt who made a very rude proposal while I was walking to the ATM. Overall, traveling alone was rewarding and transformational. I learned to trust myself, grew a BS detector, accepted kindness from strangers, and felt comfortable being by myself.

For women considering striking out on their own global travels for the first, second, or third time, I recommend these four destinations as being solo girl-friendly. They are overall safe, minimal in harassment, and take the edge off being alone with receptive and lively social scenes and natural activities.

Scandinavia
The Scandinavian countries of Sweden, Norway, and Denmark consistently rank in the top 10 places for women to live in the world, so travelers can take heart that they are some of the best places for women to travel solo in as well. Traveling around is safe and easy – there is mass transit and reserved, yet helpful English-speaking locals. The sophisticated and progressive capital cities of Copenhagen, Oslo, and Stockholm are the best places to start a tour with lively art scenes, Nordic heritage museums, and gorgeous waterways.

Get Scandi Handy

Fly to Scandinavia for less with Vayama airfare deals

Scandinavia, especially Norway, has a vibrant hiking culture and well-established national park system. Start with the very popular Jotunheimen National Park and you are bound to meet other backpackers and hikers at the lodges or starting points. Sweden even has a “right of public access” law, which means you can go to any natural area in the country and explore, ideally with those new hiking friends. Relax tired muscles and mix with local women by visiting a communal sauna afterwards, called a Bastu.

Cambodia
The Temples at Angkor in Siem Reap are the travel poster destination for visitors to Cambodia. Not only is this one destination to cross off on a “wonders of the world” bucket list, but also the town and the temples are accessible and friendly for women travelers. The tourism-friendly city has many open-air cafes and inexpensive, clean hotels where it’s amenable to meet other travelers from around the world.

Holiday in Cambodia

Fly to Cambodia for less with Vayama’s airfare deals

Tired of temples? Head to the beach provinces along Cambodia’s Southern Coast. Try visiting Kep and relax with others who enjoy the relaxed, post-French-colonial environs and fresh seafood in this revitalized beach paradise. Sihanoukville has more of a Bangkok party vibe, but the town rewards with white sand beaches and plenty of social activity.

Hong Kong
A foodie and shopping paradise with a skyline of the future, Hong Kong is safe and bustling at all hours. This means a solo traveler can find herself always around people, safely exploring this Eastern city that never sleeps. Serious shoppers will find high-end shops sprinkled throughout the Landmark on Queens Road in Central. The more budget conscious shoppers can hit the markets on Ladies Street in Mong Kok.

Hang Out in Hong Kong

Fly to Hong Kong for Less with Vayama’s airfare deals

For a social scene, expats are found partying at clubs and restaurants in the neon Lan Kwai Fong area, which is also near the Central district. Foodies have a plethora of dim sum choices at popular places like Maxim’s Palace City Hall Dim Sum or Tim Ho Wan. For desert, try Tofu Fa, a creamy bean curd pudding that is topped with ginger and available at food stands throughout the city.

Argentina
With a reputation for steak, cowboys, and beautiful women, Argentina may seem like more on the machismo traveler track. For a solo women traveler it’s a friendly, relaxed destination where it’s easy to settle down for a while. Many travelers come to Argentina, Buenos Aires, in particular, to take classes – either immersion in Spanish language or dance – tango and salsa. Renting an apartment is common in neighborhoods like Puerto Modero and Recoleta, which offer a glimpse into daily Argentinean life.

Buenos Aires: the air is very good

Fly to Argentina for less with Vayama’s airfare deal

Want more natural scenery? Grab a wine tour to the Mendoza region and sip on Malbecs with like-minded travelers or join a group heading to the extreme natural beauty of Ignazu falls or the almost-to-Antarctica Tierra Del Fuego.

Women are traveling alone all over the globe. It’s an excellent way to get to know yourself and these four destinations a little better. With any travel, even to the safest places, use common sense by not showing off valuables, taking care of belongings, and dressing for touring, not night-clubbing or the beach (unless you’re actually going to those places). Bon Voyage!

*Kristin Zibell is a chronic world traveler and travel writer. She authors the popular travel blog TakeYourBigTrip.com to inspire would-be travelers to live their travel dreams. When not traveling locally in San Francisco, Kristin is always planning her next big trip.

We welcome Nomadic Matt as our new guest blogger.

Nomadic Matt has made long term travel his goal in life and he is eager to share his knowledge and travel tips so that you can finally embark on that trip of your dreams. Doesn’t matter if you want to see the world for one week or for one year, Nomadic Matt will tell you how to travel the cheapest and smartest way possible.

Nomadic Matt’s Favorite Cities.

By Nomadic Matt

After traveling around the world for close to six years, I’ve been to a lot of places. Five continents, 60 countries, and countless cities. I’ve made many friends and had more memorable experiences than my brain can handle. But despite that, some places in the world remain my favorite. There are cities in the world that I love more than others, cities I return to regularly, cities where I could see myself living.

Despite all my travels in the last five years, these cities remain my favorite and stay in my thoughts no matter where I am. If you are planning a trip somewhere, I can’t recommend the following 9 cities enough. They will never disappoint you.

Amsterdam
I can’t say exactly how many times I’ve been to Amsterdam, but it’s in the double digits. Before I became a travel writer, I was a semi-professional poker player. (Seriously). In 2006, I stayed in Amsterdam playing poker and fell in love with Amsterdam. The fast-paced life, friendly locals, easy access to the rest of Europe, picturesque canals, and great architecture keep me coming back. In some ways, Amsterdam reminds me of my hometown of Boston, which might be why I love it so much. I never travel around Europe without finding a way to this city.

Book your flights to Amsterdam for less on Vayama.

Paris
Ever since I stepped out on the Champs Elysees, I knew Paris was as magical as they said it would be. I was in love. It had that “je ne sais quoi” that people talked about, and I was unable to ignore its magic. Sure, Paris is large and expensive, and the people can be rude. But what big city isn’t like that? Paris is just too beautiful, vibrant, and filled with great food and history. Being here is like being in a real life romantic comedy, but better. And every time I see a movie like “Midnight in Paris” I can’t help but love Paris a little more.

Book your flights to Paris for less on Vayama.

Nomadic Matt Loves Paris

Bangkok
I hated Bangkok the first few times I visited the city. It was a dirty, polluted city with no redeeming qualities. And there didn’t seem like many activities to do there. It wasn’t until I moved there that I realized Bangkok gives out its beauty only over time. Bangkok was an easy city to live in – there is a lot to do (just not normal tourist stuff), plenty of social events, great bars, wonderful food (nothing beats Thailand street food), and some of the nicest people on the planet. Bangkok showed me that looks can be deceiving, and that there is more to a city than what is on the surface.

Book your flights to Bangkok for less on Vayama.

Stockholm
I’ve been to Stockholm three times, and I love it so much I am moving there in July to live for 6 months while I learn Swedish. I think this city is one of the most beautiful on earth. The reds and greens of the buildings have an old world charm that rivals cities like Prague, and, during the fall, the changing leaves only highlight that beauty. The history, high quality of life, beautiful scenery, and super friendly and welcoming Swedes make this one of my top travel destinations.

New York City
I never really liked New York until after I lived in Bangkok and got used to big city life. Now, whenever it is I decide to move back to the United States, I will move to New York City. I lived there last summer and came back every other week between trips around the U.S. New York City is a place where dreams are made into reality, where there is always something to do, something to see, or a new place to eat. The city is so multi-cultural that when I feel like I need to travel and I can’t, there’s an ethnic area of the city that will make me feel miles away.

Chicago
After NYC, Chicago is my favorite U.S. city. In the summertime, this lake-side city seems to come to life after it emerges from its long and cold winter. Chicago is a buzz with activity that creates a eclectic atmosphere. Along with its lively atmosphere, the food here is delicious and the architecture is second to none. The Chicago School of Architecture is one of the most famous in the world and the tours showcasing the various styles in the city are fascinating. I never get bored of visiting Chicago.

Chicago is trendy-cool

Vancouver
I think Vancouver must be one of the most livable cities in the world. I’d live in it, which is my benchmark for whether or not I like a place. In Vancouver, you can go from the city into the mountains in minutes. I think that is really the highlight of the city for me – the fact that I don’t have to go far to be with nature. Moreover, there’s a park so big in the middle of the city, I often feel like I am in the center of a forest. Add in a vibrant food and art scene, and Vancouver is definitely a world-class city.

Queenstown
Perched in the stunning south island mountains of New Zealand, Queenstown is a place for adventures. There’s bungy jumping, hiking, rafting, zip lining, boating, and tons more. Travelers come here because they want to be outside. Situated on a lake near the Remarkable mountain range, Queenstown is a high-energy resort town. It’s small, prettier than a postcard, and perfect for people who like the outdoors. I would jump on a plane and head back there right now if I could.

Beautiful Queenstown, New Zealand

Perth
Perth, Australia is more like a big town than a city, and I think that’s what I like about it. It’s big enough to have a lot to do, but small enough to feel cozy. I love Perth because of that small town, big city feel, the fact that it is on the water and has great nightlife, that it’s a great jumping-off spot to see the western Australian parks and natural sites, and that it is close to hip Freemantle, which is home to my favorite Australian brewery, Little Creatures. I find it much more personal than other Australian towns.

Book your flights to Perth for less on Vayama.

Want more? Here’s a blog I wrote with 20 more interesting facts about me!

Discover Turkish Delights this Summer in Istanbul’s Bazaars and palaces.

By Max Milano

Europeans go mad for the Med in the summer. But nothing beats the eastern Mediterranean for its beauty, history and affordability (as long as you are outside of the Eurozone). So when in Europe, do as the Europeans do, and enjoy the charms of the Aegean in Turkish Liras, not Euros.

Vayama and Turkish Airways are teaming up to offer 2 free tickets to Istanbul. Visit Vayama’s Facebook page and sign up for this sweepstakes, you might just be heading to Istanbul this summer for free!

Istanbul: Getting There

Istanbul is Turkey’s largest city and its main gateway. The capital was moved to Ankara when modern Turkey was created but Istanbul is still the country’s main commercial and cultural capital, as it has been for over 2000 years. Istanbul is hot this summer, and it’s not just the weather. The city is trendy and getting trendier. Boutiques, nightclubs, lounges and fashionably dressed locals are now a staple, sharing the city with ancient Roman and Ottoman palaces and Mosques. The fact that Turkey is outside of the Eurozone has been noted by appreciative European tourist who formerly would vacation in Greece. Tourists now flock to Istanbul and the beaches of Aegean turkey to enjoy the eastern Mediterranean way of life for less. Visit Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar for that traditional Turkish shopping experience, followed by an even more traditional visit to a historical hamam (Turkish bath). Start your night in a traditional meyhane restaurant for a plate of mezze and kebabs. Istanbul’s casual eateries are part of city’s fabric of life. Join the locals sitting in the many outdoor cafés sipping small grasses of raki as they watch the world go by.

Istanbul: Half in Europe and Half in Asia

The Bosphorus straits divides Istanbul into European and Asian parts. Grand Ottoman palaces line the waterfront and the skyline of Mosque spires now competes with the glass towers of the new financial district. Don’t miss the Hagia Sophia Church/Mosque. Originally a Byzantine church, it was later turned into a Mosque with the advent of the Ottoman Empire. Hagia Sophia is now a museum showcasing the clashing empires that have shaped Istanbul thought its history.

Aegean Turkey

After enjoying Istanbul’s charms, head south along the coast to Izmir. Izmir is the epicenter of Aegean Turkey. You will be forgiven to believe that the rolling hills and coves around Izmir belong to a Greek shoreline (and it used to). This part of Turkey was fully Hellenized until the advent of the Ottoman Empire and the food and beaches have a lot in common with the Greek islands just off shore. Visit the nearby Roman ruins of Ephesus, once the capital of the Roman province of Asia Minor and now the best preserved Roman ruins in Turkey.  Take a day trip to Pamukkale, these petrified waterfalls have been used as a spa for centuries, where you can swim with next to Roman ruins in a large natural swimming pool.  For the full Aegean experience, you can rent a traditional wooden Gulet boat and sail the coves and islands of the Aegean coast.  A typical Gulet day cruise will include meals and some offer accommodations below deck.

Gulet boat in Aegean Turkey

Enjoy Istanbul and the Aegean side of Turkey this summer. You will be happy you did.

* Max Milano is the Author of  “The Mechanicals of Recoleta”Available at Amazon

Fly South African Airways to one of the most beautiful cities in the world: Cape Town.

By Max Milano *

Fly South African Airways to Cape Town, South Africa’s second city and legislative capital. Located near the Cape of Good Hope, Cape Town is the southernmost city on the African continent and one of the most iconic ports in the world. When you book your flights to Cape Town, you will discover a place where oceans and cultures meet at the foot of Table Mountain. A city blessed by nature, warmed by the African sun and visited by an amazing array of aquatic life; including whales, penguins, seals and some the largest great white sharks in the world. The perfect day in Cape Town starts with sunbathing with dolphins on Boulder Beach in the morning and then cage diving with great white sharks in the afternoon!

Visit Cape Town’s world famous Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, set against spectacular Table Mountain. The Victoria & Alfred is one of the most iconic shopping and entertainment centers on earth, with many shops, restaurants, cafes and even a pair of ocean aquariums.

Cape Town's waterfront and Table Mountain

Cape Town’s Dutch heritage is visible in its architecture. Walk along Long Street for its well maintained colonial era buildings and visit the British Imperial Edwardian City hall.

Take the cable car to the top of Table Mountain for the great views and unique flora and fauna. Rent a car and check out Chapman drive, one of the most spectacular scenic drives on earth, with soaring views of the ocean against craggy cliffs. Drive to Constantia for its wine route, centuries-old estates, and fine dining.

Take a walk in Cape Town’s colorful Bo-Kaap district (Cape Town’s Malay quarter), where the narrow streets are lined with pastel houses and restaurants serving spicy Cape Malay curries.

Take one of the en vogue township tours to the Cape Flats area of Cape Town. These popular walking tours will usually include a visit to a local shebeen (pub), a school, a community center and a traditional South African healer. The best music in Cape Town comes from the townships. A visit to South Africa would be rather lacking without a visit to these vibrant communities.

Night life in Cape Town is also legendary and some of the best restaurants in the whole of South Africa are there. Join the party at the end of Long Street, where restaurants, night clubs and bars hop all night long.

Cape wine is very fine.

Top your Cape Town trip with a ferry ride to Robben Island. This is the island prison where Nelson Mandela spent 18 years during the struggle against apartheid. South Africa today is a vibrant multicultural nation and Cape Town is the best place to enjoy it all in one place. Even the Penguins agree, they love it here, and you will too.

March of the Cape Town Penguins

* Max Milano is the Author of  “The Mechanicals of Recoleta”Available at Amazon

With Vayama’s “Win 2 free Tickets to Paris this Summer” sweepstakes, you have a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the city of lights and discover Europe’s wonderful tradition of  summer festivals.

By Max Milano *

Top Europe Summer Festivals of 2012

Summer in Europe is an endless parade of fiestas and festivals. From Hemingway to the cast of the Jersey Shore, American tourists and expats have been attracted to their incredible (and sometimes downright wacky) variety. From running down cobblestoned alleys while being chased by wild bulls (Pamplona’s Running of the bulls), to the world’s largest tomato fight, Europe’s quirky summer fiestas offer something for everybody. These festivities are often the best way to experience the best of a country’s culture, cuisine and drinking habits.

France

The French love motorsports, bicycle races, egalitarian revolutions, and summer. July is the month of the Le Mans 24 hour race, where you can camp and be festive as the race continues through the night. If you prefer human powered vehicles, the Tour de France races along the most picturesque French alpine roads, culminating in glory on the Champs-Élysées. For a sample of Gallic egalitarian pride, be in Paris for Bastille Day. It’s the biggest bash of the summer, with parties, fireworks and égalité galore. Fly to France for free this summer with Vayama’s Win 2 Free Tickets to Paris Facebook Sweepstakes.

Tour de France!

Spain

Spain has perhaps the most famous summer festivals in Europe (La Tomatina & the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona), but it also has a plethora of lesser known summer festivities that are no less raucous and fun. Galicia’s “Romeria Vikinga” (Viking Romp) features the whole town of Pontevedra dressed either as a Viking raider or a Christian defender to re-enact the Viking invasion of “Torres de Oeste”. After the mock battle, everyone joins in on a large feast of red wine and free seafood. Fly to Spain for less with this hot airfare deal and don’t forget your Viking helmet.

Galicia's Viking Hordes

Italy

What can be better than Italy in the summer, especially during festival season? Siena’s famous Palio races (featured in the last James Bond movie) is just one of many Italian festivities you can enjoy this summer.  Enjoy this discounted airfare to Italy and get festive, James Bond style.

Siena's Palio: James Bond was here

Russia

Russians love any excuse to celebrate with vodka, and given their long cold winters, who can blame them? So it comes as no surprise that the summer solstice is celebrated with the St Petersburg’s White Nights Festival.  It’s a weeklong party where the best of Russian opera, ballet and theatre is showcased, as well as plenty of open air drinking at dusk (which occurs around 12 am). Hence the White Nights moniker! Fly to St Petersburg for less with this airfare and watch the sun set after midnight.

* Max Milano is the Author of “The Mechanicals of Recoleta”Available at Amazon

Win 2 Free Tickets to Paris this Summer with XL Airways France

By Max Milano *

“We will always have Paris” Humphrey Bogart (Rick) famously said in the classic film Casablanca. He didn’t say “We Will Always have Paris in the Summer”, perhaps because Paris is beautiful all year around. But there is something magical about the heat of a summer night in Paris. You can sit at an outdoor Café in Montmartre late in the evening sipping cold bubbly and chilled raw oysters. The summer is also when Parisians retreat to the Riviera or their ancestral farms and country cottages, leaving the city to the tourists. So use Paris as your base, but don’t forget that the French Riviera is just a short TGV train ride away.

Summer is also a time of great events in France. This year is particularly grand due to the London Olympics being celebrates just across the English Channel. You can use Paris as your European entry point and then hop on the Eurostar train to London to join the Olympic cheer.

Other big summer bashes in France this summer include Bastille Day, the Tour de France and the Monaco Grand Prix.

Bogie: We will Always Have Paris!

XL Fun in Paris

XL Airways France is now offering nonstop flights to Paris in the summer from San Francisco, Los Angeles, Las Vegas and New York. I like them because they are bringing to the USA a travel tradition popular in France for decades. That is the tradition of the nonstop flight to popular tourist destinations. These nonstop flights often bypass busy international hubs and take travelers directly to the beach resort or city of their choice. With these new nonstop flights to Paris from the East and West Coasts, XL Airways France and Vayama now offer American travelers the lowest summer airfare deals to their favorite European city.

And what could possibly be better than a nonstop discounted flight to Paris on Xl Airways France? The answer is; 2 Free tickets to Paris on XL Airways France! Vayama is offering a chance to win 2 free tickets to Paris this summer on XL Airways France on their Facebook page.  Facebook fans are asked to post their best reasons for flying to Paris this summer to enter the contest. So get your thinking caps on and post your best reasons to fly to Paris for free this summer, you might just be a winner! See you in Paris.

Hot Summer Events in Paris and France for 2012

Monaco Grand Prix – From Thursday 24th to Sunday 27^th of May, 2012

Parisians escape to La Cote Azure in the summer. The best way to reach the shores of the Mediterranean from Paris is to jump on the TGV train heading south. The Monaco grand Prix attracts a Who’s Who of international Jet Setters, but as of this writing, it’s still free to walk around Monaco during Le Grand Prix weekend to join in on the general festivities. Extra points if you manage to get invited to a party on a super-yacht docked on the marina, the best way to see the race.

The Tour De France – From Jun 30^th to July 22, 2012

The Tour the France offers a way to see the best of France: From fields of lavender to Alpine peaks. Rent a car for less on Vayama and follow le peloton as it struggles up steep Alpine passes and speeds trough medieval villages. The grand finale at les Avenue des Champs-Elysées in Paris rivals Bastille Day.

Bastille Day – Saturday, July 14, 2012

“Let them eat cake” was the cry that fired up the French revolution. Erroneously attributed to poor Marie Antoinette, who paid with her head for the revolutionary exuberance. The storming of the Bastille prison is celebrated every 14th of July as La Fête Nationale, better known in the English speaking world as Bastille Day. Parades, fireworks and firemen’s balls galore mark the occasion. A perfect time to be in Paris.

Bastille Day: Let then have their Cake and Eat it Too!

London Olympics – From July 27^th to August 12^th, 2012

Enjoy Paris for a few days before hopping on the Eurostar train to London for the Olympics. The Eurostar can be booked on Vayama for city center to city center travel in comfort and speed (in under 45 minutes total travel time). It could very well take longer than 45 minutes just to get to the airport, making the Eurostar a more convenient option to get to London.

* Max Milano is the Author of “The Mechanicals of Recoleta”Available at Amazon

Guidebooks are So Passé . Smartphone Mobile Guides are the smart way to go.

By Max Milano *

Remember the days when we carried a thick volume of Lonely Planet or Rough Guide in our backpacks? A well thumbed guidebook was (and still is) a quintessential part of any self respecting traveler’s gear. But the truth is that guidebooks weigh a ton, are often out of date, and are usually quite expensive. Frugal travelers often buy old editions of guidebooks in second hand bookstores, only to get to their destination and find out that that cute shop in Madrid has been closed since the seventies and that Spain’s currency is not Peseta (not since Jan 2002 when the Euro came into circulation).

Time To Embrace Travel Technology

Travelers nowadays have learned to embrace all aspects of travel technology: From online travel agencies to GPS. The electronic travel arsenal available today is staggering. Some purists might argue that nothing beats a thick volume of Lonely Planet or Frommer’s, and these books still have their place. But the simple fact is that new travel gadgets and apps do make us more efficient travelers. Technology is allowing us to better explore our destination and, hopefully, allow us to enjoy both the big hits as well as the quirky off the beaten track gems.

Travel Apps: Never Leave Home Without Them.

You can now get apps that guide you through the subways of the world (with maps and real time timetables). There are apps that review the best restaurants and bars in unfamiliar cities, apps that show your flight schedule, and apps that can book flights. Even venerable guidebook publishers like Lonely Planet and Frommers have joined the travel app market with a wide selection that includes electronic city guides, translating apps and currency converters.

Put a Mobile Guide in Your Pocket

One of the most impressive travel apps I’ve road tested lately are the mobile city guides from PocketGuide. It’s like having a GPS unit, a detailed guide book and a tour guide inside your smart phone. PocketGuide offers mobile guided tours of many popular cities worldwide, including Barcelona, London, Paris, Madrid, Buenos Aires, Hong Kong, Lima and many more. The tours are designed by professional tour guides and their audio information is informative and pleasant to the ear. What I like most about pocket guide is that thanks to GPS tracking, you have the choice of following one of the walking tours available for your city or simply wonder around at your own pace and let Pocketguide point out the sites and points of interest. You can even take snapshots of the different stops on the audio tour and Pocketguide will add them to a 3D map of your route, very cool. Watch the video below to see all of Pocketguides cool features. PocketGuide promo from Pocketguide on Vimeo. For a limited time only, Vayama is giving away Pocketguide tours of all your favorite cities. Go to Vayama’s Facebook’s page to find out how to win a free Pocket Guide Mobile Tour and let technology help you discover the hidden treasures of the most beautiful cities in the world.

* Max Milano is the Author of “The Mechanicals of Recoleta”Available at Amazon

This summer will be an Olympic Summer in London. Find out how to get in through the side door and save with these airfare deals and frugal travel tips.

By Max Milano*

London

This will the summer of London, the whole world will pour in for the Summer Olympics, driving up prices for flights, accommodation and even food. But this shouldn’t be a deal-breaker for frugal travelers, as long as you do your homework, book early, and use our frugal travel tips.

London Olympics 2012

Flights: Vayama has deals to London on British Airways and Virgin Atlantic. Traditionally summer airfares to London are found in the early spring, but this year savvy travelers need to book in midwinter to score the best deals. Some may also consider going right after the Olympics to enjoy the best bargains, as you can still watch all the Olympic events from the comfort of your own home and then tour the Olympic Village and the rest of London for less once the events are over.

Fly Through the “Side Door”: Flight deals to Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam and even Dusseldorf are a good “side door” alternative for summer travel to Europe during the Olympics. Book your London side trip on the Eurostar train from Paris or Brussels or take advantage of the many cross channel ferries from the continent. Long distance buses from continental Europe include the ferry crossing and go from city center to central London.

Take the Eurostar to London from Paris or Brussels

Low Cost Flights: Take advantage of Europe’s network of low cost airlines that offer flights to London from as low as 19 pounds each way. Vayama offers European low cost airlines like EasyJet and other that can get you into London Gatwick or Stansted airports from Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam and many other mainland Europe destinations. Most low cost airlines fly in and out of secondary airports like Paris Orly or London Stansted, so same day connections are best avoided (just add one or more sightseeing days in Paris, Brussels or Amsterdam before your London hop). Both Gatwick and Stansted airports offer easy rail connections into central London.

Where to Stay: London offers a plethora of accommodation options, from hostel bunk beds to five star hotels and extended stay apartments. Check out the Vayama hotel section for hotel deals More adventurous travelers can try couch surfing with friends or camping on London’s Epping Forrest (accessible by subway from central London).

Free London: Accommodation and airfares bargains may be harder to get during the London Olympics, but London still offers over 20 totally free world class tourist attractions; The British Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum, the National Art Gallery, the National Maritime Museum and Royal Observatory in Greenwich (of 0 parallel fame), the Tate Britain, the Houses of Parliament, the Serpentine Gallery in Kensington Park and many others. It also doesn’t cost anything to browse for antiques on Portobello road, or for trendy vintage clothes in Camden Lock or for foodie delights in Borough Market (a perfect picnic shopping spot). The grassy field next to the Houses of Parliament on the bank of the Thames is a perfect central London picnic spot and is close to the Underground. Get a London Oyster Card for underground, bus and boat travel all around London.

National Gallery London

Side Door Destinations

Paris: Vayama is offering deals this summer on XL France airlines. Paris is the perfect ‘side door’ destination for London. Spend a couple of days in Paris before catching the Eurostar train to London or book a low cost flight from Orly airport.

Brussels: Brussels is the official “side door” of Europe, with great rail and low cost air connections to London. Vayama has great airfare deals to Brussels on Jet Airways, Brussel Airways, Air Canada and others. Enjoy Brussels great mussels and fries and trappist beers before hopping on the Eurostar train from central Brussels to central London.

Amsterdam: Amsterdam is another great European “side door” destination, with great low cost deals to London on Easyjet and easy ferry connections out of nearby Rotterdam to Dover and other UK ports. Fly to Amsterdam for less with this hot airfare deal from Vayama.

Amsterdam is one of Europe's side doors

Other Europe Summer “Side Door” Destinations: Dusseldorf Germany, Madrid Spain, Reykjavik Iceland, Edinburg Scotland, Dublin Ireland.

* Max Milano is the Author of “The Mechanicals of Recoleta”Available at Amazon

Fall in love with these romantic movie destinations

By Max Milano *

Here is part 2 of our romantic movie destinations and the lowest airfare deals to get you there for less.

Shanghai (Shanghai Express, Shanghai Surprise)

Modern Shanghai is closer to Blade Runner than the 1930’s version portrayed in Shanghai Express, where Marlene Dietrich plays a classic femme fatale hustler during the wild years right before the Japanese occupation. Madonna frolicked in another 1930’s version of Shanghai that was actually filmed in Hong Kong during a time when Shanghai had still yet to awake from years of communist slumber. Today’s Shanghai is a megalopolis of neon and skyscrapers, where old and new, east and west meet in a unique blend that is all Shanghai.

Dietrich in Shanghai Express

Fly to Shanghai for less with this hot airfare deal

Saigon (The Lover, The Quiet American)

In the film the lover, set in French Indochina, Saigon is a city of wide boulevards and gorgeous French colonial architecture. Modern day Ho Chi Minh City still retails a colonial core called Saigon, where you can sit in an outdoor Café at dusk and image Graham Greene sipping a whisky & soda with The Quiet American.

Fly to Ho Chi Minh City for less with this hot airfare deal

Venice (Summertime)

In the film Summertime, Catherine Hepburn travels to Venice and soon falls in love with the city and a handsome Venetian. The city today may have sunk a foot or two, but hasn’t lost any of its beauty. A vaporetto ride down the Grand Canal, floating by Venice’s gorgeous Palazzos, is still one for the bucket lists.

Hepburn falls in love with Venice in "Summertime"

Fly to Venice for less with this hot airfare deal

Florence (Light in the Piazza)

In Light in the Piazza, an American mother and her beautiful, but mentally challenged daughter, discover that love, Italian style, is the best way for her daughter to have a normal life. Florence today is as romantic as it was when this film was shot back in the early 1960’s.

Fly to Florence for less with this hot airfare deal

Barcelona (Barcelona, Vicky Cristina Barcelona)

In the movie ‘Barcelona’, two American ex pats fall in love with the city and its beautiful ladies, against the backdrop of the cold war. In Woody Allen’s ‘Vicky, Cristina Barcelona’, two American expats (this time females) fall in love with the city and its beautiful man (Javier Bardem). See the pattern? Fly to Barcelona and fall in love with this beautiful city of Catalan delights.

Woody Allen does Barcelona

Fly to Barcelona for less with this hot airfare deal

London (Waterloo Bridge, Notting Hill, Four Weddings and a Funeral)

London has appeared in countless movies, but the city’s romantic qualities and its reputation as a city where two perfect strangers can meet by chance and still fall in love has been portrayed best in this trio of films: Waterloo Bridge, where a soldier on leave and a ballet dancer elope at the eve of war. In Notting Hill, a famous American movie star falls for a British shopkeeper,  and in Four Weddings and a Funeral, a friendly British guy proves that the best places in England to fall in love with an attractive American ex pat are weddings and funerals (it is British humor after all).

Fly to London for less with this hot airfare deal

* Max Milano is the Author of “The Mechanicals of Recoleta”Available at Amazon