The many ways you can travel upscale on a budget
This blog is all about upscale travel on a budget. Yet, despite the tips I will provide here and in my other articles, what you choose for luxury and where you decide to save is a very personal thing. These tips are suggestions from my travels to some 70 countries. They are how I manage to enjoy upscale journeys while still keeping an eye on expenditures. If that idea sounds like you, read on for my top 10 tips.
1. “Upscale” and “budget” are personal
I have talked to travelers who always fly international economy class, saving money to later spend on hotels, meals, entertainment, etc. That makes sense for them. Not my style. With a bad back in my past, long legs, and little personal “padding,” enduring 14 hours in a coach seat is not tolerable. I opt for upscale lie-flat business class seats. I arrive at my foreign destination refreshed and ready to enjoy the first day. It’s a personal thing.
But that means I might already be thousands of dollars behind others when it comes to budget, and the trip has barely started. So, I have to find other ways to save without compromising the experience.
It’s important that you determine what upscale travel on a budget means to you. Decide while you are researching and planning a trip, not later. What are your memory-makers? You may forever remember the fantastic dinner that cost you hundreds of dollars or you may remember the interesting street food you chose over an expensive restaurant. These are your travel memories. Think about what matters to you!
2. Some outstanding locations are also affordable
Everybody traveling to Europe wants to experience London and Paris – and with good reason. But they can also be quite expensive. Meanwhile, Central European cities, such as Prague, can be wonderful at a much lower price. Research alternative destinations. Consider Budapest instead of Vienna or Madrid instead of Barcelona.
Bangkok is still Asia’s affordable crown jewel. I have stayed many times at the Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, a Luxury Collection Hotel in the heart of Bangkok, for less than $200 per night (and that even includes one of the finest international buffet breakfasts on the planet). Transportation in Bangkok is cheap, food is cheap, even excellent medical care is cheap (ask me how I know). And yet, you are in an amazing city, with an enchanting culture – the perfect friendly base for visiting the rest of Thailand and Southeast Asia.
Think outside the box – and by box, I mean the usual tourist destinations. In North America, all the tour groups flock to high-priced New York City, Washington D.C., and Hollywood. But you can find history in Charleston, great food in Austin, and a more upscale SoCal experience in Orange County. And discover San Miguel de Allende instead of Mexico City for history, food, and upscale living!
3. Stay outside the expensive city
Travelers wanting to experience Switzerland often wind up staying in its most expensive city, Zurich. But the rail system is so excellent in that country that choosing a base such as Luzern or Bern makes a lot more sense. You can take day trips to enjoy Swiss experiences, like Gruyères, Lauterbrunnen, Jungfrau and countless more; then return to a wonderful city that costs less than Zurich (and is easier to navigate).
Florence is delightful and should be visited, but is not your best choice for an extended stay to explore Tuscany (which you should). After a short stay in Florence, we find the medieval city of Montepulciano to be the perfect base for daily road trips throughout the region in our Mercedes-Benz rental. Do your research. We book a beautiful 2-bedroom home for less than the price of a Florence hotel room.
Speaking of Italy, consider staying in charming Verona and visiting Venice as a day trip. The two cities are only just over an hour apart via a comfortable high-speed train.
The Paris countryside can also be amazing. The Loire Valley is home to more than 300 châteaux. We have a 14th century mansion practically to ourselves, and we are only 70km from Paris by train.
4. Stay longer in one place and book a vacation rental
In the above examples we were able to explore a region by staying in one place. With that strategy you can begin to look at vacation rentals as an alternative to hotels. Check out sites such as Airbnb and VRBO, but also search for region-specific platforms. For example, if you Google “luxury vacation rentals in Madrid,” you will find sites such as Home Club, Inspirato, Genteel Home, Casa Malasana, Likibu, The Luxury Travel Book, Plum Guide, and more.
Vacation rentals can be very expensive on a short stay due to cleaning and other fixed fees, but spread those costs out across a week and upscale living can be budget living. And now you can prepare some of your meals in your own kitchen, for further savings.
These days, even timeshare properties can be booked like hotel rooms. We stay on Maui at the Westin Ocean Resort Villas instead of a hotel. We use VRBO to discover a wonderful golf course condo in the heart of Princeville, Kauai. You can too!
5. Take advantage of shoulder season
Families are often restricted to travel when school is out, adding to the burden and price of holiday journeys. If you have the flexibility to travel at other times, by all means, do it. Research when shoulder season occurs at your intended destination – it will be different throughout the world. In some cases, it may mean colder weather or more chance of rain, so check the monthly weather trends as well.
We love to travel in October to Europe and North America. Summer crowds are gone, prices are often much lower, and the weather can still be pleasant. We spend a week in Jackson Hole in October and are delighted to encounter both autumn color and some snow. Rooms at the Four Seasons, for example, can be twice as expensive in the summer and three times as much during ski season.
Zermatt, Switzerland is a haven (and heaven) for tourists to experience breathtaking hiking in the summer and world-class skiing in the winter. We visit in October. The weather is magnificent, the hiking is just as incredible, but the cost of accommodations is much lower.
Areas that are popular with weekend travelers can also switch from upscale to budget pricing for weekday stays. Our Airbnb house in Lake Arrowhead, California is quite reasonably priced for a Monday to Thursday visit in November.
6. Check multiple sites for airfare
I usually start with Expedia when checking airfares. You may have your own favorite platform, such as Google Travel, Skyscanner, Kayak, etc. Remember, some airlines are not featured on these providers. If your dates are flexible, make sure to explore that option. Airfares might vary widely, depending on the day of the week.
Once I find a possible flight, I also check the airline’s website. Sometimes my loyalty status will improve anything from ticket price to baggage fees to seat assignment. Then, I usually book directly with the airline. In my experience, if there is a problem later, I would prefer to deal with the airline’s customer service rather than a third party. The last time I actually booked with Expedia was 2013! When my flight out of Chiang Mai, Thailand was canceled, Expedia’s answer was to book me on a flight two days later! Their customer service was of no help. Needless to say, I canceled the ticket and booked my own direct flight out of Chiang Mai later the same day.
7. Also check multiple sites for accommodations
Unlike airline third-party sites, the hotel platforms are pretty good. I often use booking.com and have never had a problem. Their “genius” discounts really can save you money. Consider starting your research at Google Travel, which aggregates pricing from multiple sites.
As with airlines, I often wind up booking a room directly with the hotel, especially if my loyalty status kicks in. It can yield me a free breakfast or even a suite. Truth be told, though, loyalty programs are not as valuable as they used to be. It all went downhill when Marriott bought Starwood.
8. Use local guides to save time and money
It was my first time visiting Vietnam, so I reached out to a local guide group to arrange a car from the Hanoi airport to my hotel. I thought the price, at less than $40, was reasonable. An English-speaking guide accompanied the driver. When we got to my hotel the guide asked me how much time I needed to freshen up before the night’s excursion. What? Yes, that price included the airport transfer, plus a private tour of Hanoi, unlimited street food and beer, and safe return to my hotel. I would go on to use the family-owned Custom Asia Travel each day for Ninh Binh, Tho Ha, and Bai Tu Long Bay. A custom, private experience is truly upscale, but can be achieved on a budget.
I used the same strategy to navigate Myanmar, receiving a great education from a different guide in each region. In Laos, my driver doubled as a guide. We visited lovely Kuang Si Falls, having them to ourselves. On his advice, we skipped the butterfly park, instead stopping to photograph the same butterflies in the wild. It was only when we stopped by his home later in the day that I found out my driver/guide was also the mayor of a district of Luang Prabang!
Moral of the story: immerse yourself in the local culture and experience upscale travel on a budget.
9. Carry your own supplies
My carry-on bag is usually filled half with clothes and half with supplies. I drink coffee first thing in the morning, so I take my own coffee around the world. It beats trying to find a café open at 6:00am or paying 4 Euros for each gulp of expresso.
I also carry a U.S. drugstore in a quart-size Ziploc bag. Try buying eye drops in Cambodia, when all the ingredients are in Khmer and the pharmacist doesn’t speak your language either. In fact, I carry one bag for internal brands (think Alka-Selzer) and one for external (think Neosporin). Convenient, money-saving, and reassuring.
10. Zig when others zag
The whole idea of upscale travel on a budget is to figure out what’s important to you – when to splurge and when to conserve. Often it means going against the flow. Like most expats, I used to take a taxi from the Beijing airport to my apartment; then I figured out how to get there via subway at a fraction of the price and time. I do the same in Bangkok. Now, I will always explore that option.
Some people suggest booking a full meal plan at your hotel for convenience. I would rather find a restaurant enjoyed by the locals, almost always with better food at a lower price. The idea is not to follow the crowd. Follow your head and your heart and make your own travel memories.
Do you have any questions? Do you have your own suggestions to help others? Feel free to comment at the bottom of this post.
What’s upscale?
Decide for yourself where to splurge. For me, it is business class and comfortable accommodations.
What’s budget?
Public transportation, local guides and cuisine, offseason deals, and more. Do your research.
Memorable meals from my journeys. What are yours?
Food plays an important role in everyone’s travel memories. In my travel to some 70 countries, I remember many classic meals that expressed the culture as much as any sights did. Paring down the list of memorable meals from my journeys to just 27 entries was as difficult as choosing from Da Dong’s 160-page roast duck menu.
There are going to be wonderful experiences left out. In fact, fewer than a third of the countries I have visited are represented. Some of my favorite cuisines, including pasta in Italy and barbeque in America, are missing. Why? Because there isn’t a remarkable establishment I feel absolutely compelled to return to. The list also excludes items I can prepare even better at home, from my mother’s spaghetti sauce to my Hungarian goulash, which I think is tastier than any I had in Budapest.
And so, in no particular order, here are the memorable meals from my journeys.
1. Beijing duck . . . Da Dong Roast Duck, Beijing
The truth is, Beijing duck, as prepared in Beijing, may be my favorite meal. I have dined many times at Quanjude, the 7-story restaurant on Hepingmen Street where it all began. It’s very good there, as it should be – they have been serving “Peking duck” since 1864! It’s good at Made in China, but I go there for the Beggar’s Chicken instead. It’s the chefs at Da Dong who have taken Beijing duck to another level. Crispy, juicy, not oily – just perfection, at any of their upscale Beijing locations.
2. Chicago deep dish pizza . . . Pizzeria Uno, Chicago
I love pizza and have eaten countless varieties from their birthplace in Naples to New York. It doesn’t matter, because Chicago deep dish pizza redefines this category. And no place is better than the original, Pizzeria Uno. My dad started dining there right after WWII. I was raising a glass in his honor there one time, and at that instant a full glass of beer flipped off a nearby waitress tray. I’m not saying I believe in ghosts, but…
3. Tom Yum Goong . . . Bangkok
I can’t seem to choose a favorite restaurant in Bangkok for this dish, but nobody outside of Thailand can quite duplicate its deliciousness. Spicy prawn soup with lemongrass, chili, galangal, lime leaves, fish sauce – no wonder yum is in the name.
4. Soufflé, onion soup . . . Le Soufflé, Paris
France is known for soufflés, and no place does them better than Le Soufflé in Paris. Cheese, spinach – I order several; but we always start with the best onion soup gratinée. I have been dining here for more than 50 years and never been disappointed.
5. Kung Pao chicken, “squirrel” fish . . . E Mei, Beijing
One of my favorite Beijing restaurants is E Mei, a popular neighborhood establishment near the financial district in the west. I am always the only Caucasian there, ready to sit with Chinese friends and share Gong Bao Ji Ding (Kung Pao chicken with hints of coffee), Songshu Guiyu (a sweet and sour fish shaped like a squirrel), purple yams, Sichuan green beans and more
6. Fish & chips . . . Quinlan’s, Killarney, Ireland
Nobody does fish & chips quite like the folks in the U.K. We loved the lightly battered ones from Quinlan’s on Killarney’s main street so much, we just kept going back. That’s a sign of a memorable meal, especially when followed by a Guinness.
7. Sushi . . . Tsukiji Fish Market, Tokyo
These days, people eat sushi all over the world, even from supermarkets. There is one place on the planet where the fish is the freshest – the famous Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo. Tiny establishments ring the world’s largest market. Arrive early in the morning, grab a stool and prepare to be delighted.
8. Best Mexican . . . San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
It’s difficult for me to single out a best Mexican restaurant in this city that sits several hours outside Mexico City and is known for its food. If I had to pick just one, I might choose La Azotea for its unique jicama tacos and its dramatic views. There are 300 restaurants to sample here. If you can’t decide, you can try your own hand at Chef Gaby’s La Fonda Rosa cooking school.
9. Afternoon tea . . . Fortnum & Mason, London
Sometimes travel creates a stroke of serendipity. We literally stumbled upon the original Fortnum & Mason while strolling back to our hotel in Mayfair. Afternoon tea here is a delightfully British tradition.
10. Sichuan “comfort food” . . . South Beauty, Chengdu
There is something special about eating Sichuan food at the source. Even though South Beauty is a chain in China, the Chengdu location is ideal for Dan Dan Mian (noodle), Yu Xiang Qiezi (spicy eggplant), and other succulent dishes.
11. Emince de veau . . . Château Gütsch, Luzern
The photo is of the iconic Château Gütsch, which sits high above Luzern, Switzerland. Their dining room setting is perfect for a classic Swiss dish, Emince de veau – tiny pieces of tender veal cooked in a decadent cream sauce on top of noodles.
12. Best sandwich . . . Lucca Delicatessen, San Francisco
How does a sandwich make the list of memorable meals from my journeys? It’s easy when we keep returning to Lucca Delicatessen in the Marina District of San Francisco. Step to the crowded counter and start pointing. Still-warm Acme sourdough bread? Yes, please. Salami, Mortadella, Swiss cheese, avocado, homemade pickled peppers, red onion, olives, lettuce – are we done yet?
13. Egg tarts . . . Koh Kret, Thailand
What exactly are eggs tarts doing in the middle of a post about memorable meals? My excuse is that I love them, from Europe to Macau. And the most memorable ones are baked in their own little clay pottery made here on Koh Kret Island, in Thailand.
14. Jamon Iberico de Belotta . . . Madrid and Barcelona
When my Madrid friend took me into his business conference room and started slicing a leg of ham, I knew I was about to learn something special. The finest ham in the world starts with black Iberico pigs, who graze in pastures of oak trees on the fallen acorns. The hams are then cured for about 4 years. The paper-thin slices of the sweet, nutty goodness are truly a celebration of the noble Spanish pig.
15. Jiaozi (dumplings) . . . Beijing
Different regions in China are known for their specialties, and Beijing is the dumpling capital in my book. Especially popular for an inexpensive lunch, I have one friend who would typically eat two dozen for lunch every day. Dip in Chinese vinegar and some chili paste. I have taken several Jiaozi-making classes at The Hutong, but I’m still not very good at it.
16. Bratwurst & sauerkraut . . . Hofbrauhaus, Munich
How could something so simple as a meal of sausage and sauerkraut, with either a hard roll and cheese or soft pretzel be so memorable? Those of you who have been to Bavaria know what I’m talking about. Prost!
17. Chicken Hormok . . . Manda de Laos, Luang Prabang
Start with Yam Mak Pee, a banana blossom salad. Follow with Mol Kai, chicken in a red curry sauce with coconut milk and Kaffir lime leaves. Finish with Sangkhaya Makpao, a coconut crème brûlée. I kept returning for the haute cuisine in a hot tropical setting, at Manda de Laos in Luang Prabang, Laos.
18. Best South Indian . . . Ragam, London
I have not visited India and am no expert when it comes to Indian cuisine. I do know that London has some pretty good South Indian food, thanks to the large ethnic presence there. Our meal at Ragam was definitely memorable.
19. “Water boiled fish” . . . The Place, Beijing
Shui Zhu Yu in Mandarin means water boiled fish. The dish is so much more. You are shown your live fish, which they gently boil, then place in a pot of hot oil that is infused with hua jiao, the Sichuan peppercorns that literally numb your mouth (in a good way). This is another taste sensation that is difficult to duplicate outside of China.
20. Lobster & fried clams . . . Gloucester House, Mass
Unfortunately, I am allergic to most hard-shell seafood, including oysters, mussels, and clams. Fry those clams, and I’m back at the table. Add a boiled 1-pound lobster just pulled out of the Atlantic, and I’m in heaven. The name of heaven is Gloucester House, in the harbor of Gloucester, Massachusetts.
21. Street food . . . Hanoi, Vietnam
No list of memorable meals would be complete without an entry for street food. Hanoi is where Anthony Bourdain and President Obama sat down on little blue stools and ate spring rolls with local beer. They filmed it in May, 2016, two years after my many similar meals on the streets of Hanoi, home of the best street food on the planet.
22. Steak & fries . . . Le Relais de Venise, Paris
Is it the best steak I have ever eaten? No. The best unlimited fries? Maybe not. So why is the wait to get into the original Le Relais de Venise, in Paris, often an hour? Because it is the most memorable entrecôte and pommes frites in the most memorable setting in the most memorable city.
23. Xiao Long Bao . . . Din Tai Fung, Taipei
There is a 100-year-old saying, “often imitated, never duplicated.” That is appropriate for Din Tai Fung’s version of the famous Chinese pork soup dumpling. First, poke a hole with your chopstick to let the steam out of this delicate indulgence; then enjoy in one bite. The good news is that Din Tai Fung has been able to duplicate this treat at its restaurants around the world, although nothing beats original and affordably-priced locations in Taipei.
24. Cheese fondue . . . Gruyères, Switzerland
Cheese fondue has to be one of the most misunderstood dishes in the world. Cheap varieties have populated menus, even created chains. Believe me, nothing comes close to the authentic fondue served in this medieval town that is the home of Gruyères cheese. Blended with Emmenthal and other secret ingredients, served with big cubes of French bread, bubbling over an open flame. It warms my soul just thinking about it.
25. Fried chicken . . . Mrs. Wilkes, Savannah, Georgia
Who doesn’t love southern fried chicken? The most memorable versions are from the U.S. southern states. For me, that means a trip to Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room, where it is served “all you can eat,” with all the fixins.
26. Best pastry buffet . . . Ipê, Iguazu Falls, Brazil
For a person with a sweet tooth, this was a tough category. How could I pass over the pastries of Vienna? In short, the desserts of Brazil are made with a heavy dose of sweetened condensed milk, for which I have a weakness. So, I indulge on flan that tops Mexico, crème brûlée to rival France, out-of-this-world chestnut souffle, and more.
27. Best hamburger . . . Gasoline Grill, Copenhagen
America is famous for its hamburgers. As an American, you would think I would choose a place in the U.S. for my most memorable burger. Wrong. I’m going with the original Gasoline Grill in Copenhagen, Denmark. It’s worth the wait to stand in line at the former gas station for the most delectably messy hamburger on the planet.
Now, you must have some memorable meals from your travels too. We would love to hear your stories. Please comment at the bottom of this. post.
What’s upscale?
A few of the restaurants could be pricey, such as Da Dong.
What’s budget?
Most of these meals come with quite reasonable prices, proving you don’t need to spend a fortune to create a lasting memory.
10 ways to use photos of people to tell your travel story
It’s not difficult to take great travel photos of people, even using your phone’s camera. Years ago, I used to avoid having people in scenic pictures of foreign lands. Now, I have found that people can bring perspective to nature, a cultural angle, and most importantly, help tell the story of my photo.
I will explain how to capture motion and emotion, work and play, silhouettes and selfies, composition, angles, and more. Soon you will be taking better photos and creating lasting memories.
1. People can give perspective
I love pictures of mountains and natural settings, but sometimes adding a person helps. The farming woman with her scythe for cutting hay completes the story for the Austrian countryside above. Her location turns out to be perfect for the composition too. Using the “rule of thirds,” she creates balance, with your eye on her for the bottom third, the river and village in the middle, and mountain at the top.
You can immediately see how nature has taken over this temple in Angkor Wat, Cambodia, but adding the little girl captures the perspective of just how large these tree roots are. Also, by using a local Cambodian child (with permission), it makes the photo more authentic than a selfie.
Take the person out of this photo, and you have a strange picture of a table and chairs. Add the person (a good selfie opportunity), and you have a unique contemporary art exhibit at the Broad Museum in Los Angeles. How much better is this photo than if she were just standing in the museum’s gallery?
2. Capture motion in a still shot
Everybody has taken a sports photo, maybe a surfer at the top of a wave or a child leaping to catch a ball. But taking travel pictures of people doing everyday things can also make excellent use of motion.
It seems like everyone in Hanoi, Vietnam is on a scooter these days, so I wanted a shot to represent that. The world’s largest ceramic mosaic mural also lines a major street there. I had my driver pull next to this mother and daughter and maintain their speed as a snapped a photo. Voila! Now a still shot tells a moving story.
Even something as simple as this photo inside the Paris metro is enhanced by slowing the shutter speed, so there is a certain blur of motion from people who are just walking. And yes, you can do that with an iPhone too.
3. Posed pictures should tell a story
Sometimes it just makes sense to have a person be the focal point of a picture, even when traveling. When possible, try to think about what the story is behind the pose. The old woman above was a vendor in a Myanmar market. People in the countryside there are also known for smoking betel quid, a nut so nasty it is illegal in the U.S. One of its less severe effects is staining the teeth deep red. So, when I asked to take her picture, I wanted to wait until she had cigar in hand and mouth open. Now, the story of my travels is told.
Patricia Schultz is a travel writer. One of the times we met her, we wanted her to pose for a picture. Rather than a simple head and shoulders shot, we incorporate a blow-up of her famous book. The result tells the story of her work.
We have hosted many Americans making their first trip to China. When they ask for pictures, we always try to tell a story instead of just lining them up in front of some monument. In the case above, we capture these two couples trying one of Beijing’s most popular street foods, candied hawthorn (tanghulu). This photo creates a real travel memory for them. You can do the same if you remember to tell a story!
4. Shoot from different angles
The tips above all have the subject facing the camera, but often the better travel photo is taken from a different angle.
I took two pictures of these twin boys visiting Beijing’s 798 Art District; one facing me and the above shot. I much prefer this photo from behind, where you feel them being drawn in by the little girl in the painting. In fact, your focus of attention changes from the boys faces to the girl.
It’s obvious that the normal angle for this photo shoot at the Shanghai Auto Show would be to join the throng of professional photographers. I chose a different angle and got not only the car, but a better feel of the show itself.
Too often photos of people are taken from adult eye level. Try mixing things up, like crouching down to the level of a child. In this picture from Luang Prabang, Laos, I hover above the kids. I’m looking down on the action, as they are. This photo is mostly hands and backs of heads, but it does a good job of capturing children at play.
5. Make use of silhouettes and natural lighting
In the photo above, I wanted to capture the wonderful jazz artists portrayed on the building across from the San Francisco Jazz Center. These two men were engrossed in the artists as well. Since I don’t know the men, I simply used their silhouettes to tell the story. I think the photo of the building is better with them in it.
Most people would take a picture of this San Miguel de Allende, Mexico performer from the front. By going behind him to create a silhouette, I get the spirit of the performance; but I also capture the whole scene – audience, Christmas tree, cathedral.
I rarely take flash photography these days because digital cameras are so good at recreating natural light, even at night. Gone are the days of the obtrusive flash. Turn it off, and trust your camera – even your iPhone. I was able to take this nighttime photo of travel writer, Don George, as he met a dignitary in Bangkok, without a bothersome flash.
6. Use people as a secondary focus
I used to wait for people to get out of a travel picture. Now, I sometimes wait to include them. These blackneck goats go right down Bahnhofstrasse in Zermatt, Switzerland each day. That’s what your eye might see when you first glance at this photo. But the scene is enhanced by including a family in their traditional hiking garb, a reminder that this is, after all, the Alps.
Where do you look first in the above photo? Is it the woman gazing at the ocean on her trip to Cambria, California? Or surprise, a beach full of elephant seals! The picture is enhanced by having both subjects (but neither is posing). Nature and people can go together if you are smart about it.
7. Photograph people in meaningful backgrounds
I must have hundreds of pictures of the Forbidden City in Beijing, but the above is my favorite. I took it in 2005, during China’s one-child policy. So, it was not uncommon to see a little child playing alone, only comforted by sucking her thumb. The faded paint in this remote corner of the Forbidden City creates almost a watercolor feel as well. For me, this is one picture that tells a thousand words.
Artist Arnado McLaughlin makes his Mexican home in his creation, the Chapel of Jimmy Ray. Rather than a posed picture, I asked him to go about his daily routine and captured this shot in front of one of his amazing mosaics. Both the person and background are meaningful.
Attending the 2008 Paralympic Games in Beijing was a special travel experience, and I took some photos of the newly-built Olympic stadium or “Bird’s Nest.” Placing this child (with permission), dressed in a Chinese outfit adorned with flags, in front of the stadium immediately makes her and the background meaningful.
8. Use selfies to create a travel memory
You visit this beautiful waterfall. Go ahead a take a selfie for your own benefit; but don’t expect others to appreciate your head obscuring the scenery. Just like I have been saying throughout, use photography to tell a story – selfies included.
I was in Bangkok, Thailand when their beloved king died. A memorial was erected to depict stages of his life, including his love of photography, starting as a young prince. Feeling a kindred spirit, I thought a picture of myself holding a simple camera would be a fitting tribute. It’s a travel memory that will stay with me.
When I met the incomparable travel author Pico Iyer for the first time, we decided on a photo together. I suggested we use this small library of books as a background. Taking less than a minute to get in position created a picture that also tells a story of an author and lover of books.
Often journeys take place with a group of friends. It can be a challenge to get a group photo. I tell the person (usually a stranger) who is taking the picture to take a wide shot to capture both the group and the key travel location. I can always later crop out the extraneous people, light poles, etc. In the above photo you have a happy selfie of five, with the breath-taking backdrop of Zhang Yimou’s production at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in China. Memory secured.
Travel is fun. Selfies should show you having a good time, such as on this outrigger canoe on Maui. Note how our group leaned left and right to get into the frame. You might also note that none of the selfies I have featured here were taken by me holding my iPhone. I am a little old-school, in that I think asking a stranger to take my photo nearly always produces better results than a picture literally within my arm’s length.
9. Capture people in everyday settings
Not every travel photo has to be a monument, mountain stream, or sunset at the beach. If you truly want travel memories, snap lots of shots of people in their everyday life of work or play.
U Bein is a historic bridge in Mandalay, Myanmar, built in 1850. Look closely to see how my photo captures current typical family life in this region just by the people on this bridge. Every picture can tell a story.
I like to take pictures in far-away markets, with all the local fruits, vegetables, and meats. This scene from Monte Carlo is only enhanced when adding a local proprietor and his customer. Believe it or not, I shot it more than 40 years ago!
I have so many photographs of people at work and play in Vietnam, it’s difficult to choose from among the farmer in a rice paddy, the old lady carrying bananas on a bicycle, to this home that I visited in Ninh Binh. Trying my hand at rice paper making with the mom proves that it’s people as much as places that make travel memories.
10. Experiment and take lots of pictures
I might return from a trip, look at my photos, and wonder why did I not take a panorama shot? How come they are all stills and no videos? Some of us who go back to the days of film and our own darkrooms (ok, me) might have a tendency to painstakingly compose the best shot instead of just taking several and later deleting the bad ones.
Speaking of later, there are plenty of easy-to-use tools on your laptop or apps on your phone for editing and special effects. Personally, I mostly use basic tools to straighten or crop a photo. Get rid of unwanted people so the focus in on the people you care about.
In the photo above I was struck by the juxtaposition of the old man still living in a Beijing hutong and the younger woman who might be breaking out of that life. Their expressions are the same, though. To make this point I decided to turn the picture into old-looking black and white, then let her emerge in color. The lesson here is to experiment and see what you like best. After all, travel is fun and so is taking pictures!
Do you have any questions or tips of your own? Feel free to comment at the bottom of this post.
Destinations from A to Z to inspire your travel plans
When I am not traveling, I am usually planning my next trip. It may be a place I have never been. Or it may be revisiting places I love, like these travel destinations from A to Z. I curated this list of places I have visited to inspire future journeys. If you have an insatiable curiosity for new sights, cultures, food, history, and more, then follow along this alphabet of adventures.
It is challenging for me to write about just one destination for each letter, so I will feature one of my favorites, but also mention others. In some cases, there are links to articles I have written, with more detail. So, after journeys to some 70 countries and more than 700 cities . . .
Austria
“The hills are alive with the sound of music.” That sums up the diversity of Austria in one line. Would you rather listen to a classical concert in an historic opera house or trek through breathtaking alpine scenery? You can easily do both in the same day in this landlocked Central Europe nation, once a great empire. One of my favorite odd things to do is to visit the cemetery in Vienna where Beethoven, Strauss, Brahms, and others are buried in rather simple graves.
While we in in the “A’s”, for something completely different, try Alabama. Specifically, visit the space center in Huntsville for its technology achievements. And I finally made it to Athens, which no list should be without. Wait, did we forget Amsterdam?
Beijing
I lived in this city, so I could write volumes, but I would sum it up by saying that nowhere else seems to blend the ancient and modern quite like Beijing. The dynamic performing arts center is down the street from the Forbidden City. The Olympic complex sits near a temple from the 1600s. Even the amazing food has its roots in ancient cooking techniques.
On the subject of “B’s”, it was difficult not to feature Barcelona or Bangkok here, two of my favorite cities in the world. Barcelona is still building Gaudi’s Familia Sagrada. Bangkok is truly the gateway to Southeast Asia. And one can’t forget to spend a few days in Budapest!
Cambodia
Despite a tragic 20th century, one would be remiss not to visit 900-year-old Angkor Wat, the enormous Buddhist temple complex in Siem Reap. Be sure to allow a few days to explore, learn, and observe what nature has reclaimed from man.
Chengdu is another “C”, known for spicy Sichuan food and pandas. Chengde is another interesting region of China I have written about. And one of my favorite cities in the world is Copenhagen. Closer to home is a fun trip to Catalina Island (seen across the sea in the photo below from Dana Point).
Dana Point, California
Nearby Laguna Beach and Newport Beach get more attention, but Dana Point, with a beautiful harbor, is actually the official Dolphin and Whale Watching Capital of the World. Add to that spectacular weather, beaches, golf courses, and luxury resorts. And what it doesn’t have, such as museums, are only an hour away in Los Angeles. Disneyland and Universal are nearby too. It’s easy to see why we make this Orange County coastal community the home we come back to after our travels.
Other “D’s” around the globe range from Denmark to Dubai.
Estonia
This fiercely independent little northern European nation is most often visited as part of Baltic cruise. It deserves more than a day trip. The capital, Tallinn, is both a well-preserved medieval city and home to one of the world’s most advanced digital societies. Outside the city, visit vast forestlands or more than 2,000 islands.
And if you really want some ancient history, you must go to Turkey to visit Ephesus.
Florence
It took me years to finally visit Florence, the birthplace of Italian Renaissance, and it did not disappoint. Yes, one can suffer from museum overload, but with careful planning, the art and architecture are unrivalled. It is a surprisingly walkable city, where one follows the footsteps of Michelangelo, Brunelleschi, and more. And, of course, it is the gateway to for a road trip through magnificent Tuscany.
I could have featured Finland here or maybe France, but Paris is coming below.
Germany
Germany is a microcosm of Europe, a mix of industry and nature, BMW factories and fairy-tale castles, cities and hamlets, sleek architecture and black forests. My favorite city is Munich, right in the center of Europe, and a compelling base for visiting the continent by train (or that BMW).
If you prefer French to German, just 7 hours from Munich is Geneva, the impressive Swiss city at the foot of an expansive lake and mountains.
Hong Kong
You may know that this city means “fragrant harbor” in Chinese. That is appropriate, as there are some 263 islands, with the major ones accessible by ferry. And it is the Cantonese cuisine that sets the city apart from the rest of Asia. With thousands of restaurants to choose from, it is little wonder that people here eat about 5 times a day. Take the world’s longest escalator to the Peak Tram and marvel at more than 8,000 skyscrapers. Then it’s time to eat again.
Three more Chinese regions beginning with “H” are Hangzhou, sitting on beautiful West Lake, Hainan, considered to be China’s Hawaii, and Huangshan, the avatar-like mountain gem. And then there is my happy place, America’s Hawaii. Which island to visit first?
Ireland
There is a reason Ireland is so green. It rains a lot! But that also makes this island of low mountain terrain so beautiful. Our stay is in Killarney, with its national park and amazing hiking and biking trails. And, of course, we down many a pint of Guinness while feasting on fish and chips.
Speaking of beautiful places, Iceland is near the top of my list. Ilocos also starts with an “I”. This historic, cultural region proves that the Philippines are more than beaches. For Italy, we talk about Florence above, but don’t forget Venice, Verona, Milan, and Rome. I finally made it to Brazil’s Iguazu Falls for a luxury stay at these spectacular waterfalls. And a cruise delivered us to historic Istanbul.
Japan
I eat sushi from the world’s largest seafood market, Tokyo’s Tsukiji, and follow kimono-clad girls through the immense Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine in Kyoto. It seems like everything is both big and unique in Japan. Greater Tokyo is the largest megacity in the world, but there are plenty of tranquil retreats for contemplation. Get “spirited away” at this fascinating destination.
Juneau, Alaska is another “J.” A unique capital and gateway to magnificent glaciers.
Kenya
I always wanted to go on an African safari. When we did, we made some mistakes. But make no mistake, we would go again (just smarter this time). Two things we did right were to choose Kenya and to visit Nairobi before and after the safari.
Korea begins with a “K”, although technically I have only visited Seoul, South Korea. It also means one of my favorite places, Kauai. There are so many things to do there that are upscale on a budget. Finally, I see my first wild bald eagle in Ketchikan, Alaska.
Laos
I wrote an article entitled, “Time is now to visit Luang Prabang, Laos.” That is still true, because while Laos sits midway between bustling Bangkok and Hanoi, the country feels centuries apart. The pace is as slow as the weather is hot. Temples mix with shops and restaurants, and the Mekong river winds its way through the culture.
Latvia is another “L”. Riga, Latvia is just across the Baltic Sea from Stockholm, but very different, including having to declare independence from Russia twice. Las Vegas is a world unto itself, even if you don’t gamble. You can always visit the neon boneyard or the National Atomic Testing Museum. Speaking of museums, Los Angeles now has the fun Academy Museum.
Madrid
Picasso’s Guernica occupies an entire room in the Reina Sofia Museum of Modern Art. It takes your breath away. And this isn’t even the most famous museum in Madrid. That honor belongs to the world-famous Prado. This is a city steeped in history and culture, and yet vibrant today. Eat 12 grapes with us at midnight to welcome in the new year.
We are up to the letter “M”, which leads us to Mexico and the colonial city of San Miguel de Allende. I write about unique things to do in this art, cuisine, and accommodation mecca. You can also cruise to the cities of the Mexican Riviera. My favorite Hawaiian Island (not an easy choice) is Maui. Every tropical adventure is possible here, including some unusual ones I write about, even piloting your own plane over paradise.
New York City
What can you say about “The city that never sleeps?” How about “I love New York?” The self-proclaimed greatest city is a magnet for people all over the world to experience its energy, entertainment, cuisine, museums and more. Supposedly, all those people speak more than 800 languages, so you should feel right at home somewhere in New York.
Another “N”, New Mexico, is the U.S. polar opposite of NYC. Full of natural beauty, from desert to mountains, to be enjoyed at a leisurely pace. We mentioned Amsterdam, where we will skip “The” and just say Netherlands. We could never skip Norway, now that we have cruised its scenic fjords.
Oahu
Most people start their Hawaiian adventure on the island of Oahu. Some never leave. After all, it has famous Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor, world-class North Shore surfing, and a big city named Honolulu. Pick a pineapple, put a slice in your Mai Tai, and settle in.
About as far away from tropical Hawaii as you can get and still be North America is Ottawa. The seventh coldest capital city in the world has Victorian architecture, as it should, since it was Queen Victoria who decided it should be Canada’s capital.
Paris
It is little wonder that “The City of Light” is most mentioned as world travelers’ favorite city. The experience is overwhelming, from 35,000 visible works of art in the Louvre to a choice of 45,000 restaurants. And yet, this walkable city seems intimate and romantic, as are the châteaux accessible on a day trip.
Speaking of intimate, the city of Prague can be navigated in a few days, allowing one day for Old Town and one day for the castle side of the Vltava River, connected by the Charles Bridge.
Quebec
If you live in North America and Paris is out of reach, try a journey to Quebec. French is mandatory, and Quebec City even looks and feels like a city in northern Europe. Yes, the winters are long and cold, with 140 days of snow on the ground, but the populace embraces the weather with skis and skates.
Russia
The world’s largest country also heads some lists as the world’s least friendly for tourists. But if your travel is carefully choreographed, there are many wonders to behold. Saint Peterburg’s Hermitage is one of the largest and oldest museums in the world, founded by Catherine the Great in 1764. Prepare to be impressed by this prestigious complex.
The top honors for large and old belongs to Rome. Ancient Rome still infiltrates both the sights and very character of the city, including the Colosseum, built 20 centuries ago. The city even surrounds another country – the Vatican. Brazil and Iceland were mentioned above, well represented by Rio and Reykjavik.
Sydney
Places that are distant from most of the civilized world have an opportunity to develop their own unique quality of life. One could attribute that to Australians and their vibrant metropolis, Sydney. The folks from “down under” speak English, but are far from England in every way imaginable.
Trying to select a destination beginning with “S” is probably the hardest task. Does one talk about countries, such as Sweden, Switzerland, Scotland, and Spain? Or should I mention world-class cities, from Shanghai, which even has a Disneyland, to the San Francisco experience? Or how about a city that is also a country? That would be Singapore.
Thailand
Would you like to journey to a faraway land that has a world-class city, beautiful beaches, or jungles with elephants and local tribes? Thailand offers all three Southeast Asian experiences in a country that is much smaller than Texas. And it may be impossible to have a bad meal here.
We get twice the letter “T” by visiting Taipei, within Taiwan. Part of China, but independently unique.
United Kingdom
England is a country. Britain includes Wales. Great Britain includes Scotland. The UK includes Northern Ireland. Ireland is separate. London is the capital of both England and the United Kingdom. No matter what the name, London and the UK are great travel destinations as well as a gateway to the EU. Just get your visas right.
The letter “U” can also stand for Utah, a U.S. state with numerous natural landmarks, from salt flats to rock pillars to sandstone arches. Our favorite is Bryce Canyon.
Vietnam
From south to north, Vietnam has risen from the ashes of war to become a vibrant Southeast Asia tourist magnet. Hanoi is a bustling city of motorbikes. Step away from the traffic, and one steps back in time through Ninh Binh Province on the way to sailing picturesque Bai Tu Long Bay.
“V” also leads us to Vancouver, a beautiful city that is also the gateway for an Alaskan cruise.
Wyoming
While we are in the western United States, my favorite destination is Wyoming, home to the Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. Use Jackson Hole as a base to visit these natural, national treasures.
Nothing could be more American than Washington D.C. From the Smithsonian and other museums to the complex of capitol buildings and monuments, this is the place to learn about the “great American experiment in democracy.”
Xian
There is so much history in this birthplace of Chinese civilization it is difficult to know where to begin – from the excavated Terra Cotta Warriors to the stele tablets to the well-preserved city walls. Visit the Bell and Drum Towers for panoramic views of this ancient city.
Yangon
Myanmar has had a turbulent history. I wish I could say it was over, but there is still serious strife in this country, once known as Burma. Yet, the people are welcoming and the natural and man-made sights are fascinating. Yangon is home to the gold-plated Shwedagon pagoda, one of 4 million pagodas in the city. It is the starting point for travel to Bagan, Inle Lake, Mandalay, and other wonders of Myanmar.
The letter “Y” also reminds us of Yunnan, the southwestern Chinese province, with its spectacular Jade Dragon Snow Mountain near Lijiang. For similar beauty, Yosemite National Park sits in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California.
Zermatt
Ah, the Swiss Alps. This is the secret place I have sought out to rejuvenate for more than 40 years. With up to 80 million visitors per year, maybe the secret’s out. That doesn’t stop us from hiking around Zermatt, the car-less playground at the base of the legendary Matterhorn.
The views never get old and neither do we when we are in their presence. Speaking of views, the other side of the world reveals the other-worldly Zhangjiajie, China and its inspiration for Avatar.
“Z” also stands for Zen, an appropriate way to end this journey. Zen aims for enlightenment through direct experience, seeking both compassion and wisdom. I can’t think of a better, never-ending reason for travel.
Despite all my globe-trotting adventures, there are so many more journeys to take! Do you have any questions about these destinations? What do think is missing from my list? Please comment at the bottom of this post.
Make these cookies, scones – perfect for a road trip
Making your own baked goods for a road trip allows you to eat healthier and saves time and money not having to stop for treats along the way. We offer several road trip snack recipes that are delicious and travel well. Do you have a craving for cookies, scones, brownies and breads? Some of our favorite homemade recipes are ready for you to try.
Ginger molasses cookies
I think ginger molasses cookies must have come across the Atlantic on the Mayflower. They travel that well. Why? Molasses is a natural ingredient that doesn’t have to be refrigerated. Better yet, it is considered to be even healthier than honey, because it contains more antioxidants. Who knew a sweet cookie could be both durable and good for you?
This recipe was passed down from my grandmother. What I have changed over time is to reduce the amount of sugar, which seems to kick up the spice flavor. The secret ingredient is ground cloves. This is my only cookie that I make with shortening instead of butter, which really helps with the longevity. You can eat these on both ends of your journey without them getting stale.
- 1 ½ cups shortening
- 1 ½ cups dark brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup dark molasses
- 4 cups flour
- 4 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cloves
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
Preheat oven to 375F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. In a separate bowl mix flour, baking soda, and spices. Set aside. Cream together shortening and sugar until combined. Stir in eggs until mixed well. Stir in molasses. Mix in dry ingredients. Roll dough into balls the size of large walnuts (don’t flatten). Place on cookie sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes only until light brown. Makes about 3 dozen.
Maple oat scones
Really good scones are like the marriage of a cookie and a muffin. These maple oat scones are better than an oatmeal cookie. Pure maple syrup gives them a natural sweetness that is subtle. Be sure to use old fashioned, not quick, oats.
- 1 ½ cups flour
- 1 ¼ cups uncooked oats
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- ½ cup toasted pecans, chopped
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup cold heavy cream
- ½ cup pure maple syrup
- 1 large egg (cold)
Preheat oven to 350F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Mix flour, oats, baking soda, baking powder, and pecans in large bowl. Scatter butter in small pieces over top, then cut in with pastry cutter. In small bowl whisk together cream, maple syrup, and egg. Pour cream mixture into flour mixture. Stir with fork into a wet dough. Drop dough onto floured cutting board, press to ½ inch thickness. Cut with round biscuit cutter. Place on sheet (2 batches). Bake for about 25 minutes until golden brown.
Frango mint brownies
What is a Frango mint, you ask? This was the signature premium chocolate of the old Marshall Fields department store in Chicago, minted on the 13th floor of their State Street flagship location for 70 years. Now in the hands of another Chicago firm, Frango mints are sold by Macy’s. I find their taste and quality to be unique, and I have devised a way to incorporate them into rich chocolate brownies.
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 4 oz Baker’s unsweetened chocolate
- 12 Frango mints (dark or milk choc)
- 1 tbsp expresso ground coffee
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup white sugar
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup flour
- ¾ tsp baking powder
- ¾ cup chopped toasted pecans
Preheat oven to 350F. Melt butter, chocolate, mints, coffee slowly in pan, cool. Beat eggs and beat in sugar. Mix in chocolate mixture and vanilla. Mix in flour, baking powder, and nuts until combined. Bake for about 25 minutes; test with toothpick.
Peanut butter graham cookies
I found this recipe many years ago in a magazine. Graham crackers give classic peanut butter cookies a grainy texture that I like. And I can pretend I have added a source of grain to go with the protein of the peanut butter, making them seem almost healthy.
- 1 ½ cups flour
- 1 cup finely crushed graham crackers
- ½ tsp each baking soda and salt
- ½ cup unsalted soft butter
- ½ cup dark brown sugar
- 1 large egg (unbeaten)
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup peanut butter
- Optional: 1 cup chocolate chips
Preheat oven to 350F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Mix flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking soda, and salt in bowl. In another bowl cream butter and sugar. Stir in egg, honey, water, and vanilla. Stir in peanut butter. Mix in dry ingredients until combined. Add optional semi-sweet chocolate chips. Roll dough into balls the size of large walnuts. Place on cookie sheet and flatten halfway with fork in two directions. Bake for 10-12 minutes only until light brown.
Cranberry walnut scones
Scones travel well. They tend not to be crumbly, and they are more filling than cookies. These are best with fresh cranberries, but you can substitute frozen ones or even dried cranberries, apricots or raisins (plump dried fruit by soaking in Triple Sec). Experiment!
- 3 cups flour
- ¼ cup white sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp each baking soda and salt
- ¾ cup cold unsalted butter
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- ½ cup toasted walnuts, chopped
- 2 tsp grated fresh orange peel (zest)
- 1 cup buttermilk or sour milk
Preheat oven to 400F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in large bowl. Scatter butter in small pieces over top, then cut in with pastry cutter. Stir in cranberries, walnuts, and orange peel. Add buttermilk and stir with fork into a wet dough. Drop dough onto floured cutting board, press to ½ inch thickness. Cut with round biscuit cutter. Place on sheet (2 batches). Bake for about 14 minutes until golden brown.
Lemon pecan bread
Road trip snack recipes should include a loaf bread. While I make banana bread, pumpkin bread, cranberry bread, and others, my favorite is this lemon pecan bread. While I mix cookie and scone dough by hand, I use an electric mixer here to achieve the right texture. It is moist enough to last for days on the road.
- ¾ cup unsalted soft butter
- 1 cup white sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 ¼ cups flour
- ¼ tsp each baking soda and salt
- ¾ cup buttermilk or sour milk
- ¾ cup toasted pecans, chopped
- 1 tbsp grated fresh lemon peel (zest)
Preheat oven to 350F. In large bowl beat butter until smooth. Add sugar, beat until fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time; beat well after each. Mix flour, baking soda, and salt and add to beaten mixture alternately with buttermilk; beat well after each. Stir in pecans and lemon peel. Spoon batter into loaf pan and bake for about 1 hour; test with toothpick.
Are you thirsty?
What drinks (besides bottled water) travel well? All of our baked goods go well with coffee. I take expresso beans, grind them, and make a strong black coffee. A thermos of that or 1837 TWG tea is the perfect hot complement. For a cool drink, try the fresh-squeezed orange juice from Whole Foods, skipping take the time and effort to make your own.
Classic hot chocolate
If you wish to fill that thermos with pure decadence, try my recipe for classic hot chocolate – infinitely better than what you can buy on the road.
- 1 ½ cups milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Combine milk, cream, cocoa powder, and sugar in medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until steaming. Remove from heat and whisk in vanilla. Pour into thermos. Serves two, but you might want to make more.
If you live in or near California, this Lake Arrowhead road trip is the perfect drive to try out some of these treats.
Have you tried any of these? What do you think? Do you make your own unique snack foods for the road? Feel free to comment at the bottom of this post.
What’s upscale?
Making homemade treats with the finest ingredients beats store-bought items anytime. Your friends and family will appreciate.
What’s budget?
Making your own snacks and treats is healthier, tastier, and less expensive.
Funny travel signs from around the world
Sometimes a sign is simply lost in translation, sometimes the graphics get out of hand. Translated signs can have bad spelling, with humorous consequences. Instructional signs can leave us baffled.
Here are some of my favorite funny signs from around the world. No country can seem to avoid presenting signs that make us scratch our heads or outright laugh.
Food is often the subject matter for crazy translation. This menu at a Beijing restaurant is at least reassuring?
“We serve meat that is crisp and not rotten!”
Well, if America has an ice cream sandwich, then Japan can take it to another level.
An ice cream burger is a real thing in Tokyo.
Speaking of ice cream, this sign at the Incheon airport in Korea wants you to try Turkey ice cream. At least someone caught the error and decided “Turkeysh” was a good fix.
Turkey ice cream with goat’s milk.
In the U.S. it is actually possible to buy bacon-flavored dental floss. I’ll pass. But in Asia, bacon floss has an entirely different meaning.
Bacon floss treats in Bangkok.
I think this elevator in China is going to be shut down more than temporarily. First, they have to get rid of the escalator.
“This elevator is temporarily shut down.”
Bumper stickers can be funny, but I’m sure this one didn’t intend to be.
Mama’s in the car. Good. Baby’s on the road?
Misspellings are pretty common in translations. This one still gets the point across.
Asia art for sale, both hosale and retel.
Here’s another misspelling, from a shop in Bangkok. Maybe they work really hard.
Clothes made here by toilers.
Make sure you go to the right place. In Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic, the Museum of Tortury is right next door to the police station.
Take your pick. Torture museum or police station.
Sometimes direction signs can leave us a little confused.
Still wondering how to get on this bus.
This sign in Chengdu, China just seems to be toying with visitors.
Apparently non-visitors can go straight ahead.
This directional sign in Beijing’s central business district is very specific. Go left if you want a hotel. Go right for plastic surgery.
This way for plastic surgery and a second hand.
Here is maybe the scariest sign I have ever seen in my travels. It seems to warn you to wear a gas mask and seat belt or risk falling down into a dangerous hole. The only problem was that this Beijing neighborhood sign was on the entrance to a public restroom!
Beware of what might happen in a public toilet!
Speaking of toilets in China, some of them are rated by the government. I visited this 4-star toilet. I don’t want to see the 1-star version.
This toilet gets 4 stars!
Warning signs are helpful, for sure. Sometimes they just state the obvious, such as this sign near Hana, Maui.
Attention. Invasive plants have taken over this sign.
I think there are more warning signs in the U.S. than any other country, probably because there are more lawyers than anywhere else.
You never know when you might get hit by a hang glider.
In the same area of San Francisco: if you manage to escape hang gliders, you still might fall over a cliff. Note: I actually saw a cliff rescue here at Fort Funston. Apparently, people don’t read.
People and dogs really do fall off these cliffs.
Maybe because people don’t read, China has gone to warning drivers through pictures and graphics. I’m still trying to figure out this road sign.
Do not let your car explode on this street.
Here is another sign written by the lawyers. In a tranquil park in suburban Orange County, California, apparently we are in danger of being eaten by lions, bitten by poisonous snakes and insects, or just swept away by Mother Nature.
Your safety cannot be guaranteed. Expect to die.
Park signs in China tend to be more instructional. People are used to being told specifically what not to do.
“…Don’t spit or relieve the bowls on the ground…”
A park in Hainan, China provides a little more latitude. You are only to kill hostile living things. Figure it out.
It’s up to you to decide what animal to kill in this park.
Riding a Chinese cable car has its own set of instructions, including who is prohibited from riding. Do you get to make the decision?
Not allowed on cable car: “Drunkard and people who are insane.”
This is the friendliest “keep off the grass” sign I have encountered in my travels.
The grass is smiling at you. Please detour.
Speaking of signs that tell you what not to do, this is my favorite.
Would it be easier to just say what we are allowed to do?
My neighboring town, artistic Laguna Beach, California, has several new age signs. They include “Breathe” and “Relax, UR OK.”
Continuing the theme of positivity . . .
Finally, we have this sign on a corner deep into a Beijing alley or hutong. I can’t read Chinese characters, and I can’t decipher the English translation either.
If you weren’t already lost, this ought to guarantee it.
Do you have any favorite signs? You can relate their stories at the bottom of this post.