Destinations

Getting Past The Mexican Vacationing Myths

There are a lot of myths about travel in Mexico. But it is still a beautiful country that is definitely worth visiting.

Published

4 weeks ago

March 29, 2024

There are a lot of myths out there about Mexico. Obviously, things like “don’t drink the tap water” are true and should be taken very seriously. But there are plenty of other stories out there that just aren’t true.

Mexico is a beautiful country that is definitely worth visiting. And this article is meant to relieve any worries you have about checking it out.

IT’S IMPOVERISHED

A lot of people think of Mexico as a very poor and even third-world country. But that just isn’t the case. It’s definitely less developed that some countries, including the U.S., but for the most part it’s a middle-income country. In fact, it’s GDP per capita is similar to such countries as Brazil and even China.

But this myth is likely kept alive by the fact that about 44 percent of Mexicans do live in poverty. And that number is high enough that it’s safe to say no matter where tourists may visit, they’re likely to see that poverty.

IT’S DANGEROUS

This is grossly exaggerated. In reality, Mexico is no more dangerous than any other country. Sure, there are some areas that have higher crime rates (specifically Tijuana and Juarez), but the majority of Mexico is perfectly safe. With that said, the usual precautions should be taken when walking around at night, drinking in excess, or using an ATM outside of a hotel. There will always be people looking to take advantage of tourists no matter where you are.

IT’S A NON-STOP COLLEGE PARTY

Thanks to the spring break popularity of places like Cancun, Mexico is now commonly thought of as just one big, obnoxious party. And while there are definitely places to enjoy a wild party in Mexico, it’s far from the norm. In fact, outside of the month of March, Cancun is typically a very peaceful place full of honeymooners and foodies.

TACOS, BURRITOS, AND ENCHILADAS ARE THE ONLY FOOD AVAILABLE

Ok, people come on. Sure, these are staples of Mexican food, but there are other options! Cuisines and specialties vary from region to region and there is bound to be plenty of delicious variety regardless of where you are. From seafood to fried pork belly to grilled octopus, there is something for everyone. So get out there and try something new for once!

FOOD POISONING IS ALMOST INEVITABLE

Many people assume that a trip to Mexico means getting food poisoning at least once. The tap water should definitely be avoided, but most tourists will also avoid almost all fruit and produce. There definitely are different bacteria active in Mexico that can lead to “Montezuma’s revenge,” but avoiding essentially all cold food is silly.

Most restaurants use fresh water to wash everything and to make their ice. And while there are definitely street carts that should be avoided, skipping out on some delicious mango, horchata, and ceviche would be a mistake.

IT’S NOT SAFE DURING HURRICANE SEASON

Hurricane season in Mexico usually lasts from June to November. The worst months typically being August through October. Because of this many people avoid traveling to Mexico during those months. But, for the most part, it’s really unnecessary to completely avoid the country for six months out of the year.

And as long as you prepare to leave early or cancel if necessary (hurricanes are usually predicted a week in advance), you can actually get great deals on travel and hotels. So hurricane season can actually be the best time to visit Mexico as the rates will be the lowest and the cities will be the least crowded.

Destinations

Appreciating America’s Natural Wonders

There might be places in the US that you haven’t visited yet. Don’t miss out on the fun and check out these awesome places!

Published

2 days ago

April 22, 2024

Owen Gardocki

With the current technological advancements in the world, lots and lots of new attractions are now being developed. Whether it be a new amusement park or a mall, we sure are always looking for a place to be in awe.

However, are you aware that apart from man-made attractions, we also have a lot of natural wonders here in the US that are a must-visit for everyone? Sit back and relax while we take a quick road-trip across some of America’s must-visit attractions, thanks to Mother Nature.

Death Valley

Just because Death is part of its name, doesn’t mean that you need to run away. Though considered as an extreme place due to its weather condition, it is a beautiful place to visit and favorite places to conduct activities to test yourself.

Grand Canyon

One of the most famous attractions, not only in the US but also in the world, is the Grand Canyon. The Grand Canyon is a breathtaking place, not only by its beauty but also by its scale and its terrain and landscape.

Hawaii Volcanoes National park

When you say Hawaii, the first things that come to mind are the beach, coconut, hulas, and volcanoes. Hawaii is known to be the home to many volcanoes, including Mauna Loa, the largest volcano in the world.

Great Lakes

Great lakes are inter-connected lakes, know for its beautiful surroundings and uninterrupted habitat. The best way to explore them is thru guided boat trips.

Monument Valley

Come and wear your cowboy boots when you visit Monument Valley. Seeing the beautiful and picturesque landscape of red-sand dessert makes you wanna feel like you are staring in one of your favorite wild, wild west movies.

Niagara Falls

Want to be in two different countries in the same exact time? It’s easy to do that when you are having a boat ride in Niagara Falls. Situated right between the border of Ontario, Canada and the US, the place offers you a breathtaking view of three waterfalls.

Old Faithful Geyser, Yellowstone National Park

The old faithful geyser had been a favorite attraction since 1870. It is a cone geyser that spews out vapor as high as 180 feet every 35-120 minutes.

Mississippi River

Let’s all be Tom Sawyer just for once and explore the beauty of the longest river in the world. Spanning across 10 states, it is best to enjoy while having a smooth cruise on steamboats.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

If you are someone who loves to get the chills when seeing surreal landscapes, it is best to visit the Great Smokey Mountain, National Park. Perfect for biking,hiking and simply taking in the view. The best place to explore and experience the great outdoors.

There you have it. I hope you got your camera loaded with amazing shots of these natural wonders. If not, I wouldn’t mind coming back for another tour.

Destinations

Timeshares – Worth The Opportunity?

Timeshares – pleasure and investment opportunity or waste of cash?

Published

3 days ago

April 21, 2024

Owen Gardocki

Timeshares are a controversial topic. Many are convinced that they only exist to scam and that all parties should avoid them at all costs. Then, there are plenty of others that enjoy them and insist on their value. Who are you to believe?

The Pros

THEY FEEL LIKE A HOME

Unlike, a hotel or similar accommodation, timeshares are much more likely to have that homey, lived-in vibe. Specifically, the benefit of having your own kitchen and laundry in the unit are huge, starting pros.

THEY’RE AFFORDABLE

Despite the common belief that they are scams, timeshares can actually be had fairly cheap. If you have family and looking to hang on to one for a long period of time, you’re in luck. With each vacation spent at the timeshare, you’re getting a portion of your money back from your original investment.

YOU CAN MAKE MONEY OFF OF IT

If you plan properly and know you won’t be able to use your week at the unit, you can rent it out to family and friends! You may incur a small fee from the company that manages the timeshare, but it’s still a great way to make a little extra money and make back some of your investment.

Now, let’s talk about the cons:

NEW AND UNPREDICTABLE COSTS

Maintenance. If you’re looking to invest in a timeshare, ensure maintenance fees are capped and will never change. Additionally, check to see if major upgrades like replacing carpets are included in your investment or if you’ll have to pay for that should it come up.

USE IT OR LOSE IT

In many timeshare situations, you have to pick your week in advance and that’s the only week you can use it each year. So if you aren’t able to make your week or rent it to someone else it will just sit there, not being enjoyed. And you’re still paying for it. That lack of flexibility and risk of potentially not even being able to use it turns many people away from timeshares.

THEY’RE DIFFICULT TO SELL

If you buy into a timeshare and then sometime later decide you want to sell, it can be difficult. There are many people out there trying to sell off timeshares so you will face great competition. Many management companies will include in your contract that they receive a commission if you sell. Often people trying to sell are so troubled in the process that they end up getting much less back than they originally paid for their share.

THEY’RE A BIG AND LONG-TERM COMMITMENT

If you’re considering investing in a timeshare you better be ready to commit long-term, because it’s the only way they’re financially worth it. Not to mention most timeshare contracts require you to pay taxes and maintenance fees indefinitely. If you miss or refuse payments it could drastically affect any other debt you may have and your credit score overall.

Destinations

Become The New York Tourist You Were Meant To Be

If you’re brave enough, throw caution to the wind – when you’re in New York, go “full tourist.”

Published

4 days ago

April 20, 2024

Owen Gardocki

There’s been a negative stigma revolving around tourists for decades now. The binoculars, the guidebooks, the constant pictures, and the overflowing questions. As obnoxious as these traits can be, don’t avoid being a tourist yourself!

And what better place to act like a stereotypical tourist than the greatest city in the world: New York City? It’s consistently packed with tourists anyway, so why not join everyone else? When you do, take a look at the best tourist attractions around.

WALK THE BROOKLYN BRIDGE

Aside from the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, this might be the most famous bridge in America. And with the long wooden path, it truly is a beautiful experience. Going from Manhattan to Brooklyn is probably the best way to do it, too, as there’s nothing quite like entering the energy and experience that is Brooklyn.

HIT SOME ICONIC FOOD SPOTS

There are literally hundreds of famous food spots in New York. So hit as many as possible! From pizza to pastrami to Chinese food to doughnuts. New York has it all.

GO TO THE TOP OF THE EMPIRE STATE BUILDING

This one can definitely be a little tough. Sometimes the lines are unbearably long. But once you get up there… it’s the next level. You can see the entire city in every direction. And the fact that you’re looking at it from the top of the most iconic building in the city… nothing compares.

SPEND AN AFTERNOON AT CONEY ISLAND

If you really want to know what it felt like to grow up in New York, visit Coney Island during the summer. You can practically taste the nostalgia. Catch a ride on the Ferris wheel and grab a classic Nathan’s Famous hot dog while you’re there.

EXPLORE CENTRAL PARK

What would a trip to New York be without exploring Central Park? Many tourists forget that the park is a whopping 1.3 square miles. That’s a lot of valuable real estate in a city like New York! Thankfully, it’s put to good use. It’s a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and in addition to bike rentals, carriage rides, and a carousel, there’s also a zoo!

CATCH A BROADWAY SHOW

For many people, the magic that is Broadway is the first thing they think of when they think “New York City.” It’s simply the best musical theater available in the country. So if you can afford it, it is definitely worth catching a show. Trust me, you’ll remember it for the rest of your life.

VISIT THE STATUE OF LIBERTY

And of course! If you really want to be a tourist in New York City, you simply must visit the Statue of Liberty!

It’s one of the most historically important structures in the country (if not the most important) and represents America as apple pie. It truly is an artistic marvel. If you haven’t seen it up close, you should really take the detour.