1. Take a day trip

A lot of tourists when planning on things to do in Las Vegas will also usually try to plan a day trip to one of its surrounding areas. One of the closest places I highly recommend if you are tight for time is the Hoover Dam. This is also one of the most popular day trips and is typically included on the way to the Grand Canyon. There is an observation deck for people to walk along over the rim to get a good view of the gushing water.

Another day trip that is highly recommended is to the Grand Canyon. This is a full day activity as it is quite a drive to get to. You can either rent a car and go on your own or join a tour. There are all kinds of tours to the Grand Canyon; some that only go there or some that make other stops along the way. There are three main spots that tours will take you: West Rim, South Rim or the North Rim. The South Rim is probably the most popular with tourists. The West Rim is the closest and where you can find the Glass Skywalk over the canyon. The North Rim is a little more difficult to get to and the furthest away.

2. Take in a show

One of my favorite things to do when visiting Vegas is taking in a show. There are all kinds of shows depending on your interest. Some of the biggest names in music can be found performing here including Celine Dion, Elton John, JLo, Backstreet Boys and Boyz II Men. Maybe a mind-blowing magic show is more up your alley, so you can check out Penn and Teller, David Copperfield or Criss Angel. Other popular shows include Cirque du Soleil, Blue Man Group or Thunder From Down Under. There is a wide variety of shows geared towards all age groups and interests.

3. Go shopping

Las Vegas has to be one of the most amazing cities in the world for shopping. There are a number of shops located all along the strip and even some hotels have mini-malls attached to them. It is very easy to burn through your money here. Some of the famous hotel shopping includes the luxury shops of Crystals and Bellagio, Forum Shops at Caesars, Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood, and the Grand Canal Shops at the Venetian. For more affordable shopping, you can find the Fashion Mall located at the north end of the strip, or the Premium Outlet malls located a bit further out from both north and south ends of the strip.

4. Gamble at the casinos

It’s obvious that one of the most famous things to do in Las Vegas is to gamble in casinos. Every hotel along the strip and outside the strip will have a casino. The largest casino can be found at the Venetian while other popular casinos along the strip include the Wynn, Mandalay Bay, Bellagio, MGM Grand, Caesars Palace, and the Mirage. Don’t forget to go off the strip to visit the downtown area where you will find the famous casino “The Golden Nugget”.

Please note: If gambling is on your list of things to do in Las Vegas, please do so responsibly and know when to call it a day.

5. Travel around the world through hotels

When in Vegas, you don’t have to go very far to get a taste of other cities from around the world. Most of the hotels tend to be based around a theme and many of them are exactly this. If you have ever wanted to go to Paris and see the Eiffel Tower, then you don’t have to go far; check out the Paris Hotel and Casino. Have you ever wanted to take a gondola ride through those famous Venetian canals? Book your stay at the Venetian Hotel. Take a stroll around the Big Apple and head to the New York New York Hotel to see the Statue of Liberty and ride the roller-coaster through the Manhattan Skyline. Transport over to Rome by visiting the Bellagio and check out the famous water fountain show every half hour. Other themed hotels include Egypt’s “Luxor”, the Roman-themed “Caesars Palace” and jump back in time to the Middle Age by checking out the Excalibur Hotel and Casino.

6. Venture through Downtown Vegas

 

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The Downtown Las Vegas happens to be the historic center of the city. Before the strip, the downtown area was the gambling hub and home of the mob. Today, it is a fascinating area to wander around with plenty to see and do. It is located north of the strip and is easily accessible by the bus. This is where you will find the Freemont Street Experience which occupies 5 blocks of the street and is filled with shops, bars and casinos. Be sure to step back into time by visiting the famous Golden Nugget Casino or brave your wilder side and zip line down the street with SlotZilla Zip Line.

7. Visit the Neon Graveyard

 

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This has to be one of the most unique things to do in Las Vegas for me. Just north of the downtown area, you will find the Neon Museum. Spread across 6 acres, you will find a massive collection of over 150 famous old casino, hotel and business signs. Take a walk through history on a guided tour of this remarkable collection. You need to book your time ahead of time (online or in person) as it has become quite popular and space runs out quickly. They offer tours seven days a week from 9:30am to 11pm (midnight on weekends). It is hard to suggest the best time to go as visiting in the day is a completely different experience than going at night. At night, you will see the signs all lit up and during the day you won’t. Some of the most popular signs you will see include La Concha, The Golden Nugget and the Stardust.

8. Brave the Stratosphere

 

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The Stratosphere Hotel and Casino is located at the very north of the strip. Here you can discover how brave you actually are by participating in one of the thrill rides on the very top of the tower. The Insanity ride is a mechanical arm that holds you 900 feet above ground as it spins you over the edge, The Big Shot will blast you 160 feet up in the air and lastly, The Scream shoots you headfirst 27 feet over the edge. These rides are not for the faint hearted or anyone who may be scared of heights but, for adrenalin junkies, they are definitely the most thrilling things to do in Las Vegas. If these aren’t for you, why not try leaping off the top off the tower and fall from the sky on the heart-pounding SkyJump?

9. Go back to the Mob Days

 

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Step back in time to old Vegas when it was run by the Mob. The Mob Museum, officially the National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement, is located in Downtown Las Vegas in the former Las Vegas Post Office and Courthouse. The museum is dedicated to organized crime, not only in Vegas but around the United States. You will get to see several artifacts, hear stories and learn all about the history of organized crime. Your experience will also provide you with more information about the first Casinos in the city, the origins of the FBI and all you need to know about Howard Hughes and Al Capone. This is one of those excellent things to do in Las Vegas if you’re a history and crime buff.

Know of any other tips or things to do in Las Vegas? Feel free to comment below!

Suggested next reading: How To Have The Best Birthday Ever In San Diego

The post 9 Non-Negotiable Things To Do In Las Vegas appeared first on Modern Trekker.

1. Explore the French Quarter

The French Quarter is the oldest area and has to be the most famous in the city for tourists. The district spreads across 13 blocks from Canal Street to Esplanade Avenue and across from the Mississippi River to North Rampart Street. Within this district, there are many attractions and lots of amazing restaurants and bars.

Take a stroll through Jackson Square, visit the St. Louis Cathedral and explore the many different kinds of shops nearby. Wander around the famous Bourbon Street and pop into one of the many bars for a drink. More on that below!

2. Hit up Bourbon Street

You can not visit New Orleans and not explore this famous street. Bourbon Street is lined with many bars and eateries. This is the heart of the city and home to Mardi Gras which makes it an absolute must visit. Bourbon stretches the full 13 blocks and is jampacked with some of the top things to do in New Orleans.

I recommend visiting both during the day and at night for completely different vibes. It should be mentioned that it is a pretty grimy street and one shouldn’t expect high-end bars and clubs. That being said, it is still a lot of fun, however full of tourists, but some of the best live music in the city.

One of my favorite spots has to be Pat O’Briens (home of the world-famous Hurricane cocktail). Other great spots to visit include Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, The World Famous Cats Meow and Spirits on Bourbon.

3. Wander around Frenchmen Street

On the opposite side of the Esplanade you will find this other very famous street called Frenchmen Street. This is the area to visit for amazing live jazz music. It is a shorter street than Bourbon and a completely different vibe. It tends to be a little more upscale and less sleazy than Bourbon, but again don’t expect posh.

I much preferred my night popping in and out of the many bars along the three blocks it spans. This is also a great area to explore both day and night for totally different vibes. My favorite spots include Blue Nile, Apple Barrel, The Spotted Cat Music Club, Snug Harbour, Bamboula’s and d.b.a.

4. Visit a Museum or two

There are many museums spread out around the city. It is actually impossible to visit them all during a short stay in the city. From cultural, historical and of course, music, there is a museum for everyone. The majority of the museums can be located within the French Quarter.

Some of the top to visit include the Jazz Museum, National WWII Museum, Museum of Art, Backstreet Cultural Museum, Louisiana Children’s Museum, and Mardi Gras World.

5. Ride the streetcar to the Garden District

This surely has to be one of the top things to do in New Orleans. It is a great idea when it is rainy or just too hot outside. The St. Charles Avenue line is probably the most popular line as it is the oldest operating railway in the world, since 1835. The streetcar ride costs $1.25 each way, or $3.00 for an all-day pass.

You can ride from Uptown all the way down through the Garden district, which is another absolute must. As you ride down towards the Garden District, you will pass the beautiful Loyola and Tulane Universities.

Once in the Garden District, you can get off and explore the neighborhood that is full of gorgeous, historic mansions. This is a popular choice and one of the top things to do in New Orleans which includes an array of different guided walking tours to choose from online.

6. Swamp Tours

Visiting the wetlands has become a very popular day trip for those who visit New Orleans. There are many different companies that will take you to the nearby swamps and bayous. There are a number of types of tours as well. You can take a closed or open boat tour, a slow boat or speedboat as you learn about this important ecosystem from an experienced guide.

Keep your eyes out for a chance to see bald eagles, alligators, deer and more. Many of the tour operators will combine the swamp tour with a visit to a nearby plantation.

7.Visit a Plantation (Oak Alley, Laura Plantation)

A visit to New Orleans isn’t complete without a visit to one of the many plantations in the area. A plantation is typically an estate on a large piece of land where the owners produce crops such as sugar, coffee or tobacco. Most are still working plantations but are open to tours who want to learn more about the industries and visit the large homes.

Oak Alley, Whitney Plantation and Laura Plantation seem to be the most popular and tours can be booked online or through many of the tour operator shops throughout the city.

8. Take a cemetery tour (Lafayette in Garden District, St Louis Cemetery #1)

One of the top things to do in New Orleans is to visit one of its many cemeteries. No, seriously…

The city itself is located below sea level which made it difficult to bury the dead underground as they would constantly rise. Therefore, they decided to bury the dead above ground in very elaborate and ornate tombs in the cemeteries around the city. Some of these tombs date back to the late 1700s and it is fascinating that they tend to be in pretty good shape.

There are many cemeteries throughout the city, but the most famous one to visit is St. Louis Cemetery #1. You can only visit while on a guided tour as they are trying to stop the vandalism that was occurring when open to the public. Here you can visit the tomb of Voodoo Queen, Marie Laveau, and the future tomb of Hollywood actor Nicholas Cage.

Free Tours by Foot was an excellent company with a phenomenal guide. It costs $2 at booking to secure your spot and then you can tip whatever you deem appropriate at the end of the tour.

9. Eat a world-famous beignet

Beignets (pronounced ‘bin-yay’) are a delicacy in New Orleans. In all honesty, they are just deep-fried donuts covered in icing sugar and served in 3s, but they are delicious!

The number one place to get them is at Café du Monde which is located along the Mississippi River in the French Quarter, across from Jackson Square. Going here is one of the fun things locals do in New Orleans, as it is the Original French Market Coffee Stand since 1862. This is also because it is the only place in the city that is open 24 hours for beignets. The chicory coffee is pretty fantastic here as well.

I recommend going in the early morning or late afternoon to beat the tourist crowds during mid-day. Another fantastic place to grab them is Café Beignet and there are three locations, Decatur Street, Royal Street and Bourbon Street in the French Quarter.

We hope you enjoyed these top things to do in New Orleans, why not also check out 7 Places You Need To Discover In The Deep South?

The post 9 Things To Do In New Orleans For People Who Love Local Color appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Hvar

Hvar is one of the more northern Croatian islands that is easily accessible from Split. This island has earned the reputation as being a “party island” during the summer season. But this is only really true for the area of Hvar Town. There are a number of bars, restaurants and clubs here that can keep the average partygoer up all night long! Days can be spent exploring St. Stephen’s square and the Cathedral, exploring the Hvar Fortica (fortress), or relaxing on one of the many beaches. Keep in mind that beaches here are mostly pebbled. Of course, there are other areas on the island that are a little quieter and peaceful for those who aren’t there to party. Stari Grad (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and Vrboska are both small towns on Hvar Island where you can enjoy a more laid-back experience.

Korcula

Korcula is a very small island (only 47km long) just south of Hvar. Due to the fact that this island is located pretty much in the middle of Split and Dubrovnik, you can get to it pretty easily. From Dubrovnik, there are direct ferry routes that take just under 2 hours. From Split, you would have to take the ferry via Hvar which takes a bit longer.

I highly recommend this island because it is so beautiful! It is believed that Korcula is where the famous Marco Polo was born. They have turned the said house of Marco Polo into a museum where you can visit and learn all about him. This popular site is located in Korcula Town which is actually a medieval walled-in old town. You can also visit St. Mark’s Cathedral and climb the tower for gorgeous views over the island! I highly recommend stopping for a drink at the Massimo Bar at sunset. This bar is another spot for great views as you have to climb upstairs to the top of a tower which overlooks the bay. The actual bar is located at the bottom of the tower and drinks are then hoisted up on a pulley system and delivered to you at the top. Sipping cocktails while watching the sunset over the bay is a fantastic experience! If you are looking for beaches, you will find small sandy beaches in the southern part of the island and flatter, pebbly beaches in the north.

Vis

Of all the islands, Vis is the furthest away but one of the best Croatian islands to visit. This island used to be a military base for the Yugoslav army and only reopened to visitors in 1989. It is a very remote, rocky island with loads of beaches surrounding the coast. While wandering around, you will notice that parts of the ancient walls are still there which give it an old authentic feel. I highly recommend a visit to Komiža located on the western coast. It is a small fishing village with beautiful beaches and is known for their fresh lobsters. A great place for a delicious seafood meal! Other attractions here include an Archaeological Museum and St. Jerome’s Church which is built over an ancient Roman theatre. A popular trip from Vis is a visit to the Blue Grotto which is beyond stunning. The best time to go is between 11am-noon when the sun shines through and illuminates the water. This island is the perfect spot for those seeking peace and quiet.

Mljet

Mljet is the most southeastern island which makes it very easy to get to from Dubrovnik. A visit to this island would make for a perfect day trip as there really isn’t a ton to do here. Mljet is actually a national park where you can swim in one of two saltwater lakes and relax surrounded by the islands natural beauty. The island is mostly made up of forests, vineyards and olive groves which make it one of the best Croatian islands to visit. Located in the south of the island you will find the famous Odysseus Cave. You can enter by swimming through it or taking a small boat. I recommend visiting the cave in the early afternoon when the sun shines through for amazing photo opportunities. If you wish to stay on this island longer than a day, you will find small villages with accommodations that you can choose from.

Brač

Brač is fairly large and well-known compared to the other Croatian islands. It is not as touristy as some of the other islands, which is great because you can expect fewer crowds when visiting. Many know this island for the very famous white sandy beach known as Zlatni Rat. This beach is the stretch of land that reaches out into the sea. It is a great spot for those interested in windsurfing or even kitesurfing. After spending some time relaxing on the Zlatni Rat beach, you can walk along a boardwalk towards the small town of Bol. Other villages worth visiting while staying in Brač include Supetar, the largest town and main entry point for ferries, and Milna, a harbor town with gorgeous beaches. There are a few other small villages you could visit here as well, so I recommend staying on Brač a couple days in order to experience all there is to offer here.

Pag

Lastly, Pag has become a popular island spot in Croatia because of its party town reputation. However, there is a lot more to Pag than the nightlife. For a quiet and relaxing visit, I would suggest staying in Pag Town where you can relax, sightsee and shop. If you are looking for a souvenir here, then I highly suggest purchasing something made out of lace or a block of their famous Pag cheese. If you are looking for the party scene, you need to make your way up to the north where you will find Zrce Beach (also known as the Ibiza of Croatia) in the town of Novalja. The beach here is lined with clubs and restaurants where you can party all day and all night if you wanted to. It can be very busy and loud so I don’t recommend this beach if you are looking to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet.

Croatia is definitely a popular tourist destination and it is so easy to see why. I highly recommend visiting the cities of Split and Dubrovnik, and then venturing out to some of the many different islands nearby. Each island listed above I visited on a sailing cruise along the Adriatic Sea, which is another way you can explore them. This gives you a taste of what each island has to offer and then you can choose to return for longer to your favorites another time. Or, you can also easily move between the islands on your own by utilizing the ferries if you prefer to go at your own pace. Whatever you desire, I believe these are the best Croatian islands to visit and that at least one of them should be seen!

Suggested next reading: 8 Gorgeous Towns On The Amalfi Coast That Are Fit For Royalty

The post The Best Croatian Islands You Need To Visit appeared first on Modern Trekker.

1. Research destination ahead of time

Before you pack your bags and take off, you need to research your destination so you are aware of a number of things when you get to where you’re going. The most important thing to be aware of is any safety concerns or warnings in place for the country you are visiting. You should be in the know of any terrorist threats or recent issues the country may have faced. This is probably the most important thing to be aware of and most likely best done before you even book your trip.

There are many other basic things you should be aware of before traveling to your destination of choice. General safety as you are exploring and wandering around is a good place to start. Research whether or not the place you are going is known for pickpockets and tourist scams. Many places, especially around Europe, can be prone to this so it is good to know how to avoid anything happening to you. Other things are important to know to be prepared such as the language spoken, the money used, how to get around and, of course, all the sights and activities you want to explore while you are there. It is always good to have a plan before you go so you can make sure you see and do everything you want to do.

2. Provide itinerary to someone you know

Before you leave on your trip, leave a detailed itinerary as best you can for someone at home. Whether it is a friend or family member, it is important that someone knows where you are along your travels in case something happens. I am not saying you have to have everything planned out exactly, but even a rough idea of where you are staying and where you will be going is better than nothing. Most people keep in touch with family and friends through social media, texting or calling anyways, but there is always a possibility you may end up somewhere that doesn’t have WIFI so you can’t connect on a daily basis. It will keep you, as well as your family and friends, at ease knowing that someone will always know where you are.

3. Never tell people you are traveling alone

Even though solo travel has become more and more popular, especially with women, these days, it can be important not to offer up the fact that you are traveling alone to strangers. On the contrary, it becomes obvious to your accommodation staff when you check-in by yourself. However, this is the only time I feel comfortable with people knowing I am alone. I have found hotel staff very accommodating and helpful when they have known I was traveling alone. They tend to keep more of an eye on you to make sure you are coming and going safely which can actually be a nice feeling. They will also give you pointers on areas to stay away from while you’re solo.

As for everyone else you may come across, keep the fact that you are alone to yourself. I have been to a number of places, met loads of people along the way and have always been asked: “Are you traveling alone?” I am always quick to say I am meeting my friends later or try to avoid the answer. This is because the minute you say you’re by yourself, you become a target. It is probably not likely something would happen if you let it slip out, but better safe than sorry.

4. Lock up your valuables

Another thing I have learned the hard way is to keep your valuables in your accommodation safe, such as jewelry. I tend to leave my jewelry at home and only travel with cheap stuff so I don’t risk it being lost or stolen. Unless you are going on a day trip or somewhere where you would need it, keep your passport locked up. I made the mistake once of keeping it on me and I had it stolen. Keeping it locked up will save you a lot of trouble and money trying to file a police report and get an emergency passport issued. Lastly, money is a big thing to keep safe. Only take out with you what you will need for the day and keep the rest locked up (if you carry mostly cash on your travels). Another piece of advice is to spread your money out among your belongings. Keep a small amount tucked away in a sock or something similar, keep a little somewhere else and lock up the rest. This way if you misplace, lose it, or something happens, you will still have some money available. Most hotels and hostels have safes available either in your room or at the front desk.

5. Blend in

When I travel anywhere, I always try to blend in as much as I can. The last thing you want to look like while on your travels is a “tourist”. This is mostly because in certain places this can make you a target. If you are visiting an island and off on a beach holiday, leave your expensive jewelry and fancy dresses at home. You want to fit in with the local crowds, not stand out. If you are exploring a new city, leave the maps at home and wander around freely or pull out your phone for GPS to guide you. You are less of a target walking around with your phone out than you are if you are holding out a map and trying to find your way around. Keep local customs in mind while traveling as well. This is extremely important. If you are visiting the Middle East, for example, you do not want to be walking around in crop tops and high cut shorts. This will definitely make you stand out as a target and you could actually find yourself in a lot of trouble dressing that way. You are already standing out as a tourist when you visit these countries, especially as a single woman, so you do not want to do anything that will add any kind of unwanted attention.

6. Trust your gut

While you are wandering around on your own in a strange new city or even somewhere you have been before, it is important to always be aware of your surroundings. If you happen to stumble upon an area that doesn’t feel right, or you walk into a bar or pub that feels a bit shady, trust your gut and leave. If something seems off, it probably is. I have a friend who was wandering around a city by herself during the day and felt as though someone was following her. She trusted her gut and found her way into a shop to confide in the employee there and it turns out she was, in fact, being followed. She trusted her gut and found help. I am a firm believer that your gut will somehow let you know when you are about to find yourself in a sticky situation. So be sure to listen to yourself rather than justify your uncomfortable feelings away.

7. Limit alcohol drinking

This is extremely important while traveling solo, especially as a solo woman. I am not one to go out and party on my own during my travels, however, I do enjoy a glass of wine here and there with my meals. When you are on your own, you only have YOU to rely on to get yourself back to your accommodation at the end of the day. If you are someone who likes to go out and enjoy the nightlife on your own while your traveling, limit how much alcohol you drink so you are fully capable to find your way back at the end of the night. Going out in the evenings may be a great way to meet new people, but you don’t want to end up drinking too much, getting sick with no one to take care of you and finding yourself lost on your way back to your bed.

8. Avoid going out at night alone

Depending on where you are traveling to, there can be places that are a bit sketchy after the sun goes down. When I travel as a solo woman, I tend to get up early to explore the city and head back to the hotel after dinner when it gets dark. It is not to say that everywhere you go is dangerous after dark, but there tends to be a different crowd of people who wander around at night time. Unless you are planning on going out in the evening to experience the nightlife, there really isn’t much to see in the dark anyways. It is better to be safe than sorry and avoid any mishaps that could happen when out at night time.

9. Pack light

Packing light and sensibly is not only a way to make traveling around easier; it is also a way to stay safe. Only taking a small carry on size suitcase will limit you to taking what you actually need rather than stuffing a big bag full of stuff you will never actually wear or use. This will help to avoid losing anything or having valuable items misplaced or stolen. Carrying around a smaller bag or dragging along a smaller suitcase will make it more convenient for you to get from point A to point B. You don’t want to get stuck dragging and lugging a big bag from your hotel to the train station or airport while trying to juggle your shoulder bag and using your phone for directions. This will not only make you a target for pickpockets and unwanted attention, but it will drive you crazy and cause undue stress on your travels.

10. Don’t trust too quickly

Lastly, another important tip to stay safe is not to trust too quickly. You will no doubt meet lots of people along the way whether they are other tourists or locals. You don’t want to give in and trust them right away because they could be trying to trap you or direct you to an uncomfortable situation. This goes hand in hand with trusting your gut. When you meet someone, whether you are on a tour or out having dinner, do not be too quick, for whatever reason, to go off alone somewhere with them. Suggest meeting up in crowded areas and going out where you know there will be other people around. It may sound silly because you are going to meet people and want to make new friends along the way, but just be smart about it until you really get to know them.

Now that you have some tips on staying safe while traveling alone, how about some tips on how to make solo travel more satisfying?

The post 10 Smart Tips To Stay Safe When Traveling Alone appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Over the past few years, Iceland has become a very popular holiday destination for people from all over the world. Even I have been there on three occasions during different times of the year for a completely new experience each time.

However, no matter how much planning you do before a trip, there will always be things you really wish you knew ahead of time! Below is a list of ten things I wish I’d known before going to Iceland.

1. How expensive it is

Iceland is easily one of the most expensive countries in the world. The currency used there is the Icelandic Króna and despite being a closed currency, it is actually quite strong which can help to explain the actual cost of things after conversion.

When you change your money to Krónas, you may be thrown off by the numbers on the notes. To give you an idea, a note worth 1000 ISK is actually around $13 CDN, $10 USD or £7 GBP (rates are approximate). I recommend downloading a currency converter to help you keep track of how much money you’re actually spending.

Choosing accommodations is one of the first things you will do when going to Iceland. There is everything from hotels, hostels, Air B&B’s and guesthouses, all charging a variety of rates. Depending on where you are looking to stay, you will pay a hefty price. You can, however, find affordable accommodations without breaking the bank. You just have to do your research. If you really want to save a lot of money, you can consider pitching a tent and camping among the many different camping grounds.

Other expenses you will need to take into consideration is the cost of food and eating out. Beware: restaurants are quite pricey! The average meal will be between 2000-4000 ISK, even at more casual joints that serve pizza or burgers. If you plan on dining out every day and night, expect to spend a fortune by the end of your trip. Consider buying your own groceries if you are staying somewhere with a kitchen accessible to you.

The last expense worth mentioning is transportation. The best way to travel around Iceland is to by renting a car. I knew ahead of time how much I was going to spend on the car itself, but I was completely unaware of how much petrol actually costs. Beware, it is expensive! If you are traveling around a majority of the island, you will most likely fill up a few times during your stay. Expect to spend around 5000 ISK each time you fill up depending on the make and model of your car of course.

2. How far everything actually is

It is important to know and be aware of where everything you want to see actually is. Reykjavik is the capital city and where most tourists flock to when arriving in Iceland.

Most tourists will stick to visiting the capital city and touring around the Golden Circle, which includes sites that are all relatively close by. Iceland is such an amazing country and is way bigger than you may expect.

Some of my favorite and some of the most famous sites can be hours away by car. For example, from Reykjavik to Husavik in the north is about a six-hour drive; Reykjavik to Vik in the south is about a three-hour drive, and Reykjavik to the glacier park in the east is about an eight-hour drive. It is important to plan out your routes before arriving so you can arrange your days accordingly.

Meanwhile, Reykjavik is completely walkable and their public transportation system is pretty good. I wish I’d known this before going to Iceland so I could have rented a car specifically on days I wanted to drive to the further sites and save money on days I stayed in and around the city.

3. Weather changes without warning

When you hear “Iceland”, you automatically think of cold weather. No matter what time of year you go, Iceland is cold.

During the summer months, temperatures tend to only be around 10-13°C (50-55°F). During the winter months, temperatures range between 0 and -10°C (14-32°F). These stats are heavily dependant on where you are in Iceland. The first time I went to Iceland was in the month of August. In Reykjavik, the temperatures during the day were around 15°C (59°F) every day.

However, the weather changes as you drive around the island. I drove down to Vik in the south and it was much colder and windier. As I continued to drive towards the East of the island, it was freezing cold and hailing. I wish I ‘d known the difference in the weather before I started this adventure so I could have packed my day bag accordingly.

I highly recommend packing warm, waterproof clothes and carry them with you everywhere you go. This way you will be relatively prepared for any weather changes that may come your way.

Also, it is important to check the weather forecast on a daily basis to see what they say in regards to the areas you are going. With harsh weather changes also comes poor driving and road conditions. One day could be quite warm and sunny which makes for perfect driving conditions; the next day could be windy and rainy which could make for slippery roads and potentially dangerous driving.

4. Northern Lights Vs Midnight Sun

Before my first trip to Iceland, I was unaware of the concept of the Midnight Sun. This phenomenon occurs in the summer months when the sun is visible for 24 hours and there are about 20 hours of daylight. I did not realize that it never gets completely dark there in the summer.

This can be great for people who visit during this time because they can take their time traveling around and seeing the sites without the worry of it getting dark. In the winter, the opposite is true. There are only about 5 hours of daylight in the winter time. This is good to be aware of ahead of time so you can plan your days accordingly.

Visiting in the winter is essential if you are hoping to witness the Northern Lights. The best time to visit is from September to mid-April. The ideal time would be December or January when there are more hours of darkness. It is important to be aware of the fact that you may not actually see them.

It can be completely dark and clear and there can still be no chance of seeing the auroras. If there is no solar activity in the sky, you will not see the lights. Other factors include weather and, of course, luck!

I wish I’d known this before going to Iceland so that I could prepare myself for the disappointment of not seeing the lights when I visited in March one year. I reluctantly went back the following December and after four nights of limited solar activity, I was lucky and saw a spectacular show of the Northern Lights.

5. Food is quite different

The Icelandic cuisine is one of Iceland’s most prominent features. When I first visited about ten years ago, there wasn’t much variety in the kinds of restaurants available to tourists. We really only had the local cuisine to choose from.

Once tourism really boomed, however, there was an uprise in the different cuisines offered in restaurants. If you are a tourist who enjoys tasting the local delicacies, you are in for a treat here. As well as eating a lot of fish and seafood, you will be able to try whale, puffin, rotten shark, lamb heads and don’t forget to try their famous hotdogs (made from a mix of lamb and pork) topped with their special white sauce (often mistaken for mayonnaise).

It is important to know ahead of time that you will be exposed to extremely different kinds of food here. Do not think you can rely on McDonald’s as there are no longer any in Iceland.

6. Blue Lagoon = Tourist Trap

The Blue Lagoon is probably one of Iceland’s most famous attractions. It is a geothermal spa that attracts hundreds of visitors on a daily basis. A misconception of the Blue Lagoon is that it is a natural geothermal spring. It is actually controlled by the geothermal plant located next door, but the actual land itself is natural.

The cost to visit here can be quite expensive, but to many, it is a must-see attraction. Due to the prices and overcrowding of tourists, I can honestly say that the Blue Lagoon is a tourist trap.

I wish I’d known before going to Iceland that there are many geothermal pools that you can visit and swim in without the crowds and hefty admission fees. I recommend researching online where they are so you know where to go when you get there.

If you do insist on going to the Blue Lagoon, it is suggested that you book in advance online to save yourself time in queues and get possible discounted offers.

7. Always carry snacks on you (bring some from home)

It goes without saying that many people get a little peckish throughout the day. It is a great idea to stock up on snacks to take with you while you out on the road exploring what Iceland has to offer.

Once you get out of the main areas, restaurants and petrol stations are few and far between. I wish I’d known this beforehand so I could ensure I wouldn’t go hungry between meals.

Another thing I wish I’d known beforehand was to bring snacks from home that I knew I would enjoy rather than relying on items I was unsure about. This will also save you some money in the long run by avoiding the high costs in Iceland.

8. Don’t buy bottled water (take a refillable bottle and refill it)

Many environmentalists argue against the purchase of bottled water to help save the environment. Yet, many people prefer to buy it mostly for convenience.

As well as everything else in Iceland, bottled water is quite expensive. There is absolutely nothing wrong with the tap water, despite some claims that it smells like sulfur due to the geothermal fields. The water in Iceland has been tested and deemed perfectly safe to drink. You can even drink the water straight from the rivers and streams—that’s how safe it is.

I wish I’d known before my first visit to take a refillable bottle with me to fill up whenever I ran out of water. I had to resort to purchasing one there but it was still cheaper than what I would have spent buying bottled water every day.

9. Plan days accordingly and be flexible

Depending on when you plan your visit to Iceland, planning your days ahead of time is crucial.

If you are visiting in the summer months, it is a lot easier to take your time seeing everything you want in a day because there are so many hours of daylight. In the winter months, you have to be a little more flexible. This is because there are only about 5-6 hours of daylight and this can make it difficult to get around to see sights that may be a tad far away from each other.

Plan to visit sights that are close by to one another. If you want to drive out to areas such as Husavik, Vik or Hofn, I recommend leaving early in the morning so your driving in the dark and arriving in the daylight with plenty of time to see everything.

10. Spend a day max in Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a small, compact city that can easily be seen in one full day. Most of the main attractions, such as the Blue Lagoon and stops along the Golden Circle, are a bit of a drive outside the city. Most of the most beautiful sights and attractions require you to drive quite a bit to get to.

However, if you are someone who wants to visit and spend time in the museums or spend time shopping along the streets, you may consider spending two days in the city.

The first time I visited Iceland, I based myself solely in Reykjavik. This meant a lot of driving around to far away places to see everything I wanted to see. The next couple times I visited, I stayed a night or two in Reykjavik and then spread my nights out across the North and the East. This made it a lot easier to see what I wanted in each area without having to drive for hours and having to return to Reykjavik.

Now that you’ve heard about what I wish I’d known before going to Iceland, why not also check out some of the amazing reasons why you should definitely visit?

The post 10 Things I Wish I’d Known Before Going To Iceland appeared first on Modern Trekker.

1. Choosing your Accommodations

If meeting other like-minded travelers is something that is of interest to you, then choosing where you stay is extremely important when it comes to making your experience better. Hostels should be on the top of your list. When one hears the word “hostel”, they may automatically assume dorm room style accommodations. Yes, of course, hostels are known for this, however, if sleeping in a room with a number of strangers doesn’t appeal to you then there are many hostels that offer private rooms with either shared or private facilities. Hostels, almost always, offer a common room for travelers to hang out in, which is a great place to meet other travelers like yourself. Many hostels also may organize special events or activities for the people staying there which is another great way to meet people and make traveling alone 1000 times better!

2. Always smile

They say that facial expressions are a universal language because you can get a sense of how a person is feeling based on what their expressions are no matter what language they speak. A smile typically represents happiness, excitement, and enjoyment. It is so important to always have a smile on your face while traveling around solo. It will make you happy and even approachable. More people will be willing to chat with you or help you out when you are happy, friendly and in a good mood!

Studies have proven that smiling can trick your brain into making you feel better when something has you down. So if you find yourself wandering around and getting caught in the rain or an exhibit has sold out on your last day in the city, just put a smile on your face and keep going! You will feel better and it will make you enjoy yourself that much more!

3. Take tours

One of the best ways to meet people and to get a feel for a city you have never been to is to take a guided tour or join a walking tour. Many cities offer free guided tours where you can decide how much it is worth and tip accordingly at the end. I find these always make my trip so much better because it allows for me to get a true understanding and feeling for that city. The tour guides are always extremely knowledgeable and provide so much detail and history about the city you are visiting. One of the best things about a walking city tour is that they take you around to the sites, give you loads of information and then you can go back and explore more in-depth afterward if you want.

If you have loads of time to explore outside of the city you are in, day tours to nearby areas and sites are a great opportunity to take in more on your trip. Some of my best travel experiences are those where I have left the main city to explore more of the country and culture. It is also a great opportunity to meet people with the same interests as you. A few of my best travel friends are those I met during different types of tours in some of the cities I have visited. It is definitely worth checking out what tours are running in your destination if you have the time in your schedule.

4. Try something new

There is no doubt that trying something you have never done before will make traveling alone 1000 times better. Not only are you pushing yourself out of your comfort zone to maybe face a fear, providing an opportunity to meet other people and giving yourself an awesome story to tell, you are enhancing your experience as a solo traveler! If there is something you haven’t done before that you think would be amazing, just do it! Whether it is climbing the stairs to the top of a tower for great views, zip lining across the highest lines in the world, jumping out of a plane, taking in a scuba diving lesson or even trying some of the strangest foods you can find. No matter what it is, if it is something you have never done before it will give you a great sense of accomplishment, make you feel great and will provide you with a memory that will last you a lifetime!

5. Get lost

One of my favorite things to do when I go somewhere is to lose the map, go out and get lost! There is a lot to be said for joining a walking tour, as stated above, or following a map so you know you will get to all the main sites you want to see. However, just wandering around and following your gut will allow you to stumble upon many of a city’s hidden gems. Getting lost in a city is truly a wonderful and valuable experience. Following different streets, turning down random alleyways or cutting through parks will expose you to things you would never have known to look for if you followed a more direct route. It gives you an opportunity to find different eateries you may never have known about, different shops that may be of interest, or beautiful buildings and landscapes you never knew existed before you stumbled across them.

Getting lost in a city also allows for you to experience different areas or neighborhoods and expose yourself to the true side of the place you are visiting. Most cities have their best-known tourist sites and those are what people go and see. By getting lost you are allowing yourself to see beyond the typical tourist site and immerse yourself in a more everyday life of that city. However, it is still a good idea to keep a map or your phone handy in case the actual experience of getting lost causes you more anxiety or stress. This way you can bail yourself out and direct yourself back to where you started if need be.

Suggested next reading: 10 Smart Tips To Stay Safe When Traveling Alone

The post 5 Expert Tips To Make Traveling Alone 1000x Better appeared first on Modern Trekker.

1. Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik is a perfect choice for the adventurous solo female traveler for so many reasons. Firstly, it is extremely safe. The Institute for Economics and Peace has even named Iceland as the safest country in the world. Secondly, the Icelandic culture is so warm and welcoming. Everyone I met was absolutely lovely and extremely helpful which made me feel so welcome. A vast majority of locals also speak English which helps to avoid any language barriers you may be concerned about. Thirdly, there is so much to do, and not just in Reykjavik, but around the whole country.

If renting a car on your own is something you’re not comfortable with (as it can be quite expensive), there are a number of tours you can join that go all over the island. This is one of the best ways to meet other solo female travelers on your journey. There are a number of tour operators within Reykjavik that can help plan your adventures. A morning or afternoon at the Blue Lagoon is an absolute must! You can combine this with a Golden Circle tour that will take you to the main sights in the surrounding area. There is no shortage of geysers, waterfalls, mountains, volcanoes, glaciers and geothermal waters across this magnificent country. No matter what time of year you visit, there will be plenty to keep you occupied and satisfied!

2. Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm is another great choice for a solo adventure. I felt extremely safe exploring this city on my own. Stockholm has a reputation for being quite expensive, as most Scandinavian countries are. Despite this, the crime rate is extremely low. You can wander around this city without fear of being targeted. I found the Swedish people to be extremely nice and helpful here as well. They are very proud of their country and love being able to share it with those who visit. Along with Swedish, they also speak English which makes it very easy to communicate with the local people.

As a solo female traveler here, you can join a walking tour and get the history of the city while visiting the major sights, or you can get lost in the streets and explore on your own. You can make friends with other like-minded travelers on a tour or you can go at your own pace and spend quality time exploring Gamla Stan (the old town). Of course, you can always go back and explore more in depth after a tour. Checking out the local free walking tours is one of the first things I do when I get to a city on my own. It is the best of both worlds…meeting new people and hearing the history and stories, as well as pointing out all the main sights that I can go back to after to explore on my own time.

3. London, England

Despite everything that has occurred in the wonderful city over the last year or so, I feel that London is still one of the best cities to visit as a solo female traveler. Due to the past few events that have happened, security of the city has been heightened, yet you will barely notice. There is so much to do here to fill your days! London is one of the best cities in the world to navigate around with its pristine transport system. Even though it may seem daunting when you look at the tube map, it is actually quite easy once you get the hang of it. All stations are extremely well signed and there are always employees around to stop and ask for directions or help. Definitely, invest in an Oyster card as it saves you money in the long run and buses don’t accept cash anymore. You can use them on any of the trains within the zones, tubes and buses.

It is important to note that London is an extremely busy city and is always crowded with tourists no matter what time of year you visit. Therefore, it is important to be cautious (especially around crowded tourist sites) of your whereabouts and belongings, as is the case with any city. If you are aware and vigilant, you will be fine.

As a solo female traveler in London, there is so much going on that it is almost impossible to choose what to do. Most of the museums are free and absolutely worth visiting. London is full of amazing history and there are a large number of different walking tours you can join according to your interest. A lot of travelers enjoy the hop on hop off experience which is a great way to get around the city. There are different routes you can choose from if you don’t want to attempt the public transport system.

4. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik has become more popular over the years, especially for solo travelers. As a young woman traveling here by myself, I felt extremely safe. The people are quite friendly as long are you are friendly to them. For the most part, everyone speaks English and are willing to help you if you need assistance with anything. Dubrovnik is most famous for its walled-in Old Town and the area is actually quite small. Depending on the time of year you go, it can be extremely busy. There are a number of things to do here to keep any solo female traveler occupied.

One of my favorite things to do here is to walk the city walls. The Old Town alone is filled with restaurants, cafés and bakeries to visit which makes it very convenient for the solo female traveler to find a great place to eat without going far out of the main area. Dubrovnik is a city that is so close to other major cities in surrounding countries, which makes their day trips one of the most popular things to do. You can go to Montenegro or Bosnia in a day and be back by dinner time. I happened to meet other solo travelers on one of these day trips who have since become great travel buddies of mine. Due to the fact that these tours are accompanied by a tour guide and are extremely well organized, it is a very safe and an amazing opportunity for any traveler to Dubrovnik.

5. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is by far one of the most amazing places I have been to. The people are among the friendliest I have met around the world and, for the most part, all speak English. There is something here for everyone depending on your interests. Whether you want to relax by a beach, go on a yoga retreat or take in the sights, you will have plenty to occupy your time here. There are many different areas in Bali where tourists like to stay, however for the solo female traveler I would recommend staying in Seminyak if you are looking for a more laid back, relaxing and less busy stay. It is, however, one of the most popular areas to stay so you will still have an opportunity to meet people if that is what you are looking for. If you are looking for a more upbeat, party scene, then I would recommend staying near Kuta Beach.

One of the best things about traveling around Bali as a solo woman is how cheap and reasonable it is. You can hire a private driver to take you everywhere you want to go for the entire day for less than $20. I would suggest this option over a group tour as you are more able to see what you want depending on your interests. However, if you want to meet people, joining a group tour would be the better option. If you want to explore the island rather than relax on a beach the whole time, than one of the above options is a must. I absolutely recommend a trip to Ubud for the day to explore the markets, the nearby Monkey Forest and Tegallalang Rice Terrace.

Suggested next reading: 10 Smart Tips To Stay Safe When Traveling Alone

The post 5 Safe Destinations That Are Great For Female Solo Travelers appeared first on Modern Trekker.