Sticky situations: How to avoid 10 popular travel scams

Sticky situations: How to avoid 10 popular travel scams
I was enjoying the lovely view of the Westerkerk Protestant Church in Amsterdam until a would-be thief tried to snatch my bag. Travel scams are potential trip killers.

There I was, sitting in a nice outdoor cafe in Amsterdam this past weekend. The weather was just right to enjoy a cappuccino in the afternoon sunlight with a crisp breeze bringing the promise of a late fall.

The chairs were placed behind the tables so I could look out as people passed by on the bustling street with the backdrop of the towering Westerkerk steeple. As I waited for my friend, I decided to pull out the latest issue of my PRSA Tactics newspaper and do some reading.

My travel bookbag was unzipped but flipped over and resting on the ground by my legs. As I read about Lebron James’ much better return to Cleveland than his departure a few years before, a man came and sat at the table next to mine, two chairs down. I paid him no attention and continued to read.

My line of sight as I was reading was downward and right. I could see my bag in my peripheral vision. I noticed the man began to reach his left hand down. I assumed he had dropped something or was scratching his leg, again not paying him much attention. As the waitress came by to take his order in Dutch, this is when I began to suspect something wasn’t quite right. First, he shot up from his downward lounge like he was caught and he rushed through his order.

I continued to keep my eyes on the newspaper, though I was no longer reading but watching him out of the corner of my eye. Again, he began to slouch to his left. I realized then he was going for my bag. I hesitated just a moment longer, making sure his hand was touching my bag.

I slammed my paper closed and loudly smacked it on the table. He, of course, was surprised and jerked back as if I had hit him with a bolt of electricity. I snatched my bag up quickly and gave him the meanest look I could muster. The one that I like to think can stop would-be thieves in their tracks, turn people into frozen statues that I would only have to tap to shatter into a million pieces.

He looked back, clearly caught in the act, and quickly got up and walked away. About 100 meters down the street, he turned to look back. I suppose he was waiting to see if I was going to chase him or yell for the nearest police officer. I just continued to give him the mean eye.

I suppose I could have made a bigger ruckus. Screamed what a lousy purse snatcher he made – I could see my bag the entire time. Threw my hot cappuccino in his face maybe. I’m not one for the hassle of undue drama, though, so I felt satisfied with the results of protecting my belongings. I made sure, however, to keep my bag under my feet and zipped for the rest of the trip.

Travel scams suck

I’m not the most vigilant traveler. Really, I’m just plain oblivious to much that is going on around me, daydreaming in my own little world. I have gotten better about this in recent years, taking more heed of my father’s many warnings from family trips of long ago and learning new tricks from Chris.

I’m extremely lucky more hasn’t happened to me than one successful and one recovered pickpocketing experience. There have been plenty of encountered attempts, though, and I hope my experiences from cities all over the world will help you avoid these potential trip killers.

Paris – Don’t sign the petitions

At my first trip to the Eiffel Tower, I was approached by no less than four young girls of Eastern European descent. They listen for those speaking English. They have a clipboard in hand with pen, and they tell you they are with some world-saving organization (Save the Whales, Feed the Children, Protect the Rainforest, etc.), and will you please sign this petition to help their cause?

What it really is

As you take pity for the hungry pandas or sick puppies and begin to sign, one of the girls has moved behind you. She will then pickpocket you, taking whatever she can discreetly out of your backpack or pockets. The petition is a distraction for the theft.

What to do

Say no and keep walking. Whatever you do, don’t stop. They will sometimes, not typically though, reach out and grab your arm to halt you. Shake them off and keep going. Don’t become violent with them. Wave your hand aggressively saying no and keeping walking.

Sticky situations: How to avoid 10 popular travel scams
Kids in the Fes Medina perform stunts for money, demanding more than you originally give. Just keep moving.

Fes – Don’t watch the show

As we walked through the dizzying and narrow alleyways of the ancient Medina in Fes, Morocco, we constantly encountered children doing some acrobatic stunt. After their performances, they would then stick out their hands for some form of payment.

What it really is 

Though not so devious, after the child has performed a flip or spider walked up a wall, he wants you to give him a tip. The problem is, when you give him dirham or two ($1 USD = about 9 Moroccan dirhams), he’ll demand more, sometimes up to 10 dirhams.

What to do

If at all possible, try to avoid the stunt. With the tight walls, though, that can be prove difficult. If you can’t avoid the stunt, pay the child whatever you feel reasonable and keep walking. Even after he tries to block your way and demands more money, push through and keep walking. He won’t follow you, instead focusing on the next tourist.

Istanbul – Don’t cave to high pressure sales techniques

If you enter any shop stall in Istanbul, you’re likely to be taken to the owner’s “cousin” who runs a nearby rug shop with the “finest handmade rugs in the country.” You’ll be sat in a showroom and offered Turkish tea and treats. Young men who work for the “cousin” will bring out hundreds of carpets and roll them out for your viewing pleasure. The owner will point out the finest intricacies of the threadwork, even show you how is “aunt” is sitting at the loom making these very rugs by hand.

When you find one you like, the negotiations will begin. The owner will show you a calculator with a steep price (he’ll never say the price out loud), and you will be expected to negotiate to a reasonable price. As negotiations go on, he will tell you all the woes of his family. How he needs to make this sell, how you’ll never come back later, and you’ll never find a better price. This is high-pressure sales techniques at their best (or worst).

What it really is

This is the least of the scams because it’s actually true and just part of the culture. Many families own a series of businesses in the Turkish Bazaar and will take you to the other shops. It’s also a a cultural expectation to accept the tea, watch the show of rugs, and haggle. You can be deemed rude if you don’t participate.

What to do

Embrace these sales techniques as part of the culture. Enjoy it for what’s it’s worth, but do set your limit. Don’t go over that limit, and if the seller isn’t willing to meet you, walk. They will typically chase you and meet your limit or add something to the mix. Don’t let the high pressure or appeal to the guilty conscious affect your decision. If you decide you don’t want to purchase anything, then thank the merchant for the tea and hospitality and leave. Don’t turn back.

Sticky situations: How to avoid 10 popular travel scams
Don’t get caught in a tea house scam with the nice couple in Shanghai. Look for a reputable company that can take you to an authentic tea house.

Shanghai – Don’t be escorted to the tea houses

Chinese people can be some of the nicest people you meet, but beware the tag team photo takers. Two young girls or a young couple will ask you if you can take their photo in front of some touristy attraction. After you do so, they will strike up a conversation with you. Where are you from? What are you doing in China? Do you like it so far? Here’s the telltale questions to be on the lookout for: Can we practice our English with you?

These couples pretend they have learned English and they just want to practice. Sure, you says. They seem like some nice people. Great! They know just the place to go so you can talk. There is a nice tea house where you can get traditional Chinese tea and chat.

What it really is

Once you arrive at the tea house, which is down a confusing path of back alleys, the couple will order a series of tea to enjoy while you talk. When it’s time to go, the owner will bring the bill and the couple will tell you it’s customary in China that the guest pays or they don’t have any cash. Can you pay the bill and they will pay you back later? The bill is exorbitant. If you refuse to pay, the owner will threaten to call the police.

The truth is, these people are actors hired by the tea house to bring unsuspecting tourists like you in. They are getting paid a portion of your bill. Most likely, the owner isn’t going to call the police because most of the officers know the scam and know the establishments that run it. In China, though, you can never be sure if the police are in on the scam.

What to do

If you are approached by the likes of such “nice folks,” refuse to go with them. Be polite, take the photo, and move along. If you think they may be genuine, then go to a touristy place, like Starbucks, to “practice English.” Never go to the tea house they suggest. There are too many legit tours that you can take to encounter an authentic tea ceremony.

If you do find yourself in a sketchy tea house in this situation, then only pay the portion of the bill that is yours. You’ll still be screwed since your teas will be much higher than what’s reasonable. Hand the money that you owe for what you consumed to the waiter and leave. Do your best to get back to a touristy area and out of the back alleys.

Barcelona – Don’t leave anything on the table

You’re sitting at a lively plaza in Barcelona, sipping a café con leche and people watching. You have your mobile phone or camera on the table, taking photos and uploading to Instagram. Suddenly, you’re approached by a young sister and brother asking for money or girls like in Paris with a petition. They’ll put their hat or clipboard on the table, asking for you to give or sign.

When you refuse, they slide their belongings back and go about their way. You continue to people watch, reaching for your camera for a great shot of an old man and woman making their way across the plaza. It’s gone.

What it really is

Anytime you leave something of value out in plain sight, even when it’s at your fingertips, you become a target. The hat or petition or anything else that could be used to cover up the valuables are a disguise to slip your valuables off the table without you noticing. When the culprits pull their belonging back, they are also taking your belongings with them.

What to do

Don’t leave anything on the table. Keep your camera or mobile phone or whatever else in your lap or in your hands. If you do have something on the table, if anyone approaches you, put your hand on it immediately. This prevents a slight of hand taking your stuff.

Sticky situations: How to avoid 10 popular travel scams
Too many beachfront restaurants in Rio de Janeiro have two menus – one with fair prices and one with the tricky high prices. Hold on to your menu until the bill arrives.

Rio de Janeiro – Hold onto the menu

It’s a great day on the beach, and there are tons of beachfront restaurants offering tables and chairs in the sand. You can sit and eat as you watch the waves roll in. After you look at the menu, make a selection that fits your budget, you place your order and hand the menu back to the waiter.

After a lovely lunch and some relaxing, you’re ready to hit the waves again. You ask for the bill, and when it arrives, the prices are three times what you saw on the menu.

What it really is

You’ve received the tourist price. You’ll ask to see the menu again, and another version of the menu with higher prices will be brought. The original menu you saw with the much lower prices is nowhere to be found. If you refuse to pay the higher prices, the waiter will threaten to call the police. This happens all over Brazil, and the police are many times in on the travel scams.

What to do

Keep your menu. Even after you’ve ordered and the waiter asks for it back, tell him you want to keep it. If he is really aggressive about getting the menu back, then it’s a sign this is a two-menu establishment. Leave. If nothing else, take a photo on your phone of the menu you order from.

Chris and I walked out of such a restaurant in Recife after we picked up a menu on a table where locals had been dining, and the waiter ran over to snatch the menu from us and handed us another one.

Mumbai – Watch the taxi driver

When Chris went to India in 2011, he was warned about the taxi drivers. Many would claim their meters were broken but they could negotiate a price. When giving money to pay the amount, they would switch bills.

What it really is

The meter isn’t broken, and the driver knows he can negotiate a higher price to get you to your destination. You pay the fare with one denomination only to be given change for a lower amount. When you argue, the driver shows you the lower bill.

What to do

Refuse to enter a taxi until you see the meter is on. When you get in, demand the driver turn it on. If he gives you any excuse, don’t take the taxi.

If you do take a taxi with a meter that is sketchy, try to know beforehand how much your fare should be. Pay that amount to the driver and get out. Walk in the opposite direction of the traffic so he can’t follow you.

Watch the money exchange closely. Know what bill you give the driver, and be sure he gives you correct change. If he tries to switch the bill on you, be forceful and demand the correct amount. Most of the time, they will cave knowing they’ve been caught.

Sticky situations: How to avoid 10 popular travel scams
The plaza beneath the Duomo of Milan is crawling with men wanting to give you a “free” friendship gift. Don’t be duped into paying 10 euros for a piece of string.

Milan – Don’t accept the free gift

As you admire the Duomo of Milan, you will encounter several friendly African men in the plaza. They will ask you where you’re from, how are you, and before you know it, they will tie a thread bracelet, much like the friendship bracelets you made in middle school, around your wrist. The entire time, they are saying this is a free gift from their country (Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Kenya, etc.).

What it really is

As you try to disentangle yourself from the situation and the bracelet, they will begin to demand 10 euros as a good faith gift for the bracelet. They have also double knotted these bracelets so you can’t just take it off and return it like you would with the flower vendors in New York City. Though the will not try to physically restrain you from walking away, they will certainly verbally try to hold you.

What to do

Do your best to avoid these men. When they approach you, just say no firmly and keep moving. Don’t stop for them. When they reach for your wrist, pull back and say no. If they do put the bracelet on you, just tell them you’re not paying anything for it and keep moving. Try to get into a crowd away from them. If you feel compelled, then give them an euro but refuse anything more. These are literally strings they are trying around your wrist, nothing special. One other technique is to already have enough other bracelets on they can’t tie the string around.

Prague – Know what you buy

You’ve found the perfect souvenir in mint condition. You take it to the register and make your purchase with no hassle. When you return to your room after a day of exploring, you’re admiring your day’s finds when you notice the souvenir looks different than when you bought it in the store.

What it really is

Many times, merchandise on the floor is the premium products. When you go to the register, though, the merchant switches your item with a less-than-stellar or used piece.

What to do

Watch the merchant carefully. Make sure he’s putting the item you selected into your bag. If you can’t see behind the counter, when he hands you your bag, pull out the item and inspect it. If it’s in any way different that what you selected, demand the merchant to give you the item you purchased or get another off the floor, leaving the damaged one on the counter. Then walk out.

Sticky situations: How to avoid 10 popular travel scams
Bourbon Street is notorious for scam artists claiming to know impossible exact information about you. Just say no and keep walking.

New Orleans – Don’t play the guessing game

You are walking down Bourbon Street, admiring all the crazy sites to see. You’re approached by a man who swears to you he can guess your exact age, weight or some other impossible feat. He evens makes a $20 wager on this extraordinary talent of his.

You may think there is no way you can lose this bet. So you take it. He then makes some blindly obvious statement and demands payment.

What it really is

It’s a game that he can’t lose because the answer applies to anyone. The one I’ve witnessed goes like this:

Scam artist: I bet you $20 I can tell you exactly where you got those shoes.
Unsuspecting tourist: Ok, where?
Scam artist: You got those shoes on your feet on Bourbon Street in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.

Technically, he’s done exactly what he said he would do, and he will physically and verbally demand payment.

What to do

Don’t play. If you’re approached by one of these scam artists, say no and keep walking. Don’t out their game, either, as you’ll bring their ire upon yourself.

What travel scams have you encountered?

These travel scams and more can ruin any trip. Though I’ve paired them with cities where we’ve seen them, they can happen anywhere. Be on the lookout and don’t become a victim.

What other travel scams have you experienced? How do you prevent falling victim to these tricks of the trade?

-Monica

Sprechen Sie Deutsch?: The German alphabet

Chris and I have recently started our official German lessons with Migros Klubschule, and I thought you worktrotters would like to learn the language with us.

In this first episode, I recite the German alphabet. Below, find the pronunciation for the 26 letters and four umlauts.

Want to know more? Let us know in the comments.

A = ah                                                                         N = enn

B = beh                                                                       O = oh

C = tsesh                                                                    P = peh

D = deh                                                                       Q = kuh

E = eh                                                                          R = err

F = eff                                                                          S = ess

G = geh                                                                        T = teh

H = hah                                                                        U = uh

I = eeh                                                                           V = fau

J = yot                                                                           W = weh

K = kah                                                                          X = iks

L = ell                                                                             Y = üppsilon

M = emm                                                                        Z = tsett

 

Ä = like the e in get or set

Ö = like the u in murder or the i in girdle

Ü = like the y in myriad

ß = like the ss in Swiss, miss or kiss 

-Monica

From rags to riches: How to choose the right lodging

From rags to riches: How to find the right lodging
This beautiful view of the Mediterranean Sea from our hotel room in Monaco was the best I’ve ever had. From hostels to hotels, lodging options vary far and wide.

Chris and I just returned from our holiday in the French Riviera, and it was just what we needed. Beautiful beaches, some genuine R&R lounging on the sand or boat deck, spectacular views, and exploring new places.

During the 10-day trip that took us from east to west and back again, we stayed in a variety of lodging options, even enjoying our first experience with airbnb. From the familiarities of youth hostels to a splurge night in a fancy hotel, this trip saw us from rags to riches.

How do the lodging options stack up?

To help make your next trip as comfortable as possible, I’m listing my pros and cons of each option we used. Let us know in the comments what type of lodging you think would best fit your travel style.

From rags to riches: How to choose the best lodging
Our beautiful hostel in Fez, Morocco, was clean, cool and wonderful. It was one of our better experiences in these low-cost lodging options.

Hostels

After Chris tried to take me to my first hostel in NYC in 2007, I vowed I would never stay try to stay at another one. We had a terrible experience with the Hosteling International one there, and I swore them off. (To this day, I still try to only stay at non-HI hostels, if possible. Let’s just say the customer service was beyond atrocious.)

It wasn’t until we moved abroad in 2012 that Chris was finally able to take to me for my first stay in a locally-owned hostel in Foz de Iguaçu, Brazil. I loved it. We met so many travelers from all over the world, and we just had a German couple we met at the hostel come here to Switzerland for a visit a few weeks ago. Now whenever we’re abroad, I prefer staying in hostels.

Pros

-Very affordable, in Europe normally running between 15 and 30 USD per night  (of course, except in Switzerland where they run about 60 USD) and even cheaper in South America and Asia.
-Meet new people from all over the globe with who you typically can go out exploring the city. Swapping travel stories and finding out the latest news on destinations is just part of the great experience of meeting other travelers.
-Most have full kitchens available for personal use, so it’s always very easy to save money on food by cooking for yourself.
-Restaurants/Bars also are very common in hostels with good food at low prices and great drink specials.
-Common rooms are typically standard in hostels where you can access free Internet. Board games are usually available, and I really like the book exchange libraries in most.
-Many hostels provide excursions at an affordable additional  charge. From dinner shows to scuba lessons, you can book the trip and the hostel makes sure everything is provided, including transportation to and from the location. Along with excursions, hostel staff are usually trained to provide you with the best tourist information. They know the non-crowded beaches to visit, the best nightclubs and more to recommend.

Cons

-Cleanliness. Hostels range from pristine to downright disgusting, depending on the staff. With so many people sharing beds and baths, it’s really up to how well the staff maintain the facilities. Always take shower shoes, and do a through search of your bed and linens.
-Little privacy. Though you can pay extra for a private room, it’s most common to book one bed (typically bunk bed) in a shared room from anywhere from two to upward of 20 beds (the largest room I’ve ever stayed in slept 24 people).
-Noise. With that many people sleeping in one room, you’re bound to have someone with some unusual night activity. I’ve heard everything from snoring to a guy cussing out his dream nemesis. I always sleep with my earplugs in, and that really cancels out most of the noise. If you stay at a hostel known for its party atmosphere, be prepared for thumping music and rambunctious young people until the wee hours of the morning.
-Lights. Though it’s an understood rule of courtesy in hostels that you don’t turn the lights on in a room where people are sleeping and you try to keep any noise to an absolute minimum, you’ll have some that just don’t abide. Those rambunctious partiers will come in drunk, waking you up. I find that my evil glares are usually enough to send them back out to the bar.

A few of our favorite hostels are Casa Garcia in Barcelona, Circus Hostel in Berlin, Han Tang Hostel in Xi’an, China, and Rio Hostel Ipanema in Rio de Janiero. We typically book through Hostelworld or HostelBookers. Always be sure to check out the reviews before you book.

Our first Couchsurfer, Chris, visited a second time with his friend, Emma, while we lived in Virginia. Thanks to his insights, we've been avid Couchsurfers ever since.
Our first Couchsurfer, Chris, visited a second time with his friend, Emma, while we lived in Virginia. Thanks to his insights, we’ve been avid Couchsurfers ever since.

Couchsurfing

When Chris first told me in 2011 about this crazy site that let strangers stay in other strangers home, I really thought he had lost it. Are you kidding me? I’m not letting some potential serial killer sleep in my guest bedroom across the hallway nor am I staying in some potential crazy person’s house.

It took some convincing, but he finally talked me into letting our first Couchsurfer stay with us in Virginia. Our guest was riding his bicycle from Maine to Florida, and I’m glad Chris did talk me into it. That first Couchsufer had so many stories about his travels and we spent hours talking. He opened us up to this whole new world of travelers, and we haven’t looked back.

Pros

-I’ve met some of the most interesting people by opening our home up to these travelers and by staying with “strangers.”
-If you’re surfing, your host can show you around the city and give you an insider’s perspective. In fact, most of the WorkLife Travel Destination posts interviews are with Couchsurfers who’ve hosted us.
-Even if you’re not surfing, you can request hosts to meetup for coffee or just give you some pointers for the city. There are also many Couchsurfing gatherings in cities across the world that you can attend.
-It’s free, but that doesn’t mean it’s free. In the true spirit of the concept, you should somehow pay your host’s hospitality forward by either hosting in your city or at least providing information to those traveling through.

Cons

-You’re always a guest. It can a bit intimidating and tiring constantly being on your best behavior, especially since is the first time you’ve been in your host’s home. Each host will also have a different style, some may be very easygoing while others are very strict.
-Cultural differences. Either a pro or a con, Couchsurfing can vary depending on where you are. We’ve noticed that when we Couchsurf in the States, your host will typically spend a dinner or some other social time with you and then you’re on your own. In Europe, though, the concept is much more hands-on. Your host will expect to be with you almost your entire visit, showing you around his city.

You can book or accept visits on the Couchsurfing website. Be sure to checkout the references of those you surf with and host, and always leave feedback for the rest of the community. Even if you can’t accept a Couchsurfer due to scheduling conflicts, be courteous and always reply.

From rags to riches: How to choose the right lodging
Our first stay through airbnb turned out to be a great experience. I loved sharing the ship with the first mate canine.

airbnb

Though we’ve been on airbnb for about a year, this holiday was the first time we’ve actually used the service. We booked a two-night stay on a former 1940s-era French spyboat turned yacht. The Charleston was docked at a marina in Cap ‘D Agde, a beautiful port town with lots of fun in the sun to be had.

We had the captain’s room, the largest on the boat. From the deck, we could lounge and listen to the live music from across the boardwalk. The owner was a nice French gentleman who made sure we were comfortable, and his bulldog was such a lazy and fun friend to have aboard.

Pros

-There are more than 800,000 places worldwide to book. You can find unique lodging like our French yacht to a former schoolhouse in Canada.
-Home amenities like a full-service kitchen or use of a private pool.
-A host can either be available for your stay or you can choose a location that the owner is absent.
-Bookings can be made for a few days up to several months.
-All financial transactions take place online before you arrive – no need to pay anything upon arrival or departure.

Cons

-You’re again a guest, albeit a paying one, but this is still someone else’s home.
-Can be mildly expensive (but more affordable than a hotel) depending on the location. We paid about $110 USD per night for the yacht.

We haven’t had the chance to use airbnb as hosts, yet, but we hope to soon. From what we’ve seen, the payment process, both giving and receiving, work quite well and the booking software is easy to use.

From rags to riches: How to choose the right lodging
Our plush hotel room in Monaco had a blue theme. This extra comfort set us back about $300 USD per night.

Hotels

When we do splurge on traditional hotels, we typically stay three stars and above (sometimes less if we’re on an American road trip, picking up discount coupons at welcome centers). The boutique hotel we stayed at in Monaco during our holiday was definitely tipping the scales toward the five star.

With the best view I’ve ever had of the sea in our plush blue room, the Hôtel Le Roquebrune was certainly a pleasant deviation from our normal lodging.

Pros

-Cleanliness. If your shower isn’t clean or your linens aren’t stark white, you have every right to complain.
-Privacy. With your own room under lock and key, you can feel free to take advantage of the seclusion.
-Though the hotel may call you a “guest,” you’re freedom to relax is much more available than at other lodging options.
-Many higher class hotels offer extra amenities, like free bottles of water or cookies, in your room and have comfortable furnishings, such as down comforters and thread-count sheets.

Cons

-Cost. For all this extra comfort, expect to pay. For our one-night sanctuary by the sea, we paid about $300 USD.
-Hotel staff don’t typically have the inside information on the city. They can recommend nice restaurants and the typical tourist attractions, but they aren’t going to send you to the remote beaches or set you up on excursions.

From rags to riches: Choosing the right lodging
Chris and I at a B&B in Indianapolis circa 2007. B&Bs are the most comfortable lodging option.

Bed and Breakfasts

Chris and I stayed at our first B&B when we had just started dating while he was living in Georgia and I was in Kentucky. Most dates back then were spent traveling to a new place, and our first B&B experience was in Covington, Ken., right across the river from Cincinnati where we were attending the Tall Stacks Festival.

We were hooked from the start on the hospitality and history each unique B&B offers. From gourmet breakfasts to gracious hosts, B&Bs are a favorite lodging option.

Pros

-Gourmet breakfasts. Hosts are typically trained or have at least spent a lot of time in the kitchen coming up with fancy breakfast dishes like quiche Lorraine or French Toast cups and blueberries. Along with such a filling breakfast, warm cookies are baked in the afternoon and typically available to enjoy with coffee and tea in the sitting room.
-Meeting other guests. Breakfast is usually held at one dinning room table where you share seats with the others B&B guests. We’ve met some great people during these breakfasts, but just don’t expect to explore with them later like in a hostel. The clientele is quite a bit different.
-History. Historic homes usually serve as B&Bs, and the story behind the home is typically available in the common area. These homes many times have had famous guests and are listed on historical registries.
-Plush rooms. Each room has a different theme so you have plenty of options to meet your liking. As each room has its own lock, privacy is also a benefit.
-Gracious hosts. As part of the charm of the food and home, your hosts will talk with you at breakfast, having plenty of material for you to explore your location, and many amenities including bikes for a boardwalk ride, beach gear for an afternoon on the sand, and books for a quite mid-morning sitting in the cozy common room.
-Special packages. Weddings, anniversary trips, engagements – all these special occasions and more can be accommodated with special features at B&Bs. Chris and I attended a Halloween murder mystery dinner at a B&B in Maryland once.

Cons

-Pricey. Expect to pay upward of $150 a night for the most basic rooms in a B&B.
-Based on what you’re seeking, many B&Bs are made to be away from the city for a nice and peaceful stay. Unlike the other options, getting to public transportation may be an issue. Check with the host.

Attempting Moroccan cooking with my host mother during our home stay in Rabat. Though we have only this one experience with this type of lodging, we thoroughly enjoyed it.
Attempting Moroccan cooking with my host mother during our home stay in Rabat. Though we have only this one experience with this type of lodging, we thoroughly enjoyed it.

Home Stay

Though we haven’t ventured into this territory much, I wanted to mention it since I just read a blog post about a new platform, homestay.com, that helps you organize this type of lodging option where you live with a local family while immersing yourself in the culture.

We experienced this a bit during our volunteer trip to Morocco, and it was an extraordinary experience I would love to do again one day.

Pros

-No better way to immerse yourself into a culture.
-Truly become part of the household, helping with chores and partaking in celebrations.
-Hosts help you immensely with learning the city and teaching you about the culture.

Cons

-I wouldn’t recommend a home stay if you’re just looking to relax. Though your host typically won’t take advantage of the situation, you will be expected to pitch in and do your share.

What is the best lodging option for you?

So, what do you think? Where are you most likely to stay on your next trip? In a more affordable but less comfortable hostel or vice-versa in a hotel or B&B, or are you willing to be more daring and try out airbnb, Couchsurfing or a home stay?

-Monica

Zurich Street Parade: Europe’s largest techno party

Zurich Street Parade

We’re often told that in Switzerland there are only two times a year when most Swiss loosen up, release their inhibitions and spend some time purely having fun: Fasnacht (Carnivale) and OpenAir festivals (outdoor concerts held in almost every Swiss city throughout the summer that attract all the big names in music with a lucrative Swiss paycheck). They failed to mention one event, however, or maybe they intentionally failed to mention the Zurich Street Parade because many of the 1 million attendees are not Swiss and 90 percent of Zurich residents we’ve met had rather leave the city than witness the “craziness and debauchery” that brings back memories of the 1980s version of their city and tales of crime in a long begotten age.

History of the Zurich Street Parade

Zurich Street Parade, Europe's largest techno party
Each year, 1 million people fill the streets of Zurich’s old city while 30 floats slowly wind their way down the route.

Comic-Con remains on Monica’s list of must-see events but for now, she’ll have to compromise with the many events that we stumble upon throughout Europe containing a side of cosplay. This means sacrifices, such as, in the case of the Zurich Street Parade, listening to techno music stream from each passing float as it stopped for at least half an hour with an endless stream of music that we prefer to throw into a mix and not hear for an entire day.

The Zurich Street Parade began in 1992 as a spinoff of Berlin’s Love Parade and a celebration of techno music, peace and a drug-free society. It first hit 1 million attendees in 2001 and even this year, with a 70% chance of rain and scheduled one week earlier on the calendar than usual, drew 950,000. In 2010, a crowd rush at Berlin’s Love Parade caused 21 deaths and 500 injuries, tragically ending the festival there and making Zurich’s Street Parade the largest techno celebration in Europe.

Cosplay at the Zurich Street Parade

Below are several of the people we saw during the 2014 Zurich Street Parade.

Which costume is your favorite?

 

Zurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno party

Zurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno partyZurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno partyZurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno party

 

 


 

 

 

 

 

Zurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno partyZurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno partyZurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno party

 

 

 

 

 

 

Zurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno party

Zurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno party

Zurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno party

Zurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno party

Zurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno party

Zurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno party

Zurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno party

Zurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno party

Zurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno party

Zurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno party

Zurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno party

Zurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno party

Zurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno party

Zurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno party

Zurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno partyZurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno party

Zurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno party

Zurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno party

Zurich Street Parade: Europe's largest techno party

P1150097

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-Chris

Red, White and Swiss: Celebrating Swiss National Day

Red, White and Swiss: Celebrating Swiss National Day
Red, White and Swiss: Celebrating Swiss National Day
A traditional flag thrower prepares to entertain the Swiss National Day crowd in Rütli. The flag throwing sport dates back to medieval times when opposing guilds used to compete.

Happy August 1! Sounds a bit strange, I know. August 1 in Switzerland is the equivalent of July 4 in the States but with less fanfare.

  How Switzerland began

We decided to enjoy our new country’s founding in the place where it all started – Rütli. This is the Jamestown of Switzerland, where the country first began. 

Aug. 1, 1291,three men met in a meadow above Lake Uri and took a vow to help each other and their respective regions guard against the Austrians. This vow led to the creation of a country. Before 1291, what we know today as Switzerland was independent regions with their own governance.

These three men, Walter Fürst from Canton Uri, Werner Stauffacher from Canton Schwyz and Arnold von Melchtal from Canton Unterwalden, are some of the most forgettable men in Swiss history. Unlike our Thomas Jefferson and Patrick Henry, the Swiss barely recognize their beginning as a country. This may be due to the Swiss overwhelming sense of modesty or one’s stronger affiliation to canton (state) than nation. 

In 1891, the Swiss government declared August 1 to be Swiss National Day, and the country has celebrated the holiday ever since.

Celebrating the holiday of Swiss National Day

The national celebration, or Bundesfeier,  for the country’s founding is held in that same meadow where the oath was sworn more than 700 years ago. The president of Switzerland (more of an honorary title than a functional one) gives a speech, switching between German, French, Italian and English, and a large picnic is held. Traditional flag throwers and alphorn players provide entertainment with a choir  of children from various summer camps, and red and white is seen everywhere.

Red, White and Swiss: Celebrating Swiss National Day
Traditional alphorn players announce the beginning of the festivities in Rütli. Alphorns have been used to communicate in the mountainous regions of the country since the 1500s.

The whole affair is rather low key with only about 500 people attending. The meadow is only accessible by boat or hiking trail. To attend, we took the train to Brunnen where we picked up a free ticket to the festivities at the local tourism office (as there as been some conservative extremist demonstrations at past events, I’m sure the ticket is for that reason). We had to show our passports and fill out some information with our name and address, and we had to again show our passports to security at the ferry. We then had a 10-minute boat ride on Lake Uri to reach Rütli.

There are some nice hiking trails around the meadow, so we did some walking while we waited for the event to kick off. We saw dignitaries in suits and dresses mulling about, and I was reminded how safe this country is. There were some police on duty, mainly making sure no one sat at the reserved tables. There were just a few security members for all the politicians and ambassadors. If this would have been an event in the U.S., first, we wouldn’t have been able to just pick up a ticket and stroll in. Second, we would have been searched thoroughly. Other than flashing our passports, we passed right through checkpoints. Third and finally, there would have snipers and security all over the place.

At 1:30 p.m. sharp (the Swiss are nothing if not punctual), the alphorn players sounded the alert that the event was starting. After the entertainment portion was completed and all the dignitaries were well into their picnic lunches at the reserved tables, the president gave his speech. As most of it was given in German or French, we missed quite a bit. I was surprised to hear that this was the first national celebration with foreign ambassadors in attendance. We were also able to understand that the president was speaking about the two-part system for high school students who can either choose to continue study at an university or enter an apprenticeship program. We’re almost certain there was a jab made at the United States’ high cost of higher education.

After the president spoke, the picnic continued with many people enjoying the hiking or relaxing in the sun as a cow bell could be heard from the lower pasture. We decide to head back into town and see what’s going on there. Like most small towns Aug. 1, there was a bit of a street fair going on with outdoor food vendors and a stage set up for music acts in front of a large area of picnic tables. After listening to a folk music band, we made our way back to Zug where we were staying for the night.

Fireworks for Swiss National Day

We were told that the city didn’t have an organized firework display, that we could only find that nearby in Zürich. We opted to walk around Lake Zug that evening to see what we can find, and we’re pleasantly surprised to see a bonfire on a platform several yards from the shore. It was close enough to sit on the lake’s edge and feel the warmth but far enough away that there was no chance of a burn.

Red, White and Swiss: Celebrating Swiss National Day
The bonfire on Lake Zug burns as people set off personal fireworks in the background. The combination of the two fires and water made for an enchanting evening.

After dark and when the bonfire is roaring, who needed a city-hosted display of fireworks when apparently anyone and everyone could and did shoot them off wherever they pleased? We’re not talking puny bottle rockets and Roman candles, either. These were professional grade, and they were going off all around us. People behind us were setting off the sparkler fountains on the sidewalk while to our right were giant bursts of green, purple, yellow and red. It was beautiful and a bit scary knowing none of these displays were supervised.

The fireworks continued well into the night as the bonfire burned down. People toasted their beers and wines, and the evening proved to be a spectacular display of national pride rarely seen in Switzerland.

How do you celebrate a national day?

The Fourth of July has always been a favorite holiday as I love fireworks. Celebrating Swiss National Day, though more low key, was a fun experience that I (hopefully) look forward to getting to do for years to come. What national celebration do you enjoy the most? How do you celebrate it?

-Monica

WorkLife Travel Destination: Vienna

WorkLife Travel Destination: Vienna
WorkLife Travel Destination: Vienna
A memorial to Johann Sebastian Bach in Vienna represents the city’s relation to the great classical composers.

Home to the greatest classical music composers and the Waltz, Vienna is my favorite European city. From our first visit in the rain, the magical essence surrounding this Austrian gem couldn’t be dampened.

Favorite Vienna Places

Michaeler Platz (St. Michael’s Square)

The first thing I noticed about Vienna was its abundance of sculptures all over the city. Mainly in a Baroque style, sculptures (my favorite art form) from Hercules to Roman soldiers to the Madonna can be seen. A walk around the inner first district (the city is divided into 23 districts) can save you the admission to an art museum as you can have your fill of sculptures and architecture for free. Be sure to notice the ornate Rathaus (City Hall) and the remains of an excavated Roman Empire house.

WorkLife Travel Destination: Vienna
Flowers are left at the grave of Ludwig van Beethoven in the Central Cemetery. The final resting place for many famous musicians, the cemetery is also a great place to see sculptures.

Zentralfriedhof  (Central Cemetery of Vienna)

The final resting place of legendary musical figures like Beethoven, Brahms, Strauss, Wolf and von Herbeck, the Zentralfriedhof or Central Cemetery of Vienna is another exceptional gallery of sculptures. Strolling through the tree-lined paths and viewing tombstones that serve as works of art in their own right is the perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon. There is even a section of the cemetery set up for classical music fans to leave notes and learn more about their favorite composers.

Sigmund Freud Museum

Remembered as the world’s most renowned psychiatrist and making historic achievements in the field of psychology, you can tour the home of Sigmund Freud before he fled to London from the Nazis during World War II. Most of the artifacts were provided by his daughter, Anna, who also went on to study and advance psychology. The lounge sofa so frequently associated with Freud, though, is missing as he took it with him on his exile and it now resides in the London museum.

 

WorkLife Travel Destination: Vienna
The childhood home of Marie Antoinette, the Schönbrunn Palace is full of historical artifacts from the Habsburg Dynasty.

Schönbrunn Palace

The summer home (the Hofburg Imperial Palace near Michaeler Platz was the winter home and current residence of the Austrian President) to the Habsburgs Dynasty, the Schönbrunn Palace is an extravagant destination with paintings, antique furniture and royal jewels. The gardens on the grounds offer a maze of color to explore.

 

WorkLife Travel Destination: Vienna
The Wiener Riesenrad was the world’s tallest Ferris wheel from 1920 until 1985. The iconic symbol of the city was made famous in many movies.

Wiener Riesenrad

I love Ferris wheels. They’re my favorites at carnivals and amusement parks, so I was completely stoked to ride the Wiener Riesenrad (or Viennese Giant Wheel) at the Prater Amusement Park in the second district. This Ferris wheel built in the late 1890s features completely enclosed gondolas that you can walk around in while getting the best views of the city. You can even reserve special gondolas set with white-linen tables for a romantic dinner while you circle round and round (though we were warned against this tourist trap as the food is said to be pretty lousy). The famous landmark has been featured in movies like the classic The Third Man and more recently in Before Sunrise (love this series that is now 18 years in the making with the two sequels, Before Sunset and Before Midnight, coming out exactly nine years after its predecessor, respectively).

WorkLife Travel Destination: Vienna
A couple dances the Waltz in front of the orchestra. Plenty of classical music concerts and dance performances can be viewed throughout the many music halls in the city on a nightly basis.

Music

Street musicians abound in Vienna. Walking down the street in any city you can come along the likes of guitar players, drummers and singers. In Vienna, though, you come across (what sounds like to me) professionally-trained opera singers, violinists (my favorite instrument) and cellists. There are plenty of ticket vendors all around selling nightly performances to classical music concerts and Waltz performances in ornate music halls. Walk through a residential neighborhood and you’ll hear a handful of kids and adults alike at practice on their instruments. Vienna is a great place to soak up the flow of notes.

Local Favorites

Other locations include the Kletteranlage Flakturm, an outdoor climbing wall on a former air defense towel; Badeschiff Wien, a pool and sundeck on a boat in the Danube Canal; VOLX Kino, free open-air cinema in the summer; Arena Wien,  the former meat packing district now serves as the prime venue for concerts; and Vienna Capitals, the hockey hotspot for the city near the U1 stop Kagran.

Vienna Eats

WorkLife Travel Destination; Vienna
The national dish, Wiener Schnitzel is common on many menus in Vienna.

With a typical German fare, Vienna does have its own take on many classics.The Wiener Schnitzel, the national dish, is a must have in Vienna with many restaurants serving up the deep-fried veal. The Mozartkugel, a chocolate-covered pistachio marzipan confection named after the classical composer, is also widely popular in the country and can be found at candy shops throughout Vienna (though it originates in Salzburg). The beer is more stout and comes with a frothier head in Vienna than in other Germanic regions.

The Schloss Concordia, located outside the gates of Zentralfriedhof, was our favorite meal in the city. Specializing in Eastern European fare, the restaurant provides a comfortable ambiance with a large wine selection. Wherever you decide to go, expect your meals to be the typical hardiness associated with German dining.

Some other recommendations from a local include Thali, a great Indian restaurant with delivery; Rita Brint’s, an organic and Eco-friendly vegetarian lunch spot that delivers by bike; Cafe Ansari, a quaint cafe in the cobblestone Praterstrasse in the second district; and Kolar, a cozy pub with dark beers and flatbreads,

Working in Vienna

Known for its high quality of life and superb public transportation system, Vienna hosts an abundance of job opportunities. The third headquarters of the United Nations employs approximately 5,000 people and more jobs can be found all around the city.

WorkLife Travel Destination: Vienna
No other city has sculptures with so much detail and precision as part of its city decoration as Vienna. Here Hercules tames the three-headed beast, Cerberus.

Along with supplying the local spots and tastes above, Alex Lackner gives us the inside scope on working in the City of Music and Dreams.  A physiotherapist for an outpatient clinic, Ordination Dr. Malus, and a freelance Yoga instructor at the most centrally-located studio in the city, Bikram Yoga Schottenring, Alex is a native and lifelong resident of Vienna. He lives in the 22nd district and has a 40-minute commute into the city center for work, but he says it’s been made easy with the extension of the subway lines in recent years.

Living in a capital city, Alex says Vienna offers all the advantages of a big international city without the negatives typically associated with a large metropolis. “In comparison to other Austrian cities, Vienna offers more diversity by sheer size; with roughly 1.8 million inhabitants, Vienna has overtaken Hamburg as the second largest German-speaking city in the world after Berlin.” Unlike other large capitals, he says Vienna still preserves its relaxed and laid-back style, and with a lower unemployment rate than most European cities, Vienna faces very little civil unrest or crime.

Vienna is a city of early birds, with most residents beginning their commutes no later than 7 a.m. Alex typically arrives at the clinic by 8 a.m., many days after he’s taught a 6 a.m. Yoga class. Lunch is taken around midday either at a convenient cafe or delivered to the office where he eats in the breakroom, which, unfortunately in typical Austrian fashion, also serves as the smoke room. If he’s not also teaching an evening Yoga class, Alex likes to spend time after work at pubs or cafes or catching a movie with friends. 

WorkLife Travel Destination: Vienna
Taking a ride on the Wiener Riesenrad. I give Vienna a 10. What would you give it?

A variety of activities can be found on the weekends, such as concerts or festivals in the city parks. Alex also enjoys getting outside of the city with his girlfriend for some hiking, windsurfing or kayaking in the countryside surrounding Vienna.

Ranking Vienna

As my favorite European city, I give Vienna a 10. What international music capital would you most like to visit?

-Monica

On the prowl: Job hunting in Switzerland

On the prowl: Job hunting in Switzerland
Bahnoffstrasse in Zürich has the nickname of The World’s Most Expensive Street. With premiere shops and major banks lining the street, this is a prime spot in the city for work.

With my master’s graduation looming in January and finally settling after two years of travel, I’m once again on the prowl for stable employment. Consulting has been a wonderful learning experience that I plan to keep on the side, but it’s time to re-enter the workforce and work with a team.

I’m having feelings of déjà vu to when I was finishing my bachelor’s degree and just entering into my career nine years ago – perfecting my resume, crafting cover letters, and spending countless hours applying for positions all over the United States. This time, though, it’s a CV I’m perfecting and I’m job hunting in Switzerland.

Differences between job hunting in Switzerland and the United States

Before I actually got to Switzerland last month, I had already begun my job search while still in the United States. I also approached the job search as I would in the United States. Search for jobs. Craft a cover letter to that particular position. Send in my resume and cover letter. Get rejected. 

Researching best practices for job hunting in Switzerland, I recently attended a professional networking event for career planning in the country hosted by InterNations. Dainel Müller and Julien Lassueur, human resources consultants for the international consultancy talent management firm Mercuri Urval, provided an informational and insightful presentation on the process of job hunting in Switzerland. The tips I gained from the event will hopefully land me a job here soon and help others in the same situation.

1.Have a strategy

A guaranteed way to have your application trashed is to appear to be applying to every position you can find. Successful job hunting in Switzerland requires you to be focused. Müller and Lassueur suggested to first clearly decide what job you want in what industry. Then identify your top 10 picks of companies with that position in that field and apply to them. Messaging of why you specifically chose that position and that company should be made clear through your cover letter and your CV. 

2. Use a CV, not a resume

Most European countries prefer a CV (Latin for curriculum vitae), and the main difference between a CV and a resume is the personal information. It’s almost a contradiction in terms when it comes to the Swiss CV. In a country known for its privacy, when it comes to the job hunt, that seems to fly out the window. The first page of a good CV includes a professional photo, your date of birth and marital status. As a woman, I’ve even been encouraged to include if I’m pregnant. All these would be taboo if not illegal to include on your resume in the U.S., but here it is perfectly acceptable and expected.

Typically, CVs are two pages. They include the same information an American resume does – objective, work experience, education, skills, languages, awards and extracurricular activities. You can either structure them chronologically or functionally. In Switzerland, particular attention is paid to clear and error-free content.

On the prowl: Job hunting in Switzerland
On an European CV, it’s common and expected to include a professional photo along with other personal information, such as date of birth and marital status.

3. Apply in the language of origin

There are four official languages in Switzerland – German, French, Italian and Romansh. Whatever language the job posting is in is what you should submit your documents in for consideration. Most job postings require you speak English and the language of the region where the job is located (why I’m currently studying German).

4. Submit all requested documents

When first applying for a job in the United States, it’s typical to only submit a cover letter and resume. In Switzerland, however, even in the first stages you may be asked to submit a cover letter, your CV,  your school records, any certificates proving your qualifications, and letters of recommendation. Whatever is requested in the job posting should be followed.

5. Use Pull Networking instead of Push Networking

Networking is important in both countries, but as modesty is more respected in Switzerland, pulling others to find you is preferred to pushing your brand on others. Müller and Lassueur suggested finding ways, such as joining professional organizations, where those you want to meet would be instead of just cold calling.

Professional online networks also differ in Switzerland. Though LinkedIn is a great start, more Swiss professionals can be found on Xing. Job listings are also best found at Indeed.

Informational interviews are not an understood concept in Switzerland. When I was searching for my first professional position, I conducted interviews with public relations professionals in agencies, corporate offices and non-profits just to learn what the job would be like, how I could supplement my experience, and other general career questions. Here, though, there is no such thing. Many Swiss professionals don’t understand the request but think you’re asking for a job interview.

6. The Interview

When deciding to call someone for an interview, Müller and Lassueur said they consider three questions:

1) Is the person qualified for the job?
2) Does the person want to do the job?
3) Will the person stay more than three years?

Once these questions are successfully answered, then a candidate is called in for an interview. Most of the same rules of interviewing apply in Switzerland as they do in the U.S. The questions are generally the same, except for ones that attempt to gauge how well-suited an expat is for life in the country. Back to Question 3 above, companies don’t want to invest in someone who won’t be able to adapt to the Swiss culture. It’s also important in Switzerland to let the employer initiate salary negotiations.

Thank you notes should be delivered in the method you accepted the interview. outlining the key points of your interview. Keep them short and professional as too much gush will be viewed as insincere (remember, modesty is valuable in Switzerland).

How do you approach job hunting?

It has been said the process of job hunting is a job in and of itself. Job hunting in Switzerland certainly feels that way. Have you searched for jobs outside your home country? What tips worked best for you?

-Monica

How I learned to love layovers

How I learned to love layovers
My first view of Iceland over the wing of my Icelandair flight. Layovers can be mini-trips inside of your overall travel plans.

Nine hours in Charles de Gaulle Airport. Eight hours in Heathrow Airport. Six hours in Narita International Airport. Books, laptop, people watching and too many hours wasted.

This is how I used to spend countless layovers flying back and to from the States.  Too afraid to leave the terminal, I played out a million mishaps in my mind and came up with another million excuses to stay put. “I won’t get back in time and I will miss my flight. I have too much carry-on luggage to haul it all around a city for a few hours. I hate going through security again, and I know TSA won’t allow me to bring something onboard I bought.” Blah. Blah. Blah.

How to enjoy layovers

This last trip from the U.S. back to Switzerland, I found a great deal on the ticket. Only issue was two long layovers in between. I would fly from Atlanta to Toronto where I would have a six-hour layover. After an all-night flight from Toronto to Reykjavík, I would have an eight-hour layover before making it to my final destination of Paris.

Tired of missing opportunities to see wonderful new locations, I decided I would take the chance and go out exploring instead of reading the entire latest novel in one sitting in a noisy and uncomfortable terminal like I have so many times before.

How I learned to love layovers
With the Airport Express shuttle service, I had time to explore downtown Toronto. With green spaces like this, I soaked up the sunny afternoon.

Layover in Toronto

I first started researching what I could do and how I would get from the airport to the city. I planned to meet a friend in downtown Toronto for a quick drink in between her meetings. She sent me a link to the Toronto Airport Express shuttle service, and I was able to book transportation to and from the city for just about $40.

As I’m usually moving all of my belongings not in storage in between these U.S. to overseas flights, I typically travel with as much carry-on baggage as I can physically handle. This gets really heavy. As one of the reasons I hadn’t gone out during layovers before was the drag this baggage caused, I researched and found a storage facility at the airport. Due to stricter regulations since Sept. 11, 2001, many American transportation hubs no longer allow lockers like European airports and train stations. Canada, though it doesn’t have lockers, does allow for in-store storage facilities. Inside of the Travel Store on the Departure levels of Terminals 1 and 3, you can pay about $5/piece and store your carry-on luggage all day.

The shuttle picked me up at Arrivals at the Pearson International Airport, and I had seven different convenient locations in downtown to get off. I chose the Sheraton Centre where I was meeting my friend. The ride into the city took about 40 minutes, and there was free WiFi available aboard the shuttle so I could do some work.

As I had a couple of hours before I was scheduled to meet my friend, I had the chance to walk around the downtown area and snap some photos. This was my first visit to Toronto, and I really enjoyed the convenience of walking around downtown. Amidst all the skyscrapers and shopping, there were green spaces to enjoy the sunny afternoon.

After drinks with my friend, the shuttle picked me right back up  at the Sheraton Centre. Getting on and off the bus, you just need to show your e-ticket to the driver. The flexibility of the ticket is great, too, since you don’t have to be at an exact location or time to catch the shuttle. Just follow the schedule provided at any of the seven drop-off/pick-up locations and you can catch the shuttle.

The only problem I ran into was the terrible Toronto traffic. Airport Express estimated about 45 minutes to one hour to get to and from the airport, but on the way back it took almost two hours as it was around rush-hour (I caught the 5:40 p.m. shuttle back) and there was heavy construction. The company does advise that you give yourself three hours at the airport before your flight, and since I did this, I was covered even with the delay. The driver was also very informative telling people getting on that there would be a delay.

Though going through security again was annoying, it wasn’t too bad. I made sure anything I had with me was allowed by TSA standards. The inconvenience was worth the time spent exploring something else other than the airport Starbucks.

How I learned to love layovers
With art sculptures and green spaces, Keflavik International Airport is one of the world’s most well-designed airports.

Layover in Reykjavík

As I had never been to Iceland before, I was most excited about my layover at the Keflavik International Airport. After researching some travel blogs, I quickly learned that this airport was one of the nicest designed in the world. With its many art sculptures throughout and a nice green space right outside of the terminal, I now agree. My only complaint about the airport was I couldn’t find many plugins in the waiting areas.

I booked a day excursion through Reykjavik Excursions to the Blue Lagoon Thermal Spa. Powered by geothermal seawater 2,000 meters below the surface, the lagoons are a great place to refresh after an all-night flight. For the general admission into the spa, you can swim in a 6-million-liter pool pumped full of the health-beneficial seawater, give yourself a facial with the silica-enriched mud naturally produced throughout the lagoon, and enjoy steam baths and saunas. For additional costs, you can receive an in-water massage in the lagoon, other spa services such as pedicures and manicures, and shop at specialty stores that sell the exclusive line of skincare products made by the natural minerals only found in the lagoon.

How I learned to love layovers
With Reykjavik Excursions’ day trip to the Blue Lagoon, I was able to refresh after a overnight flight and before I landed at my final destination.

For about $80, Reykjavik Excursions picked me up from the airport on a tour bus equipped with free WiFi and this also included general admission to the Blue Lagoon Thermal Spa. I just had to exchange my e-ticket for my admission ticket at the Reykjavik Excursions booth on the Departures lower level at the airport.

This ticket requires you to be on your time-scheduled bus. It’s about a 15-minute drive from the airport to the lagoon. Once there, show your admission ticket at the entrance and receive your bracelet to use your complimentary locker in the changing room. With my larger carry-on baggage, I purchased the use of a large locker at the lagoon to store my belongings for about $10.

After I finished swimming, spending some time in the sauna and steam bath, eating lunch at the cafe, and making some purchases at the gift shop, I caught the bus back to the airport. The return trip does not need to be at a specific time with the company, but there is a schedule where the bus comes about once a hour in the summer months.

Where is your next layover?

My mini-excursions of Toronto and the Blue Lagoon Thermal Spa were the perfect rest stops for long layovers. Not only do you pay more with direct flights, but you can miss the opportunity of fitting in mini-trips into your overall travel. From now on, I will only travel with layovers in between so I can enjoy even more adventures. What are some of your ideas for perfect layovers?

-Monica

Hopp Schwiiz: The World Cup European style

Celebrating the World Cp European style
Swiss fans outside of a local pub prepare for the World Cup match between Switzerland and Ecuador. The 2014 World Cup has been a different experience in Europe.

For millions of Americans, this World Cup was the first of their lives they paid attention to like they do for other popular sports. For us, we’ve been fans of the World Cup in the past, but this is the first that we’ve spent outside of the United States and been able to witness the spectacle abroad during the grandest stage for the world’s most popular sport.

In Virginia during the 2010 World Cup, I often wandered into an Italian restaurant such as Anna’s in Newport News or some other locale
with hoards of immigrants to find the true flavor of the World Cup. Now that we’re living in Europe, just opening the window lends that
authenticity to the match.

An American in the Land of World Cup

With almost every goal scored in this World Cup, we’ve heard people
screaming across the city of St. Gallen. When Switzerland or Germany
plays, those screams are loudest. When any team plays, you can find a
melting pot of cheering fans from that nation, much to the dismay of
Swiss conservatives who recently successfully constructed
anti-immigration initiatives. They would have been greatly angered
when we found that in a nearby restaurant at the start of the
Switzerland vs. France game, we quickly found that we were the only
people in the establishment cheering for Switzerland.

Celebrating the World Cup European style
The FC St. Gallen goalkeeper prepares for a shot on goal during the FC St. Gallen v. FC Basel game. With so much history for both teams, the match was a highly anticipated one with Basel taking the win.

AFG Arena is home to continental Europe’s oldest professional football club, FC St. Gallen. I witnessed a game there earlier this year
against Switzerland’s top squad, FC Basel. During the World Cup, excluding one night when Elton John stopped in on his world tour,
major games and Swiss games are broadcast on a huge screen on the field. We were here when Haris Seferovic’s 93rd minute goal put
Switzerland over Ecuador and prompted thousands of screaming fans to
cheer, hug and high-five.

A few blocks from our apartment is Palace St. Gallen, an old movie theater that has been converted into a bar but retains the big screen
and two seating levels. Here, the majority of games have been broadcast while a DJ adds his comments in German, polls the audience
for how many desire to purchase bratwursts from the outside grill at
halftime, and reminds fans of the unlimited supply of local Schützengarten brew behind them. We have now witnessed several matches in this environment and observed Swiss fans cheer adamantly as if they had won the World Cup when their squad finally put two on the board while down 5-0 against France.

My Dutch friends tell me that you don’t see any orange in these mass
gatherings because some cultures prefer the smaller pub setting for a
game. Each street holds plenty of opportunities for this atmosphere as
well. Local pubs, kebab restaurants and tapas bars all have screens
showing the match and 99 percent of those dining or drinking there are
enthralled by the match. Outside seating at many European restaurants
allows diners to join passing cars in cheers, jeers and trash talking.

In Zürich, even more “public viewings,” as they are called here, can
be found. Many combine the bigscreen viewing of the match with a
nightclub atmosphere. Some even import a bit of Brazil with beach sand
and volleyball. As home to the FIFA headquarters, soccer is more than a sport here but a lucrative business, much to the dismay of many.

Also in Zürich, we witnessed Brazil go ahead of Colombia in a bar where everyone else was Brazilian or Portuguese, but went above and beyond to ensure we had chairs and an adequate seating area near the screen.

After a game, winning fans take to the streets, cruising main areas of
a city while honking their horns and waving their victorious nation’s
flags from the windows. The Swiss, known for their quiet nights, make
exceptions on World Cup nights, although each canton has different
time limits on how long the celebration is allowed.

World Cup 2014 prediction

Although I’m not exactly cheering for Germany, they’ve been my choice
for World Cup favorite throughout the tournament. With the Deutsch now in the final, we may have to hop a train to Munich and see if we can witness the celebration of a nation winning the World Cup, something that is likely still a
couple of decades away for our native United States.

Who is your favorite team in the 2014 World Cup?  Where do you find the best
atmosphere to watch a match?

-Chris

Celebrating America from the outside: D-Day in France

Celebrating America from the outside: D-Day in France
Celebrating America from the outside: D-Day in France
A grave of a soldier from Georgia at the American Cemetery in Normandy, France, is decorated with flags and personal mementos in honor of the 70th anniversary of D-Day.

Friday will be my second Independence Day outside of the U.S. Though it’s a bit strange to say “Happy Fourth of July” to someone who blankly stares back at you (the equivalent of me saying “Happy First of August” to an American as Aug. 1 is Switzerland’s National Day) we still find ways to celebrate.

Revisiting D-Day in France

Last month, we celebrated another American milestone in a foreign country. For the 70th anniversary of the Allied invasion, known as D-Day, we visited Normandy, France, and participated in the memorials taking place there on that hallowed ground. From the American Cemetery that is the final resting place for more than 9,000 American military members to the beaches where the troops first landed, activities celebrating the beginning of the liberation of Europe from Nazi rule were underway.

More than 160,000 Allied troops landed on those Normandy beaches June 6, 1944, under heavy fire from Nazi forces. With support from more than 5,000 ships and 13,000 aircraft, the Allies took a foothold in the European theater. The beginning of the end of World War II, though, was bought with more than 9,000 lives lost in a single day of combat.

Understanding D-Day today

Celebrating America from the outside: D-Day in France
A D-Day veteran walks the grounds of the American Cemetery with his two sons. Listening to him greet many visitors and tell his stories was epic.

Walking along Omaha Beach and looking up at the bluffs above where the American Cemetery is, it’s hard to believe the Allied troops could have won that day from such a disadvantaged point and easy to understand how so many military members died. As one soldier who participated in the memorial activities put it, to actually stand at and see from that vantage point is “shocking.”

Through re-enactments, history expert talks and guided tours, the 70th anniversary of D-Day was brought to life for thousands of visitors from around the globe. Being among those visitors was truly a surreal experience, being brought to life when we listened to a D-Day veteran explain the chaos and confusion of that fateful day. “I never wanted to come back here,” he said.

Remembering American sacrifices around the world

Celebrating America from the outside: D-Day in France
A note of thanks for all our veterans written in the sands of Omaha Beach.

This Independence Day we’ll be at an American bar and restaurant, aptly named Stars and Stripes, celebrating with colleagues from Switzerland, India, Hong Kong and Portugal. As we toast to our great country, we’ll remember the sacrifices made by so many that allow us the choice to live the expat life. We’ll be grateful to come from a country with a proud history and no exit visas. We’ll say “Happy Fourth of July” and smile when others give us blank looks as we try to relate how much has gone into and continues to support those four little words.

-Monica