A Cheat Sheet for Making the Most of Your Cruise! #cruisehacks (Part 2)

Here is the continuation of our cruise hacks! Remember, if you have any more ideas, leave a comment and let me know! (Disclaimer, I have only been on Carnival Cruises, let me know if there is anything different that must be included in this post).

Drink/Soda Card:  In my opinion is not worth it. Come on, you're going to be in your bathing suit most of the day, do you really need that gaseous drink to make you look more bloated? The sun bathing will be dehydrating, you will need WATER, not soda. But okay, I'll get off my soap box. If you have an addiction, then go for it. Now this card does NOT include alcohol and this is where the cruises get you. Alcohol is so expensive! The waiters will be walking around with delicious-looking drinks and you will rack up an incredible tab by the end of the day. I'm not sure if you can buy alcohol at the ports of call and bring it on the ship.

Housekeeping: You will almost always have the same housekeepers throughout your trip. These people are from countries around the world, so get to know them! Many of them are working to earn money to support their families at home. Once again, tip them well, treat them with the respect they deserve, and they will take extra care of you and get you everything you need! Most nights you will come back to an artistic towel sculpture waiting for you on your turned back bed.

Days at Sea: Days at Sea can be treacherous for some people because they dislike being "trapped" on a boat. However, cruise lines have absolutely FANTASTIC activities scheduled to cure just that! From fitness rooms with group exercise classes, spas, outdoor track/basketball court/climbing wall, to fantastic pools with slides, etc!

If those activities don't suit your fancy, dance classes (two-step, ballroom, salsa) are sometimes offered during the day. The Duty Free store on the ship offers a nice shopping experience. Also, raffles are always taking place alongside bingo.....Now these are not only fun, but worth it! My mom won TWO, yes I said TWO free cruises! One through a raffle, the other through Bingo! You can only imagine the excitement that erupted from my large family (mom, dad, brother, brother's family of 5 kids, my sister, and me). IT was a great time.

Go see the spectacular culinary showcases that are offered. For one, you get to see a part of the gigantic kitchens, two, these people are artists!!!!!! It's AMAZING what they can do (plus you can thank them for creating your delicious meals every night).

Mealtimes: Depending on the size of your party, you may be seated at a table with other travelers for mealtimes. This is a great chance to meet some interesting people! You will definitely be seeing them every night of your cruise, so be friendly and get to know them! Your table will be assigned a waiter who will serve you every time you eat a meal at the formal dining room. Tip generously and treat this person with the respect s/he deserves, and you may get an extra steak, shrimp, or melting chocolate lava cake (OMG by far my fav dessert).

You have the ability to eat breakfast and dinner in the"formal" dining room, where you will sit at a set table and your waiter will take your orders. Or you have the choice of having breakfast (if you get up in time) and lunch at the less formal cafeteria-style area. Don't expect anything spectacular besides the common breakfast foods and typical "kid-type" lunch foods, including hamburgers, hot dogs, etc. At night, a pizzeria normally opens up, and sometimes crepes or other kind of "dessert" may be featured.

Nightlife: You may be thinking, what night life? But yes, there is nighttime entertainment!!! The shows and productions the dance troupe puts on in the main theater are high quality (I seriously considered auditioning, but didn't think I could spend nine months on a ship). Drinks are served during the show!

If this kind of entertainment doesn't appeal to you, visit the many bars on the ship. From piano bars to nightclubs, you'll find it all. Different themed bars call for different drinks! After the shows are finished, many times the dancers will join passengers at the nightclubs to let off some steam. I dare you to dance with them, or just have a conversation.

And of course, I cannot overlook, the casinos!!!!!!!!!!!! If this is your cup of tea, you can stay here all day and all night!

At the end of your night of dancing, room service is often open late, so get yourself a PB&J and a glass of water to avoid a hangover and be refreshed for the next morning!

At the end of your trip, getting your luggage is a little stressful and takes a long time. Be patient. Irate people just make things worse.

These are the #cruisehacks I have for you so far! If you have any more that your think should be included, leave a comment!

Budget Travel Tips ( Written by Guest Blogger Marlana Salmon Letelier)

Have you ever found yourself using the excuse, “I don’t have money to travel!”  Worse….have you ever found yourself actually believing it?

Think again.  Traveling does not have to be an expensive extravaganza.   I actually spend less when I travel than I do when I’m home! 

After traveling to over 27 countries on a student and teacher budget, here are my tips for keeping travel affordable:

1.      Credit card points and airline alliance numbers

We all spend money, right?  You might as well get airline points for it!  I have already gotten two free international round-trip flights, two free domestic round-trip flights, and two free international one-way flights this year by using the United Airlines Mileage Plus Mastercard and the Southwest Airlines Visa.  Just by opening the credit cards, you will earn a huge chunk of points.  You will continue to earn points as you use the card.  In addition to this, I am a member of their loyalty programs so that when I fly on either one of these airlines or any airline in alliance with them I earn additional points. These points all add up to free flights!  Do be sure to pay your credit cards off on time so as not to incur interest fees, which would defeat the purpose of saving money.  To learn more about airline alliances, go to the following link: http://www.lowfares.com/blog/2010/05/07/understanding-airline-alliances-can-save-you-money/

2.      Affordable accommodation

The best deal I’ve ever had was a private room with homemade breakfast and transport from the train station included for $6! Try the following websites:

·         Hostelworld.com

·         Hostels.com

·         Airbnb.com (If you aren’t up for staying in a hostel, you can find a cheap apartment to rent and split with other people.  My best deal with this website so far has been a $13 stay/per night in Paris.  You can also go as luxurious or as cheap as you want with this page.  Highly recommend.)

·         Couchsurfing.org (For the VERY adventurous, this is your free option.   Get ready to open up your couch too and to meet some great people!)

3.      Grocery stores

Why go out to eat every day when you can grab something cheap at a local grocery store or market?  You can either get something easy to make like bread and peanut butter or get more creative and use your accommodation’s kitchen (often available).

4.      Research scams/prices before traveling

Be aware of common scams in the area where you are traveling so you don’t fall into them!  Also, know the exchange rates, tipping info, and typical pricing information BEFORE you end up in a new place.  Being informed can help you avoid being ripped off.

5.      Public transport and walking!

Why pay for expensive transportation when you could just figure out the metro/bus system and/or walk?  I see the best parts of cities by walking all around them, and I save a ton of money in the meantime.  If you are in good shape and limited on time, you can also do a running tour.  My husband and I have done this in Thailand and were able to run from tourist site to tourist site rather than pay for expensive transportation.  We were able to see a LOT, enjoy the city, and get some good exercise!

6.      Don’t get caught in tourist traps

Do you really need to pay for that tour guide?  Sometimes it IS worth it, and sometimes it is just as useful to use a good guidebook or print some information off the Internet before you go.  Research this and use your money wisely. 

7.      Bank ATM’s and international credit cards without fees

Check with your bank to see if it partners with banks in the countries you are visiting.  With Bank of America, I often have options for ATM’s where I can take out money without a fee and with a direct exchange rate.  Also, you can use an international credit card such as the United Mileage Plus card and the Southwest Visa previously mentioned.  Neither one charges an international fee.  You will also get a direct exchange rate when you use them around the world.  Just be sure that the store where you are using it doesn’t tack on an extra charge for credit cards.

8.      Sleeping while in transit

Want to save a night in a hotel and take full advantage of your travel time during the day?  Take overnight bus/train/airplane transportation and skip a night in a hotel.  Just be sure to sleep!

9.      Set a budget per day

If you are really tight on money, calculate how much you have to spend the entire trip, set a budget per-day and stick to it!

10.  Save free food for later

That airplane food that you think you don’t want at the time….SAVE IT!  You might need a snack later.  IT’S FREE FOOD….  And if you don’t want it later, give it to a homeless person you pass on the street. 

11.  Discounts (it never hurts to ask!)

Always be sure to ask for discounts at museum’s and tourist sites!  And always remember to bring your student card if applicable. 

12.  Refillable water bottle

In countries where tap water is safe to drink, I save SO much money by bringing my stainless steel water bottle and refilling it everywhere I go.  No $3 waters for me.

13.  Rent out your apartment/house while you are gone

You can also use airbnb.com to rent out your apartment/house while you are traveling.  You can pay your rent that way and get some extra travel money while you’re gone! 

Most importantly, just remember that extravagant does not equal memorable.  You can travel cheaply and simply and make some incredible memories.  There really is something magical about a dirt cheap backpacking trip!  Happy travels everyone!

 

Bio:

Marlana Salmon Letelier is an EdD student in the field of international educational development at Teachers College, Columbia University.  Her research focuses on post-conflict curriculum development and policy, cultural and religious presentations in curriculum, and peace and human rights education. She holds an MTS from Harvard University in Multiculturalism and Religion with a focus in Education.  Previously she has served as a Teach for America Corps Member working as a high school math teacher in an inner city school in Bridgeport, CT, USA.

She loves to travel and has been to over 27 countries including around the Middle East, Europe, South America, Central America, Africa and Asia.  Her favorite type of traveling involves adventure, cultural immersion, learning about history, genuine interaction with locals, time in nature and simplicity.  Traveling brings out the best in her, and each trip reenergizes her and gives her the space and experiences to grow.  She loves to see others experience the joy of traveling throughout their lives and discourages people from waiting to travel only after retiring.  Her motto is, “If you want to do something, do it as soon as possible….otherwise you may never have the chance.” 

Become an Expert at Airports in the USA

Ever since 9/11, airports have buckled down on security in the U.S. (with good reason!). Many new rules were set in place to maintain a safe environment in these bustling places. Perhaps travelers get intimidated by the TSA security or just nervous about flying in general, but level-headed, intelligent individuals become air-headed and clueless. Here are some tips to become an expert airport traveler, rather than a bumbling fool.

Check-In Procedures are normally painless, especially if you are not checking in a bag (highly discourage you from checking bags!).
1. If you are not checking in a bag, United and other airlines have kiosks that will print your boarding pass for you (so easy to use and worth it!), some airlines let you print your ticket the night before (like Southwest), or others have created apps for smart phones that have your ticket with a unique barcode or QR code.

Pic courtesy of united.com

2. If you are checking in a bag, make sure it does not exceed the weight limit. Some airlines require different weight and size limits depending on the seat you purchase (First, Business, or Economy). Also, expect to pay for your checked bags (unless flying Southwest). So, if we have not convinced you to travel light with a backpack, hopefully this will help your decision!

Security at different airports vary with line/procedure efficiency. 

1. Some credit cards with travel rewards can help you skip the line or get in a shorter line. Always give yourself extra time to get through, ESPECIALLY if you are traveling during a holiday or peak season.

2. Make sure to empty all water bottles before you get to the front of the line. Many times there aren't any trash cans. Place all liquids that are 3.4 ounces (100mL) or less in a SANDWICH-sized clear plastic baggie. They don't allow gallon-sized (found out the hard way). Leave these in a pocket that is easy to access so you don't have to dig in your bag and hold up the line. Get the bag out right before you have to grab the plastic bin to put on the belt. Leave it out of your bag and visible in the bin.

3. Don't bother bringing any pocket knives or large sharp objects (although I did see a lady on a plane knitting…). Tweezers, nail clippers, leg/face razors are fine. Go to TSA website for more detailed requirements. If you did forget to take out a pocket knife, they may ask you if you brought any weapons. They won't arrest you if you did not realize it was in there, but do not make a scene when they search you.

4. Wear shoes that are easy and fast to take off and put back on. Take them off right before you get to the plastic bins and put them inside along with any sweaters, belts, etc.

5. Once you have been scanned and checked by security, get your bins and move out of the way towards the benches that have been strategically placed for you to collect your belongings and put your shoes back on. It is VERY irritating when someone stands at the belt, putting their shoes on and putting their belongings away. 

Our buddy forgot to remove his pocket knife!

6. If you are pulled aside or randomly chosen, stay pleasant, calm, and DO NOT make a scene.
Acting irritable and rude NEVER helps any situation. They are just doing their job. I have been chosen randomly at SEVERAL(5!) airports, domestic and international, to have all of my belongings taken out and searched (in Peru I watched in horror as they pulled my dirty hiking underclothes in front of everyone). Maybe I look suspicious? I'd like to think it's because I look pleasant, and I won't make a scene (wishful thinking).

Customs can be quick and easy as well.

1. Once again, you may be chosen for random checks or pulled aside if any dogs smell anything suspicious (sorry you can't bring that delicious, colorful fruit into the U.S.!). Stay calm.


2. On the airplane, the flight attendants will give you a paper to fill out. FILL IT OUT on the plane! Save some time. There are plenty of extras at little desks in the airport, but you and a whole bunch of other travelers need one as well. DON'T lose this. Some countries require you to keep a stub as proof of your visa, most of the time they will staple it in your passport.

3. Split up! You do not HAVE to be in the same lines, plus it may save time! But don't get in the wrong line…if you are a U.S. citizen get in that line! It's heartbreaking when you wait in a long line to learn you were in the wrong line.

3. DO NOT walk up to a customs counter with someone that is not a family member. They do NOT like this (learned this the hard way).

4. The officers will ask you simple questions, where are you from? what is your address? where did you travel to? how long? etc. etc. Smile and answer them confidently. They will stamp some things and say, "Have a great day! Welcome back!" And that's it!

If the airport (like LAX, Miami, Atlanta) is Notorious for being overcrowded, slow, and/or disorganized, BREATHE. Give yourself extra time. Irritability never helps anything. Read a book, do a puzzle, play games on your phone, cards, whatever! Just stay calm.

Have further comments or tips? Leave a comment below or email us at 10centtravels@gmail.com!

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Some information was researched at www.united.com

Communication Help

We were asked a question about how to keep in contact with home while travelling abroad. Us millennials love to keep in contact with friends and family and let them know every detail (this blog is a perfect example).  Here is my take on ways to keep connected:

First, most Americans are given 2 weeks (10 days) of vacation in the beginning years of work. Using local cellular services may be appropriate for extended stays, like spending a summer hosting pub crawls in one of Europe’s fine cities. Using local services depends on the country and the provider. Plans can be as simple or complex as you want, using voice, text, or data. This involves exchanging SIM Card. We personally have never done this and most likely will not. Europe, for example, has numerous other outlets, which I will cover.

Before smart phones, it was common to buy “International Phones.” In my opinion, these are useless. I got suckered into one when I traveled to Europe in the summer of 2010 (before I had a smart phone). I was sent a new phone which I had to relearn, and I think I sent 5 text messages over the 2 weeks. There are plenty other more efficient options.

Wifi is becoming more and more prevalent in the world. More accessibility usually leads to less expense for this commodity. I like my phone, I know all of the short cuts, and have all my emergency contacts already programed. Paid Wifi networks are something I may look into for an extended trip. I have only researched Boingo for European travel. According to their website, $8/month gets you wifi for 2 devices (tablets are on the rise) and also have a plan for those who bring laptops. ComfortWay has a similar idea, but uses hotspot devices at $.09/MB. It is another device (~$100 for device) you have to look after, but I hear it is reliable service.

Actual convo with my Mom
using WhatsApp

Now for the easiest option.  Like mentioned, smart phones and an abundance of cafés that support free Wifi connections make life simple. I was introduced to WhatsApp after I got my first smart phone in 2012. I did some work in Mexico, which worried my mother. My trips were 2 to 3 days, so I figured to give this app a try. I have never tried the phone call feature and have had no reason to because of the text feature of the app. Now I use this app coupled with free wifi and I can personally text family and friends and post statuses and photos to social media all from my familiar phone.  I've heard Viber does the same thing as WhatsApp, but I've never used it. I do not have a iPhone, but have also heard FaceTime works internationally. Gmail also allows messaging using smart phones.

Please go with what is comfortable with your needs. If you have any questions, leave a comment or E-mail us at 10centtravels@gmail.com

Hotels Vs. Hostels

We have stayed in both youth hostels and hotels. Hollywood has caused people to get a bad taste in their mouth when they hear the word "hostel," but they are not as dangerous and creepy as the movies make them seem. I will be giving my point of view about both options.

Notice the lockers here, Big plus!

8 person room in Hostel  Alessandro in Rome (2 of 2)

Youth Hostels are definitely for the social traveler. I love meeting everyone in my room, and those roomies become instant mates to go experience nightlife. Many hostels give options for how many roommates you would like to have. Rooms with 4, 6, 8, 12, your choice. The more the merrier in my opinion!

Pizza Dinner with Hostel in Florence

For a traveler on a budget, the more roommates you have, the cheaper the bed. There will be all female/male rooms if that appeals to you more. Most of the time you will be given a locker to put your backpack in (yet another reason to ditch the massive bag and travel with only a backpack!), a set of bed clothes (sheets/blanket if you don't know what bed clothes are), and a bed. Many youth hostels host nightly events, such as pub crawls or pizza dinners. Several youth hostels have kitchens with large refrigerators to store food, if this is the budget-friendly route you would like to go. Most have free wifi and computers to use if you need one. Many times hostels are situated in the hotspots of big cities at a WAY cheaper price compared to surrounding hotels. Some things to consider: You don't have as much privacy (obviously) in a room with 11 other people, and most of the time you share an all female or male community bathroom/showers. If you are a light sleeper like me, you will hear your roommates coming in from the bar at 4 am or leaving to catch a train at 5 am. You hear the snoring, farting, and shifting of the others. All roommates I have encountered have been as courteous as possible about their noise level.  Things to know before you go: It is normal for the hostel to require your passport to make a copy (I silently freaked out in my head the first time this happened). Bring a lock to put on your locker, if you forgot yours, most places sell some. Pack a small hand towel for baths, and on that subject. Don't expect long, hot showers,  plugs with converters, or lots of mirrors to get ready. Be respectful of others. I sleep with my purse under my pillow or against my body (I'm a light sleeper so I could hear a person before s/he could touch my stuff).  RESEARCH the hostel. Look on tripadvisor or a similar website to read the reviews. If the website has many typos, poor sentence grammar, crappy pictures, don't choose that place!!!!! Many of the chain youth hostels are very reliable. I have never felt unsafe or scared in a youth hostel. Don't put yourself in a situation to be a victim and you won't regret choosing a hostel!

Not all are pretty - Hostel my brother and I got in Amsterdam

Hotel in Cinque Terre - La Spiaggia

Hotels are a great escape for those travelers who want privacy. Once again, RESEARCH the hotel before you book it. Hotels are more expensive than hostels. Many (especially in SE Asia) boast breakfast buffets, have comfortable beds, wifi, your own shower, mirror, etc. Some may even have their own exercise room and hotel pool which can all be enjoyable! If you land a crappy hotel, you didn't do your research. With the World Wide Web making everything available at your fingertips, there is no excuse to stay in a bad hotel. Many hotels are in strange neighborhoods, far away from any attractions, so be aware of the surroundings. If we book a hotel outside the city, it will be near a train station or metro station for easy access. Use discount websites like expedia or the Aussie version wotif.

Relaxing by the pool in Bangkok!

Some things to consider: If you are the type of traveler who likes to sleep late, lounge around the hotel, and rest, then hotels are for you! If not….I wouldn't waste my money if all you will be doing is sleeping for 5 hours (who sleeps when there is so much to see and do!) and taking a quick shower. Your idea of breakfast may differ from the hotel's idea of breakfast. Never use the comforter….EVER…in ANY country. Things to know before you go: The concierge will ask for your passport to make copies. Lock bags before leaving hotel. Be courteous and it will be returned. Speak up! If the room isn't clean…say something!

Puripunn Baby Grand Boutique Hotel Bath

Angkor Pearl Hotel making our Honeymoon special!

5 Things You MUST do in Rome

Rome is an ancient city with a rich history. We have all read about the city in our history books, but experiencing this city should be on everyone’s bucket list. Rome is quite massive and can be overwhelming, so if you are crunched for time, make sure you AT LEAST check out these 5 attractions:

Massive!

1.  The Colosseum

Without a doubt, it is the most distinctive landmark in this city, and  has long stood 2,000 years of weathering, changing of empires, and many wars. Although most people remember this site for the gruesome gladiator battles that were held inside, the amphitheater also held plays, even capable of being flooded to display naval battles. I would highly suggest reserving an entrance ticket as the line can wrap around the Colosseum. Follow this link to do so. In the summer, Rome can be steamy, so try to make it something to do first thing in the morning.

For all you AGGIES!!!

Inside

     

    

    

Hanging in St. Peter's Square

    2.The Vatican City

Inside St. Peter's Basilica

This first two seem obvious, but once you are standing in front of St. Peter’s Basilica or under the Sistine Chapel, you will understand. The Vatican is only 110 acres of jam packed religious history. First, embark in the Vatican Museum (Reserve ticket here) where you will realize the power the church has had over the centuries. Finish up with the Sistine Chapel, but be careful of photography! Walk across St. Peter’s Square to the Basilica. In here, embrace the massive dome structure and give St. Peter’s foot a rub. *There is no passport control for entering the Vatican City*

         

Can I have all, please?

 3. Gelato

Taking a Gelato break

Although originated in Sicily, Rome has mastered the dish. Gelato is a soft served ice cream containing cream, sugars, and fresh fruit. I know here in Texas nothing beats Blue Bell, but gelato will surely make you question that statement. If you are worried about those calories, don’t be, Rome makes it easy to walk from attraction to attraction; perfect time to burn it off!

Beer and Pizza... I'm sold!

    4. Pub Crawl

Always fun games to play

I may say every city you should try a pub crawl, but Rome had one of the best pub crawls… so nice, we did it twice! I know some of you older folks are thinking those days are long gone, but it is a different lifestyle over there where it is common for late dinners with a drink or two to finish the night. Pub Crawls are a great way to meet other travelers and experience the city when most tourists are asleep. If Pub Crawls are still out of your comfort zone… at least try a hostel instead of a hotel. Click here for the Pub Crawl we did and the Hostel we stayed at (also hosted a pub crawl).

Entrance to the Pantheon

   5. Pantheon

Enjoying the masterpiece

I may be a little biased on this one, but the Pantheon is an incredible architectural and engineering feat. The dome was constructed over 2,000 years ago and is STILL the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome. Afraid of wasting time just to see a dome? The Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navarro, Temple of Hadrian, and plenty of churches are all very close. Not to mention the abundance of gelato and pizza stands!

Chambers helped the dome structure

If you want to read more on our trip to Rome, check out the more detailed post here

Souvenir Shopping 101

You can't travel to another country without leaving with a physical memento. The process of picking and bartering for souvenirs can be a learning process and lots of fun! However, you may run into a few problems. Who do you buy souvenirs for? Will you have room in your luggage? How much should you spend? What do you get? Well, I hope to give you some guidance to help alleviate any anxiety.

Shopping in Cusco!

I will first say, have an idea of what you may want in mind. Do some research (so much research, but it's fun research!). Figure out what the city or country is known for. Cambodia is known for its silk farms, Japan for its technology, Peru for alpaca wool, Italy for food and wine, etc.  What are you interested in?

Before my first trip to Europe, someone suggested to purchase the same kind of souvenir every place I went to start a collection. So, I decided to buy spoons and rosaries. However, these became difficult to come by at many tourist attractions. So I nixed that idea. Trevor and I met some awesome, well-traveled Aussies on our Macchu Picchu trip, and they collect magnets (no porcelain ones since they could fall and break) and something to decorate their house. We really liked this idea, so besides a magnet and a decoration, we buy a shot glass, and something the country is known for. For a budget friendly option, get addresses of all friends and family, and write/send them a post card from each city. You will need to find out where you can buy the stamps and post box. Shot glasses can be tricky as they are fragile. Plus some shops just slap on a sticker that after one wash it falls off. I try to hold off as long as possible before buying the shot glass, maybe the morning of departure. I make sure they wrap it in paper and then take a sock and roll it in there. If I have brought an extra pair of shoes,
I will then typically stick it in there or make sure to snuggle it in the top of my bag. We go after some form of art (Aboriginal art from Australia, Woven alpaca tapestry from Peru, street painting of the Eiffel Tower from Paris, etc). Now it hangs in our house for our visitors to see. These items were typically moreMore recently I have ran across flag patches of the host country, such as here. Of course one can order them, but much more fun to purchase them in the country you visit. You will see them scattered on packs at the train/bus station of beginner and experience travelers alike.



Things to avoid:

• Bulky items. Yes that cuckoo clock made from black forest wood would look great in your home, but is it worth the hassle?
• Anything that could be mistaken as a weapon. Take into consideration how strict airport security is. I had to plead to TSA to allow me to bring my boomerang with me. If you check your bags in, of course the risk is not there, but we do not fly this way.
• Food/vegetation. Minus the fact it spoils and could stink up the plane, customs does not allow food or vegetation. Alcohol is allowed on checked in bags.

Everything is negotiable 

26 Tips You Wish You Knew Before You Left

Reflecting on our many treks around the world, there are some facts we have learned the hard way. Either receiving a restaurant bill way more expensive than intended or receiving dirty looks from locals,   you learn as you go. Well, here are some secrets that may save you from experiencing any small surprises!

Restaurants

1. If you want service, be proactive! Unlike the waitstaff in America who are very attentive, waiters will not come to you unless beckoned. Many times people sit and drink/chat a while before wanting to eat. Get their attention somehow!
2. Tips are included in the price of the food. The U.S. is one of the only countries where patrons tip waitstaff. If you would like to tip for excellent service, please do!
3. In some cafes and restaurants (especially big cities such as Paris), you may pay for where you sit/stand. If you stand and eat at the bar, it is the cheapest. If you sit at a table inside the cafe, you pay a little more. But, of course, the most you will pay is to sit outside at a table, because who doesn't want to "people watch" at a cafe in Paris and Rome?!?!?!
4. The waiter will ask you if you want "Still of Gas" water? This was first asked of me in London at a cafe, and luckily the native language is English! The waitress explained tap/filtered water or carbonated water.
5. Don't expect ice in your drink. When you come back to the States, you can have as much as you like!
6. You may pay for the bread brought out to your table before your meal. Ask or just tell the waiter, "No thank you!"
7. If you have food allergies, translate the allergens ahead of time to order safely! Check out my post about traveling with food allergies here.
8. Depending on the culture, many restaurants don't open for "early lunch" or they are closed mid-afternoon before dinner. The normal mealtime hours in America may not be the same as other countries.

Money/Finances

1. We normally only take enough U.S. Dollars that will last us the first 2 or 3 days of the trip, if that. We exchange at the airport of our destination. We have found the best exchange rates at the airport.
2. Call your bank BEFORE you leave out of the country, so your card isn't frozen or canceled because of fraud. On the back of the card, there should be a customer service number. You will need to inform the teller the dates of your trip.
3. ONLY use your ATM card at established banks with ATMs. Don't put yourself in a situation to become a victim.
4. Regardless if you pull $20 or $200 worth of currency, your bank will charge you the same amount for ATM usage. So pull out a larger amount. 
5. Only pay in currency/cash. I don't recommend using your card, BUT if you must, ONLY use it in an established business, NOT at a cart in a market. A friend of mine had the card number stolen. Once again, don't make yourself a victim.
6. Don't use bags that are easily opened or have openings where little hands can get in. Make sure they zip up!
7. Be aware of your surroundings. If you look the part of a dumb, clueless tourist, you will attract the pickpockets. A future post about being street savvy is soon to come!

Markets/Souvenirs

1. Negotiate and bargain for everything! 
2. Play hard to get and walk away. If they don't call after you, don't worry, you will find the same item somewhere else. 
3. What is the country or city known for? Spices? Linens? Textiles? Technology? Silk? Woodwork?
4. If you buy anything from a store, tax is included on the price tag. What you see is what you pay.
5. Like I said before, use cash at markets, not cards.
6. More details here

Miscellaneous

1. To enter some religious attractions/centers you may need to be completely covered. So always have a sweater or jacket handy if wearing a sleeveless shirt or dress accordingly with covered arms and legs.
2. Some hotels have economic lighting…if the lights turn off on you, don't fret, they will turn on in a moment.
3. Toilets are always a fun item to tackle. Do you pull a chain? Do you pump the water with your foot? Do you pour a cup of water in the toilet to make it flush? Or do you aim for a hole in the ground (ewwww I know, but really…) Do you pay for the bathroom? Do you bring your own toilet paper? Oh the porcelain throne, how confusing it can be!
4. Flushing: if there are two buttons, the left side one with one line normally means just liquid (pee),  the right side one with two lines means, well number 2 poo!
5. Showers may be placed in strange places. Sometimes they are in the middle of the room, sometimes a stall, sometimes a random faucet next to the sink…Also, don't expect hot water. Fast showers are necessary (I'm still working on this).
6. Australian sun is unforgiving…..it's so INTENSE!!!!!! Always bring sunscreen.

Do you have any tips that you learned the hard way that I didn't mention? Please leave a comment!