travel

  • Safety Tips When Traveling by Train

    Safety Tips When Traveling by Train

    Taking a trip by train is a relaxing and economical way to get around. Even though train travel can take longer than traveling by car, trains are more affordable. Not only that – you don’t have to put yourself through a potentially long drive. But, when traveling by train, it’s essential to be mindful of your safety. Here are a few things you can do to keep yourself safe during a trip by train.

    Preparing for the Trip

    There are many important factors that you need to consider during the preparation of your trip. Before purchasing your ticket, it is recommended that you research how the train system works in your destination area. You can find this information online or in a travel guidebook. There will be information on the different classes of travel, any discounts you may be eligible for, how to reserve seats, ticket validation, food, and drink availability, and travel accessibility.

    Luggage and Belongings

    Before you start to pack, look into any baggage restrictions the train might have – especially if you plan on taking any large pieces of luggage with you. Also, don’t forget to pack a pillow, blanket, and entertainment for the journey.

    Check to make sure that electrical outlets will be available during the trip before you pack anything that needs to be plugged in. Try to pack light, so your bag is easy to carry. If the trip is going to be a long one, it may be a good idea to pack food and drink as well.

    At the Station

    The best way to keep your belongings safe at the train station is to keep them with you at all times. Carrying your cash and credit cards in a money belt keeps them on your person and makes them harder to steal. If you have to stay in the station for an extended period of time, make sure that you stay in well-lit areas near other passengers.

    While waiting for your train, pay close attention to the announcements. If your platform is changed or your train is delayed, it is likely to be announced before it shows up on the departures board.

    On the Train

    Once the train starts to move, make sure you hold onto a railing or seatback while walking around on the train. It’s hard to keep your balance while the train is moving, and you could fall without extra support.

    Make sure that you keep an eye on your possessions at all times, just in case. Take any valuables that you can with you when you use the restroom and make sure that the rest are stowed in your compartment and out of sight. If it’s possible, keep your compartment locked while you’re sleeping, and sleep on top of your money belt to keep it safe.

    A train trip can be a pleasant and memorable experience, as long as you keep yourself safe. Pack only what you will need and make sure you keep a close eye on it during the trip. But, also remember to relax and take the time to enjoy the ride.

    train station

  • Travel Medicine Cabinet Essentials

    Travel Medicine Cabinet Essentials

    A super short list of everything you need and none of what you don’t

    If you’re traveling out the country, I suggest always having your own ‘medical kit’ for those unexpected [or expected] moments… This is what I personally travel with and find extremely essential for us.

    • A travel antibiotic kit or GSE (Grapefruit Seed Extract, a natural alternative)

    Whenever you intend on traveling, it’s wise to let your doctor know. Depending on where you are headed- they may recommend certain immunizations, vaccinations or antibiotic kits. Think: malaria, for example. You definitely want to be prepared.

    • Probiotics & Vitamins

    Ideally, you should be taking probiotics every day. But, if you aren’t already, then hear me now…go RUN to the store and buy some! (okay sorry for shouting) Seriously though, your gut is pretty much your second brain. Treat it like one. With tender love and care. Ditto for vitamins. I would start a regime asap, at least 2-4 weeks in advance of intended travels. Obviously, speak this over with your practitioner first.

    • Essential Oils [if you use them…for stomach/body aches, tiredness, jetlag etc]

    If you’re into essential oils, there are a bunch that’ll make travel illnesses go away more smoothly. (For example, peppermint for stomach aches or body aches, rosemary for concentration/alertness/focus, lavender for stress and the list goes on and on).

    • Prescription Medication [If there is something you take daily]
    • Extra supply of everything [as possible]

    If there are some things that you normally take or need on a DAILY basis, then go ahead and try really hard to have at least an extra 2 day supply of these things. (In case of a lost luggage etc) Things like prescription medication, contact lenses etc.

    • Some sort of electrolyte sachet [or electrolyte drink in cases of dehydration]

    Because you can never go through security with liquids (with the exception of baby formula/water/juice for baby) and no one wants to pack heavy liquids in their luggage, this is the next best option. And you’ll be grateful you have something like this whenever you or your family members become dehydrated for whatever reason.

    • Bacterial ointment [for cuts/abrasions/small infection]
    • Bandages
    • Gauze
    • Alcohol pads/disinfectant hand wipes/sanitizer
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    birds eye view of brown purse with tablet coming out scarf photos tube of cream

    What are you’re medicine travel essentials you can’t live without?

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  • What Hotels Won’t Tell You

    The Dirty Secrets Your Hotel Won’t Tell You

    What Hotels Won't Tell You 3

    So you’ve arrived at your destination, BUT, your apartment isn’t ready…Sweet mama, DO NOT fear! You can make this work. Ask me how I know…go on…

    You see, I’ve had the luxury and unique struggle of having to live out of several different hotels for weeks at a time….ranging from one week to 5 months at a time. With the family! In not so ‘busy’ cities. In other words, I spent A LOT of time INSIDE the hotels watching every person’s role and daily routines…So yes, trust me when I say, I understand what you’re going through and when I tell you- YOU CAN & WILL get through this!

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    Because I am a recovering clean-freak, its only fitting I begin with all the deets I’ve learned about hotel cleanliness…

    So here are The not so glorious sides of hotels….

    (What hotels won’t tell you)

    Here it is:

    Cups:

    If you’ve ever stayed in a hotel, you know very well, that most, if not all will be supplied with a coffee maker and cups and mugs of some sort. (Props to the paper cup hotels!) What you may not be aware of, however, is – how these items are cleaned. ALERT: They aren’t! Well, sort of. These items never leave the room and are almost always ‘washed’ right in the bathroom sink! With plain ol’ water and a towel. Just fantastic.[insert sarcasm]

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    Phones:

    Walk into a hotel room and 9/10 it WILL be clean. However, this does not mean that everything is not sanitized or cleaned correctly. Note- the phone and tv remote…two of the most touched items in a room by customers but never cleaned. Just think about that for a moment.

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    Water:

    This may or may not be an obvious one, but the water in the room really should NOT be consumed. It typically is not deemed as ‘safe’ drinking water.

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    Carpet:

    Another funny one here, if you have children, the rug is rarely cleaned correctly. Do NOT eat anything that falls on the carpet LOL no matter how clean it looks.

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    Menu options:

    If you ever find yourself, in the grave situation of living out of a hotel…do KNOW that the menu is very expendable. There is almost always more items in the kitchen than what is listed and many ways to cater to your family’s dietary needs.

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    Glass water bottles:

    I’ve noticed in European hotels, that they will always provide a large glass water bottle with meals etc. However, if you do not see them cork open that glass right before you…well, you can be pretty sure you are drinking tap water (honestly, even if you do…there is still a chance. So go with bottled) This isn’t always ideal depending on the location, or you’re own personal digestive system)

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    Ice:

    Same here, avoid it if possible as this is ALWAYS made with tap water.

    So, those are just a few of my quick tips if you’re finding yourself living out of a hotel! Which I hope you don’t unless of course, you want to 😉

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    What about you? Have you ever lived out of a hotel? Alone or with a family? Any tips or ideas?

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  • how to live out of a hotel (even if you have a family!)

    How to live out of a hotel (even if you have a family!)

    Are you wondering why anyone would ever want to live out of a hotel? I know it sounds crazy, strange, and perhaps unstable. But, as a traveling family, this is one of the joys I’ve had to learn.

    How I live out of a hotel with kids:

    First things first, introduce yourself to reception and most hotel staff if you can. People love to help those they like. So, stay friendly, flexible, and approachable. Share your situation, how long your family with live out of the hotel, and ask for recommendations! Most hotel staff are locals that are eager to help you explore their cities.

    If there is a courtyard available or garden, go ahead and bring a ball for a game of catch or football (soccer).

    Is there a gym available?

    Use it! Bring along a car seat (more compact) or a stroller for the little ones. Depending on ages. For me, this would mean putting my 7-month-old in the car seat and occupying my 3-year-old with games, a movie, or safely monitoring her “workouts.”

    I’m sure people would have many different opinions on this, but I sometimes allow my oldest to use the bikes available. I also, only with my help and presence, allow her to walk on the treadmill slowly.

    hotel gym

    If there is a pool/jacuzzi or sauna available

    Have fun with that! Although, be sure you understand hotel regulations on age limits, etc.

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    Use the hotel services to your advantage

    Is there a computer room/business center?

    Use this too! Go online and play online preschool games (many hotels offer free printing) and use these services to your advantage. Do they offer a shuttle bus to any nearby attractions or establishments? Take an entire day to browse the city you’re in.

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    Inquire about special rates/ discounts being offered to guests at nearby stores or restaurants

    Always grab those free brochures/magazines sitting in the hotel lobby…they ALWAYS have some sort of helpful information or attractive discounts!

    What are the pros of living out of a hotel?

    • Fresh, clean sheets every day
    • Never have to clean
    • Room service
    • Did I mention you will NEVER have to clean?! lol

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    What are the cons of living out of a hotel?

    • No privacy
    • Small area
    • Limited to hotel food/no home-cooked meals (unless you resort to nearby restaurants or have access to a kitchen, etc.)
    • On a final note, some hotels offer a childcare service, which can be a helpful resource to parents.
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    What do you think? Could you manage? Have you ever had to live out of a hotel?

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