Staying on a budget in Italy can be daunting, and it can feel impossible to take a budget trip to Italy. It’s an incredible country with so much to see and do, and all of it a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. But, it’s possible to adhere to your budget and see some of the most amazing things in the world. (Not to mention eating some of the best food in the world!) 1. Do Extensive Research Yes, it’s an old tip but it’s a good one. Make sure that your research includes as much as it can about where you’re going. Be prepared for the costs you’re likely to encounter. For instance,…
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Books to Read Before You Visit Florence, Italy
Florence is one of the most unique and incredible cities in the world – and it’s also one of the most storied. One of the best ways to get ready for your vacation and immerse yourself in it while you’re there is by reading books set in that location. I love the history books that make the ancient city come alive, or the retrospectives that will explore how the Medici ruled the city, or even just the history books. All parts of Florence are alive with art, beauty and history. A Room With a View As a tourist, what I love about this book is that it’s the story of…
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Books Set In the Amalfi Coast, Capri, & Naples
I love when I can read books set wherever I’m visiting, and there are many awesome books about the Amalfi Coast, Naples, and Capri! Books Set in the Amalfi Coast, Capri, and Sorrento The Night Villa This fascinating and suspenseful book is set both in ancient Pompeii and modern Capri. It’s the perfect read to feel deeply involved in the history of Pompeii, and to feel the romance of Capri. This is also an excellent beach or airplane book! Stones of the Madonna Set in Positano, this tells the story of two Americans who are – you guessed it – escaping from their past. Reasonably predictable, this book is no…
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What to Pack for Italy
Packing for an Italian vacation is not easy – given the variety of things to do in Italy and places to see, you need to be ready for just about anything. From the sun and fun of the Italian Riviera to the crowds of Venice and Rome, an Italian vacation is always a whirlwind. So, what are the best things to make sure you have in your bag? Essentials to Pack for Italy 1. Sunscreen You might think you’ll be heading to museums all day, but you’ll be in the sun more than you think. Especially in the summer, the sun can beat down throughout Italy. Sunscreen is also a…
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Wanderlust and Travel Gifts for Grads
If you have a grad in your life who loves to travel, it can be hard to find the right travel graduation presents. For grads who are graduating and heading off to travel, or those who simply dream of it, here are options for you to celebrate their wanderlust and graduation! Travel Graduation Gifts Under $50 An Ultralight Nalgene Bottle ($6) All of the durability of a normal Nalgene bottle packing a few fewer ounces. I loved packing cords in mine – I knew they wouldn’t get crushed in transit! Even when you’re not traveling, these are perfect for workouts or just around town. Colorful World + Europe Throw Pillow…
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India First Aid Kit: What You Should Pack
A good India first aid kit can be a trip-saver if something happens – even as small as a cut, scrape, or runny nose. Yes, you can buy just about anything in India that you can at home – but you might not want to right when you need it! My mom, who is a hospital administrator and an RN, helped me pack my round the world first aid kit. If you’re just heading to India, you won’t need quite as much!
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9 Things I Wish I Would Have Taken to India
India is commonly described as a whole different experience, even for seasoned travelers. That’s no lie, and there is a lot of stuff I wish I’d taken! 1. Cold Medicine Yes, India is well known for causing stomach issues. The pollution gave me a wicked bad sinus infection. Be prepared for both, and make sure you take something for cold relief! You can even find the whole first aid kit I took on my round-the-world trip.
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Romantic Places Around the World
Happy Valentine’s Day! Whether you have a Valentine this year or not, the world is full of romantic spots. Some areas are just incredible to appreciate the history of romance, and some are great with your Valentine in tow. If you’re looking for a romantic vacation beyond the beach and Venice, read on! The Taj Mahal, India This is a monument built to love. Thus, it’s the perfect place to reflect upon love! Not to mention, it’s an incredible testament to human accomplishment. The level of detail in the marble inlays is stunning!
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The Essential India Reading List
India is an incredible, awesome country – but it’s also incredibly different from any other. I love immersing myself in books to have a way to connect with and learn more about the countries I’m visiting or want to visit. India has some of the best books! My recommendations for books to read when visiting India: Fiction Books About India The God of Small Things This book is set in Kerala, so I highly recommend it if you’re headed to southern India. Even if you’re not, it’s still a book that deeply examines family life in India. I liked the interplay between the brothers, and the overall family dynamics. It’s…
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The Ultimate Egypt Reading List
Egypt. The word alone conjures up so many thoughts and ideas. From the Pyramids to Cleopatra, everyone knows some stories about ancient Egypt. The mythology of Pharaohs, the annual flood of the Nile, and so much more leave ancient Egypt as somewhat mysterious. If you’re going to Egypt, or just interested in learning more about the country, these books will let you imagine life as a Pharaoh – or a commoner!
