Explore Belém – Where History and Culture Collide

Begin your Lisbon adventure in the historic Belém district, a treasure trove of significant landmarks. Marvel at the imposing Belém Tower, a symbol of Portugal’s maritime heritage, and admire the intricate architecture of the Jerónimos Monastery, a masterpiece of Manueline style. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in a delectable pastel de nata (Portuguese custard tart) from Pastéis de Belém, a local institution since 1837.

Click here to find tours of Belém and Lisbon

Alfama – Get Lost in Lisbon’s Oldest Neighborhood

Next, venture into Alfama, one of the city’s oldest and most charming neighborhoods. Lose yourself in its labyrinthine streets, adorned with colorful houses and adorned with laundry hanging from the balconies. As you explore, you’ll stumble upon quaint squares and stunning viewpoints, like Miradouro de Santa Luzia, offering mesmerizing views of the city and the Tagus River.

Learn more about Alfama, and the city of Lisbon, on this guided walking tour.

Embrace the Culture of Chiado and Rossio

In Chiado, a fashionable district with an artistic soul, you’ll find a blend of historic elegance and modern vibrancy. Stroll down Rua Garrett, a bustling shopping street lined with boutiques, theaters, and iconic cafes like A Brasileira, where you can sip coffee surrounded by the city’s literary history. From Chiado, head to Rossio Square, the heart of Lisbon, and take a ride on Tram 28 for a delightful journey through the city’s iconic sights.

Discover the Allure of Bairro Alto

As the sun sets, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Bairro Alto. This bohemian district comes alive at night, offering a plethora of bars, restaurants, and live music venues. Sip on some Ginjinha, a traditional cherry liqueur, before embarking on a memorable night out dancing to the sounds of Fado, Portugal’s soulful and hauntingly beautiful music.

One of the best ways to explore any destination is through food. Click here to find some of the best food tours of Lisbon.

Day Trip to Sintra – A Fairytale Escape

Escape the city crowds for a day and take a short trip to Sintra, a fairytale town nestled amidst lush hills. Explore the enchanting Pena Palace, a colorful and whimsical castle perched high above the town, surrounded by mystical forests. Don’t forget to visit Quinta da Regaleira, a mysterious estate with stunning gardens, underground tunnels, and a magical initiation well.

Click here to find tours of Sintra from Lisbon.

Savor the Coastal Charm of Cascais

If you more than 2 days in Lisbon, venture to the coastal town of Cascais, just a short train ride from the city. Enjoy the picturesque beaches, the charming old town, and the lively marina. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade and stop at a local seafood restaurant to savor the catch of the day, fresh from the Atlantic Ocean.

With its beguiling mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, Lisbon promises an unforgettable experience even in just 2 days. From iconic landmarks to lively neighborhoods and neighboring fairytale towns, this captivating city will leave you with cherished memories and a desire to return for more. So, let Lisbon’s charm sweep you off your feet on an extraordinary adventure in Portugal’s vibrant capital.

Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out this guide to spending 2 days in Nashville, Tennessee!

As one the largest cities in the Southern US and the capital of Tennessee, Nashville makes for an excellent jump-off point for the region. Not only are there so many things to do in Nashville and the surrounding area, but with places like Memphis and Dollywood only a few hours away, you should have no problem filling your time! More than likely, you’ll find yourself returning for more.

What You Will Find in This Guide

This guide of the best things to do in Nashville is meant to help you plan your 2 Days in Nashville itinerary

Therefore, I’ve focused on the key stuff and included:

Additionally, I’ve added a few bonus ideas should you find yourself with more than 2 days in Nashville!

As always, if you have a question or would like some further insight on something I’ve listed (or haven’t!) in this post, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me here – I’ll do my best to get back quick!

Top Things To Do In Nashville

There is a pretty long list of ways to stay entertained while in Nashville. Below is a curated selection of the top things to do in Nashville to help you make the most of your limited time.

Taste Local Eats on a Food and History Tour

Perhaps the best way to kick off your visit to Nashville is with a food tour. While I wouldn’t suggest the same for most other cities, Nashville is a bit different and here’s why.

Music and entertainment are at the core of its culture and naturally, food and drink is built into that. Not only will a food tour take you to some of the best joints in town, but you will learn about Southern cuisine and the culture of the city. I find food tours not only teach you about food, but also touch on the history of the city around you. Your guide will no doubt be an expert on the coolest places for live music in Nashville, but they’ll also have loads of tips to make the best of your time in Music City.

With all that said, is yummy food not reason enough? 

Experience Country Music at the Grand Ole Opry & Ryman Auditorium

The biggest stage in country music, performing at the Grand Ole Opry is a musician’s dream. There is an array of shows you can attend where you’ll witness both famous stars and up-and-coming artists alike.

Seeing a Grand Ole Opry show is a quintessential part of the Nashville experience and a great way to spend one of your evenings on your 2 days in Nashville. While the majority of shows are held at the newer and much larger Grand Ole Opry House, some shows are held at the Ryman Auditorium, the original and much more intimate home of the Grand Ole Opry radio show.

Getting to the Grand Ole Opry House can be a bit of a pain as it is outside of the city centre. If you don’t have a car or don’t want the hassle (don’t drink and drive folks!), there are packages that include a show ticket and a shuttle to and from the venue. 

Finally, if there are no shows during your 2 days in Nashville or you’re not keen to see a show, there are still ways to visit the venues. You can book backstage tours of both the Ryman Auditorium and the Grand Ole Opry House. 

Discover Nashville’s Black History with United Street Tours 

Much of Nashville’s history, food and art is rooted in black culture, which unfortunately is often overlooked. I came across United Street Tours, who offer a variety of experiences covering civil rights, food, street art and music. Their mission is to educate, build bridges and leave you feeling inspired and empowered. Best of all: they are black and woman owned, as well as sustainable!  

Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame

If you’re a country music fan, the Country Music Hall of Fame is likely already on your list. That said, If you’re not a country music fan – it should still be on your list. Spanning multiple decades, this museum tells the story of country music, right back to its roots. They have some pretty magnificent exhibits on display and 2.5 million artifacts, but be warned: this place is mammoth! There’s a lot to see and do in Nashville, so be careful you don’t spend your whole day here. 

If you’re keen to visit RCA Studio B, you can purchase a combo ticket, which is explained in the next blurb.

See Where Legendary Tracks were Recorded at RCA Studio B

If Nashville is Music City, RCA Studio B is the epicentre. Over 35,000 songs, performed by legends such as Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton and Willie Nelson, have been recorded in this studio. Best of all, you can go right into the room where it all happened!

As mentioned above, you can buy a combined ticket that includes a tour of RCA Studio B and entry to the Country Music Hall of Fame. Additionally, you can add on the Hatch Show Shop for the complete experience. 

Take a Break at The Bluebird Cafe

A Nashville institution, The Bluebird Cafe is popular for a few reasons. First, the open mic nights it has hosted throughout the years have seen the discovery of some of the biggest names in music, including Garth Brooks and Taylor Swift. As well, the cafe was featured in the hit show ‘Nashville’, making it a must stop for fans of the show when visiting Music City. 

You can sit and enjoy live music with drinks and food at the cafe, but due to its reputation, getting inside for a show can be a bit tricky. They offer tickets via reservation, as well as on a first-come-first-served basis the day of the show. Your best bet is to hop over to The Bluebird Cafe website for the latest info on gaining entry.  

Wander the Vibrant Streets of Nashville

While there are many ways to fill your time indoors, Nashville also has a plethora of things to explore outdoors.

The Parthenon is a sight to behold and is a full scale replica of the original in Athens, Greece. Likewise, the State Capitol is also quite stunning. 

Around many a corner you’ll find breathtaking Nashville street art. Some of the most loved pieces being the ‘What Lifts You’ & ‘I Believe in Nashville’ murals. United Street Tours, mentioned further above, offer an Urban Street Art tour that is worth checking out. With them, you will see some more unique pieces that grace the city’s walls. 

Listen and Dance to Live Music on the Iconic Music Row

If there is something you can’t go home without enjoying in Nashville, it’s live music. While there are an endless number of spots around town where you can listen and dance to bands and solo artists alike, Music Row is the most notable.

The beauty of these places is you can hop from joint to joint, or stick around if you find something you really like. While you’re spoiled for choice, don’t be afraid to ask any of the locals you meet what their favourite spot is. You never know who you might happen upon, maybe even the next big star! 

If You Have 3 or 4 Days in Nashville

Now, clearly you can fit A LOT into 2 days in Nashville and leave feeling pretty pleased. That said, should you find you have 3 days in Nashville or better yet, 4 days in Nashville, here are some bonus ideas of how you can squeeze more out of your trip. 

Learn Plantation History on one of many Day Trips from Nashville

Along with its beautiful history, Tennessee and the South have some pretty dark history as well. Outside the city you will find a number of plantations including Belle Meade and Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage. You can also learn about the Civil War on a day trip to Lotz House & Carter House. 

See Locations of the ‘Nashville‘ TV Show

Personally, I’ve never seen the show ‘Nashville’, but if you’re a fan of the TV show, there is a pretty popular Nashville TV show filming locations tour that takes you around the city and gives you the inside scoop. Similarly, there’s also a Nashville celebrity homes tour, if that’s your thing. 

Take a Memphis Day Trip or Make It Your Next Stop

Last but not least: Memphis! Home to Graceland, Sun Studios, Beale Street and the National Civil Rights Museum, this city does not get the notoriety it deserves. Not only that, it holds the honour of being the birthplace of genres like rock-n-roll and the blues.

Personally, I would suggest making this a separate stop on your road trip as it is a more than 3 hour drive between the two cities, and there is a lot to do once there. Perhaps, you could fly into Nashville and out of Memphis or vice versa. Still, if you only have one day, go for it! And if you don’t want to do the driving, there are multiple Memphis day trips you can book, that give you time for a number of the key stops!

Where To Eat In Nashville

Nashville isn’t just famous for its music scene, it also has mouth watering cuisine to chew into! Delcious eats are around every corner but if you’re stuck for inspiration, here are a few of the best places to eat in Nashville, Tennessee

H&T’s Home Cooking:
If you’re looking for that legendary Southern food and hospitality, H&T’s Home Cooking serves it up on a plate! Mac & Cheese, Turnip Greens, Fried Chicken – my mouth is watering just thinking about it.

Nashville Crossroads:
Known for blending classic country and southern rock and roll, Nashville crossroads is right on Honky Tonk Row. Everyone is welcome here and there’s plenty of live music to go around.

Helen’s Hot Chicken:
Getting its start in a roadside trailer, Helen’s Hot Chicken is a must when visiting Nashville. Their tagline, “It’s Hella Hot and Hella Good”, says it all!

Arnold’s Country Kitchen:
A Nashville institution for over 30 years, Arnold’s Country Kitchen is a must stop. Personally, I’m craving the Pulled Pork Tacos, the Fried Catfish Sandwich and some Brisket Nachos. That’s not too much for one, right?!

Fat Bottom Brewing:
This stylish, gutsy brewery has been serving up an array of delicious beers in Nashville since 2012!

Coneheads:
Putting a spin on the iconic chicken and waffles, Coneheads makes dinner feel like dessert! They can be convientiently found in East Nashville.

Where To Stay In Nashville

If there is one thing Nashville is not short of, it’s hotels! While there are plenty of the big property chains in the city, I’ve aimed to highlight a few more of the independent hotels. Below is a slimmed down list of my favourite places to stay in Nashville, but you can see the rest of my wishlist of the best hotels in Nashville, here.

Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center:
If you’re looking for a legendary place to stay, it’s the Gaylord Opryland Resort. You’ll find clean and beautiful rooms, restaurants and bars with live entertainment, a spa and even a waterpark! My only tip is that you don’t spend all your time at the resort – Nashville has so much to offer. They also have a shuttle for getting to the city centre and certain attractions.

Graduate Nashville:
This hotel has a Dolly Parton room – need I say more? I adore the fun, vibrant aesthetic of the Graduate Nashville. In addition to being well located and having great rooms, it has a fabulous pool for cooling off on those hot Nashville evenings!

Sonder — State House:
What drew me to Sonder – State House is the chic motel vibe it has going on, perhaps due to Schitt’s Creek fame. The rooms seem a bit more affordable compared to many other places in Nashville and like most places on this list, it is very well located for exploring the city.

Margaritaville Hotel Nashville:
While the rooms are slightly more ‘simple’ then others on this list, sometimes simple is exactly what you need. Magaritaville Hotel Nashville seems very light and bright and there’s a massive pool to lounge by.

506 Lofts:
Honestly, I think I could live at 506 Lofts in Nashville. Right off a page of Architectural Digest, the spaces are gorgeously designed. You’ll be just a few minutes away from places like the Johnny Cash Museum and if you are a group of people, these lofts have the space in them for more than two people!

The Westin Nashville:
As one of the most luxury, high-end hotel brands out there, The Westin Nashville hardly needs an introduction. This hotel matches its reputation, is right in the centre of it all, and will no doubt serve up an extraordinary stay.

12 South Holiday Home:
A bit of a wildcard on this list is 12 South. While it is located just outside the city, it is an entire house! If you’re travelling as a group and need a bit more room, this could be exactly what you need. Also, if you’re spending more than 2 days in Nashville, this would be a great way to spread out with a bit more space.

Well, that’s a rap on my guide to spending 2 days in Nashville! As you can see, there are an unbelievable amount of things to do, places to visit and food to eat in Nashville and honestly, we’ve barely scratched the surface. While you can comfortably make this a Nashville weekend getaway, there’s plenty to fill 3 days in Nashville or even 5 days in Nashville. Plan your time wisely, arrive with an appetite and make sure you take in as much live music as possible. After-all, they call it Music City for a reason!

Founded in 71 AD, with an array of rulers through the centuries, there are so many things to do in York.  As one of the oldest cities in England, its varying architecture styles showcase its story, and the people are truly delightful. Due to its size, you can pretty much manage on foot, though there are some suggestions below for exploring in other ways.

What You Will Find in This One Day in York Guide

This 1 day in York guide is meant to help you plan your York sightseeing itinerary for one day. 
Therefore, I’ve focused on the key stuff and included:

As always, if you have a question or would like some further insight on something I’ve listed (or haven’t!) in this post, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me here – I’ll do my best to get back quick!

Places to Visit in York

Despite it being a pretty small city, York is packed with really fascinating things to see and explore. 

Traverse the York City Walls

With origins dating back almost 2000 years, the York City Walls are a quintessential part of experiencing York. Not only does the city have more miles of intact wall than any other city in England, but they allow you to experience York from a unique vantage point!

We hopped on and off the wall throughout our day, using the gatehouses or ‘bars’ as our entry and exit points. In some parts the wall is pretty high, so you can see things you wouldn’t notice from the ground.

You could stroll the walls in their entirety within an hour or so, though you aren’t required to walk the whole stretch. They are free to visit and going early or late in the day is wise to avoid crowds. 

There are York City Walls tours if you’re looking for a bit more in depth history, and I’ve outlined those a little further down.

Wander the The Shambles

When I imagined the streets of York, the Shambles are exactly how I pictured them. This narrow street with crooked buildings has stood the test of time, having originated in the Middle Ages. 

If you’re a Harry Potter fan, the Shambles was apparently one of the inspirations for the famed Diagon Alley. Much like the many London walking tours about the famous wizard, there are Harry Potter tours in York that visit the Shambles and other spots around the city if you’re looking to bring out your inner wizard and learn about York. You can check them out and book here.

You can tell a number of kitschy shops have popped up along this adorable street which (in my opinion) detract a little bit from that atmosphere but nevertheless, its medieval charm shines through.

Admire Clifford’s Tower 

One of the final remnants of York Castle is Clifford’s Tower, the keep of the castle. Perched upon a grassy mound, it has an intriguing look about it and there were plenty of people sitting around it enjoying the summer afternoon. While you can go inside, we opted not to and instead admired it from outside. 

Perch on the Shores of The River Ouse

Running right through the middle of York is the River Ouse, making it a centerpiece of this small but popular city. We saw a number of boats offering York sightseeing cruises, and if you really plan out your day you might be able to squeeze one of them in. You’ll find more info on those cruises in the things to do in York section of this post. 

We’ve often discussed where we would live in the UK, if not in London, and York peeked our interest when we saw tons of locals sitting along the water’s edge. They sat with drinks and takeaways, enjoying the summer evening watching the world float by. Make sure you find some time to take a break and join them. 

Marvel at the The York Minster

Perhaps the most famous landmark that people flock to York for, or the North East of England for that matter, is York Minster. One of the largest cathedrals in Northern Europe, The Minster is massive and truly a sight to be seen! It took a few centuries to complete and was finished in 1472.

The inside is said to be just as stunning as the outside, but as it was such a hot and sunny day out, we skipped the £11 entry ticket. Instead, we had breakfast outside a cute cafe right across the street from the cathedral. 

An alternative option is to hop on a walking tour of the city that includes a guided tour of York Minster (like this one) to get a deeper knowledge of its history.

Things To Do in York

For those that enjoy a guided tour or experience, there are a number of excellent ones you can book and join in York. While you won’t have time for everything if you only have 1 day in York or are on a York day trip, here’s the top picks!

One Day in York with the “York Pass”

It’s worth mentioning that like many cities around the globe, York offers a pass that includes a number of experiences and tickets. While it offers a long list of things to do in York, I find it is best to add up the cost of each activity and attraction you know will be a part of your visit. If the pass costs less than buying them individually, go for it. Otherwise, it’s better to buy them as you go. Get more info and see whats included in the York Pass here.

Ghost Tour

It is well known that York is quite haunted. Many believe it’s one of the most haunted cities in the world. There are a mix of affordable ghost tours in York to choose from and of course, its best to go at night for that extra spooky factor! Three options to consider are the Dark Ghost Walking Tour (90 mins, approx £11/person), Shadows of York Tour (90 mins, approx £8.5/person) & The Bloody Tour of York (90 mins, £12/person). All have 5 stars and depart from central York.

York Sightseeing Bus

I’ll admit, I’m not the first person to book a sightseeing bus or Hop On Hop Off bus tour as I prefer to walk around or take public transit. That said, I know a lot of people love them (hi mom!), especially if mobility is a hindrance. York isn’t very big, but these buses will take you past the key places, usually with commentary as you go.  If it’s a hop on hop off bus, you can do exactly that – hop off and explore by foot as you please.

York Museums

There are a surprising number of different museums in York. In truth, we didn’t go into any during our visit as it was a stupendously gorgeous summer day. However, if it’s rainy and cold (it is northern England after all!) and you need a break from the weather, the museums on offer are a great escape. 

Jorvik Viking Centre: Explore the site of the 10th century Viking-age city of Jorvik.

York Castle Museum: Taking you through the ages of York, in this old prison you can stroll down a Victorian street and take in a variety of exhibitions telling the story of York.

National Railway Museum: Not only is the train one of the best ways to get to York as the station is right in the city, but you can also visit the (free!) National Railway Museum!

York City Walls Walking Tour

As mentioned above, the city walls are one of the most historic parts of York and offer up great views of the city. While we explored on our own, I would have loved to have joined a York City Walls tour to learn more about their history and the role they played in the city throughout the centuries.

I’m a big fan of tours by WithLocals, who offer customizable private tours including some of York. You could also check out York Walls Tours which runs a number of different tours around York including a city walls tour.

With that said, I’d imagine most walking tours of the city would incorporate a portion or two of the city walls. This could be a good way to hit a few birds with one stone.

York Sightseeing Cruise

With the River Ouse running right through the city, a popular activity is to take in York from the water. If that’s your thing, there are a number of companies offering boat cruises departing right from the centre of town. 

If time or budget doesn’t allow, be sure to take my earlier tip and admire the river from the shore – especially with a beverage in hand! 

Where to Eat in York

Brew & Brownie

We LOVE breakfast, and we found quite the spot to indulge in a sweet and delicious start to the day. Brew & Brownie, right in the centre of the city, had quite the spread of breakfast treats. We had some sweet pastries and coffee, but also ordered some sandwiches to take away for lunch. Later, we ate them along the canal, as suggested above!

They have two locations, Brew & Brownie Cafe & Brew and Brownie Bakeshop, a few doors down from one another

Betty’s

This tea room is a Yorkshire institution, dating back to 1919. Tell anyone you’re headed to York (or nearby Harrogate) and they’ll tell you to go to Betty’s for tea. Key tip: book in advance. We didn’t, and unfortunately we didn’t get to dine at Betty’s. Gutted. 

Bennett’s Cafe and Bistro

Right in front of York Minster, Bennett’s Cafe and Bistro is where we had breakfast on our main day. Sitting outside, you get an amazing view of the facade. We had the full English, and it was delicious! 

The Market Cat

We stopped for a late night drink in The Market Cat. While it may not be an old time classic pub, though there are plenty of those around, I loved their stellar selection of beers on tap. Certainly worth stopping in for a pint or two.

Where to Stay in York

Whether you only have one day in York or are staying for a few days, picking a place to stay in the city is pretty easy. Staying in the centre of the city would mean that the key stuff will be within a short walking distance. I generally try to spotlight independent properties in an effort to keep tourism money local, but there are the bigger chains if that’s your preferred vibe. 

Here are a few options we came across in our research, but really, you can’t go wrong. 

The Ice Cream Factory: We stayed in this amazing loft-style Airbnb in York. Once an ice cream factory, hence the name, we had our very large room with a shared bathroom and kitchen. It was a short walk to everywhere we needed to go.

Judges Court: A Georgian Grade II listed building, Judges Court has stunning rooms, each unique with bespoke furniture. It’s a 5 minute walk from sites like York Minster and 10 minutes from the train station.

Jorvik House: Tapping into the Nordic days of York when it was ruled by the Vikings, Jorvik House is an 18th century property with so much charm. I’m a sucker for thoughtful design that goes a step beyond functional – so Jorvik House caught my eye! Once again, very well located!

Vas’ York House: Something I’ve loved about travelling through the UK is the prevalence of bed and breakfasts and guesthouses. Val’s York House is a well reviewed guesthouse that has all you’d need, with cute rooms and is centrally located.

Safestay York: As far as hostels go, this Georgian property has so much character. Some of the rooms have beautiful old beams and stone floors. There are an array of room sets ups, including both mixed and female only dorms, as well as private rooms.

For the rest of my accommodation Wishlist and more places to stay in York, click here.

And there you have it, my tips on how to have the best one day in York. This city is so full of charm that it would be hard not to fall in love with it. Just don’t make the same mistake as me and wait 10 years to visit.

If you have other tips or questions, leave them in the comments below.

Looking for more tips on other destinations? Check out my post on how to spend 2 days in Lisbon!

Below is a collection of some of the best tours and experiences you can book and join to discover what makes London one of the most wonderful cities in the world.

NOTE: As London, like most of the world, continues to go in and out of lockdown due to Covid-19, some tours may have limited availability but should be back when the pandemic eases and the world is able to open back up again.

THE EAST LONDON FOOD TOUR

Easily my favourite tour I have done in the city, this experience tells the story of east London through food. Stops include Brick Lane and the iconic Spitalfields Market, with delicious eats like bread pudding, curries and bagels. We saw colourful street art, learnt about the people who have called East London home throughout the years and by the end, we were absolutely stuffed!

Watch this video of me trying out the East End Food tour.

If you’re travelling to other parts of the UK, consider spending one day in York, as it is also home to locations that provided inspiration for places in Harry Potter.

THE HARRY POTTER WALKING TOUR

Every Harry Potter fan knows that London is dripping with sights and locations that featured in or inspired the stories of ‘the boy who lived’. This immersive walking tour brings the books and films to life as you hop around the city visiting spots, while also learning bits of London’s history. As reviews will assure you, this tour is for all ages and regardless of whether you’ve read the books or seen the films – but you really should…they have such a following for a reason)!

A bonus of this tour is the price. London tours can often be pricey, but this tour for muggles is pretty affordable. Oh, and don’t hesitate to dress up or bring your wand – it’s encouraged!

THE CLASSIC CITY TOUR

While there are plenty of niche walking tours of London to fit any interest, sometimes the classic tour that takes you to the key sights and attractions is the way to go. In a city that is steeped in more history than one could ever absorb, you can’t go wrong with an expert guide and some of the most famous buildings in the world. 

While you could do a full-day tour, this can feel a bit too long with too much info to absorb. I’d suggest something 2 to 3 hours long as a jump off point. 

This tour will take you to St. Paul’s Cathedral, Covent Garden, Tower of London and many spots along the way.

THE SOHO COCKTAIL TOUR

Packed full of bars, restaurants and shops, Soho is a favourite spot for both locals and visitors keen for a saucy night on the town. As the epicentre of London’s LGBT+ scene and a long history of sex, drugs and rock & roll, Soho is a must. Led by the fabulous Geri Halliwell impersonator JustMay, this London walking tour also includes some tasty cocktails!

THE JACK THE RIPPER TOUR

One of the most famous killers in history, Jack The Ripper terrorized the streets of London for years. Still, the identity of this criminal has never been proved despite many theories of who committed the heinous crimes in the city’s east end. 

Like many other tours, a Jack the Ripper tour also folds in bits of history about the streets and neighbourhoods they take you to. There are quite a few Jack The Ripper tours, so I’ve provided a few to make sure you can find one that works for your dates.

THE HISTORIC PUB TOUR

How could I compile a collection of the best London walking tours without including a pub tour!? With a pub on almost every corner, partaking in the joy of drinking is an intricate part of London’s culture and there are some pretty legendary pubs too! While drinks are at your own expense, this allows you to pick the drink of your choice and keep the price of the tour itself low.

THE WRAP UP

No matter which London walking tour you pick, there is a wealth of culture, history and beauty to take in among the streets of this glorious city. As most of the above are 2 to 3 hours long but quite different from one another, consider trying a couple to get different perspectives of what makes London tick.

Have questions? Feel free to pop them in the comments below or pop me an email and I’ll do my best to assist.

And after the fact, I’d love to hear how you made out and what your favourite parts of your visit to London were!

Happy travels!

Less then an hour after arriving, we set off on foot to find something to eat. It took just a few minutes a local was waving us over to join him and his friends for food and drinks. A perfect start to our two weeks in Myanmar.

The next day many locals were smiling and waving, pleased to see two foreigners riding around on bicycles wearing longyis, the traditional dress.

Whether Mandalay is your starting point or grand finale in this country, hopefully this collection of spots and suggestions we came across will help you make the most of your time in the city.

GETTING IN & OUT

We flew into Mandalay International Airport from Bangkok. Be sure to have sorted your visa well in advance. We then took a private taxi to our hotel in central Mandalay. The cost was 15000 KS or $12 USD. There is also a shuttle van that leaves every 2 hours for 4000 KS or $3 USD per person.

From Mandalay we went to Bagan and booked a transfer through our hotel. We were picked up in a truck and transferred by a basic bus.

GETTING AROUND

If you stay near the royal palace, hire a bicycle to explore the city. With very little auto traffic, it was relaxing to zip around as you please. At each temple there is usually someone who will keep an eye on your bike for a small fee.

If you are exploring further than a bicycle will take you, to U Bein Bridge for example or another region of the city, you can hire a car pretty easily. We went through our hotel as the price was pretty close to the drivers on the street.

WHERE TO EAT IN MANDALAY

AYE MYIT TAR (No 530 81st Street Mandalay, Myanmar)

We came across this restaurant while on our way to see the Moustache Brothers show nearby. Serving up inexpensive, traditional Burmese food, the place was busy with locals and the service was super quick.

WHERE TO STAY IN MANDALAY, MYANMAR

As the city is quite big, there are also many places to stay though they can be hit and miss. We did a lot of research and wanted to be somewhere relatively close to Mandalay Hill and the most popular temples. Stick close to the royal palace, ideally the east side, which will give access to street food and other spots for exploring.

HOTEL BY THE RED CANAL (No.417, corner of 63rd & 22nd Road, Mandalay, Aung Myae Tha Zan Township)

Coming straight from the airport, we were welcome with cold towels to cool us off and our timing couldn’t have been better – it was Happy Hour! Before even checking into our room, we sat by the pool sipping a refreshing complimentary cocktail with the moon sitting above us in a perfectly clear sky. Each of the four styles of rooms are named after a different ethnic group in Myanmar. We stayed in a Kachin room, which had a private outdoor shower. After a day of biking around in the often sweltering heat, that shower was a gift from the gods. Speaking of bicycles, the hotel offers free wheels for you to zip around mandalay, removing the hassle of picking them up or dropping them off somewhere. Finally, the hotel itself is absolutely beautiful, featuring a traditional design done in wood and gardens that help you relax in peace. c

Check Availability and Prices on:
Booking.com or Agoda.com

THINGS TO DO IN MANDALAY

MANDALAY HILL

The very first thing we explored in Mandalay, and Myanmar for that matter, was Mandalay Hill. While I can’t say it is the most beautiful place in the city, it’s certainly the most active. Starting early in the morning to beat the midday heat, we began our climb. Stair after stair, we slowly ascended and along the way encountered an array of buddhas in all shapes, sizes and colours. We also crossed paths with many locals who were keen to take a photo with us, likely perplexed as to why we were walking to the top. We later discovered that there was an escalator/truck combination we could have taken. The journey is worth it but quite the effort and not recommended for those whose struggle with stairs.

U BEIN BRIDGE

Perhaps the most beautiful sight near Mandalay, it would be a shame to come to Myanmar and not visit U Bein Bridge. Still used today as a footbridge for locals crossing Tuangthaman Lake, it is believed to be the longest and oldest teak bridge in the world. The most common time to visit is at sunset when the bridge and it’s crossers becomes silhouetted against a fiery sky. At certain times of the year you can watch the sun set right behind the bridge. Though a bit touristy, hiring a boat to take you out on the water is worth it. Costing about $10-12, our driver let us walk along the bridge and picked us up on the other side. With our cameras (and beers) in hand, we floated onto the water to watch one of Mother Nature’s greatest shows. Tip: your guide will push to keep the price up with their reason being they ‘can only do this boat trip once a day.’ Funnily enough, they will also try to hurry you back to shore before the sun has completely set. Remind them that ‘this only happens once a day’ and there’s no reason to head back early. Some of our best views were at the very end, when most boats had already returned to shore.

Simplify your journey with a private guide to get you to and from U Bein Bridge.
Click here to book on Viator

SANDAMUNI TEMPLE

There are so many temples you can wander through in Mandalay. Often, in the search to find a specific one, you’ll get lost and end up exploring a temple you didn’t intend to. That was the case with Sandamuni Temple. The massive golden pagoda in the centre is stunning. If you love symmetry like me, you’ll love this temple because it’s everywhere! We also took one of my favourite photos on our trip in Myanmar here. Again, symmetry for the win.

KUTHODAW PAGODA

We had marked this temple as a must as it apparently home to the largest book in the world. After about 20 minutes of searching inside for this book, a lady offered to help us. She took us to one of the many little covered slabs with writing on them. It was there that she did her pitch to get us to buy some postcards. We caved, because we actually liked the cards. Before leaving she put traditional gold paint on our faces. Cheeky, but very common. Turns out we couldn’t find the book inside the temple because the temple itself is ‘the book’. Each of the slabs with writing is a page. Also cheeky!

THE MOUSTACHE BROTHERS SHOW

Suggested by Becki of Borders of Adventure, I was told The Moustache Brothers show in Mandalay was one of the most random things I would ever see and a must before leaving the city. Random is certainly one way to describe it. Hilarious, informative, historical and worth it would also be suitable descriptors. Lasting about an hour, the show is a mix of comedy, traditional dance and discussion and criticism of the Burmese Military regime. Jokes aside, the Moustache Brothers have played an important role in the dialogue of Myanmar’s dark history through the show, even being jailed for sharing their message. Support their cause, hear their story and have a few laughs. You can’t go wrong.
More Info

WHAT DID I MISS?

Hopefully this guide gets your visit to Mandalay, Myanmar off on the right foot!
If you tried or experienced something particularly amazing that I should include, share it in the comments below or send me an email here.

When I spent time in this city on my first trip around the world, I managed to cover a lot of ground, including the temples and markets and a touch of the nightlife. Coming back a few years later though I learned I had only scratched the surface  of what there is to do in Bangkok, doing most of my previous activities and a bunch more.

I’ve been asked a few times about what I would recommend most for someone visiting Bangkok so figured it was time to put together a post on it.

May I present:

My Favourite Things To Do in Bangkok

Explore the Grand Palace

I’m not sure I have ever seen so much gold and sparkle in one place. On a sunny day, sunglasses are a must because there is so much to reflect the light its almost impossible to keep your eyes open. The temples and stupas are mesmerizing and I am so fascinated by the guards who stand on duty.

Eat Street Food

Many believe Bangkok has the best street food in the world. It’s the truth! From curries, to pad thai, to meat on a stick, to juices, to mango sticky rice. You name it, someone makes it. For next to nothing you can order some fresh cooked food, sit down on a plastic stool and eat to your hearts content. Then, walk a few steps down and eat from the next stall that catches your eye.

Ride in a Tuk Tuk

One of the main forms of transportation in the city and South East Asia for that matter, Tuk Tuk’s are a blast! They are loud, colourful and zip in and out of traffic in a way a taxi could only dream of. Flag one down, negotiate the price and then hold on tight!

Live like a King/Queen

When it comes to accommodation, Bangkok covers all ends of the spectrum. You can certainly spend next to nothing for your digs, but keep in mind that your money will go far. This city is a perfect place to treat yourself and splurge on luxury. You’ll appreciate it after a full day navigating the often manic city streets and sights. That said, while there are many hotels that ‘claim’ to be 5 star, there are only a select few that truly are. After a lot of research, I found what I think is the best hotel in Bangkok and stayed in a suite at the 137 Pillars Suites and Residences Bangkok. Not only did I feel like royalty but the infinity pool alone will blow your mind.

Get a Massage

Who doesn’t love a massage? Okay, who doesn’t love a CHEAP massage. Be it foot, back, head, Thai, Swedish…you get the idea…massages in Thailand cost next to nothing so you’ll easily be coming back every day, and for hours at a time!

Eat at Cabbages and Condoms

Introduced to me on my first visit to Bangkok a number of years a go, Cabbages and Condoms is a restaurant with a cause. In an effort to promote family planning and encourage acceptance of the concept in a culture that traditionally does not, a portion of proceeds go towards this initiative. Oh, and where did the name come from? The owner wanted condoms to be as accessible as cabbages. Cheeky!

Stroll Through a Market

With so many public markets in Bangkok, it is less about finding a market and more about choosing which type of market you want explore. In truth, you don’t need to actually buy anything. Just walking around and soaking in the atmosphere makes for a great adventure! Most recently, the Ratchada Train Market has become very popular with everything from clothing to food.

See The Reclining Buddha (Wat Po)

Hands down my FAVOURITE thing in Bangkok and one of my top sites in the world is The Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho. At 46 metres long, 15 metres high and made of gold, this buddha is absolutely magical. Standing next to it you feel so small and can only look up and marvel at it’s beauty. As I mentioned, I’ve been to Bangkok five times and I visited the Reclining Buddha each and every time.

And there you have it, some of the most epic things to do in Bangkok. While this list could be ten times as long, hopefully it gives you a solid starting point to making the most out of your time in this one of a kind city.

Thailand is the land of smiles, so as long as your smiling with them, you can’t go wrong.

What are your favourite things to see and do in Bangkok? What did I miss? Leave it in the comments below.

Remember to share this post with someone who may be travelling to Asia!

Fortunately however, the Island of Penang in northwest Malaysia is home to some of the best food in Southeast Asia, and in my opinion the world.

Now that I’ve visited, I’m surprised I don’t hear more about Penang (or Malaysia for that matter.) The food is delicious, the people are friendly and multicultural, it’s inexpensive, the streets are clean, building are colourful, and a whole lot more. I ended up there somewhat by chance and I’m already plotting my return!

Having spent a busy week exploring Georgetown, believe me there is so much to discover, taste and enjoy! To help make the most of your time there, I’ve put together a mini Penang guide with places to stay and eat and things to see and do! I either discovered them through friends, suggestions by locals or from simply wandering the streets.

As always, if you have any additional questions for your visit to Penang or Malaysia, do not hesitate to leave a comment below or send me an email here.

WHERE TO EAT IN PENANG

Finding really good eats in place that is unfamiliar to you can be a hit and miss. As a nomad, I rely so heavily on other’s recommendation and regularly crave my tested and trusted spots back home. In Penang however, the quality bar is set so high that getting a ‘bad dish’ is pretty rare. If you see it, eat it!
Still, here are some of the best spots that I chowed down in Georgetown!

HAMEEDIYAH (164a Campbell Street)
This Indian muslim restaurant was my favourite in the city, suggested by my friends Stefan and Sebastian of The Nomadic Boys. I ate here 3 times, each time getting the murtaback (Indian pizza). With Indian/Turkish heritage, they’ve been cooking up a storm in this spot for over 100 years and are super friendly. Show them my photo above and tell them Brock sent you, they’ll treat you extra well! The tandoori chicken and lassis are also delish!

TEK SEN RESTAURANT (18, Lebuh Carnarvon, George Town)
Recommended by my friend Cailin of Travel Yourself, as well as a local I met while eating at Hameediyah, Tek Sen is little more expensive then the other spots on this list but not pricey by any means. Every dish we had was incredible! Ask for the candied roast pork, steamed pork in salted fish and sayur rumi in sambal – which is a somewhat bitter vegetable and they’ll be surprised a visitor knows to order it! It gets busy so check opening times and go early.

MING XIANG TAI CAKE AND PASTRY (133, Jalan Burma, George Town,)
Right around the corner from the Chendul above, this little bakery serves up scrumptious sweets and tea. I tried the Crispy Kaya Puff and the Trishaw Egg Tart – all for $1 USD. Yum to the power of 20!

FAMOUS UNCLE JOE’S PUTU MAYAM (Pulau Tikus Hawker Center)
Oh Uncle Joe, what a sweetheart! I visited Uncle Joe’s hawker stall during both my food tour and cooking class (more on those below), and savoured his Indian pancake! Made with a steamed paste, sugar, coconut and love! If you ask nicely, he’ll let you try to make the pancakes. There’s no way you can be worse than I was. He loves a cheeky photo too!

PENANG ROAD FAMOUS TEOCHEW CHENDUL ( Hawker Stall on Keng Kwee Street)
Made of coconut milk, red kidney beans, ice and maybe some noodles too, this refreshing snack is perfect for beating the heat. You’ll notice a line and a beautiful mural above the stand.

KRSNA RESTAURANT (276, Market Street, George Town, 10200)
My new friend Hannes from Germany brought me here for a vegetarian dinner and he won the day! I spent 2 months travelling India, mostly in the south, and this took me right back! Ask for the veg southern meal and add some iddly to that as well. You’ll get some naan, dosa and sauces. I suggest eating with your hands (mainly right hand). There’s a little sink where you can (and should) wash your hands before and after. A meal and drink was under 10RM.

BEST CAFES IN PENANG

COFFEE LANE
The first cafe I tried in Penang and the one I visited the most. Great coffee, solid wifi, good music, relaxing atmosphere and best of all: the green Pandan Chiffon Cake is to die for. Go early before it runs out!

LITTLE NAP COFFEE BAR
I discovered this cafe when staying at the Time Capsule Hotel as it is in the lobby. The wifi is the fastest I found in Penang, the coffee and beer is affordable and the western breakfast was a nice taste of home. While it’s great to cool off from the heat, the air conditioning was sometimes a bit too aggressive. Ask them nicely to turn it down and they will, as usually everyone else is thinking the same thing.

SAFE ROOM
This place is much more than your average cafe. They have wifi and coffee but they also make a lot of treats with liquid nitrogen. Every so often you’ll see the waiter bringing a guest some drink or snack that’s bubbling over with fog. You have to try the Dragon’s Breath Popcorn! When you eat the caramel flavoured popcorn, ‘smoke’ blows out of your nose and mouth! If the owner is there, tell him Brock sent you!

MUGSHOT CAFE
Right in the centre of busy Chulia street, Mugshot cafe is very popular and for good reason. The design is beautiful, there’s plenty of space, yummy yogurts and bagels, as well as coffee of course! The wifi can be hit and miss so you may want to check it before you purchase something if surfing the net is your reason for visiting.

WHERE TO STAY IN GEORGETOWN, PENANG

Ideally, you’re going want to stay in the heritage quarter of Georgetown, Penang, shaded in yellow on Google Maps. This will give you easy access to explore Georgetown’s streets by foot or bicycle.

SPICES HOMES (Lebuh Clarke, George Town, 10050)
These heritage homes are quintessentially Penang, some of the oldest on the island and made of wood. I had a two floor house to myself and felt as though I had stepped back in time. The bed was comfy, the AC and fan kept me cool through the warm nights and hot afternoons, and there is a breakfast hawker right across the street serving good eats and coffee! 5 Brock Smiles!
(More Info & Book Here)

TIME CAPSULE HOTEL (418&420, Lebuh Chulia, George Town, 10200)
This Japanese style take on compact rooms was more than just a place to stay, it was an experience. Each guest has their own pod complete with TV, mirror, safe, single or double bed, AC, wifi, lights, locker and charing ports for international plugs or USBs. At night I could crawl in, close the hatch door and fall asleep in the cool, quiet. The hotel has free bikes to borrow, a cafe downstairs and communal showers. If you’re claustrophobic it may not be the best fit, but if not, hop right in!
Check Prices & Availability

THINGS TO DO IN PENANG

COOKING CLASS
Another recommendation from the Nomadic Boys, Pearly Kee’s Penang Home Cooking class was yummy and fun! Pearly, known around the globe for her Nonya style cooking first took us to a market to teach us about the ingredients we’d be working with, then brought us to her home to cook up a storm! Naturally it’s fun to learn about a cuisine and the history attached to it, but it is Pearly’s cheeky and quick witted humour that makes this the best cooking class I have taken!
(More Info & Book Here)

FOOD TOUR
Penang’s food is not only some of the best in the world, but it also has a plethora of of influences due the islands diverse blend of cultures. I wanted to take a food tour to learn some more about what I was eating and what brought it to Penang. Myself along with Alessia and Vincent of Lessilu spent a morning eating and learning from the lovely Joy of Delish Asia. By the end I’m not sure why which was more full – our brains or our stomachs!
(More Info & Book Here)

VISIT THE TEMPLES

There are many temples in Georgetown and on the island of Penang. Some are Chinese, some hindu, others muslim. Many of them welcome visitors, just be sure to respect the customs and guidelines when inside.

CHEW JEDDY

Built out over the water to avoid paying city tax many years ago, the UNESCO Heritage site Chew Jeddy is worth a visit, even if quick. You can walk along the narrow walk ways out to the end of the jeddy to get a beautiful view of the water, boats and the mainland on the other site. For an extra treat, come at sunset when the sky fills with colour!

DISCOVER THE GEORGETOWN STREET ART

Scattered through Georgetown are some amazing street art. Some have historical context, others are just bright and colourful. There are numerous guides to where they are all and as they are always changing, its best to ask for the most recent version when you arrive. You will also spot them by watching for a group of people taking photos at the same spot! My personal favourites would be the bakery kids reaching for the goodies on the back of the bike and the Indian man guiding his boat.

WHAT DID I MISS?

Hopefully this guide gets your visit to Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia off on the right food and gives you a taste of this amazing island!
There is obviously so much more to keep a visitor busy for weeks on end so, if you tried or experienced something particularly amazing that I should include, share it in the comments below or send me an email here.

If you follow my blog and social media channels, you’ll know that I’m a big fan of Airbnb. As a full time nomad without my own place, I find myself using them – alot! Different to hotels, these places tend to feel more like a home as I can do things like cook my own meals. Whether you’ve never tried it before or have stayed in a ton of Airbnbs like myself, there are a number of discounts out there that can help keep your costs down. Below, I’ve put together some of the best Airbnb coupons worth checking out to save money on your next stay.

In a hurry and have never used Airbnb before? You can get $40 towards your first stay by clicking here. Simple. HURRAY!

*Note: Airbnb often adjusts the amount they offer. Don’t worry if it doesn’t say $40 exactly, you’ve clicked the correct link.*

~THE FIRST TIMER~

Now, where were we? Even with the popularity of sites like Airbnb and the concept of the sharing economy, I am often surprised by how many people are weary of trying it. The biggest concerns tend to be safety, cleanliness or weird hosts. My mother and aunt were slightly nervous on our road-trip to reconnect but fell in love with the concept.

Personally, I have always felt safe. Hosts want a positive review, so they keep their homes clean. As for weird hosts, I’ve met a couple but who hasn’t? If you’re super worried about that, stick to ‘Entire Homes’.

From my own perspective, staying with a local offers some really unique benefits. The experience tends to be much more personal as you are often their only guest and they can give you all the attention you need or leave you alone completely. Hosts have offered me fantastic suggestions of places to eat, drink, explore and even avoid. They’ve picked me up at the airport, asked me to join them for a meal and had a welcome basket of local treats for me to try.

A lot of places are the host’s own home so it has all the supplies you need and has more character than a hotel. How wonderful to arrive in a new town or city where everything is unfamiliar, and to be welcomed by a place that feels like your home.

Like with most things, we just need to give something a chance. To encourage new users to test their site, they offer an Airbnb first time coupon code of $40. This is one the best Airbnb coupons that work and to get it, sign up through my link here.

Set up your account and once you make your first booking of $100 or more, the coupon will be deducted.

If you don’t enjoy it, don’t do it again – but chances are…you’ll be back!

(The above photo is what it should like when you click through the sign up link. If you click this actual photo, it just brings you back to this post.)

~THE LEADER OF THE PACK~

If you’ve already used Airbnb before, unfortunately the Airbnb first time coupon mentioned above won’t work for you. Don’t be heartbroken though, there’s still a way for you to get some credit for future uses. Every user has a unique invite code that they can share with their friends who are new to Airbnb. If you get your friends to sign up through your link and they stay somewhere, you will get some credit for a future stay! Ace!

~THE HOST~

You may have heard about Airbnb for a few different reasons. In the news, a friend or family member has used it to book accommodation OR they have become a host to make some money off their home. Similar to inviting a friend to use Airbnb to stay somewhere, if you invite someone to sign up as a host you’ll get an even bigger referral amount. This might just be the best coupon code for Airbnb. That’s likely because getting hosts is much harder than getting new guests so they offer a bigger incentive.

USING THE AIRBNB PROMO CODE

A common question is how and where to use the Airbnb first time coupon code. Once you sign up, you’re good to go. As long as your first booking is more than $100, it will automatically be deducted from your final amount.

DO THEY EXPIRE?

Yes! You have one year to use your free Airbnb credit at which point it is no longer active. So, if you get an Airbnb coupon code 2017, it’s likely good until 2018. If you get an Airbnb discount code 2018, it’s likely good until 2019. You get the drift.

WHY SHOULD I TRY AIRBNB?!

Good question. I mention above that when using Airbnb and sites like it, you get a personal experience, can meet fantastic hosts who are locals and often save money, especially when booking a large group. My biggest reason however might just be that it keeps money in the community. Sure, the website takes a small cut but when you stay at a massive hotel chain, the majority of your booking goes to a head office somewhere, with less staying where the actual accommodation is. Don’t get me wrong, hotels serve an important purpose so I’m not knocking them, but B&Bs are also key to the travel scene.

THE BEST AIRBNB COUPONS: ROUND-UP

The above has laid it out pretty simply. If you are looking for a coupon Airbnb offers, you can do so as a new guest by signing up here, you can invite a friend to test it out as a guest or have them try being a host to make some money off their place.

I’ve stayed in so many Airbnbs around the world and am writing this from one of my favourites too. My hosts have been lovely, beyond welcoming and have enriched my experienced in ways I could have only dreamed of. It’s my top suggestion of ways to stay in my post about cheap spring break destinations if you want to check that out.

Give it a try, and I’d love to hear how it goes! As always, leave any questions in the comments below or shoot me an email here.

Below are some spring break trip ideas that are safe and will be a mix of adventure and relaxation without breaking the bank. You’ll also come home with stories and experiences that other spring breakers won’t have. Hopefully, your trip will inspire them to do something different for spring break 2018!

My Top Picks for Cheap Spring Break Destinations

Mexico City, Mexico

There is a reason that the New York Times voted Mexico City the number one place to visit in 2016. The food is out of this world, it’s very inexpensive, there are cute neighbourhoods, fun nightlife, tons of history and it is much safer than it used to be. Honestly, I could live in Mexico City. If you want to add on another city or two, head to Guanajuato in the north or Oaxaca further south.

Guatemala

Probably the most adventurous of all the cheap spring break destinations on this list, Guatemala is packed full of jungles, temples, lakes and excitement. You could find an affordable flight into Guatemala City and head to Antigua to hike a volcano and drink some delicious coffee. Next, drive a few hours to relax in one of the tiny towns on the shores of Lake Atitlan. If you are up for going a little further, head to Semuc Champey. There you can explore caves, float down the river in a tube and relax in the natural pools. If time allows, make your way to Flores to visit Tikal – one of the most extraordinary of Mayan complexes remaining. Guatemala does not disappoint.

El Tunco, El Salvador

The most inexpensive of places on this list would have to be El Tunco, El Salvador. This is the spot to chill out, relax and try your hand at surfing!  You can eat delicious pupusas and ice cream all day for only a few dollars making it the ultimate cheap spring break destination. El Tunco consists essentially of one main street that leads to the beach. My sister and I stayed at a hostel right in the centre that had a sunny pool. Plenty of travellers were always passing through to share stories and talk until the early morning hours.

There are a number of little shops, restaurants and bars to keep you busy and the sunsets, oh the sunsets! The beach fills up with people every night to watch this orange and red show in the sky. You could fly in to San Salvador then take a bus or taxi to El Tunco. Alternatively, fly into Guatemala City, visit Antigua and or Lake Atitlan, then make your way down to El Tunco for a few days to get some vitamin D. When it comes to things to do on spring break, this option has a bit of everything.

Iceland

In the last couple years, Iceland has become a top destination for travellers. Drawn by breathtaking landscapes and waterfalls, pristine water and the Northern Lights, there’s a reason it is loved. I was a little hesitant to put this one on the list, as Iceland has a reputation (rightfully so) of being very expensive. I added it anyways as I think you can keep costs down with a few little tricks. Ready?

There are low cost flight if you pack light. Avoid the bars as drinks are outrageously expensive but if you must, stick to happy hour which is usually 5-7. If you’re with a group, look into renting a car to drive around and see some of the main sights.Try to book a hostel, guesthouse or Airbnb so you can buy some groceries at ‘Bonus’ and make your own meals. Whether you’re new to Airbnb or have used them before, check out my post about the best Airbnb coupons which could help save some money in a place like Iceland. Although Iceland is more expensive than other spring break ideas on this list, it doesn’t have to break the bank either. It’s also so worth it.

Panama

This suggestion of where to go for spring break is a bit of a wild card. When I first visited Panama I was merely passing through, but quickly discovered there is quite a lot to do. You can visit the Panama Canal to watch ships transfer between the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. You can walk around the old quarter to admire the historic architecture and street art. The boardwalk is full of people exercising, walking and enjoying the sunset views out over the water. And of course, there’s the bustling fish market which is worth checking out even if you don’t eat fish.

Puerto Rico

There are a few reasons why I’ve added Puerto Rico to this list. One being that if you’re looking for a last minute spring break trip, this might be the best option. Flights to Puerto Rico are very frequent and with multiple airlines, which keeps the price lower through competition. Many people travel through PR to catch a cruise, but most rarely stay for more than a day or two. They are missing out!

The island is packed full of great food, history, beaches, hiking, nightlife and so much more. There’s even a rainforest, which also happens to be the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest System. If you stay in San Juan, pick a day to rent a car and drive around the island. Also consider hopping over to the island of Vieques with its bioluminescent bay and beaches or Culebra, another island with one of the top beaches in the world.

The Cheap Spring Break Destinations Round-Up

The above places to go for spring break 2017 are to sure to fill you with experiences and memories far better than drinking on a beach all day. Whether you went somewhere for spring break 2016 or have never travelled before, all of these suggestions can be pretty affordable, accessible to both new and seasoned travellers, as well as safe and exciting.

Hopefully, a trip like this will also get you thinking about a summer backpacking trip or even a gap year when you’re finished school.

As I have been to all the countries above, and 80+ others as well, do not hesitate to send me an email or leave a comment. I am more than happy to help answer any questions you have!

Finally, be sure to give me a follow on Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, Youtube & Twitter for more travel inspiration, ideas, tips and stories!

Happy Travels!

Fly into SFO or OAK

Most big, popular cities have a major airport nearby, but a select few have multiple airports. San Francisco is one of them. Not only can you fly in to San Francisco International Airport (SFO), but Oakland International Airport (OAK) is also quite close. Both airports can be reached by the BART transit system and take roughly the same amount of time to reach from the city centre.

The Mission District

Everyone tends to head to the same main neighbourhoods of the city – Fisherman’s Wharf, Haight-Ashbury, Union Square. One of the coolest and most up-and-coming neighourhoods however is ‘The Mission.’ There you will find a mix of street art, funky cafes and restaurants, the most delicious Mexican food imaginable and overall laid back, hisptery attitude. What’s not to love?!

Book Early

There is no question about it, San Francisco accommodation can be expensive. It is one of those cities that you may want to book a place to stay in advance. There are so many options but they book up fast and last minute booking can leave you spending a small fortune. The city plays host to many conferences and conventions, so do some quick research to see whether you should avoid a particular week or weekend. Similarly, some attractions like Alcatraz also sell out so see about getting some of those tickets in advance as well. I often book through Viator. This might be the most important of my San Francisco travel tips.

The Tenderloin

Like pretty much any city, San Francisco has a rougher pocket or two. The one you are most likely to end up in is The Tenderloin. It’s not something to avoid all together as it is packed with incredible restaurants and bars, plus many of the more affordable hotels. I mention it simply so you keep your head up and pay attention to your surroundings while there.

Check the Weather

Although located in California, San Francisco can have some peculiar weather due to it’s position next to the bay. You might expect hot summer weather, but it can actually be rather chilly. Nearby cities and towns on the other hand, like Sausalito are quite warm. Check your weather in advance and dress accordingly.

These Boots Were Made for Walkin’

If your explorations are anything like mine you cover a lot of ground by foot. When combined with the fantastic public transit network, San Fran is very walkable. But as you’ve probably heard: there are hills…A LOT of hills. You will have calves and buns of steel by the end of your visit. That said, make sure you bring comfortable footwear to avoid being a blistering, grumbling mess.

No matter what time of year you visit San Francisco you will have not just a good time, but a great time! The city has something for everyone, whether your interests are food, art, nautical, history, architecture…you get the drift.

What did I miss? If you have any additional San Francisco travel tips, share them in the comments below!

Know someone heading to the city by the bay? Be sure to send this list their way to help them have the best trip possible!

To help you tackle the overwhelming task of selecting where to spend your time in ‘the boot’, I have narrowed down some of my favourite cities, regions and towns.

Obviously not every place is for everyone, and if your time is limited you have to take proximity and logistics into consideration, but with this as a jump off point you’re bound to have a truly Italian time!

My Favourite and Best Places to Visit in Italy

Florence

A very romantic city, Florence will always hold a special place in my heart as it is the first Italian city I ever visited. The Ponte Vecchio bridge spans so beautifully across the Arno River, which is perfect for sitting by and enjoying some wine and sweets. From the Piazzale Michelangelo you have the most outstanding view of the city and the Il Duomo stands tall as a focal point. Last, but certainly not least, is one of the most famous statues in the world: The David! Michelangelo’s sculpture is mesmerizing. Truly, I could have sat there admiring him for hours.

Cinque Terra

Comprised of five villages, this coastal region is full of so much colour and character. During my stay there I did a full-day hike that takes you through all the five villages and at the end, we jumped into the sea and relaxed on the beach. Keep in mind some of the guesthouses require a lot of stairs to reach them but it’s worth the climb as the views just get better and better the higher you go.

Pisa

I have heard mixed things about Pisa. Some love it, others see it as a tourist trap. What do I think? You’d be a fool to miss it! Home to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the main attraction is of course the tower and pictures don’t do it justice. It is baffling how far the tower is leaning. Don’t listen to the negative perspectives, just go! Minimally, you’ll walk away with some fun photos of you holding up a tower.

Venice

Canals and gondolas, what else do you need? Venice is such a unique city as you really do have to get around by foot or boat as cars are not an option. While I cannot say much for the food that we ate, it is certainly beautiful and one of the most famous cities in Italy. There is quite a lot of talk that Venice is sinking so you might want to get to this one sooner than later. It might be there ‘later.’

Rome

Let’s be honest, how can you go to Italy and not visit Rome? As a fellow traveller recently put it: Rome is an outdoor Museum. It’s true! Everywhere you walk there is a piece of history to stop and learn about it. Going into the Colosseum is a must, but even standing outside is magical. Try to stop by both during the day and at night as it looks so incredible in the moonlight. Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon, pasta and gelato. You will not have a dull moment. When I visited with my mom and aunt, we got the Roma Pass which we used to get in to a few different attractions but best of all, the pass let us skip the line for the Colosseum.

Naples

Pizza. Pizza. And…ummm…did I say Pizza?!? Often credited as the birth place of one of the most delicious foods on the planet, this city also has a reputation for being a bit rough around the edges. Still, that gritty character is a big part of it’s charm and makes it distinctly southern. It is also a perfect jump off point for Pompeii and Capri.

Pompeii

A short train ride from Naples, Pompeii is a city frozen in time. An eruption from Mount Vesuvius in AD 79 buried the city and it’s people in ash, keeping it preserved for centuries and when excavated, voids were filled with plaster, allowing visitors to see the position the person was in when they died.

Capri

Most people know Capri for the Blue Grotto but personally I think it’s best feature is the outstanding view you get from atop of the island. A day trip from Naples will give you enough time to explore quite a bit of Capri (including the overrated Blue Grotto), relax by the beach, enjoy a meal or two, and some beers with a view before hopping back on the ferry to your less expensive accommodations on the mainland.

Sicily

I fell in love with Sicily in the oddest of ways. Watching reruns of The Golden Girls, Sophia or ‘Ma’, would always tell stories of life back in Sicily. Very colourful stories. I knew I had to go and was not disappointed when I finally did make it. While I would suggest giving Catania a miss, Palermo and Taormina are great, along with the many coastal villages and beaches. In so many ways it is a completely different world than mainland Italy and is definitely worth the adventure south.

Matera

You have likely never heard of Matera and it’s a shame. Located in south-eastern Italy, it is truly a secret gem and one of my favourite places on the planet. A World Heritage Site, the historical centre called ‘Sassi’ has been inhabited since the Palaeolithic period and sits in a small canyon. The homes are carved into the rock, making it a truly spectacular place to see and explore and hands down one of the best places to visit in all of Italy.

You Can’t Go Wrong

If you find yourself getting overwhelmed when planning your trip to Italy, keep in mind that you really can’t go wrong. I’ve explored so much of this country because it really does pack a punch. The food is beyond delicious, the people are full of energy, the sights and sounds and colours are mesmerizing and each visit has made me love it more.

I’d love to know which parts of Italy you have explored and would recommend, or places you are curious about but didn’t see here on this list. Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Italy is one of the most mesmerizing places on the planet, can be very affordable and has a little bit of something for everyone.

CIAO!

While booking a trip last minute can end up being extremely pricey if your dates and destination are locked, but if you are flexible and open to travelling pretty much anywhere there are plenty of deals and inexpensive ways to make that happen.

The following are a few ideas for planning a last minute trip.

Look at One Way Flights

When looking into flights, people tend to always search for round-trip tickets, but that’s not always the best way to go about it. Usually when you look at a return ticket it has to be with the same airline or alliance. Booking two one ways allows you to find the cheapest flight to/from your destination on that specific day regardless of the airline or partnership rules.

Find the Deals and Discounts

If you are flexible as to where and when you want to travel, there are so many sites geared toward booking a short-notice trip. These websites pull together last minute deals, promotions, sales and so on for the traveller who wants to just get away and for cheap but is not overly fussed about where to. Often these sites will let you subscribe for updates so you can be notified when a sale becomes available.

Try A City Break

A vacation doesn’t necessarily mean flying across the ocean. Often we forget to look at the amazing experiences and adventures in our own backyard. Many cities or regions will have a local blog with suggestions on what you can do in that place. With a bit research you might just find a festival or experience that is only a short drive, bus or train ride away. You feel like you’ve taken a vacation from home but haven’t gone so far that you break the bank doing it.

Off Season

There may be four seasons in a year but most destinations have three seasons when it comes to tourism. High season, shoulder season, and low or off season. Off season is when a place receives it’s lowest number of visitors and this is where your opportunity sits. Because hotels aren’t booked and attractions aren’t as busy, these places often offer incentives to get more visitors to come. Yes, Rome is much more wonderful to visit in the hot weather of summer, but there is always something lovely to do and you can save big bucks travelling in this way.

Tap the App

There is an app for everything, including last minute getaways. Some help you find a hotel the day of, others will show tours and experiences with discounts, or restaurants with a special. Make use of these by finding deals that are based around spontaneity.

Hopefully these tips and suggestions help you arrange a getaway that leaves you revitalized and rested, without breaking the bank.

What’s the best way you find discounts and last minute deals for travelling adventures? Share them in the comments below and happy trails!

Photo Credit 1, 2

Naturally at this time of year I am feeling thankful, though that tends to carry through the other 364 days of the year as well. During this ‘extra’ thankful time, I was pondering what I could reflect about here on the blog and that’s when I came across the post  that starts a few lines further down.

It’s been written, then left, then edited, then left again, multiple times over. I’ve just never been sure when or even if to hit publish. With the theme of ‘thanks’ upon us, and this piece being so focused on silver linings and the incredible gratitude I have for the amazing people in my life, I felt like now was a good a time as any.

Keep in mind, most of it was written in April ’15, and a lot of additional great things have happened since then but we’ll get to that awesomeness later.

And be warned, while it is a longer read, I have no doubt there are a number of you that would benefit from it’s content and can surely relate.

Thank you for reading.

***********************

April 2015

It has been pretty quiet around here for some time. Twelve months or so? Fifteen? Longer perhaps, depending on how you look at it. Maybe you noticed, maybe you did not. But that’s not how I’d like it to be.

I could just leave it, unmentioned, with the assumption that it was in fact not noticed and simply continue on as if nothing happened, but that just isn’t sitting well with me.

Sometimes, you need to get something off your chest. Today is one of those days.

The last four months, spent travelling through Latin America – Mexico, overland through Central America to Colombia and back up to Mexico again – have been wonderful in too many ways to count, including the opportunity I had to slow down, think and reflect. Long distance buses will do that to you. They’ll make you think. Especially the 18 hour ones. I’ve ridden more long distance buses than I’d like to recall or ever want to in the future. So much thinking.

As I come to the end of this particular journey and begin the next stage of this life and career I have built from a ‘one year trip around the world’ that became so much more, it feels important to take stock of all that thinking and some of the discoveries, pain and peace that it resulted in.

This can be for any number of reasons, but in my case, it is in an effort to acknowledge the past, accept what happened, learn from the experience, clear the air and move forward!

2015 – Good Riddance!

Rather than tip toe around it, I’ll be straight up: 2015 was a jerk!

Don’t get me wrong, I’m not foolishly overlooking the incredible things that happened – the marriage of friends, road trips, my grandma turning 90, buying my first car – that list of awesome is fortunately still pretty darn long.

Amongst all that incredible however – in the gaps and overlaps – there was a heck of a lot of crap, and life tested me.

I live a fortunate existence but when compared to other years in my life, 2015 was not the best of them.

April might have been the worst (a conclusion found in bus ride reflections), so it is fitting perhaps to offer up these thoughts exactly one year later.

Truth be told, I have gone back and forth about whether to share this on Backpack With Brock, writing and deleting and then rewriting, fearful that I’d come off as mopey or negative. What I kept coming back to however is that this side of life is important and relevant to all of us.

It is context.

We could all use a bit of a reality check and reminder that nobody (I repeat: Nobody) has a perfect life.

Along with the exciting status updates and beautiful photos we are inundated with, it is necessary that we are also privy to the challenges and struggles our peers face if only to help us feel ‘normal’.

Yep, I get to travel around the globe and share photos and videos of my adventures in an effort to encourage and help you to get out there and do the same (how about that for an elevator pitch?) but I too am human. Things go wrong, I get sick, I get hurt, I fall down. And then, like everyone else, I have to pick up the pieces and get back up again.

Without delving too deep into what exactly went down in 2015, I will say: I lost myself. That is pretty painful to write and something I hope I never have to write again, or experience for that matter.

A series of events, which culminated in a flight to Toronto in early July, had me standing at the door of two of my best friends, holding most of my belongings and emotionally spent.

As of that moment, my entire life was turned upside down. My home, my routine, my work, my relationships. Everything. And in the months that followed I would find myself attempting to reestablish, while also mentally unpacking why it all happened in the first place.

Grief is hard. Really hard. Like, way harder than they tell you it is. I don’t know who ‘they’ are, but ‘they’ make it sound so easy with the whole seven step thing. (sidenote: if you are currently experiencing grief, I get it. Please keep reading, it might help).

But you know what? People were there for me. Without a moments pause, or even too many prying questions either, I had a roof over my head, a bed to sleep in, listening ears, thoughtful insights and most importantly: hugs. Lots and lots and LOTS of hugs.

I’ve somewhat recently dropped my belief in the ‘Everything happens for a reason’ theory. Why? Terrible things happen to really wonderful people each and every day, and I’ve realized that this theory just doesn’t add up, suggesting that these wonderful people somehow deserve their unfortunate realities. They do not.

Instead, I prefer to focus on ‘finding the silver lining‘ in every situation. Most often than not there is a positive somewhere to be found, and in those rare instances where a positive is truly un-findable, we should at least be able to walk away having learned a lesson from the experience.

Naturally, there were quite a few silver linings to be found in the past nine or so months.

Connecting Deeper with my Mom and Sister

Returning to my hometown and temporarily moving into my sister’s house meant living with both my mom and sister, spending a substantial amount of time together. More time than we had in the past 10 years accumulatively. Living at your little sister’s house is not exactly a 27 year old’s dream and sure we butted heads from time-to-time as family often does, but my goodness, it was SO wonderful. Instead of visits home with just enough time to catch up, my extended stay allowed us to connect on a deeper level. I learned a great deal about my sister and mom, and admire the way they stepped up to the plate, taking care of me as I got back on my feet, never asking for anything in return. Mom and Mallory – Thank you.

Inspiration from Grandma

Around the middle of August, my grandma fell, shattering her elbow and fracturing her pelvis. Only months before her 90th birthday too! She was forced to spend a couple of months at the hospital and rehab centre, which is where I find my next silver lining. Because I was home (for the first time in years) and could work from anywhere with my laptop, I was able to call her hospital room my ‘office’ and keep her company as she healed. In addition to really connecting with her, much like I was with my mom and sister, each and every day I was further inspired as I watched her demonstrate determination and positivity in such an astounding way. A force to be reckoned with, she was going home and nothing was going to stop her. Always a role model for me, her latest example of how to take on life, no matter what it hands you, couldn’t have been more timely. Grandma – Thank you.

Everlasting Friendships

Being in my small town was refreshing on so many levels but spending time in downtown Toronto was just as necessary – to catch up with friends, to explore my favourite city in the world, and in a way, to feel like an independent adult. This is where my friends showed up big time, providing me couches to crash on, including me in activities and most noble of all: listening. Their patience and insights, void of judgement, helped me work through some of the most complex and challenging aspects of my experience. The silver lining here was being reassured that even after three years away, my friendships have held strong and true. To my friends, both in Toronto and abroad – Thank you.

2016

Kicking off 2016, I flew to Mexico to see my two friends, (the ones mentioned above), get married. I only booked a one-way ticket, spawning a four month adventure through Latin America. Along with the vibrant cultures, delicious foods, new friends and added countries to my #100by30 endeavour, came some harsh realities. Fear of failure, nightmares, regret, an identity crisis and perhaps most challenging of all when you’re on the road, loneliness. S**t got real!

But you know what? I made it through! My business found guidance from my digital entrepreneur friends during my one month in Oaxaca, Mexico. New friendships offered clean slates and companionship. The Spanish language and the locals around me speaking it pushed my brain to learn and be curious (and provided incredible Snapchat material). Street food ignited my taste buds (and even more Snapchat material). Bus rides forced me to reflect and face demons. My sister flying down to travel with me for three weeks brought home to me and her parting words affirmed and reinforced that what I do has value, purpose and, I quote, ‘is a lot of freakin’ work.’ The silver lining of the past four months, taking into account the good, bad and rarely ugly: I’m going to be okay. 

Personally, I don’t believe running away to travel will solve your problems, that baggage comes along with you. It even packs itself! My friend Jodi, in her post about long term travel & 8 years on the road explains it this way:

Travel itself is not an answer. It can’t save you from yourself, or the demons that you have. You will bring them along with you as you roam. You can’t absolve yourself of your responsibilities or the monotony of routines that will reappear the minute you stop moving. And if you travel to escape darkness, it will eventually find you.

While there may have been a period of time over the last year that I lost myself, I am back and best of all, I’ve still got it!

As I begin the journey back to Toronto, which will take a few weeks, (and no, I’m not taking the bus all the way home), I recognize that I am in an immensely different place than when I set out in January.

I am much less stressed and anxious, feel energized (which is rare after a long and busy adventure like this one), have much more clarity on the past (and future), and am thrilled about the projects, opportunities and partnerships that are on the horizon.

But more importantly than anything: I am happy.

It’s simple but it’s true.

This may be a bizarre way to exemplify it but over the last few months I have made Snapchat my main form of storytelling and sharing my adventures. (Some of you might be following along, if not, my handle is: backpackerbrock) The feedback was great from the start but eventually I began to get messages from people saying how happy I looked and that my happiness brought them happiness. Wow! Some even asked how I manage to stay so happy all the time on such a long and sometimes frustrating adventure.

I remain pretty genuine in my storytelling, and lack a poker face. You can very easily read how I am feeling and what I am thinking. I also have somewhat of a reputation for being one of the happiest people around, but you know what? It had been a long time since someone had mentioned that ‘happiness.’

You have no idea how amazing that feedback has been and how incredible it feels to say: I am happy.

As I bring to a close what may be the most personal post I have ever written here on Backpack With Brock, not to mention the longest, I’d like to leave you with the following:

If you are struggling with something or feel lost, don’t be afraid to ask for help and lean on those around you. People do love you and will be there for you. You will be okay. I promise.

There are wonderful people in my life who constantly amaze me with their love and support and as such, I am forever indebted to them.

I am so eternally grateful for you too. Yes, you! The person reading this post. The fact that I get to travel the globe and share with you the stories of these adventures, hopefully encouraging and helping you to do the same astounds me on a daily basis and is something I never take for granted.

#100by30

With all that now out on table, let’s look to the future. My next project, #100by30, is about to step into high gear. We’re nearing 100, but we’re also near 30! A lot of planning is in the works but it’s going to be outrageously fun, so stay tuned! More on that to come.

Thank You

I want to bring this piece to a close with these two words: Thank You.

It is such an honour to explore the world with all of you and that all these years later, I trust that I can take a break and pick up right where we left off.

On this Canadian Thanksgiving, remember to take a moment to take note of the positives in your life, but also acknowledge the parts that are a work in process. Most of all though, know that you are loved and never be afraid to ask for help.

If you connected with something in the post or simply want to say hello, please do not hesitate to contact me above!

Love Always,
Your Friend,
Brock

• Hosting is Awesome & Easy
• How Much Dough You Can Earn
• Are You Nervous To Host? You Shouldn’t Be!
• FAQ’s
• Tips and Tricks for Being a Superhost
• Brock Will Look at Your Listing & Give Feedback (Winning!)

If you’ve never visited Backpack With Brock before: Welcome! In a nutshell, I, Brock, have been travelling around the globe for six and a half years sharing my adventures through videos, photos and text on this site with the hope of encouraging and helping others to explore the world.

During these travels to 79+ countries, I have stayed in a ton of Airbnbs. More than I can count! Why? Well if you’ve never used Airbnb before, essentially you are booking someone’s space. Instead of a hotel, you might end up in a cute little cottage, a castle, a trendy loft in the city, a house boat…you get the idea. Usually cheaper than a hotel, a unique space and way more fun.

But this post isn’t about staying with Airbnb, it’s about hosting with Airbnb.

Not only have I stayed with Airbnb but I have been a host as well and LOVED it. Seriously though. Ask my friends, I had way to much fun with it.

Hosting is Awesome & Easy

As I’ve said a few times already, I have been a host in the past and had such a fun time with it. Welcoming people from all over the world, making your place cozy for them, telling them about what spots in the city they should check out and of course, getting paid to do so. We even went for dinner and drinks with a couple of our guests (although you definitely don’t have to do that, they were just really cool).

Setting up your listing and booking your guests is pretty straightforward and the website makes it easy to do. You can list your whole place (you’re not there), a private room in your place (you are there), or a shared space (ex. a couch).

You get to pick your nightly rate, if you want to have a minimum number of nights and screen inquiries so you only have guests you feel comfortable with. I had 10 different guests over a period of one month and every visitor was superb!

How Much Dough You Can Earn

When I was a host in Boston, we Airbnb’d one private room in a 3 bedroom apartment and made about $3000 USD in one month.

Naturally there a million and one variables here and it really depends on the space you have, your price, and so on. That said, I used the little Airbnb calculator on their site and took some guesses factoring in my own experience to see what you might earn in Toronto.
Another strategy is to go on their site, and search for places like yours and see what people are listing them as.

Entire Place: They say $1215 for the week for 2 guests but if you could just do the weekend, I’d estimate $130 a night. That said, if you can host on a long weekend (August Long Weekend and Labour Day Weekend) you could likely charge double that per night. If your space can hold 4 people or more, that number could be $500+.

Private Room: They say $428/week for 2 guests. Again higher for long weekends and if you can host more than 2 people in your space.

Shared Space: For 2 people – $400. This is the lowest amount of course but if you only have a pull out couch, that’s not bad money.

As I said, the variables of where you live, private or entire home, how many people it will hold, how many beds and so on really influence the amount you can charge but there’s serious money to be made in the Toronto market right now as they don’t have enough hosts. And honestly, if you try it out and it doesn’t feel worth the money then you just don’t do it again right?

I have two friends who rent out their entire condo near Trinity Bellwoods whenever they spend the weekend away. It will hold 4 people and they make between $150 and $200 per night. I just checked the August long weekend: there are only 7 ‘Entire Homes for 2 people‘ left for under $250/night and only 4 ‘Entire Homes for 4 people‘ left for under $500/night. Who want’s to make $1500 this weekend?

When you set up your listing, Airbnb has a list price suggester to offer insight on what to charge for your place per night.

Are You Nervous To Host? You Shouldn’t Be!

Being nervous or weary to host is natural. What if they break something? Or worse, what if they trash my place? We’ve all heard stories. But I think it’s important to remember that people in general, especially a person travelling with something like Airbnb, are respectful. They recognize that they are in another person’s space and that there are consequences if they are a crappy guest. Not only does a guest get to leave a review, but the host does too. If a guest gets bad reviews they will have a hard time booking future places. And in the event something does break (accidents do happen) you can have a security deposit on your listing to cover it. If it’s a rare serious situation, Airbnb also has a substantial insurance policy.

With all that said, you have the ability to screen all your guests before accepting their booking. If you need to know more, ask questions. If it doesn’t feel right, don’t accept the booking. No questions asked.

Again, I had about 10 different guests and no issues whatsoever.

The Room I Rented Out on Airbnb

FAQ’s

How to I qualify for the $200 bonus?
To be eligible for the credit you must: be a first time host, the place must never have been listed before, be within 40km of University and Dundas and complete a qualifying reservation before Sept 30th, 2016. (Qualifying reservation = 1 night, min $50/night excluding cleaning fee & taxes).

How often do I need to host?
You can host as often or little as you like. Many host when they are out of town, essentially paying for their vacation. If you have a spare room, you can host while you’re there and it’s convenient for you. I even stayed at one Airbnb where the host would stay at their girlfriend’s place whenever they booked their place, and she’d stay at his when her place got booked – if they both booked, they’d headed out of town for a citybreak!

What do I need to have to be a host?
If you have a place, you can be a host. You just outline in your listing whether you have A/C, wifi, parking, how many beds, etc. As mentioned above, you can rent your whole place, a room in your place while you’re there or a even shared space. (Some people are on a really tight budget so will share a space if it saves them money).

How do I get paid?
Getting paid is pretty simple. You can have it transferred to Paypal or directly to your bank account. The money is placed in your Airbnb account the day after the guest checks in.

Where do I sign up?
I’m glad you asked. You must click this link right here to get the $200 bonus when you sign up.

How do I exchange the keys if I am not in town?
If you will leave before your guests arrive or will get home after they need to check out, here are a few tips for exchanging keys. You could leave them in a hidden spot, you could get a lock box to put on a fence near by, have a friend meet them to pass them off or there are services that will arrange it for you.

If I’m new, how can I increase my chances of being booked: First time out the gate can be tricky but to speed it up, you can turn on Instant Book (guests can book without sending an inquiry, just like booking a hotel) and/or check the prices of similar listings and put your price a bit lower. It’s worth charging a little less for your first couple bookings to build up some positive reviews. Oh, and fill out your profile. A clear picture of you, description, hobbies, etc. Let your guests know who you are. They are more inclined to book if they aren’t scared youre an axe murder. Also, don’t be an axe murderer – you’re reviews will be TERRIBLE.

Tips and Tricks for Being a Superhost

So, not only was I a host but I managed to become a SUPERHOST! Yes, that is an actual badge they give to their best hosts. Here are a few things you can do to become a Superhost or minimally ensure your guests have a great stay and leave you a positive review.

24 Hour Response: Many people book accommodation last minute so waiting for a response from a host is dreadful. Try to respond as quickly as possible and be sure you always respond within 24 hours to eligible for Superhost status.

Info Sheet: I like to leave a little cheat sheet with everything the guest might need to know. Your contact info, wifi password, emergency number, how to use the coffee maker, etc. Take that a step further and include some nearby restaurants, bars, a grocery store and so on. You only have to type it up once but it is extremely helpful to all your guests.

Good Directions: When you’re travelling, especially far, nothing is more frustrating then getting to your destination and the directions not being clear or even right. Be thorough in your description with landmarks and streets and make sure you include your contact info in there too.

Thoughtful Gestures: It really is the little things that count. I always tried to put fresh flowers on the night stand. Or, when two guys said they were coming to check out the local breweries in town, I picked up a couple craft beers to welcome them with. Yes, you’re spending a couple dollars from your budget but these little gestures can make a world of difference. Not only is it out of the norm so the guest is pleasantly surprised, but if something goes wrong on your end (A/C breaks, dog is barking too much, neighbourhood has an unexpected and loud street party) those little gestures tend to soften things over.

Brock Will Look at Your Listing & Give Feedback

As a big believer in this sharing economy, and the opportunities it provides us both as guests and hosts, I’m going to step this up a notch. If you are thinking: ‘Ya, I want to give this a shot‘ but are still a bit nervous and unsure how to make your listing rock, I’ll take a look at it. I can’t trouble shoot every issue (Airbnb has resources for that) but if you put your listing together (title, photos, description, price, etc.) and send me an email here, I am more than happy to look over it and offer any insight I can to help improve your listing and increase your bookings. (I realize this could backfire if I get a thousand emails but we’ll take it as it comes! Shoot me a message!)

And I’m going to wrap it up there. I’ve been travelling for 6.5 years and constantly advise people that renting out your space on Airbnb is one of the best ways to help fund your adventures. It’s straightforward, can be a lot of fun and earns you money on something you already have.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask in the comments below or by sending me an email through the contact button above.

One more time for good measure, you can sign up right here.

And if you do list, regardless of whether you need feedback, send over your listing! I’d love to see it and often have readers visiting the city asking where they should stay!

Happy Hosting!

When you spend long periods of time on the road, you still have to take care of the regular ‘life stuff’ that would do at home before you head out on a trip. Laundry, doctor visits, visiting the dentist and yes, getting a haircut. This can be a fun experience but also challenging as language barriers make describing what style you want a little tricky.

Over the years I have had haircuts all over the world. Estonia, Spain, Kenya (that one didn’t go too well), Nicaragua and my favourite of them all, India! You should definitely check out my Indian Haircut video where things got pretty wild.

Most recently I had my haircut in Mexico. I was living in a city called Oaxaca for a month and my hair was getting a little out of control. My friend Geoff from over at Wandertooth suggested I check out The Hipster Barber. I was sold on the name alone. Geoff spoke of beer and loud music, what’s not to love?

Arriving with my sister, who shot the above video (thanks Mal), we directed to grab a beer from the fridge and chill in the chair. We then, waited for a very long time. Why? Well The Hipster Barber was seemingly on a date because you know, that’s what Hipster Barbers do. We had to wait until he was finished chatting with his lady friend before he came in and started to actually cut my hair.

The rest, you can see for yourselves in the video!

Enjoy!