When I visited Munich, Germany last year I was disappointed to learn that the BMW Plant was closed to tours while they built a new facility. Next month, the doors will open and car enthusiasts will once again be welcome to experience the BMW assembly line and observe quality assurance tests on new vehicles. Tours are offered in German and English and limited to only 30 people. Reservations can be made online or by phone up to 6 months in advance.
BMW Plant Munich
You can read about my trip to Munich here.
With today’s strict carry on rules, finding travel sized products is more important than ever. Some items, like gel deodorant and contact solution in 3oz containers can be hard to track down. Luckily, in the age of the internet we can find just about anything online and there are stores that specialize in mini goods.
Minimus and All Travel Sizes both have extensive inventories and will allow you to order your favorite travel sized products individually or in bulk if you want to stock up.
If you’ve ever had to drag a bulky coat around on a tropical vacation, you’ll appreciate Korean Airlines new ‘coat babysitting’ service. Passengers traveling from a cold climate to a warm climate can check their winterwear at the airport to pick up upon their return. Will and I usually leave our coats in our car and freeze as we race to the terminal, but I have to admit that this sounds a lot more pleasant!
Source: Sunday Times Travel
I always walk for hours on end when I’m exploring a new city. For years, I would end my days taking sleeping pills so I could sleep through the pain of my throbbing feet. Finally, a shoe sales clerk recommended I try Spenco insoles. I figured it was a pitch but I had nothing to lose so I bought a pair. Within a month I had purchased them for every shoe I owned.
I’ve been using Spencos for about 5 years now and I wouldn’t walk without them. I’ve tried a few different models, but I only like the green Polysorb versions and I generally buy new insoles whenever I buy new shoes. Now I walk wherever I want, as long as I want, pain free!
Spenco
Next time you are planning a trip, head over to tripprep.com where you’ll find the latest health and safety information for over 220 countries. The site requires registration but is completely free and will tell you everything you need to know to travel smart to your selected destination. It also gives you access to a list of medical providers in the area you are visiting.
If you like offbeat roadside attractions, look no further. The World’s Largest Popcorn Ball sits in a barn on Main Street, Sac City, Iowa. Built in 2004 by 40 volunteers at the Noble Popcorn Plant, the massive snack weighs 3,100 pounds and is complemented by a giant can of Coke!
Roadside America
Source: The Week
You hunt for sales when you shop for clothes and clip coupons for the grocery store so why should you pay full retail for travel? A great way to get bargains is to join a club that offers discounts to members.
My favorite is AAA (America Automobile Association). For just $48/year, not only will you get roadside services when you have car trouble, but you’ll score special offers on hotels and attractions all over North America. AAA’s sister club in Canada is CAA.
If you or your spouse are aged 50+ you can join AARP (American Association for Retired Persons) for as little as $7.99/year. Members don’t have to be retired or American as long as they meet the age requirement. Discounts are similar to those offered by AAA but are sometimes better and more widespread.
Perhaps you are already a member of an organization that qualifies you for travel perks. Many clubs, corporations, alumni associations and churches have agreements with travel companies. A big one is Club Quarters, a members only hotel chain that offers low cost accommodations to member groups in popular cities. Check with your human resources department or head of your affiliation to see if you are eligible for any discounts.
AAA
AARP
Club Quarters
If you’ve ever had an iPod run out of battery in the middle of a long flight you know the importance of having back up power. I think the Solio hybrid charger is a great solution for travelers because it’s small, eco-friendly, relatively inexpensive and can be charged in a wall outlet or by solar panels. Whether you are on a back country hike, laying on a beach or in a city, you can get the power you need. It takes about 4 hours plugged in or 8-10 hours in the sun to fully charge. Not only will it work with iPods, but you can also use it for cell phones, cameras and portable video game systems.
$100 Solio
Source: Travel and Leisure
All lot of people are interested in travel insurance but are unsure of where to start and what their coverage options are. At Insuremytrip.com you can type in your trip information and you’ll be presented with a range of policies to compare from different providers.
You can read my post about travel insurance and when you should considering buying it here.
Source: Travel and Leisure
Spending over $200 for a seat massager to use on flights may seem a little indulgent, but it’s a lot cheaper than business or first class and extra long flights are becoming more and more popular. Magellan’s Best Seat uses the same technology used in wheelchairs to promote continuous circulation by lifting and shifting your body. It helps prevent deep vein thrombosis and creates a much more comfortable ride. The battery lasts 50 hours and is rechargeable. It’s great for anyone who is disabled, has back or leg problems or is just looking for a way to lessen the physical distress caused by plane travel.
$225.00 Magellan’s
Source: MSN Travel
