Why Electric Scooters are Perfect for Backpackers

Backpacking is a rewarding test of endurance and character. It requires a level of fortitude that most travelers aren’t capable of. You get to see more of the world and take the roads less traveled. See sights most people would miss and enrich yourself in the real culture of your destination. But there is no reason you should have to trek on foot the whole trip. Sure, public transport will assist you, but there are other options that will ease the burden on your feet and allow you to cover more ground faster, while still providing you with the freedom to go wherever you like.

Electric Scooters

There are two types of electric scooters. The motorbike-like scooters designed for road use. Or the classic stand on scooter powered by a motor. It is these scooters we recommend to you when backpacking. There are a number of reasons an electric scooter is preferable over, say, a bike, or moped.

Firstly, security. As a backpacker, your possessions won’t always be as secure as you might like. This is one of the biggest risks. But electric scooters are unique in that you can fold them up and carry them around or store them by your side. No need to chain them up outside and risk them being stolen.

Secondly, they are easy to use. The Xiaomi m365 scooter from escootersdirect.ie is a perfect example of how user-friendly these scooters can be. Charge it up and you are on your way exploring the streets of wherever you have found yourself in the world.

Lastly, they are extremely customizable. You can add attachments to meet your specific travel needs. GPS systems, storage attachments, security functions. The list is endless as to what you can add. Electric scooters are the perfect travel tool. So it is very much worth investing in one if you are planning a large backpacking trip.

Red Flags to Watch for when Staying at a New Hotel

Staying at a new hotel is always risky. Whether it’s a 5-star hotel in the Bahamas or just a nearby B&B, it can be uncertain as to whether you will get your money’s worth. This is why you should always look out for certain things that point to the hotel being a bit iffy, as often they can be seen when you’re booking the hotel online and this will save you from wasting money on a crap hotel. Here are some of the biggest red flags to look out for when booking.

Bad or Old Reviews

The most obvious thing to look for is bad reviews, they will, of course, tell you in the clearest possible way if the hotel is good or bad. However, another thing to look out for is old reviews, as the date of reviews is really just as important as they review themselves. This is because there’s usually a reason for a hotel not receiving a bulk of good reviews within the past month, for example. When it comes to the hotel industry, management turn over is quite frequent and a recent change in personnel may be the reason for a recent dip in the reviews.

Blurry Photos or Unclear Photos

You should always be as critical as possible when going over hotels photos. For instance, a big red flag is when the photos available are only of close-ups in which you can’t see the full room. For example, it might show that they got really nice chairs at theotheo but hide that the room they are placed in is actually really small. On the other hand, if the photos only show the hotels exterior, it is probably because the inside doesn’t look very appealing. A common thing hotels do is show generic pictures of a skyline or a plate of fruit. These hotels should always be avoided as it usually means the hotel doesn’t have anything exciting to highlight. Blurry photos are another red flag in this regard, as poor quality photos usually equate to a poor quality hotel.

It’s Difficult to Get in Contact with People at the Hotel

While most people assume that you have to actually go to the hotel in person to evaluate the quality of customer service, there are ways to do it from home. For instance, on the way to do it is by giving the hotel a call and seeing how easy it is to get in contact with certain people. If everyone is readily accessible and hospitable before you even arrive, chances are they will be even better when you do check-in. If they are hard to reach or are rude on the phone, it will be all the more infuriating if you are already at the hotel. With that in mind, always give the hotel a ring before booking anything, especially if it’s an expensive place.

 

Where Should You Take Your Spouse for a Romantic Holiday

Coping with the daily grind can be tough for anybody. But if you and your partner feel as though you need a break, then you are not alone. It may just be time for a romantic getaway. Put all thoughts of work out of your mind and replace them with thoughts of the sun, romantic dinners and plenty of sites to see. There are any number of places to go for all budgets. Here are some ideas of where you can take your spouse for a romantic holiday.

Greece

While it may not be the first country people think of when it comes to romantic getaways, Greece has plenty to offer couples across its many islands and cities. The beautiful beach-front town of Santorini is popular amongst couples as a relaxing and stunning place to spend your holiday. If you’re looking for a romantic getaway rich in culture and history, then why not visit the Greek island of Crete, full of history like the ruins of Knossos and the fortress of Rethymno, Crete is home to an unbelievable number of historical sites like Zeus’s cave. It’s also home to many incredible dishes like moussaka and souvlaki.

Japan

One of the more expensive places to visit, after a year or so of dedicated saving, you could whisk your partner off to the dream-like country of Japan. Full of incredible food, bright streets and various sites rich in culture, you will never be short of things to do. While you immerse yourself in an entirely new culture, it may be worth investing in some cute accessories to celebrate your trip. You and your partner get yourselves a matching pair of customized wristbands from sleekwristbands to ensure you both look ‘kawaii’ on your once in a lifetime trip to Japan. Make sure to leave some room in your suitcase, as chances are, you’ll be bringing home a lot of souvenirs!

France

Home to the ‘City of Love’, Paris, it’s no surprise that France has become such a popular destination for lovers. Full of rich food, delicious wine and picturesque cities, France is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. You can indulge yourselves in culture by visiting the Louvre or you can gaze over the city as you visit the top of the Eiffel Tower. A more gentle-paced getaway, France is also, surprisingly, one of the less expensive countries in Europe to visit. If you’re looking for a relaxing, beautiful trip you can both flood your Instagram feeds with, France is the place for you.

Why You Must Tour Amsterdam on a Bike

When it comes to traveling across Europe, there are few places as popular as Amsterdam. One of the cheapest destinations, its perfect for students and couples looking for a quick getaway on a budget. The city has more culture per capita than anywhere else. With so many beautiful sights to see across the city, you might be wondering how on earth you’ll manage to fit it all in on your trip.

Well, you’re in luck, because one of the most well-known aspects of Amsterdam’s culture also happens to be one of the most useful ways to get around.

Cycling is a prominent part of the city’s identity, with numerous bike paths designed to connect the city. When you’ve so much to do and see, why spend a considerable amount of your budget on countless Ubers when you could rent a bike for a fraction of the price and use it as often as you like. It’s the easiest way to enjoy the beauty of the city in your own time. The gentle cardio will also help to work off all those Stroopwafels you’ll be scoffing down but let’s be honest, you’ll be far too busy taking in the awesome sights to even notice the exercise. You’re also far more likely to discover hidden gems across Amsterdam you would often otherwise just drive past, not to mention you’ll still be able to see more and go further than you would on foot.

So, What Now?

Well, if you plan on doing yourself and the environment a favor on your next trip, explore Amsterdam the way you know you should – on a bike.

If you’re planning on taking our advice to explore Amsterdam on two wheels, there are plenty of places to organise bike rental in the Netherlands online – be sure to check them out before your trip!