Find your next Vacation at the Los Angeles Travel & Adventure Show

This weekend the L.A. Travel & Adventure Show transformed the Los Angeles Convention Center into different regions of the world so people who are looking for travel inspiration can discover their next holiday.

Attendees learned about authentic travel experiences, talked to travel experts, won free vacations, did interactive activities like riding a camel or take a scuba diving lesson, and got insider tips from travel superstars like Rick Steves and Samantha Brown.

In addition, many vendors offered discounts and travelers interacted with tour operators, agents and guides, which is invaluable to many because you can see if they’re the right fit for your needs and if they’ll be compatible to travel with on various outings.

I met several amazing people like Jessica Matthews and her business partner Abdullie Mfinanga who run Dancing Zebra Safari Co.

The two organize trips to Tanzania where you’ll experience the magical essence of the country with their unforgettable customized holidays. Their wide range of services include everything from arranging unique glamping accommodations with beautiful views, or reputable hotels if that’s more your thing, to excursions to must see places like Mount Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar, and of course safaris!

I admit I’ve moved Tanzania higher up on my list of countries to visit after speaking to them.

There were representatives from over 350 worldwide destinations waiting to help plan your next getaway so if you missed this year’s event in LA, don’t worry. The show will also be making its way to other cities like San Diego, Dallas, Denver, Chicago and more.

Tickets are $15 and for additional information on the event check out Travel & Adventure Show.

Jerusalem Travel and Safety Tips! No trip to Israel would be complete without a visit to Jerusalem–the Holy City for Christians, Muslims and Jews. While it’s a place of divineness and piety for many, for others it’s a place to see beautiful ancient buildings mixed with modern houses, magnificent landscapes, and colorful markets.

By: Heather Newgen | Twitter: @hnvoluntourist

Located between the Dead Sea and the Mediterranean, Jerusalem is one of the oldest cities in the world and one of the most controversial. Both Israel and Palestine want the city as their capital because it has religious and historical significance to Islam and Judaism. That said, there has been public clashes between Israelis and Palestinians, sometimes leading to violence, which has many travelers wondering if Jerusalem is safe.

As someone who has been three times now to the Holy City without incident, I can tell you from my experiences that I have never felt in danger at any moment and never feared for my safety. It’s a regular city like LA or NYC, but it has a deep spirituality, mystic and charm, which makes Jerusalem that much more appealing.

It’s an incredible city that everyone should visit without hesitation. Jerusalem is a must see, but like any other city you’re traveling to, stay on top of the news and be informed about what’s happening there. Here’s a few things to keep in mind.

1. Bargain with the vendors in the Old City and Jerusalem markets, but be fair. This is their livelihood.

2. Parking is difficult around the Old City, and traffic is insane. So hire a driver or tour guide, or take public transportation. Don’t rent a car and drive yourself. I went with Erez Yarkon Travel and had an incredible experience.

3. You should tip drivers and tour guides at least 10-15% of the total cost, same goes with tipping at restaurants.

4. The work week in Israel centers on the Jewish day of rest, Shabbat. Starting at sunset on Friday and ending at sunset on Saturday, many businesses close and services stop. This means no buses and fewer, more expensive taxis will run in Jerusalem during this time. Many shops and restaurants shut for the entire period starting as early as 2 p.m. at winter time and 4:00p.m. during the summer. Some restaurants and bars are open in some area were the locals hangout in Jerusalem.

5. Levels of observance differ between cities, with Jerusalem more observant than Tel Aviv.

6. Make sure to wear comfortable good non-slip shoes in the Old City. The pavement can be slippery in Jerusalem.

7. Bring a head scarf or shawl to Jerusalem. It’s helpful when needing to meet modest dress requirements in religious buildings.

8. Wear Long trousers or skirt – shorts and miniskirts are not acceptable attire in many churches and synagogues in Jerusalem, or at the Dome of the Rock.

9. If you plan on taking a day trip from Jerusalem to Bethlehem you must pass through a checkpoint to enter, so make sure to have your passport with you. If you travel by taxi, you will need to find a driver with a non-Israeli passport to enter since the city is in Palestine. You can take a taxi to the check point cross and take local taxi , or ask your local agent to arrange for a tour guide or driver.

How to Stay Healthy While Traveling – The Voluntourist Tips

Getting sick on vacation isn’t fun so it’s important to take as many precautions as possible beforehand. While you may already live a pretty healthy lifestyle, chances are when you travel you’ll be in contact with someone has a cold or the flu and are contagious–especially now since the flu is so rampant.

There are countless ways to be exposed to illness like when people cough without covering their mouth or not washing their hands after using the restroom and touching things you would afterwards.

It’s gross, not considerate and just not cool. So here’s a few things you can do to avoid getting sick.

1.Boost your immune system.

There are several ways to do this. Some load up on vitamin C, others take probiotics, Airborne or Emergen-C regularly. I go to my local juice bar and do wellness shots the week before I’m traveling. I do a two ounce shot of lemon, ginger, garlic, cayenne pepper almost daily.

***To save money, you can make this at home yourself.

2. Do a juice cleanse

The Organic Living Juice Cleanse supplies your body with nutrients, vitamins, and live enzymes. It’s a natural self healing aid that gets rid of harmful toxins and increases energy levels, reduces inflammation and bloating and improves overall health. There are so many amazing benefits to doing this cleanse and it’s a great way to drop a few pound before your vacation. All Living juices are made with certified organic fruits and vegetables and no sugar is added. You can’t get any healthier than that! For delivery options check out their site.

3. Bring a face mask

I know it’s not attractive or stylish, but considering how 53 people have died just this year alone from the flu, wear the mask if you get sick easily or have an auto immune disease.

4. Pack wipes and hand sanitizer

You have no idea who touched the doorknob, menu, your luggage, ATM machine or other things before you. To be on the safe side, wipe everything before you handle it and keep your hands clean at all times.

5. Bring your own pillow and blanket

You’ll know it’s clean and where it’s been. Enough said.

6. Treat public bathrooms like germ pools

Do not put your purse or bag on the floor. Do not sit on the toilet and when flushing close the lid to minimize the spray back. Wash your hands for a full 20 seconds with warm water and soap. Use the paper towel to open the door so you don’t have to touch it.

7. Wear socks when going through airport security

You can easily pick something up on your feet that can be transmitted to your hands when you put your shoes back on and you can touch your face without realizing it. So just wear socks.

8. Pay attention to the aisle seats and armrests

When people exit the restroom, their hands may not be clean. So if they touch the headrests of the aisle seats as they walk by, you don’t want to be near that. Same with the armrest you’re sharing with someone. How do you know if they washed their hands?  So refrain from using it if possible.

9. Don’t use the backseat pocket

Cleaning crews don’t have much time in between passengers to disinfect every tray table, seat back, digital screen and widow. Cold and flu viruses can live on hard surfaces for up to 48 hours. So wipe everything down and don’t use the backseat pocket because you don’t know what the other person before you used it for. A dirty diaper? Used tissue? Who knows.

10. Drink water

Sure cocktails are nice and help you relax on a flight, but you need plenty of water because you can get dehydrated easier at high altitudes. You can experience headaches and dizziness if you don’t drink enough water. So have one adult beverage and chug the water.

Other helpful tips

Stretch and keep moving. On long flights you can be more susceptible to poor circulation, which can lead to blood clots. I always wear compression socks to prevent my legs from swelling. It helps.

Your body will be tired from traveling, so eat healthy and walk as much as possible once you arrive to your destination to keep up your energy. Get eight hours of sleep and pace yourself. Don’t try to see everything in a day.

In addition, call your health insurance company to see what’s covered in case you need to see a doctor while traveling, get a medical and dental check up to prevent any unforeseen ailments and get any vaccines required or recommended by the CDC.

Depending on where you’re traveling, only drink bottled water and brush your teeth with it. I know street food is delicious, but if you have a sensitive stomach, be wary. Only eat what’s made in front of you so you know it’s fresh and how it was prepared. If you’re in a country where it’s not recommended to drink the water, eat only fruit you peel yourself so you know it wasn’t rinsed with the water and don’t eat salads because chances are the greens were washed with water your body isn’t used to.

And finally bring a traveling first aid kit with that includes anything like medicine for upset stomach, prescription antibiotic for traveler’s diarrhea, motion sickness medicine or wristbands, antacid for indigestion, cold and flu remedies, pain and allergy medications, sunscreen, adhesive bandages, bandaids, antibiotic ointment, and anything prescribed you’re already taking.

Rachel Zoe’s Traveling Tip – “Look Glamorous!”

Rachel Zoe has made an everlasting stylish mark on the fashion industry with her love of vintage clothing, the 70s and deep obsession with her classic signatures  faux fur jackets, jumpsuits and wide-leg trousers. With her strong clarity of taste and unwavering idea of what she likes, Zoe effortlessly enhances her A-list client’s unique individual looks. She has shared her innate understanding of beautiful outfits for over two decades and in 2011 launched her own collection, which showcases her retro bohemian style and offers customers luxury quality at an affordable price point.

Rachel Zoe, Rodger Berman

She has a global impact and reach unlike any other stylist and designer, yet remains humble about her massive success. Zoe continues to move at intense speed to keep up with her full schedule. She designs and styles on top of being a mom to two boys and a wife, as well as making appearances at events like the Glam App Reloaded in Los Angeles, which is where The Voluntourist saw her.

Although she didn’t stay long–she was getting ready for her upcoming fashion show, Zoe quickly chatted with reporters and revealed her No. 1 travel tip.

“I think you should always look glamorous even when you’re traveling. I think you need to find your go to uniform that is the most comfortable, yet somehow still looks chic. I think it’s also about your accessories –a good pair of sunglasses, a great bag.”

Katrina Barton, Joey Maalouf, Rachel Zoe, Rodger Berman

She added, “I think it’s not easy to look good while you’re traveling, but of course it has to be practical and functional too. I think good accessories” [are key].

And of course she’s right!

Kim Crawford Wines

img class=”size-medium wp-image-2174″ src=”http://www.iamthevoluntourist.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/BFA_23130_2779438-300×200.jpg” alt=”” width=”800″ height=”200″ /> L’Oreal

The Glam App is life changing! It’s beauty on demand and something amazing that anyone traveling in the U.S. and U.K. can use. With the push of a button, The Glam App delivers beauty experts to your front door. Offering services that range from a blow dry, to make up applications, or just a simple polish change there’s no need to leave your house, when we bring the salon to you.

Shut. The. Front. Door. This is bananas!

How to Travel Solo and Meet People Without Drinking

I love to travel solo as often as I can, but that doesn’t mean I don’t like to socialize. While I do enjoy a glass of wine every now and then, I’m not a big drinker. So I wanted to find new ways to meet and mingle with other travelers without hitting up the bar and club scene. So if you’re like me and are looking for ideas on how to naturally interact with others—without it seeming like you’re being clingy, weird or creepy—here’s some ideas. As always, be safe, cautious and trust your instincts.

1. Volunteer

In 2010 I went to New Orleans by myself to volunteer a few years after Hurricane Katrina. I didn’t know anyone in the city, but I’d been there before and remembered loving it, so I decided to go back. At this point, I’d only been on one solo trip, so I was a little nervous. But I was there to help the community, and that was my focus. I volunteered with an organization called Hands on New Orleans and ended up meeting a really cool girl who worked for one of the non-profits HONO partnered with. She invited me to hang out since she knew I was traveling alone, and we’ve been friends ever since. We’re so close that I visit her at least one a year and I was in her wedding. I consider her one of my dearest friends who I will always have in my life.

2. Go to Church

I understand this suggestion isn’t for everyone, but I’m adding it for those who do have some sort of faith in a religion. I live in Los Angeles and I’m from SoCal, but in 2010 I moved to NYC by myself (after the New Orleans trip). I had a couple of friends there, but I didn’t know many people. I moved without a job or long-term place to live, but felt it was something I had to do. I admit, I don’t attend church regularly, but I am strong in my Christian faith, so I went to a service where I was greeted by a sweet girl. She asked me to brunch afterwards and we instantly became friends. She introduced me to everyone she knew, and within a few weeks I had an amazing group of good girlfriends. I only stayed in NYC for a year or so before moving back to LA, but I am still friends with everyone to this day.

3. Yoga

Take a class. Most yogis I’ve met are friendly and don’t mind grabbing a chai tea latte or coffee after a session.

4. Hostels

If you’re staying in one, chances are there’s a common area where people are hanging out. Head there and start chatting it up. It’s easy to make small talk with other travelers. Many are cool and will be happy to have you along on their adventures. Or if you’re comfortable, ask them to go on yours.

5. Couchsurfing app.

I personally don’t couchsurf, but on the app, there’s a hangout section where you can connect with others in the city. Use common sense when meeting up with people you don’t know. Go to a public place, don’t go late at night and if you get the vibe someone isn’t cool, leave the situation.

6. Tours

I’m all about taking tours. I love them because it’s a great way to see a new city in a short amount of time. And everyone I’ve encountered on tours has been fun to be around. I suggest a free walking tour (many cities have them) or a guided group tour. Bus tours are not the best, because people get off at various stops along the way and it’s harder to talk to others.

7. Airbnb

I like my space, so if I do Airbnb I always rent the entire apartment. However, you can stay in a guest house or a shared space where you can interact with the owner and they can offer recommendations on where to go and what to see. A lot of times, they’re super cool and will offer to take you around. So it’s like you have a friend on the trip, but it’s almost even better because you don’t have to spend every second with them if you want some alone time.

8. Classes

Take a cooking, dance, or language class. Those are always great ways to meet people.

9. Cafes

Who doesn’t love going to a great cafe and sitting outside to people watch while enjoying an espresso? Grab your favorite book, find the perfect spot, and start mingling. (The book is only for you to read when there’s nobody interesting around for you to talk to. It can also be a conservation ice breaker.)

10. Think Outside the Box.

I’ve met people while waiting in line for food, on trains, commenting on how much I loved a girl’s outfit (we’re still friends to this day), shopping, in museums, renting a car, and so many other countless ways.

11. Social Media

I’m always amazed when I see someone I’m Facebook friends with traveling in the same city I am. Even if I don’t know them well or at all, I will reach out to see if they want to get together. I feel like I have to, because how random is it that we’re both in London or wherever?

12. Bar

Ok, so if you do decide to check out the trendy bar you’ve been hearing so much about, do it! You don’t have to drink. Order a mocktail and play pool or darts.

Whatever you decide to do, just be open, have a positive mindset, and ask the universe/God to meet wonderful people and protect you on your travels.

Cambodia Travel and Safety Tips – The Voluntourist Travel Guide 

By: Jenny Karakaya

It is much too easy to get sidetracked and mesmerized by all the beauty, rich history, diversity and culture offered by a country like Cambodia. Let’s not forget that this Southeast Asian country is still recovering and healing from years of brutal genocide, so one must have their wits about them when exploring these poverty stricken grounds.

First off, let me begin by reaffirming how incredibly special this country and its people are. Here, you will find one of world’s most fascinating and marvelous architectural wonders known as Angkor Wat. That alone is reason enough to visit Siem Riep. Phnom Penh, the country’s capital city, has been redeveloping and struggling to reform itself since the genocide ended in 1979. The city is a sad reminder of the ruthless atrocities committed here in the 4 years that the devil himself, Pol Pot ruled the land. So the recovery process has been a painful and slow one. And, they still have a very long way to go.

That being said, everyone should peruse these grounds if given the chance. The food is superb, the architecture is stunning, the coast is breathtaking, and the people are warm and welcoming. However, tread carefully, as this third world country can be dangerous if caught off guard or at the wrong place/time. This is especially the case in the southern part of Cambodia, namely Sihanoukville, where I was robbed on Otres beach in broad daylight, in an unexpected moment. How did this happen? Well, we took a tuk-tuk ride (their form of motor taxis) from one beach bungalow to another and when I grabbed my big backpack first, the driver made off with my small bag, which contained all my valuables. However, I’ve heard much worse happen to others, so in hindsight, I’m thankful it wasn’t worse.

On that note, here are some tips on staying safe when visiting this beautiful coast:

Do not walk alone at night on any of the beaches. There are have stories of people getting robbed and beaten on the beach late at night when no one is around.

Try to go out in groups or find a travel buddy to hang out with. Naturally, it’s always safer to be out and about in two’s or three’s, especially in foreign places.

Always keep an eye on your important bags and keep your bags hidden/close to you (strap them inside your clothing or in front of you). Never leave important items unattended anywhere, anytime.

Always grab your important bag-packs off the tuk-tuk’s first, or better yet, keep it in your lap, between your legs.

Never carry important items such as passports with you when out and about. There are usually lockers for valuables anywhere you stay – hotels, bungalows, and hostels alike.

Never wear any kind of bling. Blending in is key.

Try not to carry a big camera out in the open in remote places, especially during a time of day when nobody is around.

If something important such as passports and docs get stolen, go to the nearest tourist police station and file a report asap. They WILL investigate and help, but they need a few days for this process, so the sooner you get on it, the faster you will have results.

If possible, jot down license plates, and get good visuals and descriptions of people or anything that will help with your police report.

Again, none of this is meant to deter you from visiting and uncovering this gem, but being on alert is imperative to your safety and enjoyment. So many people get stripped of their passports, cameras and ipads/computers while traveling. Don’t be one of those victims. But if you are, do what you need to do to replace your travel docs, brush it off as a learning experience and keep moving forward. Life is too short to be derailed from your amazing adventures and all that’s left to explore! Happy and safe travels!