Rum–the drink of pirates and paradise. Though it’s often reserved for warm summer evenings and tiki bar barbecues, there is no law that mandates rum must be drunk between the months of June and August. Regardless of the season, take a mini vacation by sipping a beverage commonly associated with beach bums and Caribbean cruises.  Here are 5 of the best bars for drinking rum in New York City.

Rum House

With a name like “Rum House,” you would hope it would be a reputable establishment for guzzling piña coladas and Dark ‘N’ Stormies. Fortunately, the Rum House lives up to its name and delivers some of the most delectable rum-based concoctions in Manhattan. Though it’s located in Times Square, the speakeasy atmosphere helps keep the tourists at bay. Many of the guests are locals or work in the area. With dozens of different rums and an expert staff, the cocktail menu is laden with masterfully crafted classic choices like Tortugas, Mojitos and Old Fashioneds. The Rum House keeps the food menu basic with salty snacks like nuts, popcorn, pretzels and hotdogs.

The Rum House
228 West 47th St.
(646) 490-6924

PKNY

Short for Pain Killer New York, PKNY plays the tiki bar gimmick hard. The interior design is gaudy and shameless, or, as the PKNY website states, packed with “simulated Polynesian decor based upon a romanticized Western concept of primitive tropical cultures.” The drinks are tropical and strong with lots of Mai Tais, punch and frozen beverages. The most popular item is the Scorpion Bowl, of which there are a number of varieties. They can be ordered for a single person, a couple or a group of four or more. The Jolly Stomper is highly recommended. It contains gin, lime juice, house-made orgeat, Falernum, red wine and, of course, a little fire (literally flames) in the middle.

PKNY
49 Essex St.
(212) 777-8454

Cienfuegos

This East Village Cuban oasis is styled to be a little slice of Latin American paradise amid the hustle and bustle of frenetic Manhattan. Named for a city excelling in sugar cane and rum production, the decor and temperament of Cienfuegos mirrors the atmosphere of a breezy Cuban port town. The bar specializes in punch bowls and rum cocktails. For a taste of something sweet, try the Anchor Punch (Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum, guava, ginger, lime and apricot liquor) or the Ancient Mariner (El Dorado 12, Appleton V/X, lime, grapefruit, vanilla and Allspice). Food is definitely secondary here, but you can certainly grab a plate of huevos rellenos or camarones borrachos to compliment your rum.

Cienfuegos
95 Avenue A
(212) 614-6818

Otto’s Shrunken Head

Another gimmicky tiki bar, Otto’s Shrunken Head in the East Village combines strong rum-based drinks with typical tiki decor and live musical performances. Otto’s takes pride in its fine ingredients and fresh juices, mixing some of the most flavorful tiki drinks New York has to offer. Because drinks are served in wildly decorative tiki cups, guests must pay a $5 deposit they will get back when and if the cup is returned. The signature drink is the Shrunken Head, and other notable mixtures include names like Scurvy Dog, Stormy Skull and Patty’s Poison. Plenty of frozen drinks are available as well, including one curiosity named the German Chocolate Cake.

Otto’s Shrunken Head
538 East 14th St.
(212) 228-2240

Nights and Weekends

Over in Brooklyn, Nights and Weekends is a premier rum bar styled after restaurants and watering holes in Cuba and the West Indies. While the alcohol list is extensive and varied, rum drinks dominate the board. The list includes options ranging from Ron Zapaca to St. James Royal Ambre to Flor de Cana (4 and 7 year). Cocktails are evenly priced at $10 apiece. Slip into a Caribbean paradise by trying the Cuban Firing Squad (Bank 5 rum, lime, pomegranate molasses, ginger beer and angostura bitters) or the Smokalada (Vida Mezcal, Amaretto, coconut puree, pineapple and lime). Very cool, very Brooklyn.

Nights and Weekends
1 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn
(718) 383-5349

One of the perks of going on a camping vacation is ability to bring along your furry friends. Hotels and resorts aren’t always the most accommodating institutions when it comes to pets, but if you’re venturing into the Great Outdoors, you may have the option of inviting your pup. However, understand that not every dog is fit for a wilderness excursion. A calm, well-behaved pooch can greatly enhance your family’s experience, but a less docile creature can sour even the most carefully planned trip. Here are 10 tips and considerations you should make before taking your dog camping.

1. Contact the park

Before you start planning your trip, make sure your dog is welcome at your destination. Not all parks allow pets, and some trails may be off-limits. The Internet is a great place to start, but as many park websites tend to be short on information, make sure you call the campground directly. Obviously, you should ask if they allow dogs, but you should also get information on other rules they may have in place.

2. Training and temperament

Just because you can take your dog, should you? Ask yourself honestly whether your pup will be able to handle itself in a camping scenario. Think of all the challenges and distractions you might encounter: other campers, other dogs, wildlife, a foreign environment. Certain breeds naturally do better than others, but of the greatest importance is training and general temperament. Will your dog obey your commands? Will aggression be an issue? If you have a puppy, start training early and intensively.

3. Visit the vet

Before you travel, you may want to make a stop at the vet. A quick check up will ensure your pet is in good health. Make sure your dog is up-to-date with all his shots and, if medication is required, has enough to last the trip. If you have the money, you may also consider a Lyme disease vaccination to protect your pup from disease-carrying ticks. Ask your vet for a current copy of medical records, and be sure you keep the office’s phone number on hand at all times.

4. Fight fleas and ticks

Get a flea collar and some kind of spray or medication to ward off pests. Not only will insects cause your pet considerable discomfort, but they can also carry life-threatening diseases. At the end of each day, check your dog for ticks, and have a pair of tweezers handy in case you need t0 remove one of those nasty blood-suckers.

5. Pack first aid items

Just as you should pack yourself a first aid kit, so should you your pet. You can pick up a dog-specific kit for $30-$100 depending on how prepared you want to be. These contain items like forceps, cold compresses, eye wash, tourniquets, gauze, waterproof tape and antibiotic ointments. You should also pick up a snake-bite kit just in case.

6. Make sure tags are current 

When introducing your dog to a new environment, it is essential to make sure your dog’s tags are current. His collar should have both a rabies vaccination tag and an identification tag with your current phone number and address. You don’t want your dog getting loose and lost with outdated contact information.

7. Never leave your pup alone!

All of your activities should be pet-friendly. If they aren’t, you need to have a designated dog-watcher at all times. You cannot, under any circumstance, leave your pet alone at camp or in the wilderness. Remember, you aren’t at home. Your dog is in an entirely different world with a whole new set of stimuli and threats.

8. Understand your pet’s limitations

Don’t push your dog too hard. Older dogs in particular need time to rest. And keep in mind, your pet is just as affected by harsh weather conditions as you are. If you’re hot, your dog is hot. If you’re cold, your dog is cold. Constant exposure to harsh elements can be severely detrimental to your pet’s health.

9. Create a comfortable sleeping area

Don’t chain your dog up outside. Your pet sleeps in your tent or recreational vehicle with the rest of the family. Not only is it illegal at some sites to make your dog sleep outside, but it is also dangerous. Your pup will be faced with potentially dangerous, unvaccinated wildlife and harmful insects.

10. Always clean up

Out of courtesy for other campers and their pooches, always clean up your messes!

The more distance we put between ourselves and nature, the more foreign and hostile it becomes. Surviving in modern American society has less to do with collecting firewood and erecting makeshift lean-tos than it does preparing college applications and scouring web postings for paid blogging opportunities. As we become increasingly dependent on the complex infrastructure of organized civilization, even the simplest camping trip can be cause for anxiety and befuddlement. If you’re considering camping in the desert, you hopefully already have a little experience pitching tents and building fires. If not, never fear. These 10 tips for desert camping are enough to keep even the greenest novices alive for a few nights.

Bring too much water. By and large, the most significant threat to desert campers is dehydration. The desert is a hot, dry place, and the last thing you want to do is run out of good ol’ H2O. A good rule of thumb is to pack one gallon of drinking water per person per day. Remember to pack extra for personal hygiene needs and washing cookware. If it seems like you’ve packed too much, you’re probably on the right track. A trusty water filter may also be a wise investment.

Fill up at every gas station. You really don’t want to run out of gas in the desert. Depending on where you are, you could end up stranded for hours under the blistering sun. And when you get out into the deepest parts of the American Southwest, stations are few and far between. Additionally, some of them only carry fuel during certain seasons.  Fill up every chance you get. We recommend never letting your supply dwindle below three-quarters of a tank.

Research wildlife. This is important during any camping trip, but especially so when plunging into desert environs where you may encounter critters than can kill. Of primary concern will be snakes, spiders, scorpions, lizards and various insects. Know what to look for, where they live and how to treat bites.

Bring warm clothes. Depending on where you are and the time of year, the desert can get chilly at night. Don’t make the mistake of packing only shorts and tanktops. Bring a few warm layers, a weather-appropriate sleeping bag and extra blankets.

Be smart about tent placement. The two main challenges of erecting a tent in the desert are heat and wind. The sun can be an issue if you plan on leaving your tent up during the day. It will become an oven. The intensity of the rays can melt certain plastics and glues, so be careful about what you leave inside. If possible, put up your tent in the shade, perhaps under an overhang or near a cliff wall. The desert can also get very windy, making tent raising rather challenging. If possible, face the entrance of your tent against the prevailing winds. Open the front and back vents and let the gusts course through. Placing your tent perpendicular to the wind will likely make it flap violently and noisily.

Go easy during peak hours. If you’re spending a few days in the desert, don’t cram your days too full. Be active in the mornings and evenings when it’s cooler. Do yourself a favor and use the afternoons to relax. Lounge about in the shade, take naps, keep hydrated.

Keep energized. The sun may try to ruin your appetite, but as you hike and explore in the desert heat, your body needs more fuel to meet its demands. Rather than dividing your food into breakfast, lunch and dinner, continuously snack throughout the day. By doing so, you avoid growing hungry and weak. Pack plenty of dried fruits, nuts and protein bars along with some complex carbohydrates in the form of bread or crackers.

Bring multiple navigational tools. Even if you’re on a main road, getting lost in the desert is a nightmare. Phones and GPS devices don’t always work in the desert. Make sure you pack a physical map, a compass and–if you want to feel like true pioneer–a star chart.

Arrive before dark. Find your campsite before the sun goes down. The desert is a dark, dark place at night, which makes it a lot easier to get lost.

Don’t forget the necessities. Make a checklist of important items. In addition to food, water and clothing, bring plenty of powerful sunscreen and insect repellent. Sunglasses and hats are other indespensable objects. Always have a couple flashlights with plenty of batteries, a few lighters and a good knife. You should also have a spare tire in case a flat threatens to leave you stranded. The key is organization. Make a list, stick to the list.

Now that it’s officially summer and the kids are out of school, many Americans are packing up their bags and heading to the beach. However, for many families, it’s finding that one special little town on the water with the white beaches and family-friendly activities can be tough. TravelNerd has put together the top 10 small beach towns across the U.S. for all families to find their slice of heaven.

Wildwoods, New Jersey

Head to Wildwoods, located on the Jersey shoreline. With a 2.5-mile-long boardwalk lined with carnival games, little shops and, of course, lots of food, families won’t have to look hard for kid—and parent—friendly activities. There are free concerts throughout the week and a firework show every Friday night.

Best of all, there’s plenty of amusement park fun available with a light-up Ferris wheel. Stop by for Family Fun Nights on Thursday for clowns, parades and stilt walkers, sure to delight the kids. Take the little ones to see interactive displays on military and aviation history at the Wildwoods Aviation Museum.

Treasure Island, Florida

Located in the Gulf Coast, Treasure Island has 3 miles of beaches where visitors can watch the spectacular sunset, when the sun dips below the water. On the first and third Saturdays of June through August, the town puts on a sunset festival with live music, performances and artisans. Bring the kids to watch magicians and fire eaters, and dance to steel drums.

Santa Cruz, California

Sunny Santa Cruz is a throwback to the traditional beach boardwalk and a gateway to California’s other family-friendly attractions. Start on the Beach Boardwalk for old-fashioned amusement park rides. Be sure to spot the seals – you’ll hear the barking across the entire beach.

It’s no wonder why Santa Cruz has been designated a World Surfing Reserve. Swing into the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, then learn to surf at Cowell’s Beach from Cowell’s Beach Surf Shop. Then head inland on the Roaring Camp Railroads Train for a daytrip to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Hilton Head has 12-miles of perfect white sand, so families can take their pick of where to go. Driessen Beach and Islanders Beach Parks are popular with families for their playgrounds and picnic spots. The boardwalk is close to the sand dunes and tidal marsh, so stop and spot ocean creatures and sea turtle nests or collect seashells at any of the beaches. Coligny Beach Park is also popular for its shallow, clear water, perfect for kids to splash around in.

Then trek into the Harbour Town area to climb the picturesque candy-striped lighthouse and climb to the top for great views. Then go to The Sandbox, a children’s museum with a play plane, bank and supermarket – perfect play areas for young children. Older kids will like the Coastal Discovery Museum, which has a butterfly exhibit and scavenger hunts.

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Rehoboth Beach, a small town situated on the Delaware coast, is popular spot for families looking for a cozy environment on their beach vacation. There’s only 1.5 miles of beach complete with lifeguards. Walk into town for the weekly farmer’s market on Tuesday for some delicious healthy food to eat on the beach.

Kids love the boardwalk, with its carousel, Ferris wheel and wooden boats. There’s even a haunted mansion dating back to the 1940s. Parents enjoy strolling into the 1- square mile town filled with little boutique shops selling local favorites saltwater taffy and ice cream. To hide from the sun, stop in the Biggs Museum of American Art and join their free family-friendly events on the first Friday of each month.

Chincoteague, Virginia

Chincoteague found its fame in the children’s book Misty of Chincoteague about Misty, a wild Chincoteague pony raised by the Beebe family. Misty was actually based on a real horse reared on the Beebe Ranch, and her hoof prints can be found outside the Roxy Movie Theatre in Chincoteague.

Families should head to Assateague National Seashore for beach strolls to spot herons, bald eagles and the famous wild ponies. In July, the Pony Penning takes over the island. Salt Water Cowboys round up ponies from Assateague Island for ride into the Assateague Channel to Chincoteague Island and Chincoteague Carnival grounds. Colts are then auctioned off to keep the herd manageable.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Nestled on the shores of Lake Huron, Mackinac Island provides old-fashioned thrills for kids with horse-and-carriage rides around the island, kite flying exhibitions, butterfly displays and a theatre. Be sure to stop by Mackinac Island State Park, which constitutes 80% of the land on the island, for a day hike and picnicking.

Motor vehicles are banned on the island, so your kids will have the chance to walk and bike around the island with no worries. Treat them with a stop in any of the fudge shops on the island, a famous snack still made in the traditional method. For those stopping by in late August, there’s a Fudge Festival complete with fudge sampling, beer tasting and a bicycle race.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Alabama doesn’t usually bring to mind beach life, but the state hides beautifully preserved beaches chock full of Southern charm. Gulf Shores is a mainstay for seafood lovers. The National Shrimp Festival is held here every fall, so head down for some of the best seafood in the South and a san sculpture contest.

The beaches are famous for “jubilees” on random nights where all manner of seafood flop up on the beach, making great pickings for seafood lovers to pick up some crabs, fish and shrimp.

Friday Harbor, Washington

Stop at Friday Harbor on San Juan Island for a relaxing, cool summer vacation. Surrounded by tall pine trees, San Juan Island provides plenty of ways to get away from city life. Scoot around downtown on a rented moped to see all the art galleries. The San Juan Historical Museum gives kids a glimpse of 1880s life with a farm, pioneer log cabin and even an old county jail.

The outdoorsy families should rent kayaks to paddle around the harbor. Kids are too young? Get close to the ocean by taking a whale-watching cruise to spot the orcas. Then stop by The Whale Museum to learn more and perhaps adopt an orca!

Tybee Island, Georgia

Ahoy mateys! Tybee Island’s Pirate Fest will be the most fun your kids will have this summer. Put on your pirate regalia and head to Thieves Market to hunt for souvenirs, then watch the Pirate’s Parade. Kids will have fun on the pirate-themed bouncy houses, puppet shows and a model pirate ship. Get the full kitsch experience by staying in the Mermaid Cottages, colorful bungalows with covered porches and direct access to the beach.

There’s plenty of white sand to play in on the beach, and kids will be thrilled on dolphin-viewing tours. Sneak in some education with tours of Fort Pulaski, famous from the Civil War. Kids can join along on a tour to explore the entire fort and walk along the nature trails.

Photo credit: Simoluu

From the shows to the nightclubs, Las Vegas has it all. And the best part – almost everything is walking distance or a cab away.  The city is known for its nightlife, so we decided to explore some of the hottest nightclubs in Vegas and see what the fuss was all about. We rated a handful of nightclubs based on its music, the type of atmosphere and cover charge. Here’s our assessment:

PURE Nightclub, Caesars Palace

If you’re into hip-hop music, PURE Nightclub is where you want to be. And if you arrive early, there’s plenty of space on the main dance floor. However, get ready for a little push and shove on the weekends. This nightclub is known for attracting many A-list celebrities like Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez and Eva Longoria. But they usually don’t make an appearance until midnight, so get ready to wait.

In terms of pricing, they’re fairly reasonable. Men usually get in for $30, while women sometimes get in for free. Ladies, just make sure you get your name on the guest list to avoid paying full price.  Overall, this nightclub is a top contender on our list. They have great music along with great drinks.

Surrender, Encore

This indoor/outdoor nightclub takes the nightlife to another level. Imagine a large pool party at night with house music. Surrender made our list for several reasons. For starters, the poolside is 60,000 square feet so you won’t have to worry about bumping into people while you dance.  But if you still want to get the indoor experience, Surrender has you covered. The club has an indoor nightclub that’s 5,000 square feet.

Now getting into the club comes with a high price. Ladies pay $40, while men pay $50. This club also ranked high on our list for incorporating a pool party in a nightclub.

1 OAK Nightclub, The Mirage

1 OAK is best to visit during the weekdays when it’s less crowded and easy to get around.  Now this 16,000 square foot nightclub doesn’t come close to Surrender’s poolside square footage, but it still has a great vibe if you’re looking for something more low key.  And the best part is the music combination. This club doesn’t just stick to one type of genre; they play house, hip-hop and Top 40.

The cover charge is usually around $30, and the average wait line is 45 minutes. This club is one of our favorites for its fun atmosphere and music.

Marquee Nightclub, The Cosmopolitan

Located in one of the hottest hotels, Marquee often gets rave reviews. However, the line to get in the club looks like a maze and could take up to 3 hours to get in. The nightclub has three dance floors and seating around the poolside, making it easy to get some fresh air. They also have a great selection of music. The Boom Box room plays mainly hip-hop music while the main dance floor plays house music.

Another great perk is the cover charge. Even though they’re one of the hottest clubs in town, their prices are extremely reasonable. Cover charge can range anywhere from $20 to $30.

Haze Nightclub, Aria

If you’re looking for a show, Haze nightclub has some of the best impromptu acts throughout the night. While they don’t have a pool, they have a large dance floor with the DJ facing the crowd.  The club is also known for its house, EDM (electronic dance music) and Top 40.

And depending on which night you go, you may catch a famous DJ mixing the turntables. Cover charge at this night club ranges anywhere from $10 to $30.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of tiffa130

You came to Maui to soak in the tropical sun. So why eat inside? Read on for some unbeatable food and locale pairings for picnics all over the island.

Aloha Mixed Plate at Ka‘anapali Beach

Korean kalbi ribs, Hawaiian kalua pig, Japanese teriyaki beef, Filipino chicken adobo. All are reflective of the mix of ethnicities that came to Hawai‘i to work on sugar plantations at the start of the 20^th century. And all are available with the de rigueur two scoops of rice and one scoop of potato macaroni salad as part of a plate lunch at Aloha Mixed Plate in Lahaina. Order your food to go and drive seven minutes up Honoapi‘ilani Highway (Route 30) and claim a spot at the north end of Ka‘anapali Beach in front of the Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa. As you finally dig into the food that has been tormenting you with its heavenly scent, watch daredevils plunging into the ocean from the tops of towering black lava rocks. Digest while relaxing to the sounds of waves lapping on the shore and staring dreamily across the ocean to the islands of Lana‘i and Moloka‘i. When you feel capable of moving again, grab your gear and wade into one of the best snorkeling spots on the island to commune with colorful reef fish and the occasional turtle.

Aloha Mixed Plate
1285 Front St, Lahaina
(808) 661-3322
8:00 AM – 10:00 PM, every day

Fiesta Time at ‘Iao Valley State Monument

‘Iao Valley State Monument lies nestled among the West Maui Mountains in central Maui. It is a lush wonderland covered with an abundance of tropical plants and flowers that just about beg for photos. Paved trails meander along ‘Iao Stream, its waters rushing or burbling depending on recent rainfall amounts. The sharp ridges of the ‘Iao Needle tower over everything from its pinnacle 1,200 feet above the valley floor. The Kepaniwai Park Heritage Gardens just a short distance away celebrate Maui’s multicultural history with ethnic buildings representing the island’s Chinese, Japanese, Portuguese, Filipino, Korean and American immigrants.

Such beauty is hard to focus on when distracted by hunger, so utilize the picnic tables at the Kepaniwai Gardens before your explore. The hot and spicy Mexican food from Fiesta Time in Wailuku pairs well with the valley’s damp rainforest surroundings. From their avocado-filled veggie burritos to their chicken enchiladas that drip with cheese and sauce, none of Fiesta Time’s offerings disappoint, especially when slathered in their house-made salsa. Try it once and you will want to buy a container, if not a gallon.

Fiesta Time
1132 Lower Main Street, Wailuku
(808) 249-8463
10:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Monday to Saturday

Minit Stop Food at Ho‘okipa Beach Park

Pair your visit to see surfers, windsurfers and kite surfers in action at Ho‘okipa Beach Park with an array of local comfort food from Paia Minit Stop. Stop at the gas station and convenience store on your way to the world-renowned spot and load up on fried chicken and unbelievably good potato wedges. Grab some Haleakala Dairy POG (passion orange guava juice), a couple spam musubis (fried spam over sticky rice and wrapped in dried seaweed — essentially spam sushi) and a tray each of cone and maki sushi, and you’re ready to picnic like a local. Once at Ho‘okipa, choose the picnic table of your choice at either end of the beach and try not to let the food fall out of your mouth as your jaw drops at the ocean acrobatics before you.

Minit Stop
123 Hana Highway, Paia
(808) 579-9227
5:00 AM – 11:00 PM, every day

Casanova Deli at Hui No‘eau Visual Arts Center

After browsing the unique, carefully curated galleries and boutiques of Makawao and soaking in the ambiance of the former paniolo (cowboy) town, stop at Casanova Italian Restaurant and Deli at the intersection of Baldwin and Makawao Avenues for lunch. Choose from a selection of fresh, colorful salads in the deli case or select one of 15 types of paninis grilled to order on house-made foccacia, and pack it all into your car for the short drive to the Hui No‘eau Visual Arts Center.  Find your perfect spot on the 25 acres of sprawling, manicured lawns of the family estate turned community arts center, and savor your Italian delicacies while enjoying views of Haleakala, the West Maui Mountains and Maui’s North Shore. Walk off your meal by exploring the gardens, artist studios and abandoned sugar mill on the estate. Be sure to view the latest art exhibit and shop at the gallery story before you leave.

Casanova Deli
1188 Makawao Avenue, Makawao
(808) 572-0220
7:30 AM – 5:30 PM, every day

Hui No‘eau Visual Arts Center
2841 Baldwin Avenue, Makawao
(808) 572-6560
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Monday to Saturday

Coconut’s Fish Cafe at Charley Young Beach

A relative newcomer on the Maui dining scene, Coconut’s Fish Cafe has already been featured in Travel + Leisure Magazine as one of “America’s best places to eat like a local” and sold its Arizona franchising rights to an eager and enthusiastic customer. It’s easy to see what the fuss is about – the fish is incredibly fresh, the preparation is perfect and the ingredients are all selected for maximum taste. The homemade coleslaw, with its subtle hints of coconut milk and wasabi, compliment the fish perfectly. Take your tacos or burgers a little further down South Kihei Road to Charley Young Beach and chow down under a shady palm tree. With easy parking and expansive stretches of soft white sand, Charley Young is one of the most inviting beaches in South Maui.

Coconut’s Fish Cafe
1279 S Kihei Rd #304, Kihei
(808) 875-9979
11:00 AM – 9:00 PM, every day

Photo credit: All photos by author

Everyone loves a good deal. However, with the rise of airline fees and resort fees, travelers are getting slapped with a surprisingly hefty bill at the end of their vacation. To alleviate the problem, we asked travel agents for their best tips on how to find the best deals and what to watch out for this summer.

1. How to find a good deal: look for off-season travel options

Jen Gold from FlipKey.com advises travelers look for off-season destinations:

“Some incredible deals can be found in destinations where peak travel season is not summer. Everyone loves visiting the tropics in the winter, but destinations like the Caribbean, Bahamas and Mexico are just as beautiful, if only a few degrees warmer, in the summer months. And because summer is the low season in these spots, airfares plummet and vacation rentals offer super-discounted rates to attract travelers. High-end luxury accommodations you never dreamed you could afford might actually be within your reach!“

Caroline M. and Brenda G. from Traterra caution travelers to book immediately:

“Book early and be flexible: The summer season is short, early June to mid-August. If you find a price you like, book it. Waiting until the last minute for better deals can result in higher prices. Demand is high during the summer. Understand that airfares and hotel availability is limited and price varies drastically by flight, destination and availability.

Steve Griswold from Pixie Vacations tells travelers to do the math:

“You can save the most money by getting a vacation package. For example a Disney World Vacation Package would include your transportation to and from the Orlando International Airport, your room, park tickets, and the Disney dining plan. By bundling everything into a vacation package you end up getting a discounted room rate and a discount on park tickets. “

2. Watch out: the hidden costs of that great deal

Christina Ernst from VIP Alpine Tours warns travelers about high prices:

“Certain dining venues in top tourist destinations can cost more than 20% than similar restaurants at home. Many resorts also charge mandatory daily resort fees of up to $40 a day to cover such items as parking and Internet.

Ross Hudgens from Travel Start tempers travelers’ expectations:

“Be mindful of your destination before purchasing full packages that include vehicles, too. Although you can get a discount by purchasing these things together, your transportation situation and options at your destination may be different than you had imagined.”

Kim Milnes from Adventures by Kim reminds travelers of the risks:

“If it sounds to good to be true, it probably is. If you are going in a high season and the resort is sold out, and you booked a certain rate or through a certain online booking engine, the hotel or resort can walk you to another hotel if they are booked. Read the fine print. “

3. One place travelers can find great deals? Cruises.

Erica Kritt from The Cruise Web tells cruisers to think about the shoulder season:

“If you want to venture to Alaska, consider not sailing during the middle of the summer, which is the peak time to visit. Take a cruise at the beginning of the season (May) or towards the end (September).”
 

Chuck Flagg from The Flagg Agency gives cruisers advice on when to book:

“Cruise lines will have flash sales, usually on Tuesdays to fill remaining inventory on sailings that leave within 45 days or so. These summer deals on cruises are meant for two people traveling together. Families are going to have a hard time finding a stateroom that holds more than 3 or even 4 people. If they want to split staterooms, they could be on opposite ends of the ship. While that works for some families, it does not work for everyone. Also more than likely a stateroom is on special because no one wanted it. An undesirable location like over a nightclub or under the theater or an obstructed view is always possible on these on sale staterooms.”

Photo credit: beach
 
Read more from TravelNerd and NerdWallet:

The Best Cities for History Buffs

8 Tips for Saving Money on Airline Fees

Most Gay-Friendly Cities to Live

TravelNerd is kicking off Pride Month by highlighting underrated cities for gay travelers looking for fun. Instead of focusing on popular cities like New York City and San Francisco, we looked at underrated cities with thriving gay communities that boast great events and cultural sights.

Columbus, OH

Columbus may surprise you by being on this list, but the city is actually very gay-friendly, with a full 1.0% of households that have same-sex partners. Head to the Gay Pride Parade, Columbus Pride, on June 21 and 22, and participate in the Run for Pride 5k. Leading up to the pride parade, celebrate with various events like a screening on the film “You Are Not Alone” with the filmmaker.

Join the locals at the fun restaurant Level, a gay-popular lounge with Broadway Sundays.  Be sure to stop at the local LGBT community center Stonewall Columbus for events like Ballroom Dance classes and other games. Stop in the Short North neighborhood for galleries like 83Gallery and PM Gallery, which have ties with the queer community.

Minneapolis, MN

With a rating of 91 on the Equality Index and a gay household percentage of 2.3%, it’s no wonder that city is great for gay travelers. The Twin Cities’ Pride celebrations go on for a full week, starting June 19 to June 30. On June 29, check out the Pride Festival for drag shows, music and dancing, and on June 30, be sure to participate in the Pride Parade.

Stop in the North Loop neighborhood to find trendy boutiques and bars to mingle with the locals. Then head over the Loring Park for a day in the sun, and eat at the nearby Café Lurcat.

Milwaukee, WI

Milwaukee is coming into its own as a travel destination with the largest pride festival in the nation, Pridefest, happening this year on June 7 – 9. Be sure to stop by to dance and see acts like the Indigo Girls. Additionally, the University of Wisconsin in Milwaukee hosts an annual LGBT Film/Video Festival, usually in September or October.

For fine arts and performance theater, head to the Milwaukee Gay Arts Center. Art exhibitions switch every 6 weeks, and hours vary, so call ahead to make an appointment. Walker’s Point is the main gay residential areas and hosts many hot nightlife spots.

Providence, RI

New England has been a bastion of liberalism, and the city of Providence is no different, with a gay former mayor, David Cicilline, currently serving in Congress. Rhode Island’s PrideFest is coming up on June 15, complete with a parade. In downtown, AS220, a multi-use space with food, galleries and a printshop, which also houses a popular gay bar, The Stable.

Best of all, Providence is a short trip away from popular gay travel destinations like Boston and Provincetown.

Miami, FL

Miami is known for its hopping nightlife and gorgeous beaches, and it’s working hard to draw in the gay contingent. Stop by the LGBT Visitor Center in South Beach to find the latest events in town.  The world-famous White Party Week, November 27 to December 2 this year, is the most fun fundraiser for HIV/AIDS.

We know why you’re going to Miami: the beaches. 12^th Street Beach is the most famous – and most popular – gay-friendly beach, but for those looking for a little more quiet, head 20 minutes north to the Haulover Beach Park. Warning: there is a clothing-optional section, for those a little shyer.

Portland, ME

Maine, one of the 5 states that have legalized gay marriage, has embraced the community. In fact, demographer Gary Gates at the Williams Institute named Portland, ME the third gayest city in the U.S., after heavyweights San Francisco and Petaluma, CA. On June 15, the entire city will celebrate the Southern Maine Pride Parade and Festival, complete with a mass marriage ceremony.

Be sure to participate in the town’s thriving arts scene with the sale from Maine College of Art’s Summer Art Sale on June 6 – 9 to purchase original art from MECA students, alumni and faculty. Then take a trip to the popular gay resort town of Ogunquit just 45 minutes away.

Atlantic City, NJ

While Atlantic City may be known for gambling and conventions, it’s currently resurging as a top travel destination on the Jersey shore. Since New Jersey legalized civil unions, Atlantic City has been focusing on drawing in LGBT travelers.

The first gay nightclub opened in 2011, the Prohibition Bar at Resorts Casino Hotel right near the Boardwalk. The Risque Atlantic City Pride Parade kicks off on the Fourth of July and lasts all weekend, and includes boating, shows and dancing.

Eugene, OR

Eugene, the second-largest city in Oregon after Portland, is a hotbed of counterculture, including a thriving gay community. Eugene’s PRIDE Annual Celebration is held on August 10 this year at Alton Baker Park on the Willamette River. Show up to enter a raffle, see live entertainment and eat lots of excellent food.

The Soromundi: Lesbian Choir of Eugene performs throughout the state. Check out Queer Eugene to find more events.

Lansing, MI

While Lansing doesn’t have the liberal cred of Ann Arbor, which is home to the University of Michigan, Lansing is the center of Michigan’s LGBT community. Michigan Pride is hosting the largest White Party in the state on June 7 – be sure to go for the outdoor foam party.

The Pride Festival is held in August, in Old Town, and provides vendors, food stations and even a beverage tent.

Las Vegas, NV

Sin City, the party-lover’s paradise. While Vegas is the ultimate getaway for all travelers, some attractions are now specifically catering to the LGBT crowd. The Wynn and the Encore provide “pride concierges”, and the Luxor has LGBT pool parties during the summer. Come June 15, Krave Massive, the world’s largest gay club will be opening with a massive bash.

The Las Vegas Pride Parade is later that the others, hosted on September 6and 7 this year. However, that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do. Stop by June 22 for the SNAPI Saturday for dancing, Jell-O shots and a drag show, or July 3 for a family BINGO night.

Photo credit:Twin Cities Pride Parade

There are four main phone providers in the U.S. – AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon and Sprint. Though you might love (or hate) your phone plan at home, going abroad is a totally different story. While some companies offer extensive travel plans, others just don’t have you covered. Here, a comparison of the four major companies and what they can offer in the way of overseas use.

AT&T

AT&T operates on a GSM network. GSM, which stands for “Global System for Mobile Communications,” is used in many countries around the world, including Africa, Australia, Europe, Latin America and much of the Middle East and Asia. This means that AT&T has one of the most extensive networks abroad, with roaming agreements in over 190 countries. If you have a triband or quadband phone, it will work in most parts of the world, with the exception of Japan and South Korea.

With World Traveler from AT&T, you can get discounted rates on roaming in more than 195 countries. The plan allows you to sign up on a month by month basis, which is perfect if you won’t be gone for an extended period of time, or don’t expect to travel frequently. However, if you choose this route, make sure that your vacation time fits within the billing cycle, or you may find yourself without a functioning phone on vacation.

AT&T also offers calling packages for destinations around the world. You purchase a set amount of minutes for a set price, and pay additional if you go over the agreed amount of minutes. Packages are also available for texting and data.

T-Mobile

The German-owned T-Mobile also has an extensive overseas network. Its wireless service operates in 7 European countries including the U.K., the Netherlands and Germany and has roaming agreements with over 190 countries. It also provides service on some cruise ships. T-Mobile, which operates on a GSM network, requires a special phone in Japan and South Korea.

T-Mobile doesn’t have a specific traveler plan, meaning that if you use your phone abroad, you’ll have to pay per minute. The cost ranges from 49 cents to $3.99/minute, depending on where you go. Text messages cost 35 cents. To figure out how much you’ll have to pay, consult their international rates page.

Verizon Wireless

Unlike T-Mobile and AT&T, Verizon operates on a CDMA network, which stands for Code Division Multiple Access. However, it has roaming agreements with over 40 countries which also use CDMA and 220 countries that use GSM. If you have Verizon, you can use a CDMA handset in China, a number of Asian and East Asian countries, Israel, India, New Zealand and much of South America. However, you can also purchase a world phone from Verizon which has both CDMA and GSM radios built into it, such as the BlackBerry 8830 World Edition, the Samsung Renown and the BlackBerry Storm.

Verizon offers voice and data plans for approximately 150 countries. A voice plan is around $4.99/month, while texting runs about 50 cents per text sent and 5 cents per text received. These prices do vary by country, however.

If you want to opt out of a monthly plan, you can subscribe to the GlobalAccess Pay Per Use plan, a service which can be purchased with a $59.99 U.S. broadband service plan. It offers discounted rates of .002 cents per KB in Canada, .005 in Mexico and .02 in over 175 other countries.

Sprint PCS

Like Verizon, Sprint also uses CDMA, meaning that its customers can roam in 26 countries and 4 U.S. territories. In addition, Sprint has agreements with carriers in over 100 countries in order to offer service for a GSM/CDMA phone. This means that your Sprint phone should work in New Zealand, much of Southeast Asia, Central and South America, India and Israel. You can also purchase a world phone from Sprint, such as the BlackBerry 8830 World Edition, the HTC Touch Diamond or the Samsung IP-830w.

Sprint Worldwide offers a range of country-based international roaming and data plans. Add an International Data Pack to your domestic plan or choose Sprint Worldwide Voice add-on for $4.99/month. If you have an iPhone with Sprint Nextel, be wary about using data overseas without purchasing a special data pack, as automatic data usage overseas can quickly decimate your phone bill.

Outside of changing plans, the cheapest option for many travelers will be to unlock their phones and switch out the U.S. SIM card for a foreign SIM card. Look for an appropriate plan abroad – many countries have packages aimed at travelers that provide a foreign SIM card and charge by usage. For more information on unlocking your phone, check out our article on tips for using your cell phone abroad.

Photo Credit: Yamamote Line by specialoperations

On the occasions history lovers emerge from their libraries, they often head to Washington DC, Boston and Philadelphia to see the historical sites. However, there’s more to history than the Smithsonian and the Liberty Bell. TravelNerd looked for smaller cities with lesser-known, but no less important, historical landmarks. By focusing on smaller cities, TravelNerd was able to find the top 10 overlooked historical cities. Warning: you might even learn something while on vacation.

Honolulu, HI

Honolulu may seem like an odd place to look for a history lesson. Hawaii may have been the most recent state to join the union, but its history traces back much further than its American statehood status. Stop by Iolani Palace to see the only royal palace in the United States. King Kalakaua and Queen Lili’uokani governed Hawaii until 1893, and the palace is a spectacular place to see Hawaiian-inspired Renaissance architecture. Also visit Washington Place to see the former governor’s mansion, built in a Greek Revival style modeled after houses in Massachusetts.

Step even further back in time at the Pu’u o Mahuka Helau State Historic Park. This was the social, political and economic center before the 1800s. Visitors will see walled enclosures that formed the helau, a religious site similar to a temple, which covers almost 2 acres. For a taste of something modern, go see the USS Arizona shipwreck and Pearl Harbor. The USS Arizona was sunk during the World War II attack on Pearl Harbor and serves as a tribute to the men who died that day.

Charleston, SC

Charleston gives visitors a sense of the old South, where everything, from the pastel houses lining the streets to the swings on the Waterfront, seems like a history lesson. First, head to the Charleston Museum to see exhibits of the Civil War, traditional textiles and the famous Charleston Silver, which includes George Washington’s christening cup. Then go see Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired, and take a tour with historians from the National Park Service. Go to the Charleston City Market, one of the oldest public markets in U.S., which is home to 285 local endors, including artisans weaving sweetgrass baskets, an indigenous craft.

Be sure to stop at the Aiken-Rhett House Museum, a historical house built in 1820 that remained in the family until 1975. Then visit Drayton Hall, the oldest unrestored colonial houses in America and the only plantation on the Ashley River to stay intact. Walk in the garden at Middleton Place, one of the oldest landscaped gardens in America to see camellias, magnolias and roses that are over a century old. The College of Charleston, founded in 1770, is one of the oldest higher education institutions in the U.S., and its entire campus is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Be sure to see Randolph Hall, The Cistern Yard and Porters Lodge, some of the oldest and most popular buildings on campus.

St. Augustine, FL

St. Augustine is the oldest continually occupied European settlement, founded by Don Pedro Menendez de Aviles 44 years before Jamestown.  Start off your day at the oldest building, Mission de Nombre de Dios, the oldest mission in the U.S., which is still in use today. Then check the historic fortress of Castillo de San Marco, located on the shore of Matanzas Bay, to see 16th century armaments.

Stop at the St. Augustine Lighthouse, built in the late 1500s, and see the collection of museum artifacts, including the Fresnel lens made of 370 hand-cut glass prisms that are stacked 12 feet tall and 6 feet wide. Visit Florida’s oldest house in St. Augustine, where visitors can see evidence of the Spanish, British and American occupants. Be sure to also check out the Manucy Museum and the Page L. Edwards Gallery to see evidence of pirates, treasure fleets and wars.

Newport, RI

With over 400 buildings built before the Revolutionary War, it’s no wonder that visitors can practically see ghosts of the Puritans that settled in Newport. Follow their footsteps by taking the Discover Colonial Newport tour from the Newport Historical Society to see some of the oldest colonial houses and learn about life in that period.

Move forward in time to catch a glimpse of the glamorous life of the Vanderbilts at The Breakers, one of Newport’s finest historic mansion, built in 1885 by Cornelius Vanderbilt II. Also stop by Rough Point, the oceanfront mansion of Doris Duke, a tobacco heiress and art collector in the 20^th century. The mansion is still decorated the same way it was in her lifetime, so visitors can see European art and furniture and Chinese porcelains collected from around the world.

Charlottesville, VA

Charlotteville is the land of the Founding Fathers. Both Thomas Jefferson and James Monroe made their homes here, and James Madison’s Montpelier was a mere hop away in Orange. So while you’re here, be sure to visit the famous Monticello, the house and the gardens, to see the Dome Room and skylights. About 60% of the furnishings are original. Go on to visit the University of Virginia, right near Monticello. Be sure to take a free tour of The Rotunda, designed by Jefferson, and the rest of the Academic Village.

Then head to James Monroe’s Ash Law-Highland, operated by the College of William and Mary, Monroe’s alma mater. It consists of the original 1 story original frame and an additional section built in the mid-1800s. Fun fact: the front porch faces north, so you can see Monticello. Then head to Montpelier, the home of James and Dolley Madison to see where James Madison brainstormed the Constitution.

St. Louis, MO

Go pre-Columbian with the Cahokia Mounds, just 15 minutes east of St. Louis. One of the greatest cities in the world, Cahokia was the largest settlement north of Mexico. See the 100 ft. mound Monks Mound, and walk the trails around it. Then head back to St. Louis to the Missouri History Museum to explore exhibits on the Civil War and the World Fair in 1904. Download their free iPhone app on Historical St. Louis to find out more information about their historical photographs, or the free Android and iPhone app on Civil War sites throughout St. Louis.

Don’t forget to stop by the many universities in town. The exquisite, 42-room Samuel Cupples House and Gallery on the campus of Saint Louis University is listed on the National Historic Register. The Richardsonian mansion is located one door west of the Pius XII library on the Frost campus of Saint Louis University.  Washington University in St. Louis is a great example of Collegiate Gothic architecture. Be sure to walk to the end of Forest Park to the Medical Campus, the site of 1904 World’s Fair.

Salt Lake City, UT

The Utah State Capitol is one of Utah’s most prominent landmarks. Interestingly, the Travel Council Building was originally on Main Street, but dismantled in the 1963 and moved stone-by-stone to the top of State Street. The Marmalade Hill Historic District is one of the oldest districts in Salt Lake City, full of narrow streets and vintage buildings. Take a walking tour with the Utah Heritage Foundation.

Spend the afternoon outdoors in Memory Grove Park for a quick walk on the Freedom Trail. Then stop in Memorial House, which was previously used for veteran’s activities and is a popular setting for weddings, receptions and luncheons.

New Castle, DE

Historic New Castle dates back to 1651 and was founded by the Dutch West India Company on the old settlement of a Native American Village. What’s special about New Castle is the assortment of architecture in this town  Start at the New Castle Court House, now a museum dedicated to the Underground Railroad history. Then head down the cobblestone streets to Amstel House, one of the surviving early colonial buildings left.

Stop in WIlmington, just 10 minutes north of Historic New Castle, at the Delaware History Museum to see exhibits of Delaware’s historic achievements.

New Orleans, LA

The Big Easy may be known for its fantastical Mardi Gras celebrations, which harken back to its historical roots as a multilingual city. Start in the famous French Quarter to see iconic steamboats sail up the Mississippi River, same as they did in the 1800s. Then walk to Jackson Square to see art galleries and the Pontalba Apartments, the oldest apartments in the U.S. Stop by the Hermann-Grima and Gallier Historic Houses, 19^th-century houses turned into historical museums.

Tulane University hosts the Amistad Research Center, which houses the largest collection of manuscripts about African-Americans and the Civil Rights movement. The Historic New Orleans Collection hosts many exhibitions on the history of Louisiana, including current exhibitions on the cartography of Louisiana and on the natural flora and fauna of the New Orleans region. Top it off with a fun visit to the Museum of the American Cocktail to learn about the evolution of the cocktail and how to prepare perfect historical cocktails. Heads up though – they’re moving locations right now and will reopen in October of November this year. Go just outside the metro area to Bocage Plantation for a well-preserved example of a Southern plantation and historic home.

San Antonio, TX

Remember the Alamo at Alamo Plaza, located in the center of downtown San Antonio, next to the San Antonio River. Be sure to visit the Alamo itself, the Mission San Antonio de Valero to see the traditional Spanish-style architecture. Head to the San Antonio River to see the River Walk, flanked by early Texan and Mexican architectural buildings.

The Witte Museum provides fun for the whole family, with the South Texas Heritage Center where visitors can explore southern Texas history and watch demonstrations of traditional crafts. The University of Texas at San Antonio partnered with the Smithsonian to form the Institute of Texan Cultures, with exhibits on immigration in Texas and the influence of Texas culture on the world.

Photo Credit: New Orleans Square