From theme parks to baseball games, Anaheim has it all along with some of the best weather in the country. Bring your swimming gear and hit the beach while you are in town because there are dozens to choose from. But be sure to drop off your backpacks and extra gear at a bag storage locker in Anaheim before heading out on your date. 

• Ride Some Rides at Knott’s Berry Farm

According to the locals, Knott’s Berry Farm is the best theme park in California. It may not be as big as Disney, but it was the first and has the best rides. In fact, it has more than rides including water rides, roller coasters, family rides, and dark rides. Since 1920, they have been entertaining everyone ages one to 101. 

They started as a small berry farm in the 1920s but added rides, games, and shows over the years. They have four themed areas including Camp Snoopy, The Boardwalk, Fiesta Village, and Ghost Town. Now they have 60+ rides on 160 acres with scary coasters, huge water slides, and arcade games where you can win prizes.

• Find Out What All the Hype is About at Disneyland

Disneyland Resort is more than just one park, it has three areas including Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure, and Downtown Disney. And since it is in the city with awesome weather all year long, it stays open all year. Spend the day at one or visit all three depending on how much time and energy you have. 

Disneyland Park is the most popular with nine themed sections from Critter Country’s attractions to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. California Adventure has the Incredicoaster, Pixar Pier, and 72 acres of history and culture. And Downtown Disney has restaurants and over 30 shops to buy some fantastic souvenirs.

• Take a Stroll on Newport Pier

On Balboa Peninsula, near Newport Pier, you can find another stellar beach with soft golden sand on five miles of beach. You will see tons of surfers in this area who are typically out surfing off the jetty on a daily basis. Or you and your date can rent some boards and join them if you are up to it. 

The 1,032-foot-long pier is a registered landmark as well as a fun place to spend the day. At the end of the pier, enjoy a bite to eat at the Newport Pier Grill and Sushi Restaurant where you can sit out on the patio and watch the surfers while you eat. Do not miss the iconic Dory Fishing Fleet from 1891. 

• Enjoy the Outdoors at Crystal Cove State Park

Enjoy the 3.2 miles of sandy beaches and 2,400 acres of green space at Crystal Cove State Park. The park is known for its stunning hiking trails that allow you to explore canyons and ridges in the three-mile Moro Canyon Trail and the five-mile Moro Ridge Trail. But the nine-mile loop trail will take you around the whole park. 

Besides hiking, you can also go scuba diving, snorkeling, or swimming in the cove where there are some amazing reefs full of tropical wonders. Whether you want to stroll in the sand or take a walk along the rocks, there is plenty to keep you busy. While you are there, you can also get some food and souvenirs too.

• Nighttime Paddling at Pirate Coast Paddle

Whether you have been paddling since you were a kid or if you have never been, the nighttime paddling at Pirate Coast Paddle is a fascinating and even romantic experience. Pirate Coast is a stand-up paddleboard company in Newport Beach tucked into a little cove on Back Bay that offers lessons as well as rentals.

The SUP Glow is their most popular tour and includes the rental of a standup paddleboard (SUP) with LED lighting on the bottom to let you see the water in a whole new way. The calm waters of the bay are perfect for this trip, and you will love seeing all the nighttime water creatures as they dance in and out under your SUP. 

• Play Mini Golf at Camelot Golfland

Camelot Golfland is fun for people of all ages whether it is your first or 101st date with more than just minigolf to entertain you both. The giant castle is visible from all over so you will have no trouble finding the place, but you may have trouble leaving because of all the fun activities to enjoy from bumper boats to mini bowling.

The golf course is one of a kind with different themes like Surf’s Up with nautical fun and the World Course that takes you through water cannons and Spanish forts. You can race each other on the Fastcar Raceway, bump into each other on the Bumper Boats, and shoot at each other in the outdoor laser tag arena. 

• Treat Your Date to An Original Ice Cream Sandwich

No matter where you go on your date, be sure to stop by Cream Nation and get you and your special someone a delicious treat that you can design yourselves. They have 17 different ice cream flavors to start with like banana walnut fudge, Cin-ful Churro, and Cup of Joe. They even have two soy flavors: mint chip and strawberry.

Then choose the warm freshly baked goody to sandwich the scoop of creamy goodness. They have 18 cookie flavors like maple oatmeal spice, creamfetti, and of course, they have chocolate chip. You can also have it dipped in any topping of your choice such as sprinkles, chocolate chips, or even gummy bears. 

Some other fun places you and your date can visit include the Anaheim GardenWalk, Center Street Promenade, Anaheim Ice Skating, and the Santa Ana Zoo. You could also take your date to an Angels baseball or Ducks hockey game if they are a sports fan. Make sure you take lots of pics for Instagram.

The post 7 Awesome Date Ideas in Anaheim appeared first on Nonstoptravellers.

Washington, D.C., formally the District of Columbia and commonly referred to as Washington or D.C., is the capital of the United States. Founded after the American Revolution as the seat of government of the newly independent country, Washington was named after George Washington, the first president of the United States and a founding father.

Check out our map with all main Washington’s attractions!

washington dc capitol

washington dc white house

washington dc white house

The capital city of the USA can be described as a huge museum free to the public and open to its visitors. Anywhere you walk Washington reveals its power and amazes its visitors by all means!  The city is devided into seveal districts but we visited only some of them, including the city center where all locals and national authorities are located and  Bethesda a suburb in Washington!

Vibrant and youthful Wahington DC offers a fantastic blend of world class museums top rated restaurants, and endless options! Spend a day exploring the free museums of the Smithsonian institute! If you visit on spring dont miss the National cherry blossom festival!

Having only 2 days available we had to rush a lot in order to make the most of our staying there! Thankfully we had the most amazing cousin and his adorable family over there who made our visit incredible and our experience unforgettable!

So here are the 2 days itinerary we had while visiting Washington

Day 1 in Washington

• Union Station
• White House
• Washington Monument
• Obelisk
• National World War Memorial
• Vietnam Veteran;s memorial
• Lincoln Memorial
• Korean War Veterans Memorial
• Dr Martin Luther King Jr National Memorial
• Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
• Jefferson Memorial
• River Potomac (drive by)
• Drive through Rock Creek Park (ideal dor trekking lovers)
• Mount Vernon

Day 2 in Washington

• US Capitol – the most widely recognized symbol of democratic government in the world.
• Supreme court
• Library of Congress
• United States Botanic Graden
• National Air and Space Museum
• National Museum of Natural History
• The US National Archives (Declaration of Independence)
• National Museum of American history
• National Cathedral
• Great falls

Declaration of Independence

We hold these truths to be self evident that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. Thomas Jefferson

More things to do and see in Washington

• Bureau of Engraving and Printing
• Kennedy Center
• Ford’s theatre
• International Spy Museum
• Smithsonian Institution
• L’ Enfant Plazza

Best way to explore Washington

The best way to explore Wahington is on foot, by bike or scooter! The choice is up to you! It is for sure that the whole area is really huge so 2 days of walking could be exhausting for some, while for others may be the perfect way not to miss a single thing! Try both walking and cycling! Jump bikes and scooters can be found everywhere make it the most convenient way to move around! Last but not least we always use Uber, you know that, just like the americans do!

• Extra tip Book any extra tickets prior arrival  even if its for free (eg. US Capitol free entrance and guided tours are offered throughout the day between 8.40am – 3.20 pm Monday to Saturday, but tour passes are required).
• Extra tip Be in line early or late enough because the queues are really long there.

We hope you enjoyed our travel posts about our east coast adventures in the US! Both New York and Washington DC are amazing and inspiring in a different way and deserve a visit!

We thank our family in Washington for showing us around all city’s highlights and for making our trip unforgettable! Hope to cu soon in Greece!

Check out our map with all main Washington’s attractions!

The post A BEGGINER’S GUIDE TO WASHINGTON DC appeared first on Nonstoptravellers.

Concrete jungle where dreams are made of
There’s nothing you can’t do, now you’re in New York!
These streets will make you feel brand new
Big lights will inspire you
Hear it for New York, New York, New Yooork! (Alicia Keys)

new york city manhattan times square

This blog post is about exploring New York and its secrets, experiencing, feeling and eventually becoming part of it…

So buckle up and enjoy the journey in the alluring vastness of the city. Whether it’s my words or the “big lights”, this city will definitely inspire you!

The post BIG LIGHTS WILL INSPIRE YOU NOW YOU’RE IN NEW YORK appeared first on Nonstoptravellers.

Just a small piece of advice: while traveling try to respect the locals’ every day life! Dont overeact or become a fool just for a selfie… we can assure you that there are so many ways of enjoying a view without being annoying!

Check out our map with all New York’s attractions and top things to do!

After checking the top things to do check how to use Bounce and store your luggage in US cities! Discount 10% Use our link and get a discount

Use this link and get an extra 10% discount on the already super low price of 5, 90 USD per day!

So, here are the 33+1 most instagrammable spots in New York City

1 Times square is a major commercial intersection, tourist destination, entertainment center and neighborhood in the Midtown Manhattan section of New York City. Brightly adorned with billboards and advertisements, Times Square is sometimes referred to as “The Crossroads of the World” “The Center of the Universe”, “the heart of The Great White Way“, and “the heart of the world”. One of the world’s busiest pedestrian areas, it is also the hub of the Broadway Theater District and a major center of the world’s entertainment industry.Times Square is one of the world’s most visited tourist attractions, drawing an estimated 50 million visitors annually.

2 American museum of natural history 23usd 10.00am -17.45pm Includes admission to all 45 halls and the Rose Center for Earth and Space but does not include special exhibitions, giant-screen film, or Space Show. Pay-what-you-wish admission is available only at ticket counters, where the amount you pay is up to you!

3 The Statue of Liberty is a universal symbol for freedom given to the United States on October 28, 1886 as a gift from the people of France. The statue was designed by Frederick Bartholdi, a French sculptor, and framed by Gustave Eiffel, the same gentleman who designed the Eiffel Tower. Today, the statue is visited by millions of people a year and continues to remain an icon for freedom as well as a welcoming symbol to immigrants arriving to America.

4  Ellis Island, also known as the ‘Island of Hope and Tears’, was the largest gateway for millions of immigrants looking for a new beginning and a new life for their families in America. Ellis Island was once America’s busiest immigration station that operated for over 62 years (1892 until 1954) and saw millions of people from around the world. Today, Ellis Island Immigration Museum Wall of Honor hosts 700,000 names inscribed on the wall of many who once passed through the island. Million of visitors travel to the island by Statue Cruises to explore one of America’s greatest historical sites

5 Flatiron building one of the most iconic buildings of New York city!

6 High line the perfect place for pedestrians and offers plenty of spots for urban selfies from the above!

7 Chelsea market

8 Greenwich village is one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in New York.

9 Washington square park try taking a photo with the Empire state building in it!

10 DUMB short for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) is a neighborhood in the New York City of Brooklyn. The area known as DUMBO used to be known as Gairville It encompasses two sections: one located between the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges, and another that continues east from the Manhattan Bridge to the Vinegar hill area. The neighborhood is bounded by Brooklyn bridge park.

11 Brooklyn Bridge The Brooklyn Bridge is a hybrid cable-stayed/suspension bridge in New York City and is one of the oldest roadway bridges in the United States. Started in 1869 and completed fourteen years later in 1883, it connects the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn, spanning the East River.

12 Manhattan bridge is a suspension bridge that crosses the East River in New York City, connecting Lower Manhattan at Canal Street with Downtown Brooklyn at the Flatbush Avenue Extension. The main span is long, with the suspension cables being long. The bridge’s total length is. It is one of four toll-free bridges spanning the East River, the other three are the Queensboro, Williamsburg, and Brooklyn Bridges

13 Battery park is a public park located at the southern tip of Manhattan Island in New York City facing New York Harbor. The park and surrounding area is named for the artillery batteries that were positioned there in the city’s early years to protect the settlement behind them.

14 Central park  is an urban park in Manhattan. It is located between the Upper west and east side of Manhattan! Central Park is the most visited urban park in the United States, with an estimated 37–38 million visitors annually, and one of the most filmed locations in the world. In terms of area, Central Park is the fifth largest park in New York City, covering 843 acres (341 ha). Main attractions of the park include the Ramble and Lake; several amusement attractions including Wollman Rink, Central Park Carousel, and the Central Park Zoo; Sheep Meadow; the Central Park Mall; Bethesda Terrace; the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir; and the Delacorte Theater that hosts Shakespeare in the Park programs in the summertime. The park also has sports facilities, including the North Meadow Recreation Center, basketball courts, baseball fields, and soccer fields.

15 Top of the rock observatory [56 usd sun and stars twice a day – 41,5 usd plain ticket only scheduled tickets (or wait in lines in order to get one) 8.00-00.00 ]. The main entrance to Top of the Rock is located on 50th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues. Look for the big red carpet marking the entrance on the south side of the street. A second entrance is located on the Concourse level of 30 Rockefeller Plaza. There are three levels of observation decks to explore at Top of the Rock. The first deck includes the Radiance Wall and our gift shop. The second, featuring the Breezeway, is entirely outdoors. The third observation deck, located on the 70th floor open-air roof deck, is completely outdoors and free of a glass enclosure, making it perfect for photos.

16 Rockfeller Building Ascend 70 floors into the sky and take in sweeping 360 degree city views from the three indoor and outdoor viewing decks (32-38 usd 8.00-12.00am). The 14 original Art Deco buildings, commissioned by the Rockefeller family, span the area between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, split by a large sunken square and a private street called Rockefeller Plaza. Five International Style buildings, built later, are located on the west side of Sixth Avenue and at the north end of Rockefeller Plaza.

17 NY Stock exchange Wall street 8 block long NY financial district, financial enterprises, home of NY stock exchange The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE, nicknamed “The Big Board“) is an American stock exchange located at 11 Wall Street, Lower Manhattan, New York City, New York. It is by far the world’s largest stock exchange by market capitalization of its listed companies at US$30.1 trillion as of February 2018. The average daily trading value was approximately US$169 billion in 2013. The NYSE trading floor is located at 11 Wall Street and is composed of 21 rooms used for the facilitation of trading. A fifth trading room, located at 30 Broad Street, was closed in February 2007. The main building and the 11 Wall Street building were designated National Historic Landmarks in 1978.

18 Charging Bull which is sometimes referred to as the Wall Street Bull or the Bowling Green Bull, is a bronze sculpture that stands in Bowling Green in the Financial District in Manhattan, New York City. Originally guerrilla art, installed unofficially by Arturo Di Modica its popularity led to it being a permanent feature

charging bull the bull of wall street new york city manhattan

19 Radio city music hall

20 MOMA (25usd 10:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.) Open seven days a week The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is an art museum located inMidtown Manhattan. MoMA plays a major role in developing and collecting modernist art, and is often identified as one of the largest and most influential museums of modern art in the world. MoMA’s collection offers an overview of modern and contemporary art, including works of architecture and design, drawing etc.

21 Trump tower Designed by world-renowned architect Der Scutt in 1983, Trump Tower has been a staple in the New York City skyline for over 30 years. Rising 68 stories over Fifth Avenue’s most desirable intersection, Trump Tower houses 263 residences unrivaled in quality, as well as one of the city’s most ornate atrium and shopping spaces. Once the tallest all-glass structure in New York City, Trump Tower offers residents not only a reputation, but homes that capture unobstructed views of Central Park, Midtown Manhattan, and Downtown Manhattan.

22 Grand central station Be transported by the iconic beauty and lasting legacy of Grand Central Terminal. This historic world-famous landmark in Midtown Manhattan is not simply a transportation hub—it’s also a shopping, dining, and cultural destination with 60 shops, 35 places to eat, and a full calendar of events all under one magnificent roof. Opened to the public in February 1913, Grand Central Terminal is a story of great engineering, survival, and rebirth. 

23 Chrysler building The Chrysler Building was the first supertall building taking the title of World’s Tallest Building after winning a height battle with The Bank of Manhattan. The building claimed the title when it raised an 125-foot spire in just 90 minutes after constructing it in secret. It lost the title of World’s Tallest Building 11 months later to the Empire State Building but enjoyed commercial success due to its location next to Grand Central Terminal. In 2009, the Chrysler Building went through a retrofit, gaining the certification LEED Gold for Existing Buildings.

24  5^th Avenue is a major thoroughfare in the borough of Manhattan in New York City, United States. It stretches from West 143rd Street in Harlem to Washington Square North at Washington Square Park in Greenwich Village. It is considered one of the most expensive and elegant streets in the world

25 Public LIbrary Stephen A Schwarzman building (10am-18pm)

26 Empire state building (8am to 2am every day, day and night ticket allows you to experience the city from our 360-degree, open-air observatory under the sun and the sparkling city lights the same night, the night ticket is redeemable after 9 pm 52usd). The Empire State Building is a 102-story Art Deco skyscraper in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. The building has a roof height of 1,250 feet (380 m) and stands a total of 1,454 feet (443.2 m) tall, including its antenna. Its name is derived from “Empire State“, the nickname of New York, which is of unknown origin. As of 2019 the building is the 5th-tallest completed skyscraper in the United States and the 28th-tallest in the world. It is also the 6th-tallest freestanding structure in the Americas. The Empire State Building stood as the world’s tallest building for nearly 40 years until the completion of the World Trade Center‘s North Tower in Lower Manhattan in late 1970. Following the September 11 attacks in 2001, it was again the tallest building in New York until the new One World Trade Center was completed in April 2012.

27 NY City hall 

28 Foley square

29 Soho

30 East side

31 Little Italy

32 China town

33 Carry Bradshaw s apartment

33+1 Friends apartment

Check out our map with all New York’s attractions and top things to do!

More attractions and places to visit that deserve our respect

• The 9/11 Memorial is free of charge and open to the public daily from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.  Honoring the lives of those who were lost is at the heart of our mission. Occupying eight of the 16 acres at the World Trade Center, the Memorial is a tribute to the past and a place of hope for the future. The names of every person who died in the terrorist attacks of February 26, 1993 and September 11, 2001 are inscribed in bronze around the twin memorial pools.
• St Patricks cathedral The Cathedral of St. Patrick (commonly called St. Patrick’s Cathedral) is a decorated Neo-Gothic-style Roman Catholic cathedral church in the United States and a prominent landmark of New York City.
• FDNY Memorial Wall
• St Pauls chapel

The post 33 + 1 MOST INSTAGRAMMABLE SPOTS IN NEW YORK CITY appeared first on Nonstoptravellers.

New York… The metropolis of all nations, the city where opportunities and freedom of expression are pillars of culture and perhaps the top travel destination for many people around the world.  Times Square, Statue of Liberty, Wall Street, Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park, Top of the Rock Observatory, Empire State builiding, Ground Zero, Ellis Island, 5th Avenue, Battery Park Docks and countless other points of interest are there ready to be discovered by you and to make the trip to New York as exciting and as unforgettable as it gets!

Everything you need to see in New York

Many people imagine that New York’s main attractions are its skyscrapers and not unfairly. Beyond the unique urban environment, which by the way leaves no one indifferent, New York city is full of parks, full of museums, theatres, cultural and artistic places! The list is huge and endless so start with the main points of interest that we recommend here!

Check out our map with all New York’s attractions and top things to do!

New York 5 days travel itinerary

Read our 5 day itinerary for a trip to New York, get ideas and book your tickets. It is a city equally beautiful all year round, with a special preference in spring and Christmas times! Besides, who wouldn’t love to witness New York on Christmas? Dont forget to check our travel pack list!

New York, big lights will inspire you

New York may be a ‘dark’ city in many ways, but that doesnt mean that it cannot be at the same time bright and inspiring! So for you who want to experience New York in a different way, take a look at a different point of view which may allow you to feel some New Yorker’s vibes for a while!

What are the most instagrammable places in New York?

All of our travels have changed a lot with the use of social media channels, isnt that right? So heres a list with the most  instagrammable spots in New York for the lovers of photography and Instagram influencers.

new york central park

Idea for a trip to New York with a 2 days extension to Washington DC

If you ever find yourself travelling in the eastern states of the United States of America, you cannot miss to visit the capital city, the glorious Washington DC! Washington, D.C., formally the District of Columbia and commonly referred to as Washington or D.C., is the capital of the United States. Founded after the American Revolution as the seat of government of the newly independent country, Washington was named after George Washington, the first president of the United States and a founding father.

Check out our map with all main Washington’s attractions!

Transportation

For our transportation we have been using Uber (very cheap with carpool option) and Metro (33 USD metro card per 7 days). How to travel from JFK to New York? There are many ways to go from the airport to New York!  From and to the airport we took a taxi at  a 52.90usd standard fare. Also JFK is well connected to the NYC Public transportation Network Take the Jamaica or Howard beach ari train! Visit the MTA official website to learn more. As far as the long haul flight is concerned here are some helpful tips in order to enjoy a healthy flight!

Apps we used while in New York

• Uber
• Jump bikes 2δολ. για 30 λεπτά
  
• Lime
• Usebounce 5,90 usd for your luggage storage per day with an extra discount of 10% while using this link!
• Offline google maps NYC
  

Where to store your luggage?

After checking the top things to do check how to use Bounce and store your luggage in US cities! Discount 10% Use our link and get a discount

Use this link and get an extra 10% discount on the already super low price of 5, 90 USD per day!

Weather in New York City

As for the weather New York is kind of unpredictable. Have a raincoat with you and you ll be just fine, after all you re not made of sugar! All that matters is that you made it to New York the city where everything is possible, so dont let anything ruin that for you!

brooklyn bridge new york

How much does a trip to New York cost?

This is a bit of a issue for many, as the cost cannot be kept at very low levels by having inflexible costs that cannot be avoided and are particularly high. Air tickets, accommodation, sightseeing, entertainment, travel, food, visa is the descending order of all costs not including any of your shopping purchases of course! We spent about 1800 euros for 7 days for 2 persons (per 2 persons: airtickets and visa 300 euro, accommodation: 600 euro, sightseeing: 300euro, transformation including to and from airport and to and from Washington DC: 250 euro, fast food, beers, souvenirs & rest: 350euro). But again is not a normal price, so don’t be alarmed by your credit card account when you finally see it after your trip! Our advice is try to find cheap airtickets! Check out our little tips for budget traveling and good luck on that!

So travellers, read our blog posts about New York and Washington, pack your suitcase, book your flights and you are ready to become a New Yorker!

The post THE AMERICAN DREAM IN NEW YORK CITY appeared first on Nonstoptravellers.

After reading our travel itinerary check out more useful stuff and more things to know such as the Internet connection or the visa you need before flying to the USA! Also for more inspiration do check our guest post about New York! Keep traveling in USA by reading our blog post about Washington or the West coast roadtripping in California!

Check out our map with all New York’s attractions and top things to do!

After checking the top things to do check how to use Bounce and store your luggage in US cities! Discount 10% Use our link and get a discount

Use this link and get an extra 10% discount on the already super low price of 5, 90 USD per day!

Day 1 – Lower Manhattan

• Ground zero
• 9/11 Memorial – free entrance and open to public 7.30am – 9.30pm
• World Trade center and Freedom tower
• FDNY Memorial Wall
• St Pauls chapel
• NY City hall and Park & Foley square
• Wall street & NY Federal hall
• NY Stock exchange & Financial district
• Charging Bull
• Highline – perfect for a walk among the skyscrapers
• Chelsea market – perfect for a lunch or a drink – look for  happy hours
• Explore Greenwich village a beautiful district of Manhattan
• For more touristic cliche look for Carry Bradshaw’s or Friends’ apartments
• Head towards Washington square park and watch the locals passing by
  
• Cross the Manhattan bridge
• Archway under Manhattan bridge
• Walk down the Pebble beach where you ll meet Jane s carousel
• Enjoy sunset hours under the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan’s big lights
  
• Walk Brooklyn bridge towards Mnahattan(30’ walking)
• Have a drink at Soho
• Enjoy  Times square by night
  

Day 2 – Midtown

• Morning views of Times Square
  
• Walk towards  Top of the rock observatory [( 8.00 am -00.00pm) admission 56 usd for double entering, 41.5 usd per day ticket]
• Rockfeller Building (ticket 32-38 usd)
  
• Radio city music hall
• St Patricks cathedral
• MOMA (25 usd 10:30am–5:30pm open every day of the week)
• Trump tower
• Grand central station
• Chrysler building
• 5^th avenue
• Public library Stephen A. Schwarzman Building 10.00am-18.00pm perfect for some relaxation at one of the worlds greatest libraries
  
• Empire state building
  
• Try to find a ticket offer to watch a performance at Broadway

Day 3- Upper West to east side Manhattan

• Sunrise at Brooklyn Bridge
• Take a big long walkt at  Central park
  
• American museum of natural history (23 usd 10.00am – 17.45 pm begin exploring from up to downstairs)
  
• Visit Harlem district
  
• Shopping time! Get your tickets via groupon at 27 usd to visit Woodbury commons premium outlets (the normal price would be 40usd, you need an hour to get there and buses start from midtown Manhattan) or visit Century 21 in Lower Manhattan
• East village or little Italy for some bar hopping

Day 4 – Battery park – Liberty statue – Ellis island

• Battery park and cruise tickets info.
  
• The Statue of Liberty is a universal symbol for freedom given to the United States on October 28, 1886 as a gift from the people of France. The statue was designed by Frederick Bartholdi, a French sculptor, and framed by Gustave Eiffel, the same gentleman who designed the Eiffel Tower. Today, the statue is visited by millions of people a year and continues to remain an icon for freedom as well as a welcoming symbol to immigrants arriving to America.
• Ellis Island, also known as the ‘Island of Hope and Tears’, was the largest gateway for millions of immigrants looking for a new beginning and a new life for their families in America. Ellis Island was once America’s busiest immigration station that operated for over 62 years (1892 until 1954) and saw millions of people from around the world.Today, Ellis Island Immigration Museum Wall of Honor hosts 700,000 names inscribed on the wall of many who once passed through the island. Million of visitors travel to the island by Statue Cruises to explore one of America’s greatest historical sites. 
• Late in the afternoon visit Flatiron and relax with a nice cup of coffee

Day 5

Today is your day! Once you’ve seen almost all the main sights, highlights and instagrammable spots of New York City now its time to experience New York in a more alternative way, read our blog post about a different idea of New York and get inspired… Choose areas that you liked the most and walk them again and again! Take a walk at the Hudson River Pier, start your day by running at your nearest park, observe the world, get lost among the locals and become a stranger among strangers, enter a museum that you did not get to enter earlier… Generally  speaking do something different than just being a typical tourist! Give New York the time it deserves… feel its vibes and fall in love with its alluring city lights!

The post HOW TO SEE ALL NEW YORK IN 5 DAYS ITINERARY appeared first on Nonstoptravellers.

1.Drink as many Mohitos and Pina Coladas you have never had in your life before because they are delightful, cheap, with great raw materials and visit the Havana Club Museum in Havana to learn how to make rum.

2.Give Havana some time, do not just aim to see the sights, relax and enjoy the… Hanging out at the squares like Plaza de la Catredal and Plaza Vieja and walk on their beach the famous Malecon, especially at sunset hours.

3.Stay in a casa particular not just for cost issues but to be able to get closer to the local culture. More details about Casa particular we have in our post about the trip to Cuba.

cuba

4. Go to other areas besides Havana, such as Trinidad and Cien Fuego. Other than the fact that you will be able to see their countryside, with the green meadows and the tropical vegetation you will be able to see picturesque and smaller than the capital cities whose beauty will enchant you.

5.If you stop at a sugarcane estate try some juice!

6.Do Not hesitate to eat from small shops and street food as the Cubans do. They are very, very tasty and relatively healthy.

7. Time for some Internet Rehab. Internet acess is relatively limited adjust your trip accordingly. Print all your travel documents and tickets and download offline maps such as GoogleMaps or maps.me.

8. Visit live shows and enjoy Latin rhythms such as ruba, Salsa, Merenge and Raegetone vibes. If you don’t like these kinds of music, don’t discard them, maybe you ll change your mind and why not learn some dancing too…!!!

9.Use an old classic American car of the 60s for your transportation or more simply a makina. The embargo and the restrictions that prevailed for political reasons after the 1959 revolution resulted in all these old cars being used on a daily basis even today by the Cubans.  The sensation is unique.

10.Tranquilo… It’s something Cubans can teach you anywhere you go in their country. Don’t be nervous about anything that comes up… Just enjoy the rhythm of the island.

We Hope you will find our information about Cuba useful and we wish to see you again soon!

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The post TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN CUBA appeared first on Nonstoptravellers.

Here you will find all interesting and useful info about Cuba and your staying there before you embark on a trip to this special and colourful land!

A Few words about Cuba

Cuba or the Republic of Cuba to be more precise is an island state in the Caribbean, with the largest population in particular. It was Discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1492 and became a Spanish colony, where many slaves from Africa were transported. The decade of 60 was politically strong and eventually prevailed the Cuban Revolution led by Fidel Castro, since then Cuba is a one-party socialist democracy.

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Where do i go when in Cuba?

Cuba is a big Island with many beautiful places to visit and points of interest that are worthy of your time, it takes several days to wander all the sights. If There is a limitation in the days here are the 6 most important destinations that you should not miss, you will find them on our map by clicking here and these are:

• Cuba’s capital Havana, of course! It is Considered the main attraction of Cuba and not unfairly. Unique Old Town, Amazing beach Front (Malecon) and fantastic squares.
• Varadero (Varadero), a tourist destination for relaxation with the homonymous exotic beach. Going to Varadero You can also make a stop at the beautiful city of Matanzas (Matanzas).
• The very beautiful Trinidad (Trinidad) with its quaint houses and alleys, a city known for the production of tobacco products.
• The Historic Santa Clara (Santa Clara), the fifth largest city in Cuba with the mausoleum of Che Guevara.
• The Shien Fugos (Cienfuegos), in other words a pearl of the south. It is a very beautiful city, which has joined the UNESCO list, as it is a typical example of Spanish urban architecture of the early 19th century.
• The Cuban National Park Cienaga de Zapata, where you can see typical examples of tropical flora and fauna, as well as to experience the way the first inhabitants of the island lived before colonization.

Before Organizing your trip you can read our post about the10 things you need to do in Cuba, to get more ideas.

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Where should I stay in Cuba?

While starting searching on the internet you may find it difficult to see the expected results! So read below the ē basic options you have when it comes to accommodation:

A very good solution that we strongly recommend is to stay in a casa particular. But What is a  Casa particular? Its a licalo house you offer you a room to stay in in very affordable price! It Stands out for the unique experience as you come in contact with locals, you can eat together, smoke and experience their everyday life and culture. We would also suggest you to book a Casa only as soon as you go there because it is much cheaper and it is fairly easy to find one.

You could also use a site like Cubacasa.Also In recent years there are houses available on the Airbnb platform.

In Cuba finally there are expensive and beautiful hotels at good prices regarding the services they offer,  you can discover them on search engines such as booking.

Where should I go fhor Cuban vibes?

In Cuba you will relaxing in Latin rhythms everywhere  and you will be able to dance salsa, Chacha, Reggaeton and Ruba… And If you don’t know how to dance all the above, it’s an ideal opportunity to learn now on Cuba! In Addition to the well-known shops like “La Bodeguida del Medio ” and the “Floridita ” in Havana (Hemingway’s haunts), you will discover picturesque cafes on the streets of the cities you will visit.

You will Also find many live performances of Latin bands with amazing music. You can enjoy tasty and cheap rum on one of their various squares, smoke authentic Cuban cigars and drink as many Mohitos and Pina Coladas you have not drunk in your whole life. After midnight you don’t have much choice since it’s not in their culture to go out late at night. You could go to one of the Casa de la Musica, which is loke a live music club, just ask the locals before you go to a one so that you wont be disappointed.

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What should I eat in Cuba?

In Cuba you will find tasty food at very good prices, especially seafood and chicken. You will Also taste amazing tropical fruits and drink wonderful natural juices. Regarding he food keep in the back of your mind that because of the embargo and the existing restrictions there isnt any product variety (for example chocolate choices), but this will not stand in the way of your journey. The Street food on the streets of Havana is amazing and worth a try.

Tip: do not forget to eat fried bananas and churros (churros).

Transportation in Cuba?

Inside cities there is public transport which is worth using for the experience. Also you can bargain and rent taxis that are cars of the decade of 60, known as Matkina (Makina). Finally tourists are very popular to use for their travel coco taxi. Among The cities there are coaches at satisfactory prices. In Addition, you could hire local drivers for your transportation. They  can be found bargaining in front of the Capitol (El Capitolio) in Havana.  Finally, there are also car rental companies operating and found on Internet but its not consider as the cheapest option.

Is it safe to travel to Cuba?

For many different reasons, mainly political, the country is completely safe for tourists. You will Not feel anywhere  insecure and everyone is available to help you with sincere kindness.

Is there internet connection ini Cuba?

Generally the thing with the use of Internet is special and changes year after year. It is Certainly Limited in its use in relation to Europe. In your   accommodation, it is possible that you will have access, only at a low speed. Also free WiFi can be found at some public places but access is super slow.

“Pro tip… Get ready for rehab!

We trully believe that a trip to Cuba can change a lot the way you think of life…. If It is your dream do not delay it travellers.. Just relax and enjoy the trip! As  locals say in Cuba…Tranquilo…

The post CUBA – ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW appeared first on Nonstoptravellers.

Travel Documents!

Passport! Those who have one check the expiration date not to be less than six months from the date of your trip. In case the expiration date is close we recommend you to renew it immediately. Those of you who do not yet have a passport time to gain one! Collect all the paperwork needed and get a passport! Also remember to check you have white pages for the US visa! Have a photo of the passport on your phone or a printed one.

Visa!

In the USA you will need ESTA. Enter the ESTA website and once you have passed all the necessary data carefully, you just give some time for it to be approved. The Whole process is done electronically and will take you about two hours. It Costs about 15euro and lasts for one year. Photocopy your approval.

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From – to the airport!

Park Around airports in case you want to move in the comfort of your car, leave the car in a safe place and find it clean when you return, with very little money! For those of you who want more comfort, do not have a vehicle or you will be with great company we recommend Uber, will leave you and will receive you safely, quickly and comfortably outside your gate.

Accommodation!

New York Is famous for the high cost of staying there, so it may be difficult to find the ideal accommodation for you. However, especially if you are traveling with company we recommend Airbnb, Hostel and of course couch surfing! Do not stay out of town, coz you have to feel the vibes of the city, but make sure that you are close to a metro stop to be more flexible. Photocopy your reservation.

Airport!

Big airports are really big so pay attention! Especially Those of you who have never been in such an airport, you may need even an hour to move from one gate to another. Calculate your times correctly and in case you have a transfer to another airport, pay attention because other rules apply in each airport and you may need to print new boarding passes. Before you fly, be sure about which airport you are landing to organize your transition to your accommodation and back prior your flghts. It is wise to keep  all boarding passes-check ins photocopied as well.

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Check In!

It Goes without saying that we do electronic check-in before our flights, but if the airport does not support automatic procedures you may have to wait in line to leave luggage and show your cards. You May even need to have your boarding passes printed! So either case have them printed with you.

Luggage!

Make Sure your baggage and hand luggage limits are those refferes on the tickets you have purchased. Beware because overweight and extra baggage especially in USA cost enough money. To reduce the cost you can travel with a backpack up to New York and add luggage to the inbound flight! That’s what we do!

Travel Applications!

Uber, Google Maps offline, maps me, whats up, Jump bikes  etc. Be Sure to save all the points of interest you want to visit, your accommodation etc. Download maps to navigate even without internet connection. Save your credit card to Uber so you don’t waste time when you use it.

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Credit Cards!

You are in the US, in the metropolis of all cities, forget the cash and use plastic money, only! You Achieve better parity (normally…)! Take with you another card, you never know… Make Sure you have a high credit limit, high enough and tell your bank where to ypou are about to travel (some banks need this info). Take some cash with you (only a few though). Dollar is not one of our favorite currencies in terms of travelling and unfortunately the exchange rate with euro is not very pleasant at the time! Make sure before you travel that you know all the currency rates!

Entering the country!

Upon the arrival at the airport there is a series of standard procedures in order to pass the control! No need for exaggeration. There are automated procedures and a mini interview that goes like what is the reason for your visit etc. Make Sure you’re serious and response to the questions properly so that you get to finish up soon.

Travel itinerary!

With this one you will need your own good online search (via an updated travel blog like ours ;-)), or through a travel guide or with a travel agency to book a tour! Its not that difficult, get  pen and a paper and start palnning! Once you are done pass all points of interest on Google Maps and then calculate times and distances, now there you are you have your itinerary ready! If  time wont allows it that you walk, you just get some Jump bikes that will get to the next point conveniently!

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Travel Insurance!

In the case of the USA, travel insurance it is not obligatory, but it is something that is  good for you to have  especially on long journeys. Besides you will find it very useful to have travel insurance, once needed. Try a famous travel insurance company such as the Mondial assistance etc.

Tipping!

You’Re in the US, which means that everything  looks  and actually is more expensive! The same is true with the tips which  usually are not mentioned in the original prices at the menus nd many times its obligatory to leave tips. The percentages range between 10%, 15% etc. You should also know that tips are often collected for the wages of employees, especially in restaurants and cafés.

Internet!

As we mentioned in the Practical guide of RoadTrip in California, check out US Mobile and place your order to havea  number and internet connection everywhere in the USA!

Renting a car!

For those of you wishing to rent a car to take a trip out of New York, choose a well-known company which usually lets you pick up-drop off at different places that are more convenient especially if you depart from a different airport than the one you landed at. Choose providers like Alamo car etc.

The post ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE TRAVELLING TO USA appeared first on Nonstoptravellers.

As you may already understood we did a lot of preparation and came up to a very strict itinerary for our roadtrip in California, of course thats not something you all have to do when travelling but we guess it depends on where you travel and when! To be more specific… US is considered to be an expensive country especially for low budget travellers, so the more informed and prepared you are the less money and time you ll get to spend! This idea of travelling doesnt fit all your trips but surely worked out for us (also has to do with how many days you travel, we only had two weeks available…)

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Mobile Card-Internet

There are various prepaid companies in America (eg. T-MOBILE). We did not locate these companies at any airport but found a lot in the streets of the cities we visited but we had it all done in a different way! US Mobile! Enter the website, ask them to send you a starter kit with SIM cards in one of the places you plan to stay in Usa! When you arrive ask for the package and activate in simple steps the package that best suits you! You won’t find a cheaper way than this one, honestly! Of course, in rough and desert areas there is no signal but don’t worry because there are tourists and locals everywhere for any help you may need!

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Parking

For those of you who ll rent a car, you will definitely be concerned about the parking lot. This is because while parking is available everywhere, the time allowed for parking is limited, eg. For two hours on Monday between 9.00-10.00 in the morning. Always consult the signs on every street! So either you move it all the time or you put it in a public parking lot! By saying public parking we mean $20 a day with extra charge for nightly parking! Do not risk it, they are constantly  municipality patrols who lift the illegally parked vehicles!

Gas stations

Here we laughed a lot, as you will laugh too trying to understand the self service system while you see that no one will try to help you! What you need to know is that you leave the car next to the pump of choice, go inside the store to pay and exit to start the filling process! You will be surprised that there is a really slow mood at the gas stations, where you can stay even for a whole quarter, because nobody is in a hurry! So arrange your times!

Uber

In USA, the use of Uber is widespread! They use all the services that Uber provides at very low cost, easily, quickly and without the stress of finding any parking, etc. You’ll see Uber-crowded cars going to work while taking care of the environment after sharing the route with other fellow travellers! Car pooling applies perfect to travelers like us! We’ve been able to discover whole cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco and Miami with the use of Uber with incredible ease and absolutely no stress, while enjoyed the sightseeing along the way!

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Tolls

Tolls? What tolls? There are no such things in Usa, or rather there are.. but don’t worry about it because everything is automatically charged in the car when it passes eg. from bridges, etc. (read your agency’s rules while renting a car!).

Car Rental

We chose the agency Alamo car, which has a free shuttle bus that picks you up from the airport, takes you to the parking lot and there after you complete the process of declaring your data you choose one of the huge cars that are parked there and you just take off for your roadtrip! At the end of your trip you leave it at one of the cooperating car rentals that are available in almost all the cities and you still leave with the same ease and the corresponding shuttle bus!

Red street lights

More generally, the driving consciousness of Americans is enviable! Do not rush, do not run, follow the rules and respect the other drivers! Your experience on the streets of USA will definitely be enjoyable and relaxing! If you have a red street light in front of you and you want to turn right while you are free from your left, just pass slowly!!

Extras:

• Credit card everywhere (but keep some change too)
• Do not be confused with different time zones from city to city
• Only stop at vista points-specially designed points on motorways to enjoy views
• Download a good app with maps like maps.me and offline Google Maps

We hope you find our tips useful and follow them when you are having this dreamy roadtrip in California!

The post ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW TO PLAN A ROAD TRIP IN CALIFORNIA appeared first on Nonstoptravellers.