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While alpine (or downhill) skiing may be the golden child of winter, cold weather enthusiasts know it’s not the only game in town. Cross-country skiing, also called Nordic skiing, is another great option for being active—and getting outdoors—during the winter months.

And while the sport requires no less skill (or patience or perseverance) to master, it does require less altitude—which makes it not only more accessible, but more affordable, too. 

Ready to navigate like they do in the Nordics? Here are six destinations in the U.S. with great cross-country skiing trails and facilities. 

1. Marquette, Michigan 

Marquette, located in Michigan’s rustic Upper Peninsula, is home to Noquemanon Trail Network (NTN)—a seven-trail system featuring over 75 miles of cross-country skiing trails. Founded in 2001 to promote the use of a non-motorized trail network, NTN is maintained by community volunteers and local land owners. Skiers can visit the NTN website for regular updates on trail grooming and conditions. 

No gear? No problem. Ski rentals and day passes are available at NTN’s Forestville Trailhead.

2. Lake Placid, New York

Once a host city for the Winter Olympic Games, Lake Placid, New York is steeped in state-of-the-art winter sport facilities. In particular, Mount Van Hoevenberg, home to the Lake Placid Nordic Center, offers over 30 miles of trails for cross-country skiing enthusiasts. 

Trails are groomed daily—and welcome skiers of all abilities. Pre-purchased tickets are encouraged, and equipment rentals are available for online or day-of purchase. 

Never cross-country skied before? Get started with a two-hour lesson from a Professional Ski Instructors of America certified instructor. 

Tip: Be sure to upload your day passes—and forward your equipment rental bookings, lesson reservations, and more—to TripIt to create a seamless itinerary for your trip all in one place. 

3. Eau Claire, Wisconsin

With 60 acres of groomed and lit trails, Eau Claire’s Pinehurst Park is a cross-country skier’s paradise. The city’s family-friendly program, Winter After Hours, promotes winter recreation (including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, ice skating, and free hot chocolate!) every Thursday in January and February. 

Winter-sport enthusiasts can also cross-country ski at many of the city’s other public parks, including Boyd Park, Demmler Park, and Lowes Creek County Park. 

Read more: 8 Cities That Embrace Winter

4. Jackson, New Hampshire

While New Hampshire’s White Mountains are probably best known for alpine skiing, the region is also home to Jackson XC—a 93-mile expanse of groomed trails for all levels of cross-country skiers, as well as race courses for the mature skier. 

The trail system also connects to the Appalachian Mountain Club’s network of backcountry adventure trails, if you’re so inclined (or want to try your hand at snowshoeing). 

Visitors can book a lesson at the ski school, rent skis (on a first-come, first-serve basis), and plan an overnight stay at a local inn. 

5. Tabernash, Colorado

Voted the best cross-country ski trails in North America for four years running, Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa in Tabernash, Colorado is home to 75 miles of groomed trails located at the base of the continental divide. 

Skiers can choose from day passes, season passes, a variety of rental types, and more. Lessons are available for novice skiers. 

And for those not interested in cross-country skiing, there are plenty of other activities to partake in, including sleigh rides, snowshoeing, tubing, yoga, and more. 

Related reading: Flying During the Winter: 4 Ways to Prepare 

6. Ripton, Vermont

Ripton, Vermont is home to the Rikert Nordic Center, an inclusive and family-friendly cross-country skiing facility with almost 35 miles of trails. There, you’ll ski through picturesque forests, rolling fields—and even past poet Robert Frost’s summer cabin. 

Ready to up your XC skiing ante? Race around Tormondsen Trail, a 3.1-mile loop once used for the NCAA skiing championships. 

Lessons and rentals are available at the center.

The post 6 Destinations in the U.S. for Cross-Country Skiing appeared first on TripIt Blog.

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Whether you’re a ski bum, snowbird, off-season adventurer, or all-season road warrior, your travel plans have you flying during the winter. And while you may love a wintertime trip (raises hand), flying in the colder months presents its own set of unique challenges. 

Challenges like, dealing with winter storms—and the flight delays and cancellations that follow; getting stuck at a layover airport (whether by snow, delayed flights, or something else); adjusting your other bookings—like, a pre-booked COVID-19 test—to accommodate changed travel plans; and even what to pack (and what not to) for a wintry destination. 

The best way to overcome the above challenges is to anticipate them—and plan ahead. Use these four tips to help you feel as prepared as possible for flying during the winter months. 

1. Book direct flights when you’re flying during the winter 

For example, if you’re flying from LAX to JFK, choose a direct flight over one that stops at, say, O’Hare. 

Here’s why: We all know winter weather increases the potential for flight delays and cancellations. Add to that multiple cities and flights, and you’re increasing your chances for one of those flight plans to be interrupted. 

And while business travelers don’t always have a say as to where a business trip takes you, you can increase your chances of an on-time arrival if you aren’t stopping somewhere winter-storm prone on a layover.

Read more: 6 Tips for Traveling During the Winter

If possible, book your direct flights via larger airports (versus smaller or alternate airports), as well. Bigger airports mean more airlines and more flights—a formula that will hopefully increase your chances of getting out if you experience a delay or have to rebook. It can also help to book early morning flights, as those are the least likely to be delayed by air traffic. 

2. Know your options if your flight is delayed or canceled 

Despite your best booking intentions, you might still experience winter weather-related flight delays or cancellations. Now what? 

If your flight is substantially delayed or canceled, there are some steps to take right away. 

If you’re at the airport:

1. Get in line to talk to the terminal airline service representative. They may be able to quickly rebook you on the next available flight.
2. While you’re waiting, check the airline’s app/website. You may be able to rebook with a few easy taps or clicks. 
3. You can also call the airline’s customer service number. 
4. TripIt Pro users: Consult Alternate Flights to find other flight options, including those on other airlines. 

If you’re at home/not yet en route to the airport, consider options #2-4 above. 

Tip: TripIt Pro members receive flight alerts about delays and cancellations quickly—often before the airline provides an update. While the app can’t predict when the next winter storm will hit, it will provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding delays, cancellations, and your options for alternate flights. 

Keep in mind that if your travel plans include a layover, a delay could mean a possible missed connection. If this happens, the airline should rebook you on the next available flight. If it’s not until the next morning, the airline may provide you with accommodations and/or meals.

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3. Be ready to adjust your other travel bookings 

A flight is oftentimes just one of the many parts of a trip. Meaning, a canceled flight might impact when you can pick up your rental car, check into your vacation rental, and so on. Once you’ve handled rebooking your flight (or made other plans for getting to your destination), be sure to adjust your other reservations, as needed. 

For example, if you need to show a negative COVID-19 test result for a test taken within 24 hours of arrival, or you booked one for when you would arrive, consider if you would need to take another test or rebook your appointment. 

Tip: TripIt Pro users can consult Interactive Maps to find COVID-19 testing sites in the airports you’re traveling through. 

4. Plan ahead, pack smart, and be patient

Delays and cancellations aside, flying during the winter calls for its own set of travel hacks. Here are a few you might find useful as you plan and pack for your wintertime trip. 

• Track your flight, starting before you leave for the airport. You can keep an eye on your flight with alerts via TripIt Pro or by checking your airline’s app. 
• If you’re packing a checked bag for a wintry destination, plan to wear (or carry on) your heavy items (e.g., winter coat, snow boots) to save on weight (and space!) in your suitcase. 
• If you’re planning to fly from a cold-weather destination to a warm one, you might not need your winter coat once you arrive for your outbound flight. Some airports offer the ability to check your coat for the duration of your trip—saving you the need to lug it back and forth, and precious space in the overhead bin. 
• Pack your patience. Flying during the winter might mean you experience longer lines at the check-in counter, airport security, and even at your go-to airport coffee shop. Be patient with airline and airport staff; everyone is doing their best. And a friendly attitude can go a long way—especially if you want to be rebooked on the next available flight home.

The post Flying During the Winter: 4 Ways to Prepare appeared first on TripIt Blog.

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When you wake up bleary-eyed from a long-haul international flight, the last thing you want to see is an hours-long line at the customs and border protection checkpoint. Fortunately, for many U.S. travelers (and qualifying international travelers, too), Global Entry can help speed up the time it takes to re-enter the U.S. from abroad.

Planning your first international trip? Thinking about signing up, but not sure where to get started? Already a member, but need to renew? Here’s what travelers need to know about Global Entry, including how the program works, its benefits, and what you need to do to (re)apply. 

What is Global Entry? 

Global Entry is one of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Trusted Traveler Programs. It allows pre-approved travelers expedited entry into the U.S. from international destinations. 

U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, and select foreign nationals are eligible to apply for membership. Once accepted into the program, your membership is active for five years. 

How do I sign up for Global Entry? 

Signing up for Global Entry involves a two-step process: 

1. Completing an online application. A step-by-step overview of the application process can be found on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website. 
2. Upon conditional approval of your application, successfully completing a background check, plus an in-person interview at an Enrollment Center or upon arrival to the U.S. at an Enrollment on Arrival (EoA) location. Note that you need to bring a valid passport with you to complete your enrollment. 

Membership costs $100 and is due when you submit your application. Some travel rewards credit cards issue a statement credit if you charge the $100 application fee to your card.

What are the benefits of Global Entry membership? 

As a member, you can head straight to the Global Entry kiosks upon landing in the U.S. There, you scan your fingerprints and passport, and complete a digital customs declaration. 

Once your declaration form and passport are reviewed by a CBP officer or via eGates using facial comparison technologies, you can head to baggage claim or the exit—no waiting in line needed. And while customs and border protection wait times can vary greatly depending on your arrival airport, arrival time, and other factors, Global Entry membership removes the uncertainty of how long you’ll wait, and replaces it with the confidence that you’ll be through the checkpoint in just minutes. 

Global Entry kiosks are available at more than 75 airports when returning to the U.S. from abroad. This includes both U.S. and international airports. 

Global Entry membership also includes membership to TSA PreCheck®—a trusted traveler program administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration (TSA) that allows you to quickly move through airport security. Once you’ve been approved as a low-risk traveler, you gain access to an expedited security line where you don’t have to remove or separately scan your laptop, liquids, shoes, or jackets. 

Read more: TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, or Both? A Guide to Help You Decide

Can I renew my Global Entry membership? 

In short, yes. Like your initial application, an application for renewal can be completed online. Interviews may or may not be required for renewal, so keep an eye out for any next steps after you’ve submitted your renewal paperwork. All pertinent information regarding your membership is accessible via your online Trusted Traveler Program account.

You become eligible to renew your membership one year prior to program expiration. If you submit a renewal application before your membership expires, you will be able to continue to use your Global Entry benefits up to 24 months after your membership expiration date, if your renewal does not get processed in time.

Cost of renewal is also $100.

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Two months ago, I flew on my first international flight since the start of the pandemic. And while I have spent the better part of two years researching and writing about how COVID-19 has reshaped the travel landscape—including changing air travel requirements—I still found the process of planning to comply with said requirements confusing. 

For the first time, I had to make decisions about how I would comply—i.e., should I book my COVID-19 tests locally, or purchase at-home tests to bring with me?—as well as how to prepare for the worst—as in, what’s my plan if I test positive abroad?

Like many travelers, I saw my destination’s requirements change from the time I booked my trip, to when I actually took my trip, and of course, after I returned from my trip, too (looking at you, Omicron). 

Given the fluid nature of international travel requirements, here’s what you need to know (as a U.S. traveler) to be as prepared as possible to comply and fly. 

Who needs to test for international travel? 

In short, everyone. Because regardless of your vaccination status (or international destination), all inbound travelers to the U.S. must provide a negative test result before boarding. As of December 6, 2021, all passengers traveling to the U.S. must get tested (and provide a negative result) for COVID-19 no more than one calendar day before departure. Previously, the requirement was within three days from departure.

But let’s back up. What about the requirements of your destination outside the U.S.? That’s where requirements can vary widely—and change constantly. 

For example, back in November, I flew from Detroit (DTW) to Edinburgh, UK (EDI) via Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS). At the time, I was required to take two tests—the UK’s Day 2 test and the pre-departure test required by the U.S. 

Because I was in transit and for the allotted window of time, I did not need to show proof of vaccination or test results during my layover at AMS. That said, if I had plans to stay in Amsterdam, I would have been subject to additional requirements. 

Tip: Always check the destination requirements for your layover airports. Some countries have entry requirements (including proof of vaccination and/or testing) that apply to travelers regardless of your length of stay.

As you plan your next international trip, be sure to research and prepare to comply with the testing requirements at your destination as well as those for when you return home. Keep in mind that these requirements might change between booking and traveling—or even while you’re on your trip. 

Also keep in mind that vaccination requirements vary from country to country, as well. While you may not need to be vaccinated for entry, you may be required to quarantine and/or subject to additional testing during your trip. 

Read more: TripIt Adds New Enhancements for Navigating Travel Based on Your Vaccination Status 

Where can I find information about my destination’s testing requirements? 

To stay in the know about testing requirements related to my trip, I consulted TripIt’s COVID-19 guidance feature as well as my destination’s official government website (in my case, the Scottish government’s COVID-19 advice for international travelers). 

Your airline might also provide you with this information, as well as provide guidance to help you fulfill those requirements. 

For example, after booking my flights, Delta Air Lines sent me a pre-trip checklist, including resources for determining the testing requirements at my destination, as well as what I’d need to return to the U.S. 

Other airlines have also introduced similar resources. United Airlines launched its Travel-Ready Center to help passengers understand and comply with travel requirements. American Airlines also created a similar toolkit. 

Where can I get a COVID-19 test? 

… the magic question. Thankfully, TripIt’s COVID-19 guidance feature showed me that my airline offered assistance with booking tests. Some of the options available to me were: 

• Pre-purchase at-home tests that I could take with me on my trip
• Book tests at a testing facility, e.g., the local airport 

I chose to pre-purchase two tests to bring with me: a self-administered PCR test that I would need to drop in the mail to satisfy my Day 2 Test requirements, and a rapid test conducted via live video observation to satisfy the pre-departure test requirement for entry to the U.S.

While pre-purchasing tests was certainly the more costly option (versus booking locally), I was willing to pay for the peace of mind. That said, I know of other travelers who’ve preferred to book tests at their hotels, local pharmacies, and/or local testing sites. 

Tip: Be sure to research the requirements related to the tests you need to take during your trip. For example, the UK requires all international travelers to complete a Passenger Locator Form before departure (I had to show this form upon checking in at DTW). On this form, I had to provide the confirmation number of my pre-booked Day 2 test. In other words, I couldn’t have left the booking/taking of this test up to chance, or until I arrived in the UK. It had to be booked ahead of my trip. 

That may not be the case at your intended destination, but be sure you find out this information ahead of your trip. 

Read more: Now Arriving: COVID-19 Travel Guidance in TripIt

How will I present my negative test result(s) at the airport? What other documentation will I need?

While many airlines have adopted vaccine passport apps where you can upload your test results directly, others are yet to go the digital route. 

In my case, I had my negative test results on my phone (both in a PDF doc in my email, as well as in the testing provider’s app). Upon my return journey to the U.S., I presented the digital test results at the EDI airport check-in counter. I was also asked to present my CDC COVID-19 vaccination card at this time. (Note: As a U.S. citizen, I did not have to be vaccinated to return to the U.S. However, at the time of publication, all non-citizens are required to show proof of vaccination for entry to the U.S.)

During my return layover at AMS, I was required to complete a U.S. entry attestation form stating that I had tested negative for COVID-19 (or had recovered/could provide a recovery certificate) and that I was fully vaccinated. The completed document is required for check-in and/or boarding, per U.S. federal law. 

All of my travel documents—attestation form, CDC card, and negative test result—were reviewed by an airline employee prior to boarding. 

What happens if I test positive for COVID-19 when I’m abroad? 

Let’s face it: this is a very real risk. 

One that you should plan ahead for, because if you test positive while abroad, you will have to quarantine—at your destination—until you recover. 

Some destinations have specific requirements, such as buying mandatory COVID-19 health insurance prior to your trip and/or quarantining in government-mandated facilities. Others have less robust infrastructure, but will still require you to quarantine at a hotel or vacation rental—likely at your own expense. 

Some travel insurance policies can help offset the costs of extending your trip due to a positive test result. There are also services available to fly you home—privately—should you test positive and require medical evacuation. 

Regardless of which level of preparedness you choose, remember to always take the necessary safety precautions to prevent contracting (and/or spreading) COVID-19 while you’re traveling, including following all local guidelines and mandates. 

As a reminder, you can find out about your destination’s vaccination and testing requirements as well as information about scheduling COVID-19 tests through your airline right in TripIt’s COVID-19 guidance feature. These details are available to all TripIt users. 

And if you’re a TripIt Pro user, you can also search the feature to find this information for destinations you’re planning to visit without needing them to be part of a TripIt itinerary right in the Pro tab of the app.

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City break (noun): a short holiday spent in a city, such as when on business travel.

Before there was bleisure travel, there was the city break—the short space of leisure time that grants you access to the cultural and culinary amenities that big cities offer. In this series from TripIt, we explore some of the world’s best cities for planning a quick getaway or extending a work trip.

Here are our tips for making the most of your city break in New Orleans.

 

Where to fly in

The New Orleans metro area is served by Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), located just 15 miles west of New Orleans in the city of Kenner, Louisiana. In late 2019, MSY airport opened its new terminal, which features three concourses, 35 gates, and more than 40 concessions. All commercial airlines now operate from the new terminal. 

Once on the ground at MSY, travelers can catch a city bus to head Downtown via the Jefferson Transit Authority (JeT) or the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA). JeT bus fare costs $2.00 and the RTA Airport Express bus costs $1.25; both serve multiple stops in Downtown New Orleans. 

Alternatively, cabs and ride shares are also available from the airport. If you plan to book via a ride share app, be sure to familiarize yourself with the specific instructions for matching with an Uber or Lyft at MSY. 

 

Where to stay during your city break

In short, the Central Business District (CBD). Home to both newcomers, like the Ace Hotel New Orleans, and iconic hotels, like The Roosevelt New Orleans Waldorf Astoria—and a plethora of others in between—the CBD offers visitors a glimpse of New Orleans sans Mardi Gras beads. Not that there’s anything wrong with staying in the colorful French Quarter; the CBD simply suits those going beyond the guidebook. 

If you’re attending an event at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, you can’t beat the convenience of the Hampton Inn & Suites New Orleans Convention Center. Located just a couple minutes’ walk from the convention center, the business traveler-friendly hotel offers a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services.

If a hotel located in the heart of the city is what you’re after, look no further than the Crowne Plaza New Orleans French Quarter. Steps away from iconic Bourbon Street, this hotel also offers more than 32,000 square feet of conference space for hosting meetings and events. 

 

How to get around

Part of NOLA’s charm is its easy walkability. Plan accordingly by packing comfortable shoes for walking from place to place. When walking isn’t feasible, catch the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) bus. One-way bus fare costs $1.25 and can be purchased from the bus driver. Alternatively, travelers can opt for a 1-day Jazzy Pass for $3.00, a 3-day pass for $9.00, and so on. Download the GoMobile app to purchase your Jazzy Pass, view maps and schedules, and plan your route. 

Your Jazzy Pass also grants you unlimited access to the city’s iconic streetcars. Four streetcar lines traverse the city, offering local commuters and visitors alike a fun and convenient alternative to the city buses. Didn’t opt for a day pass? One-way streetcar rides also cost just $1.25 and can be paid for upon boarding.

Looking to go the eco-friendly (and heart-healthy) route? Try New Orleans’s bike share program, aptly named Blue Bikes. After a one-time sign-up fee of $1.00, Blue Bike rides cost $.15 per minute. Download the Blue Bikes app to sign up, find and reserve a bike, and more. 

Of course, if you need to get to your destination in a jiffy, both Uber and Lyft are available in New Orleans. 

Pro tip: Use TripIt’s Navigator feature to search transportation options available to you. It will show you the estimated costs and travel times for each option, so you can decide which works best. You can find Navigator within your flight, hotel and rental car details screens. Plus, if you add a restaurant reservation to your itinerary (more on where to eat below), Navigator also helps you find the best transportation options for getting to your table.

 

Where to eat

If you only have time for one meal during your trip to New Orleans, make it at Patois. It’s impossible to go wrong with any dish on this Uptown eatery’s menu, touted as “Louisiana cuisine with a French accent.” But, if you do need a recommendation, opt for the Bone-in Pork Chop Milanese. You’ll never think of pork chops the same way again.

In pursuit of late night bites? Seaworthy, located just a few doors down from the Ace Hotel, serves food from its late night menu and oyster/raw bar until 1 AM each day. 

Have breakfast on the brain? You have plenty of options in New Orleans. Head to the Court of Two Sisters for their Jazz Brunch Buffet, served daily. When you book your reservation, request an outdoor patio table. Then, sit back, sip a mimosa, and listen to live jazz music in this canopied, French Quarter oasis. Prefer to start your day away from the busy French Quarter? Atchafalaya in the Irish Channel and Willa Jean in the CBD serve up classic Cajun and creative contemporary dishes, respectively.

Just need to clear the cobwebs before you think about food? We feel you. Get your caffeine fix at HEY Coffee Co. on the Lafitte Greenway. Order a cup for now and a freshly baked pastry to go—and leave knowing you’re not only supporting local, you’re patronizing businesses that believe in doing the same. 

 

What to do on your city break

Speaking of the Lafitte Greenway, this once-abandoned railroad line has been transformed into a welcoming public space, thanks to a partnership led by Friends of Lafitte Greenway—a community-driven nonprofit—and the City of New Orleans. Opened in 2015, Lafitte Greenway features a 2.6-mile bike and running trail, recreational fields and playgrounds, and more. Visitors can explore the Greenway via Blue Bikes, with stations conveniently located at several points along the bike path. 

Our suggested itinerary for seeing NOLA by bike? After you’ve had your morning joe at HEY Coffee Co., scoop a Blue Bike at the North Galvez Street station. Follow the bike trail northwest until you reach the Alexander Street Trailhead. Turn right. A handful of city blocks later, you’ll reach City Park. Here, you can traverse the park’s grounds by bike or disembark (there are two stations inside the park) and explore on foot. What’s there to see at the park? For starters, the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden at the New Orleans Museum of Art doubled in size in 2019; the six-acre addition showcases 27 new works. And best of all? Entry to the sculpture garden is free, and it’s open year-round.

Once you’ve had your fill of art, pop over to the Café du Monde located inside City Park. We know what you’re thinking: Avoiding the crowds of the French Quarter and getting your beignet fix? What could be better? Okay, maybe a café au lait to wash all that sugary goodness down.

There are also plenty of kid-friendly things to do in City Park, as well. From the carousel to City Putt, the park offers endless fun for kids of all ages.

Adults only? By day, be sure to visit Magazine Street and pop into its many vintage, antique, and local artisan shops. By night, head to Frenchman Street to experience the local nightlife scene or make your way to the swanky Ace Hotel for a night of DJ-led dancing and libations.

Note: As cities reopen around the world, be sure to consult and adhere to all local guidelines and travel restrictions, as they vary widely and will continue to change. One way to stay on top of changing guidelines is to consult the COVID-19 travel guidance feature in the TripIt app for destination-specific information, including current infection rates, quarantine rules upon arrival, testing requirements, and other information you need to know before visiting the area.

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