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Going Places is a new series from TripIt that highlights frequent travelers to showcase their unique travel styles and insider tips. 

Keynote speaker, author, founder of HARO (Help a Reporter Out), founding editor of AOL News—and frequent traveler—Peter Shankman is happiest when in transit. For him, flying is as much fun as arriving at his destination. 

“A plane is my happy place. It’s where I can tune everything else out and focus on my work,” he said. “I’ve written five books while sitting on planes!” 

What kickstarted this air travel love affair? “I’m a born-and-raised New Yorker. When I started my own PR firm, I started traveling to meet clients outside NYC and fell in love with the whole experience,” he said. “It’s also when I discovered the value of airline loyalty. The first airline I ever earned status with was Continental.”  

And when COVID-19 kept him grounded? “It was rough. I have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) so a lack of travel—a lack of a schedule!—during COVID-19 made it hard for me to cope,” Peter shared. “I had nine keynote speeches canceled in three days. If I had known that my flight on March 8, 2020 would be my last flight for nine months, I would have stayed on it longer.”

On managing ADHD—and his travel plans

Having ADHD (check out his podcast on the topic) is part of the reason why Peter relies on TripIt to keep his travel plans organized. 

“Once my travel plans are in the app, I know they’re handled. I don’t have to worry about them,” he said. “I forward my plans and—boom—they go to my calendar; to my mom’s calendar; my dad’s calendar; my girlfriend’s calendar. Everyone is in the know about my schedule, thanks to TripIt.” 

What else does he love about traveling with TripIt? “The flight alerts—such as when my gate’s changed or my flight’s delayed—are helpful. I also love reviewing my Travel Stats.”

“But more than anything, TripIt keeps me sane. I’d pay triple the annual fee of TripIt Pro for the peace of mind it gives me,” Peter said. 

‘Travel light, but tech heavy’

Staying organized with TripIt means Peter has more time to enjoy the journey—and the small moments. 

“While I typically use my time on a plane to work, I also like to have some fun. I love to capture time lapses of my flight—so yes, I always book the window seat!”

Peter told me his travel motto is: ‘Travel light, but tech heavy.’ As such, he packs a carry-on bag only, but he also swears by SCOTTeVEST—a clothing brand that makes a travel jacket with myriad pockets for all his gear. 

So, window seat only; carry-on only—what about souvenirs? “I’m always on the hunt for great souvenirs for my daughter,” he shared. 

And while he’s likely off to Asia next (“best hotel breakfasts in the world!”), he thinks everyone should visit Morocco once in their lives. “Specifically, a place called Skoura, Morocco. You won’t see stars like that anywhere else in the world,” he said. 

Any final advice for his fellow travelers? “Practice kindness. Especially now. Especially with your flight attendants.”

Curious to see where Peter is headed next? You can follow him on Instagram and Twitter to keep up with his latest travel tales, tips—and time lapses. 

Catch up on all Going Places features to learn new travel tips, discover underrated destinations, and more. 

The post Going Places: A Conversation with Peter Shankman appeared first on TripIt Blog.

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Between travel plans, barbecues, music festivals, kids’ camps, and everything else a busy summer can entail, you might have missed that we’ve been busy with plans of our own. That is, we’ve been making a series of updates to the TripIt app—to help make the experience more intuitive and inclusive for our TripIt users. 

Missed what’s new? Not to worry—we’ve summarized the updates, below. 

We updated the look of the TripIt app

If you’ve been poking around the TripIt app lately, you might have noticed things look a little different. The More tab has become the Account tab, structured with better organization of profile features and settings, such as your personal information and account management, your Travel Stats, as well as your personalized safety alerts and travel contacts. 

Tip: Continue to reference the Help Center for answers to your questions.  

The Trips tab also has a fresh new look. You’ll see your upcoming, past, and shared trips organized into distinct categories, to make finding your itineraries more intuitive.

TripIt is now available in Spanish

For our travelers around the world—and as part of our efforts to make our app more inclusive to users—you can now use TripIt in Spanish, in addition to English, French, German, and Japanese. If your mobile phone is set to one of these, the TripIt app will also operate in that language. For all other languages, the app will remain in English. 

You can also forward booking confirmation emails written in Spanish to plans@tripit.com to create an itinerary. 

You can download our new medium widget for iOS

The TripIt widget for iOS displays the most relevant details for your upcoming trip or event, so you can quickly see the information you need without having to open the TripIt app. The TripIt widget is also available on the Today View of your iPad, so you’ll always know where to be and when. 

And while the small widget gives a quick view of your upcoming travel plans and acts as a shortcut into the app, we’ve introduced our new medium widget for your iOS home screen and Smart Stack so you can do even more. 

With the medium widget, you can see additional trip details, plus links to helpful TripIt features such Nearby Places for cafes or gas stations and Navigator to see transport options to the next location in your itinerary. It was designed with this very logic in mind—to present links to the most relevant feature at any point in your trip, based on where you are or what you’re doing

Related reading: Introducing the TripIt Widget for iPhone and iPad

We increased access to Neighborhood Safety Scores for Android users 

TripIt shows safety scores from 1 to 100, representing low to high risk, including a Health and Medical score that factors in COVID-19 data. This information is available in the Neighborhood Safety Scores section within your TripIt itinerary.

For Android users, we’ve recently added Neighborhood Safety Scores to activity, meeting, tour, theater, and concert plans. 

Tip: Set your personal risk level, and we’ll warn you if you’re planning on visiting an area that’s above your threshold.

The post ICYMI: What’s New in the TripIt App appeared first on TripIt Blog.

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COVID-19 restrictions. Flight cancellations. Rising costs. As of late, American travelers have been dealt a tricky hand when it comes to realizing their bucket-list trip dreams. Indeed, planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip nowadays takes patience, persistence—and sometimes, a pretty penny. 

And yet, nearly half (41%) of American travelers said they’re planning a bucket-list trip in the year ahead, according to a recent survey of more than 1,800 U.S.-based TripIt users. That’s up 15% from survey data we released in March 2021, when 26% of American travelers told us they were planning a bucket-list trip. 

Of those planning bucket-list trips, more than half (57%) of travelers have international destinations in mind. The top destination? Europe, of course. Nearly a third (30%) are planning trips there. 

As for the cost of bucket-list trips? The majority (62%) said they will be more expensive than a normal trip—for most (47%) in the range of $1,000 to $5,000 more. 

Read more: American Travelers Budget Thousands More to Afford Rising Costs of Trips

Top European destinations for Americans’ bucket-list trips 

With nearly one in three bucket-list trippers heading to Europe, almost every country in the region can expect American travelers in the year ahead. However, there are 10 countries that will rise above the rest.

1. Italy 

Travelers told us that destinations like the Amalfi Coast, the island of Sicily, as well as the cities of Florence, Milan, Rome, and Venice are all on their bucket-list itineraries to Italy. 

2. France

Cities like Avignon, Paris, and Strasbourg all make the (bucket) list for Americans headed to France. 

3. United Kingdom

While some travelers told us they’re focused on just one destination—e.g., St. Andrews, Scotland—others plan to experience the diversity of the U.K. and explore England, Scotland, and Wales in one go. 

4. Spain 

Travelers headed to Spain for bucket-list trips have cities like Granada and Madrid on their itineraries. 

DYK? Granada, Spain ranked #2 in our top 10 safest cities for LGBTQ+ travelers. Find out more >

5. Greece

Whether for destination weddings or soaking in the shoulder-season sun, Americans plan to head to Greece for bucket-list adventures. 

6. Germany

Germany is a year-round destination for many Americans: travelers told us they plan to head there this summer, fall, and winter—as well as for business and solo trips. 

7. Ireland

Many travelers told us they have their eye on Ireland for bucket-list trips this fall. 

8. Portugal

A budget-friendly destination, Portugal will be popular with Americans this summer and fall.

9. Iceland

Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital city, is a top destination for Americans checking this country off their bucket list. 

10. Croatia 

Another all-season destination, Croatia will see many Americans heading there for bucket-list trips in the year ahead. 

Tips and tools for international travel 

We’ve rounded up some helpful tips and tools to help make your international bucket-list trips go as close to plan as possible. 

For determining what you need ahead of your trip abroad… 

TripIt Pro’s International Travel Tools make international travel easier by showing details such as embassy information, driving guidance, socket and plug requirements, required vaccinations, and more. 

You can find these tools in the Pro tab of the app, or by tapping the three dots at top right of your international itinerary. 

For paying in the local currency…  

Americans heading to many parts of Europe soon will benefit from a 1:1 exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and Euro. This is the first time there’s been parity in 20 years. 

Not sure what the currency is at your destination? Consult TripIt Pro’s International Travel Tools for the local currency and latest exchange rate. The tool also includes guidance for tipping at your destination. 

Want to really maximize your dollar? Order foreign currency at your home bank instead of exchanging it upon arrival to get a better rate and lower fees. Keep in mind your bank may need to order the money, which can take a few days, so plan accordingly.

For crossing borders…

While most European countries have dropped entry requirements related to COVID-19, there are still a few (e.g., France and Spain, as of publication) that require Americans (and other travelers) to show proof of vaccination, a negative COVID-19 test result, and so on. For the latest information on entry requirements at your destination, consult TripIt’s COVID-19 travel guidance feature. 

COVID-19 documents aside, be sure to also look into what’s needed to enter your destination country, e.g., valid passport, entry visa, and so on. Most countries require a U.S. passport to have at least three- or six-months validity.

Need to renew your passport? As of publication, the wait time is 8 to 11 weeks. You can put a rush on your passport renewal—but keep in mind that it will cost you. 

So, if you were looking for a sign, this is it: check your passport expiration date—now! Go ahead, we’ll wait. (And remember that you don’t need to wait until your passport expires to order a new one.)

For learning about delays, cancellations, and alternate flights… 

Flight disruptions, including those in Europe, have been well publicized this summer. And it’s unlikely things will get better soon. With TripIt Pro, you can be among the first to know about flight delays, cancellations, gate changes, and more. 

If your flight is delayed or canceled, consult TripIt Pro’s Alternate Flights feature to help you figure out what your options are for getting on a different flight. The feature instantly finds you new flight options if your current flight has been delayed, canceled, or you’d just like to leave on another flight.

To access Alternate Flights, open an upcoming trip, tap on the flight, then tap Alternate Flights located under TripIt Pro. Then you can search for alternative flights. You can also select Alternate Flights from the Pro tab.

For claiming compensation for delayed, canceled, or overbooked flights…

If you experience a flight disruption while on your bucket-list (or other) trip to Europe, TripIt can help! We’ve partnered with AirHelp—a company that specializes in helping air passengers claim compensation for eligible delayed, canceled, and overbooked flights to/from/within the European Union (EU) and Brazil thanks to local consumer protection regulations. 

Here’s how it works: TripIt will automatically email you if your flight may be eligible for compensation and help you file a claim through AirHelp. Once your claim is filed, AirHelp does the rest of the hard work for you, including the paperwork and communication with the airlines—helping you claim compensation for your inconvenience.

With more than 16 million travelers helped, AirHelp has the resources and expertise to handle the complex claim process. For more information, visit AirHelp.

For tracking down lost luggage…

We wouldn’t wish lost luggage on anyone (we know—we’ve been there!), but when the unexpected happens, there are definitely some immediate steps you should take to track down your bags. 

First and foremost, contact the airline. Don’t leave the airport until you speak with an airline representative. Speaking with the baggage claim or check-in desk agent is your fastest option for tracking down your bag(s). Call the airline if you cannot find an airline representative. When applicable, complete any airline forms to submit your claim while you are at the airport. 
Want more tips? Check out these other steps you can take when your luggage is lost.

Methodology: TripIt surveyed more than 1,800 U.S.-based users to understand their upcoming travel plans, plus their attitudes and behaviors with respect to rising costs. The survey took place May 24 – June 1, 2022.

The post Europe, Italy Top Americans’ Bucket-list Trips  appeared first on TripIt Blog.

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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 Edinburgh. 

Where to fly in

Edinburgh is served by Edinburgh Airport (EDI), located just eight miles from the city center. 

Once on the ground, travelers can catch an Edinburgh Tram to head into the city. A one-way ticket from the airport to the city costs £6.00; round-trip tickets cost £8.50 and are open-ended.

Not heading to central Edinburgh? You can catch a variety of buses to reach your final destination. The Airlink, Skylink, and Night Bus deliver passengers to much of Edinburgh and its surrounding areas. Consult the transit map to determine which bus route suits you best. 

Alternatively, black cabs and ride shares are also available from EDI. 

Where to stay during your city break

If this is your first time visiting Edinburgh, stay in the city center. Doing so will enable you to explore the city on foot from its best angle: up close and personal. There are a number of luxury hotels, including The Balmoral Hotel, The Scotsman Hotel, Hotel Indigo, and Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian, located right in central Edinburgh. 

Nearby, the cozy Grassmarket Hotel is just a few minutes walk to Edinburgh Castle, Princes Street Gardens, the Royal Mile, and more.

If you’re attending an event at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre, you can’t beat the convenience of the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa. The hotel is located just 0.1 miles from the conference center, and offers business travel-friendly amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, a 24-hour business center, and express check-out. 

Alternatively, the DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh City Centre is a quick walk to city attractions such as Usher Hall, the Grassmarket, and the shops of Princes Street.

How to get around

Part of Edinburgh’s charm is its easy walkability. Plan accordingly by packing comfortable shoes for walking from place to place. 

When walking isn’t feasible or desirable, Edinburgh’s Lothian Buses can be your go-to for getting around. A single-ride fare costs £1.70 or a day-pass costs £4. Travelers can purchase tickets on the bus with exact change or ahead of time on the m-tickets app. You can also download the Transport for Edinburgh app to plan your journey, check real-time departure times, and more. 

As mentioned above, Edinburgh Trams span 16 stops—from Edinburgh Airport to York Place—and offer eco-friendly transport to city attractions such as Edinburgh Castle, Murrayfield Stadium, and Princes Street. Similar to bus tickets, tram tickets can be bought via the m-tickets app and displayed in the Transport for Edinburgh app upon boarding. Ticket vending machines are also available at every tram stop. Adult fares start at £1.70 for the city zone and £6.00 for getting to/from the airport. 

Alternatively, if you’d rather get to your destination in a jiffy, hail a black cab—they’re everywhere in the city center. Plus, cab drivers are helpful guides to learn about the city. 

Uber is also available in Edinburgh.

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. For example, 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. You can find Navigator within your plan details screens. 

Where to eat

If you only have time for one meal during your trip to Edinburgh, try haggis—Scotland’s national dish—as it’s traditionally served: with neeps and tatties (that’s mashed turnips and potatoes, and topped with brown gravy). You’ll also see it served in a variety of ways. For instance, I’ve had it in spring rolls at The Whiski Rooms or as a burger topping at Holyrood 9A. 

Haggis aside, there are lots of options for meat-eaters, vegetarians, and vegans alike in Edinburgh. Check out Dishoom for the flavors of Bombay, or Holyrood 9A (as mentioned above) for great burgers and local beers. 

For upscale dining, venture to Leith to visit the Michelin stars: Martin Wishart and The Kitchin. Looking for a high-end spot that’s more centrally located? Head to The Witchery or Angels with Bagpipes located right on the Royal Mile, or Twenty Princes Street located on, you guessed it, Princes Street.

In pursuit of wine and cheese? Whighams Wine Cellars is the ideal spot to enjoy a glass of wine and a cheese board. Or, pop into I.J. Mellis for expert advice on wine and cheese pairings to go. 

What to do on your city break

If you’re visiting Edinburgh during soccer—nay, football—season, be sure to catch one of the local clubs in action. A fierce rivalry exists between the Hibernian FC and Hearts FC, so be sure to choose your allegiance carefully. More of a rugby fan? Head to Murrayfield Stadium, the largest stadium in Scotland and home of Scottish Rugby. 

There are also plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Edinburgh. Start your day atop Castle Rock at Edinburgh Castle. You’ll not only enjoy the views, the castle itself is a series of buildings filled with the history of Scotland. 

From the castle runs the Royal Mile, a stretch of shops, restaurants, and pubs; some are a bit touristy, but it’s otherwise a great place to check out street performers.  

Speaking of performances, if you’re fortunate to visit Edinburgh during the month of August, you’ll be spoiled for choice with entertainment. Why? You’re visiting during the month of festivals. Each August, Edinburgh transforms into a city-wide festival venue for the annual Edinburgh Festival Fringe (known locally as the Fringe), Edinburgh International Festival, Edinburgh International Book Festival, Edinburgh Art Festival, and the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. 

No matter when you visit, make time to wander the city’s arced streets and tiny closes. If you’re looking for a structured way to explore, book a walking tour with Iconic Tours. 

Or, if you prefer to explore on your own, Edinburgh World Heritage has created a self-guided list of 101 Objects so you can explore the city’s literary, military, culinary—and sometimes colorful—past. More than three-quarters of the 101 Objects are free to visit; check out these suggested itineraries to get started.

If you’re looking for something outdoorsy—and you catch a sunny day—hike up Arthur’s Seat. It’s located just past Holyrood Palace and the Scottish Parliament building (both worth a visit) in Holyrood Park. The hike takes about an hour and, again, offers incredible views of the city.

Adults only? By day, visit the Scotch Whisky Experience or Johnnie Walker Princes Street to sample and learn about Scotch whisky. While Scotland is best known for its whisky, there’s another local liquor that’s worth sipping: gin. In fact, Edinburgh Gin is distilled right in the heart of the city, meaning you can visit the distillery, learn about the production process and sample some of the good stuff. 

By night, head to Juniper Bar or Copper Blossom for great cocktails in a fun atmosphere. 

Note: As destinations 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 testing and vaccination requirements, current infection rates, quarantine rules upon arrival, and other information you need to know before visiting the area.

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