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18 things to know before traveling to Ghana

Mar 7, 2024 • 7 min read

Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning for more, here's what you need to know to prepare for your trip to Ghana © Houssam Ghandour / Getty Images

Travelers have plenty to look forward to on their trip to culturally rich Ghana .

Welcoming Ghana is considered one of the friendliest spots in West Africa, and with its compelling history, vibrant clothing prints and flavorful dishes , tourists keep coming back for more.

Life in Ghana generally moves at a slow, relaxed pace, but it can also be chaotic and fast in different settings. Embrace the cultural differences, mass traffic and intense bargaining, and you may fall in love with the place. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning once again, here's what you need to know to prepare for your trip to Ghana.

1. Gather the necessary documents for entry

Getting the paperwork together to visit Ghana is a process on its own and can be pricey. All visitors to Ghana must have a valid visa , and they range in cost depending on whether you apply for a single-entry or multiple-entry visa. Your visa for Ghana can take nearly three weeks to arrive unless you shell out extra for an expedited service.

A yellow fever vaccine is also required for entry into Ghana. Check with your local health department or medical clinics to get vaccinated. Malaria pills are also strongly recommended for visitors and can be prescribed by your doctor. If you can't get your hands on them before coming, pharmacies in Ghana have plenty in stock, and they tend to be a lot cheaper.

2. Carry a copy of your passport

If you plan to visit different cities outside of Accra , be sure to print a copy of your passport to keep in your bag as you travel around the country. Police stops are common, and officers are known to ask for passport information.

3. Forget you have a left hand

In Ghana, actions like eating, waving and handing an item to someone are to be done with your right hand only (sorry, left-handers!). From an early age, many Ghanaians are taught that their left hand is to be used for cleaning themselves in the bathroom. Therefore, your left hand is considered filthy and should not be used for eating and other activities. Using your left hand for gestures and main tasks is considered highly disrespectful.

4. Eating with your hands is a cultural practice

Soup-based meals are paired with a starch staple food like fufu or banku and eaten with your hands (remember the right-hand rule!). Be observant of how those around you are eating, embrace the culture and dig in.

5. Keep your thumbs down 

While the thumbs-up gesture in many places signifies approval, in Ghana, it shows disrespect. 

6. Always greet others 

Greetings in Ghana are a big deal, and it’s considered rude to not greet others. When you enter a room, you should say hello, good morning, good afternoon or good evening. When you meet a group of adults and greet them with a handshake, start with the person on the farthest right. 

7. Respect your elders

Respect for elders is immense in Ghana. You should not greet elders with a hat on your head. If you are wearing a hat, take it off completely or lift it halfway while extending your greeting. Give up your seat on the bus for those older than you. Crossing your legs and having your hands in your pockets in the presence of elders are gestures that are frowned upon. 

8. Be mindful of clothing cultures from city to city

Ghanaian clothing culture tends to lean more towards the conservative side. Accra is more relaxed, and you’re likely to see more shorts and crop tops. However, people elsewhere tend to cover up, so bring clothing that covers your chest and shoulders and reaches or goes past your knees.

9. Learn common phrases in Twi and other languages 

Ghana is home to many different languages and ethnic groups. Twi, Ewe, Ga and Krobo are a few of many languages spoken depending on the region. English is widely spoken, but it's important to remember that not everyone speaks it, especially once you are out of Accra and into rural parts of Ghana. Learning a few phrases in the local language is always appreciated and embraced by Ghanaians.

10. Watch your belongings

Pickpocketing and instances of petty theft might be the biggest concern you'll have in Ghana. Pickpocketing can be prevalent in crowded areas like Osu, Madina and Makola Market. Always keep your bag in front of you and away from the roadside to avoid snatching incidents. Don't carry a large amount of cash on you.

Your phone should always be in sight and accounted for. Motorcyclists in Accra are known to snatch phones out of the hands of people as they are passing by both in cars and when walking. It is wise to never stick your phone out of a car window for pictures and videos.

11. Expect the police to stop you

Police stops in Ghana occur frequently, mainly at night but they can happen throughout the day. Your vehicle can be randomly searched by officers, and they may ask for ID and search your bag. These searches usually last for about five minutes, and it is best to comply. 

Bribery is common in Ghana, and you may be asked to "dash" officers, which means tip. You can choose to give it or not as it's often only C10 to C20 (US$0.95 to US$1.90), but it may make the difference between a five-minute stop and a 40-minute one.

Police encounters in Ghana are generally nothing to worry about. Officers may have a “tough guy” attitude, but as you talk to them more, the guard comes down and they are usually friendly. 

12. Be wary of swift romantic encounters

It’s easy to meet new people in Ghana, and conversations are always flowing. People are open to new connections and tend to get close quickly at times, but be careful of fast-moving romantic approaches and those who immediately ask for favors or money. Scams are common in Ghana and can occur in romantic encounters.

13. Be sure to carry cash

When you’re in Ghana, always have some cash on you, or you may find yourself stuck. Not every establishment accepts card payments, and if they do, the POS systems are often down. ATMs are everywhere in Ghana, so getting cash is easy. You can still bring both credit and debit cards, but be prepared that not everywhere in Ghana will accept them.

Forex Bureau exchange shops will change your cash to Ghanaian cedis. Large denomination bills (100s) will get you a higher exchange rate.

14. Avoid drinking the water 

Drinking tap water in Ghana is not a good idea because there’s no guarantee that the water has gone through the proper measures to ensure it is safe. Boil your water or use a water filter before you drink it.

15. Expect weak wi-fi in most areas

Ask your accommodation about wi-fi speeds before your arrival if you plan to use it. Even if internet speeds aren’t the best where you’re staying, you can find reliable spots such as Vida e Caffè and Basecamp Initiative .  

16. Use cash for Uber and Bolt

Download Uber and Bolt before you arrive. While paying by card is an option on both apps, don’t plan on using it. Many drivers prefer cash and will cancel your ride if they find out you are paying using your card, or it could be an issue once you arrive at your destination. You can always ask the driver to stop at an ATM before the final drop-off point. 

17. Get a local phone number

Ghana is a place where verbal conversations are preferred over texting and online communication. You can get a local SIM card at Vodafone , a phone carrier at A&C Mall in Accra, so that you have a Ghanaian number. Drivers often call their passengers to find out exactly where they are.

18. Never underestimate Accra traffic 

Accra traffic is nothing to be played with. You may see an attraction that you want to check out that is only 15 minutes away from your accommodations but it might take an hour and a half simply because of the volume of traffic. It's best not to set reservations for a place if you don't have to. While traffic and delays can be extremely frustrating, you’ll have to learn to go with the flow.

This article was first published Mar 11, 2022 and updated Mar 7, 2024.

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Your Ghana Vacation

Answer the call of adventure with a customized vacation package to Ghana. Wherever it is you're headed and whatever you have planned, prepare to experience a destination with so much to offer. Accra , Komenda and Elmina are a few of the most well-known cities here. Make sure your trip to Ghana includes some time in at least one of them! Expedia has flights, hotels, car rentals and more to help you create your very own customized Ghana vacation today.

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Ghana is often referred to as “Africa for beginners,” and it’s easy to see why. Those who visit this friendly and safe country will find idyllic beaches, lively cities, exotic wildlife, classic safaris and a rich culture and history.

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Your Ghana Vacation Itinerary

Day 1-2: Fly into Kotoka International Airport in Accra and get ready to explore Ghana’s lively coastal capital. Don’t miss top sights like Makola Market, Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Labadi Beach. An excellent nightlife will keep you busy after dark.

Day 3-4: Pick up your rental car and drive southwest for about four hours to Kakum National Park. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants and buffaloes in this tropical rainforest. Stroll the suspended Canopy Walkway and immerse yourself in nature.

Day 5-6: Continue north to Kumasi to learn about the culture and religion of the Ashanti people. Check out the Manhyia Palace Museum you might be lucky enough to see the Ashanti king if you time it right. Explore Lake Bosumtwi, the only natural lake in Ghana, while you’re here.

Ghana Information

For something different, time your visit with Homowo, a harvest festival celebrated in the greater Accra region. The festival starts in May with the sowing of the crops and ends with the August harvest, where festivities include feasting, parades and partying.

Considering using Ghana’s capital city as your base? Check out our Accra Vacation Packages .

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Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in ghana, kokrobite beach.

If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Kokrobite Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Accra. While you're in the area, wander around the natural setting.

Makola Market

You can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Makola Market during your stay in Accra. Wander the beautiful beaches in this relaxing area.

Elmina Castle

You can learn about the history of Elmina with a stop at Elmina Castle. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.

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Ghana Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Ghana. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Global Measles May 28, 2024 Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Destination List: Afghanistan, Angola, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Malaysia, Mauritania, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

There is no longer active cholera transmission and vaccine is not recommended.

Cholera - CDC Yellow Book

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Ghana.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Ghana.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to Ghana take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Ghana.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Meningitis (Meningococcal disease)

Recommended for travelers 2 months old or older traveling to  areas of Ghana  that are part of the meningitis belt during the dry season.

Meningococcal disease - CDC Yellow Book

Meningitis Belt Map

Dogs infected with rabies are commonly found in Ghana.

If rabies exposures occur while in Ghana, rabies vaccines may only be available in larger suburban/urban medical facilities.

Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers 1) will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and 2) might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.

Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.

For more information, see  country rabies status assessments .

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for all arriving travelers ≥9 months old.

Recommended for all travelers ≥9 months old.

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

African tick-bite fever.

• Avoid Bug Bites

African Tick-bite fever

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite
• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Lassa Fever

• Breathe in air or eat food contaminated with the urine or droppings of infected rats
• Touch the body fluids of a person infected with Lassa virus or objects contaminated with infected body fluids

Lassa fever

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Ghana, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Ghana. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Some diseases in Ghana—such as dengue, leishmaniasis, and African sleeping sickness—are spread by bugs and cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Follow the insect avoidance measures described above to prevent these and other illnesses.

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Ghana include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Ghana. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Ghana’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in Ghana. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Ghana may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Ghana, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Ghana, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Ghana .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

To call for emergency services while in Ghana, dial 193 for an ambulance, 192 for the fire department, and 191 for the police. Write these numbers down to carry with you during your trip.

Learn as much as you can about Ghana before you travel there. A good place to start is the country-specific information on Ghana from the US Department of State.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Ghana for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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What to Wear in Ghana

Top style tips for ghana.

• Traditional values still prevail for many locals in Ghana, and showing excess flesh is not appreciated.
• Opt for casual clothing on the whole – leave your designer labels and jewellery at home.
• Shorts are acceptable for both men and women, but we suggest that you keep them longer so as not to show your upper thighs.
• Wear plenty of sunscreen (we love the Riemann P20 range for 10 hour protection), sunglasses and a sunhat, and remember your insect/mosquito repellent .
• There is really no need to pack a bulky jacket or coat, as the climate in Ghana is hot throughout the year. If you choose to bring a jacket, a lightweight option would be most suitable. You might like to try the SCOTTeVEST travel jacket because it converts into a vest for warmer weather and has 23 handy travel pockets.

Shoes to pack for Ghana

• Comfortable walking shoes are a must – we love Hotter shoes , as they are incredibly light and comfortable.
• Ladies, leave your high heels at home in favour of glamorous flat sandals . We love the Lindsay Phillips Switch Flops range – using interchangeable shoe and flip-flop bases with snap-on decorations, you can change your look from day to evening in an instant whilst still packing light.

Clothing tips for women

• Ghanaian women wear both traditional and Western clothes, and there are no restrictions on what can be worn.
• Just make sure your t-shirts or tops are long enough to cover your stomach .
• A skirt or loose-fitting trousers are good in the heat and will protect you from the sun.
• If you are staying in upscale hotels or resorts, you'll feel much more comfortable if you've packed a smart casual outfit for dinner – try a wrap or pashmina which can add ‘polish' to anything.
• Remember some well-chosen costume jewellery can dress up any outfit too.

Clothing tips for men

• If you're looking for versatile and stylish beachwear , try the Madda Fella range of shirts, shorts, polos and swimwear.

Community photos of Ghana

Pack for the weather

• Ghana is a tropical country with a warm/hot climate all year round. Our advice would be to pack lightweight layers in natural fabrics : linen, cotton, bamboo and silk.
• We love the Weather+ app – it gives an accurate 6 day forecast for day and night, which when you're planning from home is really helpful. You can keep all the places you've been to too – a nice way to remember your trip 🙂 Download for iPad/iPhone or Android

Other things to pack

• Don’t drink or even brush your teeth in tap water. Consider taking a LifeStraw Filtration Water Bottle .
• A soft-sided rucksack is more practical than a hard suitcase if travelling around the country – they are easier to fit into the small planes or transfer vehicles. Using packing cubes can help to keep your belongings tidy whilst compressing the volume too.
• Combine it with a lightweight day sack or sling bag to carry your day trip essentials .
• To use electrical gadgets you may need a travel adapter plug , and also a step down voltage converter if your devices are not designed for the local voltage (230V) .
• Avoid paying unexpected baggage fees – use an accurate luggage scale to ensure you keep within the weight allowance. Don't forget to leave room for souvenirs on the way home! There's an array of local crafts to choose from, including musical instruments, masks, beads and jewellery, pottery, wood carvings and much more. There are some large open-air markets, and street vendors will try and tempt you everywhere.

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The flight time from Chicago, Illinois to Accra, Ghana is:

12 hours, 10 minutes.

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Flying time from Chicago, IL to Accra, Ghana

The total flight duration from Chicago, IL to Accra, Ghana is 12 hours, 10 minutes .

This assumes an average flight speed for a commercial airliner of 500 mph, which is equivalent to 805 km/h or 434 knots. It also adds an extra 30 minutes for take-off and landing. Your exact time may vary depending on wind speeds.

If you're planning a trip, remember to add more time for the plane to taxi between the gate and the airport runway. This measurement is only for the actual flying time. You should also factor in airport wait times and possible equipment or weather delays. If you're trying to figure out what time you'll arrive at the destination, you may want to see if there's a time difference between Chicago, IL and Accra, Ghana .

The calculation of flight time is based on the straight line distance from Chicago, IL to Accra, Ghana ("as the crow flies"), which is about 5,834 miles or 9 388 kilometers .

Your trip begins in Chicago, Illinois. It ends in Accra, Ghana.

Your flight direction from Chicago, IL to Accra, Ghana is East (87 degrees from North).

The flight time calculator measures the average flight duration between points. It uses the great circle formula to compute the travel mileage.

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The Ghana Experience

Accra + Cape Coast

There aren’t very many places in the world where beaches meet the city, the nightlife DJ plays from his iPhone, and you can pay homage to your ancestors at Castles on the coast where it all began. 

Join us on our 8-day exploration in Ghana exploring Accra, Cape Coast, and Volta.  We will experience the country’s culture on a deeper level than the limited narrative you’ve been told. You can’t call yourself woke until you have experienced our ancestral home for yourself.

• 2024 Trip Dates: September 27 - October 4, 2024 | October 6 - 13, 2024​ | October 18-25, 2024
• 2025 Trip Dates: September 26 - October 3, 2025 | October 5-12, 2025
• 2026 Trip Dates: September 25 - October 2, 2026 | October 4 - 11, 2026
• Trip Length: 8 Days, 7 Nights
• Activity Level: High
• Luxury Level: 5 Stars
• Arrive Into: ACC
• Depart From: ACC

Do you hear that? That’s the sound of your tastebuds singing after you savor the local food, sip bubbly while looking over the city skyline, and swoon over the bustling markets with tailors that can make anything you desire to fit you perfectly.  

And you didn’t come snatched for anything! The pics you will snap of your melanin poppin’ in the streets at the colorful markets, rooftop pool, and open-air nightlife will be enough to shut down the gram, no cap.  

Whether you are soaking it in feeling the vibes of Accra, trying something new to eat on the street, or reflecting on your roots – the calmness of the city will make you feel blessed to experience the beauty of the Motherland. 

Priceless moments with new friends, historical exploration, and pampered relaxation await you on your Up in the Air Life journey through Ghana.

Love the trip but not the dates?

Go now or later with private trip planning, here's your trip at a glance..

WHERE YOU'LL GO

From soaking up the vibes of Accra on arrival at one of the best rooftops with our personal Chef, this trip offers a wide range of cultural immersion opportunities as you visit the Cape Coast castles to learn about our ancestors who were traded centuries ago. You will be able to check must-see sites like the W.E.B DuBois estate, the colorful markets where you can pick tailor-made fabrics, Cape Coast castles, and Ghana’s riviera while cruising down the Volta.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

This trip is your chance to get back to your roots as you dive deep into a cultural connection unlike any other. From an intimate naming ceremony in the castles on Cape Coast that ends with a drumming ceremony at the beach, and enjoying the nightlife and foodie scene, you will experience the most delicious delicacies and culture in West Africa.

WHERE YOU'LL STAY

Our accommodations are modest at one of the nicest hotels in Accra. Start your day with an over-the-top breakfast buffet, and after a long day connecting to your roots, finding the best deals in the market, or soaking in the sites, end the day on the amazing rooftop area with the best culinary experience in Ghana. Only the best for Lifers!

Explore the day-by-day itinerary.

THIS TRIP IS FOR YOU, IF:

• You want to connect to your roots
• You enjoy history and cultural experiences
• You're a sucker for great food and wine

THIS TRIP IS NOT FOR YOU, IF:

• You are over learning about the Slave Trade
• You'd rather stay put than explore
• High thread counts aren't your thing.

Arrive in the country’s capital, Accra (ACC). Ghana, a nation on West Africa’s Gulf of Guinea, is known for its diverse wildlife, old forts, and secluded beaches, such as Busua. 

Coastal towns Elmina and Cape Coast contain posubans (native shrines), colonial buildings, and castles-turned-museums that serve as a testimony of the slave trade. North of Cape Coast, the vast Kakum National Park has a treetop canopy walkway over the rainforest. 

After getting settled, opt in for an optional Tailor Experience to get your outfits for the rest of the week. Let’s break the ‘Gram with those Insta-worthy moments!|

At night, we’ll head to one of Accra’s most prestigious addresses for a Chef curated dinner in one of the highest buildings in the city.

Enjoy a fabulous breakfast before joining an emotional naming ceremony. In the naming ceremony, you will be given your Ghanaian name in a traditional recognition ceremony. 

At noon we’ll have a traditional lunch before visiting the historical museum & guest house at the former estate of writer & civil rights leader, W.E.B. DuBois. 

The Centre is located on immaculate grounds of serene beauty, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis Accra, which surrounds it near the city’s Center. The Center is a complex of four significant buildings, including the home where Dr. DuBois spent his last years, an Administrative building, the Marcus Garvey Guest House, and the tomb of Dr. DuBois and his dear wife, Shirley Graham DuBois.

Enjoy your free evening in the gorgeous city at your own pace.

As the golden rays of the sun grace the coast, you find yourself at a luxurious beach club in the heart of Accra, Ghana. It’s a retreat where the day’s rhythm is dictated by the gentle ebb and flow of the tide.

Your morning begins with a serene swim in the expansive infinity pool that kisses the Atlantic’s edge, blurring the line between man-made and natural splendor. Comfort finds form in the plush daybeds scattered along the water, perfect for basking in the sun or enjoying a novel as you sip on cocktails that blend local spices with premium spirits.

As the day transitions into evening, the air fills with the tantalizing scent of grilled catch-of-the-day and rich, spicy stews, a testament to the region’s bountiful produce and rich culinary heritage. Here, every experience is an invitation to savor the slow, joyful passing of time under the warm embrace of the Ghanaian sunshine.

Today, we journey to Cape Coast to visit Elmina and the Cape Coast castles.

These fortresses were the last memory many enslaved people had of their homeland before being shipped across the Atlantic. 

Over a thousand years ago dozens of castles and forts were built along the coastline of Ghana. Here we will visit the “Door of No Return”, referring to the door the enslaved people exited from their homeland, never to be seen again. 

Our evening continues with a lively beachside BBQ over a bonfire with music.

Today we’ll enjoy a late lunch with an array of vibrant dishes that echo the city’s spirit. As the heat of the day wanes, step into the bustling energy of Makola Market. This is where Accra’s heart beats, amidst the calls of vendors, the vivid hues of textiles, and the earthy scent of spices and cocoa. Navigate through stalls brimming with local produce and handmade crafts, a real-time canvas of Ghanaian commerce and culture.

The journey continues at the Arts Centre, a haven for art aficionados and curious travelers alike. Here, the craftsmanship of Ghana is on full display: intricately woven kente cloth, hand-carved masks, and a plethora of artifacts that tell stories of a rich cultural heritage. Engage with local artists, each stall and piece offering a chance to take a piece of Ghanaian soul back home.

Shopping in Accra is not merely a transaction; it’s an exchange of smiles, stories, and a shared appreciation for the artistry that is the lifeblood of the city.

Indulge in an optional tour that leads you away from the hustle of Accra to the tranquil embrace of nature at Boti Waterfalls and the city’s botanical garden.

As you step into the cool haven of the forest, let the symphony of Boti’s cascading waters enchant your senses, inviting you to unwind in its misty splendor.

Afterward, wander through the botanical garden, a lush repository of Ghana’s botanical wonders, where shaded paths unfurl into a tapestry of greenery, vibrant blooms, and the quiet company of fluttering butterflies.

This side excursion offers a peaceful interlude to your Ghanaian adventure, presenting the perfect opportunity to connect with the country’s rich natural tapestry at your own pace.

Spend the morning delving into the decadent world of chocolate with a hands-on chocolate-making class. You’ll explore the journey from bean to bar, using Ghana’s renowned cocoa to create your own sweet confections. As the rich aromas of chocolate fill the air, you’ll learn about the importance of cocoa to Ghana’s economy and culture.

Following this indulgent experience, you’ll transition from sweet to savory with a cooking class curated by a culinary expert, who once crafted dishes for the nation’s president. In this intimate setting, you’ll sip on fine wine, the clink of glasses harmonizing with laughter and the sizzle of spices.

Under the chef’s guidance, you’ll learn the secrets of making the perfect jollof rice, a staple that’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate. With each stir of the pot, you’ll become more attuned to the rhythms of Ghanaian cooking, concluding your day with a meal that’s a tapestry of the flavors that make Accra’s cuisine unforgettable.

Rise and shine for your last morning in Accra, enjoying a quiet morning by the pool to reflect on a fantastic week. 

If you got some spare time and you are not done with your retail therapy, we’ll 

Your Up in the Air Life private driver will then whisk you away to the airport (ACC) for your flight back home, where you are certain to return a different person.

No matter where you travel, our standards are the same.

You can always expect to:, connect with amazing people..

We provide the opportunity to make friendships with people who share your worldview and won't ask why you wear a bonnet to sleep.

Experience attentive and authentic hospitality.

Not only is the staff of Up in the Air Life dedicated to making sure your trip is flawlessly executed, but we are also intentional about choosing locales and vendors who celebrate Black travelers.

Be pampered with only the best.

There is no need to take a break from your baller lifestyle when you travel with us. Our lodging, excursions, and dining are pure luxury.

Feel safe and secure.

Our experienced American guides and well-maintained local relationships mean that you will have peace of mind when you travel with us.

Say "goodbye" to FOMO.

Our trips are anything but basic. While we make sure you see well-known main attractions, we also develop itineraries that will give you unique stories to share with your friends back home.

HERE'S WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT

What is included:

Our trips get you close to that Beyoncé-on-a-boat lifestyle. Let us handle your travel style glow-up.

• Up In The Air Life On-site Tour Leader
• A Bon Voyage Group Video Call to review your trip live with the Up in the Air Life Team
• Concierge Support before your trip to assist you in Upgrading Your Room and Booking Optional Tours
• Concierge Support before your trip to book your spa appointments
• Concierge Support before your trip to book your restaurant reservations
• Up in the Air Life Private Concierge Chat during your trip for dining/spa reservations and more
• Local Tour guides in Ghana
• 6 Nights at a 5-star hotel in Accra
• Daily breakfast buffet at the hotel
• Welcome Multi-Course Dinner paired with wine
• Ghanian Naming Ceremony
• City Tour of Kwame Nkrumah and W.E.B. Dubois Estate
• Multi-Course Lunch paired with wine at an Upscale Local Restaurant
• Makola Market Fabric Shopping and Lunch Tour
• Accra Nightlife Experience with bottle service
• Cape Coast Castles and Slave River Tour
• Local Lunch in Cape Coast paired with wine
• Art Gallery and Chocolate Making Class
• Jollof Rice Making Cooking Class
• VIP Meet + Greet Private Airport Transfer
• Personalized Swag Bag

What is not included:

We take care of all the details on your itinerary once you land. If you want to further personalize your experience, go off!

• Round-trip airfare to and from the destination
• Travel Medical Insurance Insurance (Please note this is required to attend the trip.)
• Room Upgrades are available for purchase after booking
• Optional tours are available for purchase after booking
• Tips for Tour Leader, Guides and Drivers
• Passport or Visa Processing Fees
• Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the time of travel with at least 2 free visa pages.
• Expenses for vaccines that may be required

Can you envision yourself on this trip?

Download "The Ghana Experience" trip brochure and keep it handy as you continue to explore, or take the plunge and book now .

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29 top cheap weekend getaways in the u.s..

Weekend getaways are often cheaper by default – especially in these destinations.

Top Cheap Weekend Getaways

Jason Tarr | Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

Asheville, North Carolina, is one of the best places for an affordable weekend escape.

Sometimes you just need to escape from your everyday routine – but you may not have weeks (or funds) on end to spend away from home. For those seeking a quick, affordable trip, we've compiled a variety of cheap weekend getaways across the U.S., organized by region so you can find something within driving distance to keep costs low (or further afield if you're up for the journey).

Top Regional Destinations:

Burlington, vermont.

Getty Images

You don't have to spend a lot of money to enjoy Burlington, Vermont – especially since the best ways to experience it are low-cost or free. Rent bikes and go for a ride on the Burlington Bike Path, which later becomes the Island Line Trail – a stunning pathway over Lake Champlain. You can also stroll Church Street Marketplace, where the Burlington Farmers Market is hosted on Saturdays; sample sweets at Lake Champlain Chocolates; and enjoy a craft beer tasting or two.

Niagara Falls, New York

There's no cost to visit this iconic landmark , and if you want to get up close, you'll find several affordable tours of Niagara Falls – namely boat rides that'll get you up close to the roaring waters. A visit to Niagara Falls, New York, also omits the cost (and hassle) of getting or renewing a passport . Free and low-cost things to do in Niagara Falls include hiking state parks and sampling vinos along the Niagara Wine Trail.

Atlantic City, New Jersey

You can enjoy an affordable weekend in Atlantic City – provided you steer clear of (or don't spend too much time at) the casinos. Instead, explore the beach and boardwalk, whose roots date back to 1870. Other budget-friendly things to do in Atlantic City including visiting Absecon Lighthouse (the tallest in New Jersey) and Lucy the Elephant. If you come here for a romantic getaway , treat yourself and your partner to dinner on the waterfront.

The Poconos, Pennsylvania

Spend as much or as little as you like in the Pocono Mountains. Located in northeastern Pennsylvania, the region's terrain affords a variety of free and low-cost activities amid beautiful scenery, from hiking and biking to fishing and boating. Lake Wallenpaupack, Hickory Run State Park and Lehigh Gorge State Park offer some of the best camping for those who'd like to keep lodging costs low, though you can also find affordable vacation rentals in the area.

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Courtesy of Destination Gettysburg

Gettysburg National Military Park (which also comprises the Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center) is free to visit, and there's no cost to explore the Civil War battlefields with a national park ranger. Gettysburg ghost tours – a must for anyone who's interested in the area's haunted history – are relatively affordable, too, as are local hotels , which include options under $200 and $100 per night.

Farm Sanctuary: Watkins Glen, New York

Courtesy of Farm Sanctuary

Farm Sanctuary in the Finger Lakes region of New York is part animal sanctuary, part country retreat – and an ideal location for a weekend escape from New York City . Travelers eager for a break can book a tiny home or cabin and spend time with more than 500 rescued farm animals in Watkins Glen. Nightly rentals start at $250 per night (plus a $25 membership fee) for up to two people in May through December, and include a special tour each morning of your stay. Sample the region's signature rieslings and chardonnays at some of the top wineries in the Finger Lakes during your visit, or hike to waterfalls at Watkins Glen State Park .

Address: 3150 Aikens Road, Watkins Glen, NY 14891

Black Hills National Forest and Badlands National Park, South Dakota

This area of the U.S. is home to Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park and the fascinating caverns of Wind Cave, making it easy to see several iconic attractions in one jaunt. To save on entry fees, consider the America the Beautiful National Park Pass. Priced at $80, it provides access to all national parks and federally protected lands in the U.S., so you'll likely be able to use it for another trip down the road, too.

Read: The Top Things to Do in South Dakota

Holiday World & Splashin' Safari: Santa Claus, Indiana

Courtesy of Holiday World & Splashin' Safari

Holiday World & Splashin' Safari ranks among the most affordable amusement parks in the U.S., in part because of its free parking and modest lodging costs. The amusement park also offers complimentary family-friendly perks with admission, including sunscreen and soft drinks.

Address: 452 E. Christmas Blvd., Santa Claus, IN 47579

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Courtesy of Wisconsin Dells Visitor & Convention Bureau

Wisconsin Dells is home to myriad water park resorts – many of which combine water park admission and overnight lodging in one rate. Other attractions in Wisconsin Dells include a Ripley's Believe It Or Not museum, a bustling downtown and plenty of gorgeous scenery marked by unique rock formations. You can frequently find hotel and attraction discounts on the Wisconsin Dells tourism bureau's website ; keep in mind for any family trips that the best prices are typically available when kids are in school.

Branson, Missouri

Courtesy of Explore Branson

Table Rock Lake State Park, where you can swim, canoe, kayak, fish, hike and bike, as well as Branson Landing, which features a spectacular fountain show at night, are among the free attractions in Branson, Missouri . You can also ride a free trolley around town from March to December. The most expensive activity in Branson might be a visit to Silver Dollar City, though you can often find deals on tickets, like discounted evening rates in the fall. For affordable lodging in Branson , try the Thousand Hills Resort Hotel , which often lists rates around $100 per night.

Indianapolis, Indiana

Courtesy of Visit Indy

There are a variety of free things to do in Indianapolis , including the Monon Trail, which connects downtown Indy to the Carmel area, with shops and restaurants along the way; the 250-acre White River State Park, perfect for a picnic lunch; and the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, which connects the city's public spaces. On the first Thursday of every month, the Newfields Art Museum offers free admission (and whether or not you go to the museum, the grounds alone are worth a visit). In the summer, Concerts on the Canal brings free entertainment to the area – just bring your own blanket or lawn chair.

No matter your budget, a visit to the Indianapolis Children's Museum is worth the splurge if traveling with kids – it is the largest children's museum in the world.

Cedar Point: Sandusky, Ohio

Courtesy of Cedar Point

Not only is Cedar Point one of the best amusement parks in the U.S. – and the self-proclaimed Roller Coaster Capital of the World – but a visit here is also relatively cheap when you factor in the affordability of hotels in Sandusky . The Comfort Inn Sandusky , for example, offers free breakfast with rates starting at less than $100 per night. Keep in mind that, as a seasonal attraction, Cedar Point is typically closed from November to early May.

Address: 1 Cedar Point Drive, Sandusky, OH 44870

Read: The Top Water Parks in Ohio

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Washington, D.C.

Courtesy of Washington.org

With 22 free Smithsonian museums including the National Zoo, Washington, D.C. is an obvious choice for a cheap weekend getway. And while many hotels in D.C. are expensive, you can still find affordable accommodations on rental sites like Airbnb and Vrbo.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores boasts more than 30 miles of white sand beaches , making it one of the best beaches on the Gulf Coast . You don't have to visit during the summer to experience the area's best weather, though: Spring and fall bring temperatures that are still comfortable for sunbathing, swimming and strolling on the sand.

Budget-friendly things to do in Gulf Shores include bike riding at Gulf State Park; casting a line at Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier; exploring The Wharf, an entertainment and shopping venue; and visiting the Orange Beach History Museum and the Gulf Shores Museum, both of which are free. At local hotels like the Staybridge Suites Gulf Shores , nightly rates for apartment-style accommodations and free breakfast currently hover around $100 a night.

Massanutten Resort: Massanutten, Virginia

An ideal weekend getaway from Washington, D.C. , Massanutten Resort offers four-season fun, from winter sports like skiing and snowboarding to golf, mountain biking and water park action during warmer months. A la carte fees for many activities allow you to spend as much or as little as you'd like, and while there's a nightly resort fee, it covers access to the indoor and outdoor pools, playgrounds, sports courts (including pickleball), hiking trails and more. Plus, the resort fee doesn't seem so bad when you consider that townhomes and guest rooms are available for less than $150 a night.

Address: 1822 Resort Drive, Massanutten, VA 22840

Asheville, North Carolina

Krista Rossow | Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

Situated within the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is known for its mix of history (Biltmore Estate), nature (the Blue Ridge Mountains) and food (from craft breweries to a flourishing dining scene). Travelers can tackle a number of hikes in Asheville for some scenic – and low-cost – fun. You can also stroll along the 1.7-mile Asheville Urban Trail to learn about the city's unique past, go for a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway and explore downtown, where you're bound to come across some of the tiny city's famous street performers. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an easy and relatively affordable day trip from Asheville, too.

Bahia Honda Key, Florida

You don't have to visit Key West – or break the bank – to experience the best of the Florida Keys; in fact, the best beaches in the Florida Keys are not even in Key West. At Bahia Honda State Park, for example, you can swim, rent kayaks and snorkeling gear, or even hop on a boat to snorkel in the Looe Key marine sanctuary reef. Entry fees at Bahia Honda State Park are $8 per vehicle with two to eight passengers. Plus, you can camp here for just $36 per night (not including tax and the utility and reservation fees). Renting a cabin costs about $120 per night plus fees from May through October, and slightly more in the cooler months.

Read: The Best Places for Camping in Florida

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

One of the most affordable beach destinations in the U.S., Myrtle Beach is known for its roster of low-cost or free activities that appeal to travelers of all ages. Explore the mile-long Myrtle Beach Boardwalk (home to the iconic Skywheel) as well as Broadway at the Beach (an entertainment complex), both of which offer live entertainment including music performances and fireworks shows. Vereen Memorial Gardens, just north of the city, is also free to visit. When it comes to Myrtle Beach accommodations , there are affordable options aplenty; the Crown Reef Resort, for example, offers an on-site, year-round water park and rates as low as $92 per night for a family of four.

Polk County, Florida

Courtesy of Visit Central Florida

A vacation in Orlando has its time and place, but if you're on the hunt for a cheap weekend getaway, head to Polk County instead. Here, you can explore stunning (and free) parks and nature preserves such as Bok Tower Gardens, a National Historic Landmark, as well as Bonnet Springs Park. The park connects several attractions, including a kids treehouse, a rooftop bar, a butterfly house, The Florida Children's Museum, botanical gardens and more. Legoland Florida Resort and Peppa Pig Theme Park are close by if you decide to splurge on a theme park visit.

New Orleans

There are more things to do in New Orleans than you could ever accomplish in a weekend, but you can still enjoy a short and cheap trip to The Big Easy. Ogle the historic houses in the Garden District, stroll along iconic Magazine Street, wander through the French Quarter (where you're bound to see street performers), or stop in a local eatery for a famous po'boy sandwich or beignet. For affordable accommodations in New Orleans , look outside of the French Quarter.

South Padre Island, Texas

Courtesy of South Padre Island CVB

Not only does South Padre Island offer 34 miles of coastline and the cleanest beach water in Texas, but it's also ultra-affordable. Low-cost attractions include Sea Turtle, Inc., which is currently building the world's largest sea turtle hospital, and South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center. There are also plenty of places to enjoy fishing, one of the island's most popular activities. A visit to the Port Isabel Lighthouse State Historic Site – the last Texas lighthouse open to the public – costs just $5 per adult ($3 for kids). Sandcastle Days, the island's beloved festival that is hosted every October, is also free.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

One of the most beautiful national parks in California , Joshua Tree National Park is also fairly affordable thanks to campgrounds like Jumbo Rocks, where you can enjoy the seclusion of the deserted wilderness. There are more than 100 primitive campsites available here, with reservations required in the busy season from September to May; a maximum of six people can occupy a campsite for just $20 per night (on top of fees to enter the park).

San Luis Obispo, California

Courtesy of Visit SLO CAL

Combining small-town charm with beautiful weather, San Luis Obispo is an ideal weekend getaway from Los Angeles (about 190 miles from the city). With the plethora of outdoor activities here, visitors can enjoy budget-friendly fun like hiking the area's trails, surfing in the ocean, zip lining or horseback riding. For local flavor, visit the Thursday evening farmers market or dine alfresco at one of many downtown patios. The town's free Concerts in the Plaza series features performances by the area's top artists. Beaches await those seeking relaxation in SLO, while wine lovers can explore the region's Edna Valley wineries.

A glitzy getaway in Las Vegas can be yours – and it may be less expensive than you initially imagined. Hotels in Vegas can cost as little as $50 per night on weekdays (plus resort fees), and local attractions like Bellagio Fountains, the Fremont Street Experience, the Las Vegas Sign and Seven Magic Mountains (just outside the city) are all free to visit. This might just mean you'll have some room in your budget for a casino visit, tickets to one of the city's spectacular shows , and/or a tour of the Grand Canyon .

Sedona, Arizona

Courtesy of Sedona Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau

It won't cost you a penny to visit most attractions in Sedona , including Cathedral Rock, Devil's Bridge and Fay Canyon. And while Sedona's spa and wellness resorts are undoubtedly pricey, you can find lodging for less in off-peak months (summer and winter), as well as a variety of vacation rentals year-round.

Read: The Top Things to Do in Arizona

Gros Ventre Wilderness, Wyoming

The Gros Ventre Wilderness, which is part of the greater Yellowstone ecosystem, is another natural wonder worth visiting. Plan a weekend here to discover rolling rivers, abundant wildlife, and amazing geological features such as rock formations and natural slides. As for accommodations, travelers can rent the cozy Hoback Guard Station cabin for $80 per night for a party of up to six guests from May to October.

Olympic National Park, Washington

Olympic National Park is well worth a weekend visit, whether you want to hike, stargaze or explore its more than 70 miles of untouched Pacific Coast shoreline – which include dog-friendly beaches , if your furry friend wants to come along. While here, visit the famous Hoh Rain Forest, Lake Crescent and Rialto Beach. You can even camp within the park for as little as $40 per night for up to 10 people sharing a campsite. Note that you'll have to pay a fee to enter the park.

Read: The Best Weekend Getaways from Seattle

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Courtesy of Visit Albuquerque

Albuquerque is quirky and fun, with an Old Town that features cobblestone streets and adobe-style buildings and is free to explore. Plan a visit during spring or fall for the best weather, then take advantage of local, low-cost festivals: May brings the New Mexico Wine Festival ($25 or less per ticket) to town, or come autumn, you can stop by the famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (around $15 per person) to witness one of the best hot air balloon festivals in the U.S. Other things to do in Albuquerque include visiting the Petroglyph National Monument, which is free of charge. Opt for a vacation rental rather than a hotel to save some coin.

San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio is an affordable Texas destination brimming with cultural flair, historical significance and free activities. There's no cost to visit iconic attractions like the Alamo or the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, and you won't pay anything to stroll the famous River Walk (though dining at least once here is a must). Another popular activity, narrated river cruises are also cheap, with tickets for less than $15 per person via local operator GO RIO Cruises.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cheap Family Vacations
• The Best Cheap Spring Break Destinations
• The Best Presidents Day Weekend Getaways
• The Best Places to Go for the Fourth of July
• The Cheapest Travel Insurance Companies

Cheap Tropical Vacations

Tags: Travel , Budget Travel , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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Hundreds descend on Smiths Grove to celebrate grand opening of KY's second Buc-ee's

SMITHS GROVE — Towering over Interstate 65, a baseball cap-wearing beaver sign welcomed motorists to its one-of-a-kind travel center in south central Kentucky for the first time Monday.

Drivers entered the beaver's residence to find an array of gas pumps and a sprawling storefront unlike any roadside stop in the region. There were inflatables, swimwear and pillows bearing the cartoon logo. Even a beaver mascot was in attendance, taking photos with joyful fans.

Buc-ee's, the popular gas station and convenience store chain rapidly expanding in the United States, settled in its smallest town yet — Smiths Grove. About 800 people live in what is usually a quiet community just outside Bowling Green, the city home to the National Corvette Museum and Western Kentucky University.

Monday's grand opening of the new travel center was anything but as hundreds of fans descended on the site on Smiths Grove-Scottsville Road. Among the line of eager customers waiting to enter the store at 6 a.m. was Karina Benitez, a first-timer at Buc-ee's. The pit stop in Smiths Grove was a pleasant surprise for her and her family, as they had no idea they were walking in to a brand new Buc-ee's location.

"We pulled up and I was like, 'Why is there a line? Why are there so many cars?' I wanted to know what the hype was all about and now I've seen it this morning, with all the other people in line," said Benitez, who was traveling from Houston to Columbus, Ohio with her son, mother and step-father.

Benitez said her parents had been to a Buc-ee's near Houston previously, so she pulled up to the Smiths Grove store with some knowledge about the chain's homemade brisket, beef jerky and friendly beaver mascot. She left Kentucky with a carload full of Buc-ee's merchandise, including a blanket, foldable lawn chairs, a stuffed animal and free t-shirts.

The most popular scene inside the new Buc-ee's may have been the "Texas Round Up," where chefs sporting cowboy hats chopped and sliced warm brisket, which they announced proudly by chanting "Fresh brisket on the board!"

Leading the barbecue stand Monday was Buc-ee's head pitmaster Randy Pauly. Pauly, who is based in the Houston area, came to Smiths Grove for two days to ensure the new staff could meet the company's standard for slow-cooked, Texas-style barbecue. New employees were also aided by experienced staffers who had worked at other locations across the country.

"We are constantly looking at the quality because it is the details that matter," Pauly said. "The details that are going to make that chopped brisket taco or brisket sandwich the absolute best, and that's what we are chasing because our guests deserve it."

Pauly, who pitched the "Texas Round Up" concept to Buc-ee's when he joined the company in 2017, said the chant is a central part of the barbecue pit because it shows how Buc-ee's is cooking brisket, pulled pork, turkey and other meats all day, no matter the time of day.

Deborah Yarberry and her daughter, Anna Hall, who are both from Bowling Green, grew to enjoy Buc-ee's brisket and the atmosphere inside the store when they stopped at travel centers in Leeds, Alabama and Richmond, Kentucky. For the grand opening in Smiths Grove, they both wore t-shirts featuring the beaver logo.

"We knew we were going to be here on opening day. We were so excited," Yarberry said, adding she and her daughter had caught up with the news of the store's opening through a Facebook fan page. They planned to buy Buc-ee's coffee mugs and try the fresh tortillas made in house.

Founded in Texas in the early 1980s, Buc-ee's has since grown into a 50-store chain, with at least four more locations set to pop up through 2026. The store in Smiths Grove is Kentucky's second after the Richmond location opened in 2022.

Buc-ee's seems to meet the "everything is bigger in Texas" standard of its home state. At just over 53,000 square feet, the new travel center in Smiths Grove has a wide footprint. Even the spacious bathrooms have earned high marks from road trippers.

The Buc-ee's store in Smiths Grove is staffed with over 200 employees, a company spokesperson said. The company still had some open positions as of Monday, according to its website.

More: 'Going to surprise you': 10 most popular food items at Buc-ee's, including its famous BBQ

More From Forbes

Take a leaf out of the latest travel books.

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There’s a slew of glossy, new travel books hitting bookshelves this month—perfect for inspiring you for your next travels.

The Puglian table is the inspiration behind Moroseta Kitchen by Giorgia Eugenia Goggi.

Moroseta Kitchen (15 August 2024, Quadrille , £30) may be a seasonal Italian cookbook from Giorgia Eugenia Goggi, resident chef of design-led hotel Masseria Moroseta , but, through its recipes and destination photography, the pages also take you from the kitchen and into the Puglian landscape.

The simple cuisine of Puglia is celebrated in Moroseta Kitchen.

Tucked away in a five-hectare olive grove, Masseria Moroseta is found in Ostuni, Puglia. Since 2017, Giorgia has been at the helm of its restaurant, Moroseta Kitchen, that is an integral part of the farmhouse hotel, harnessing the abundance of produce from the surrounding land and tapping into a network of the finest local producers. As a result, Giorgia’s cooking draws in guests from around the world, with the hotel’s 45-cover restaurant boasting a waitlist of over 300 people per night in peak season. From her spontaneous and ingredient-led menus to curating a unique dining experience, Moroseta Kitchen’s ethos is to provide a true expression of modern Italy and what it is like to eat there.

The writer is the chef at Masseria Moroseta in Italy's Puglia region.

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“I grew up in a family that always considered food to be the founding element of our togetherness and an expression of love,” says Giorgia, in her introduction to the book. “Our everyday meals were carefully prepared using seasonal ingredients, cooked the right way, with an essential, ethical and elegant approach that I still envy: pasta with butter, Parmesan, a little black pepper and a few basil leaves torn by hand—shiny, perfectly emulsified, delicate, but with well-defined aromas, and passatelli in chicken broth, served on foggy winter evenings, with a lemon and nutmeg aroma that I could recognise among a thousand.”

The book Moroseta Kitchen celebrates the land and the cuisine of Puglia.

The imagery, all shot on film, places the reader directly in the Puglian landscape, which, says Giorgia, has an extreme beauty: “The blue sea, the red earth, the centuries-old olive trees, the quality of the ingredients, the cultural and historical depth.”

She continues: “You have to get to know it slowly, you have to learn its language and customs in order to get to the real Puglia—that of small villages, peasant traditions, patron saints and endless family lunches; this strong foundation gave me confidence, I felt rooted and safe in that place, protected and at the same time free to create.”

The book features recipes that reflect each season: think: Roasted Vegetable Gazpacho, Citrus Risotto, Pasta e Ceci and Fig Leaf Gelato with Apricot Sorbet. Above all, says the author, Moroseta Kitchen encapsulates the warm hospitality and convivial atmosphere of time spent at Masseria Moroseta.

At Masseria Moroseta, you can embrace the sunkissed destination.

“Puglia is rich in traditions, rooted and radical in its attachment to its ways,” writes the chef. “All this rustic simplicity and authenticity of meaning was enlightening for me. In Puglia, all families have their habits: fresh pasta made by grandmothers, the olive harvest all together, the ritual of tomato sauce at the end of August. There is a strong sense of community and the villages are still full of life. Everyone helps each other, everyone knows each other…”

Celebrating the timeless city of Marbella.

Meanwhile, Assouline—renowned for its coffee table series of travel titles—has launched a batch of new covetable books. Marbella Sol (May 2024, assouline.com , £85), with text by Nicholas Foulkes, looks at the kaleidoscopic nature of the Spanish town.

Casco Antiguo, Marbella Old Town

“The result of successive waves of visitors who have left their marks over the years, Marbella is a social archaeological site where generations have lived lives of sun-gilded leisure. Today the popular image of Marbella may be of a sort of European Miami, but one need only scratch this glitzy surface to be taken back to the time when Marbella was a simpler place.”

Explore the culture and glitz of Biarritz.

Biarritz Basque (6 June, assouline.com , £85), with text by journalist Frédéric Beigbeder, explores the Basque town of Biarritz, found on the southern coast of France. The idyllic town has hosted such luminary visitors as Napoléon III and Coco Chanel—yet it’s also a surfer’s paradise.

Biarritz is an iconic holiday hot spot, found along the Atlantic coast.

“Imagine breathtaking landscapes, a rich cultural tapestry, and the aroma of traditional Basque cuisine lingering in the air. Biarritz exudes an old-world charm, intimately felt on the pelota courts in town and experienced while weaving among the moored wooden fishing boats in Guéthary. Craftsmanship is a time-honored tradition in this region—valuing the handmade process of making makhilas and championing the century-old linen producers.”

Forte dei Marmi on the Tuscan coast is where many Italians holiday.

Forte dei Marmi (18 June 2024, assouline.com , £85), meanwhile, takes the reader on a journey through Tuscany’s sun-kissed shores.

The exclusive and luxurious beach resort of Forte dei Marmi.

Writer/filmmaker Edoardo Nesi brings to life the beaches where, “candy-colored umbrellas dot the pristine sands, and in the background, the Apuan Alps stand regally in the distance. Tucked into these mountains, Carrara and Pietrasanta have welcomed and inspired renowned sculptors, from Michelangelo to Jeff Koons.”

Hotel Esencia, published by Assouline, was written by Melinda Stevens, the founder of Salt Lick, and ... [+] ex-editor-in-chief of Condé Nast Traveller UK and Condé Nast Traveler US.

The luxury publisher is also known for its collection of titles that celebrate some of the world’s iconic hotels, such as Mexico’s Hotel Escencia (May 2024, assouline.com , £85) and the latest tome, The Peninsula , to mark one one of London’s newest and most luxurious hotels, (June 2024, assouline.com , £85).

The Peninsula delves into one of London's finest hotel openings of late.

Having opened in Belgravia in September 2023, the luxury hotel was London’s first hotel development to exceed £1 billion in cost. The property was the result of a 35-year search for the perfect location by Sir Michael Kadoorie, the chairman of one of the world’s most rarefied hospitality brands and the longest continuously operating hotel group, founded in 1866 in Hong Kong.

Discover the hidden secrets of Paris.

Finally, Jonglez Publishing has this month bought out two new titles in its Secret Guide series. Secret Paris , (June 2024, jonglezpublishing.com , £15.99) was written by Thomas Jonglez, the publisher himself. A Parisian by birth and a passionate traveler, Jonglez reveals the lesser-known sides of Paris—from hidden gardens and unknown libraries to insider tips.

Go off the beaten track in Normandy, France.

Secret Normandy , (June 2024, jonglezpublishing.com , £15.99), meanwhile, showcases historic insights and curiosities—such as an artist’s studio in a castle and a chapel carved out of a trunk of a medieval oak tree—all found beyond the surface of one of France’s most popular regions.

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TSA breaks record for most individuals screened on a single day, readies for record-breaking Independence Day weekend travel volumes

WASHINGTON — As airline passengers prepare to take to the skies this Independence Day holiday, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is prepared for a sustained period of high passenger volumes. TSA expects to screen more than 32 million individuals from Thursday, June 27 through Monday, July 8, which is a 5.4% increase over 2023 Independence Day holiday travel volumes. On Sunday, June 23, TSA broke the record for most people screened on a single day, screening nearly 3 million (2.99 million) individuals . This summer’s record-breaking travel volumes reflect the role TSA and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have in securing the nation’s transportation systems, while ensuring freedom of movement for people and commerce, which is vital to our country’s economic well-being.

TSA anticipates the peak travel day will be Friday, June 28, when the agency expects to screen more than 3 million individuals. TSA is staffed to meet its wait time standards, which are 10 minutes and under in TSA PreCheck lanes and 30 minutes and under in standard screening lanes. Seven of the top 10 busiest travel days ever have occurred over the past month.

“We expect this summer to be our busiest ever and summer travel usually peaks over the Independence Day holiday,” said TSA Administrator David Pekoske. “Compared to last year, we have cut our attrition rates by almost half and increased our recruiting as a result of the TSA Compensation Plan that was funded in the budget passed by Congress and signed into law by President Biden. The traveling public is on the move, which is a sign of a healthy economy. We are ready, along with our airline and airport partners, to handle this boost in passenger volumes.”

Airline passengers should be aware that security screening technologies may vary by airport. Although TSA follows strict standardized screening protocols, it is important for passengers to arrive early and listen to the guidance provided by Transportation Security Officers (TSOs).

Below are some frequently asked questions that provide an overview of the TSA technologies and procedures individuals may encounter during screening process.

Do I need to show a boarding pass to the TSA officer?

All airline passengers must have their acceptable ID and boarding pass ready at the security checkpoint entrance.

Do I need to take off my shoes?

TSA requires individuals in standard screening lanes to remove their shoes during the screening process. However, individuals 12 and under or 75 and older are always permitted to keep their shoes on during the security screening process.

Passengers with TSA PreCheck may leave their shoes on unless they alarm during screening. Most airports have dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes during some peak hours. Some airports have blended lanes where passengers with TSA PreCheck are screened in standard lanes, but they will receive a card indicating they have TSA PreCheck to carry with them during screening, and will be screened as a TSA PreCheck passenger.

Can family members go through the TSA PreCheck lane with me?

Teenagers aged 13-17 may accompany TSA PreCheck enrolled parents or guardians through screening when traveling on the same reservation and when the TSA PreCheck indicator appears on the teen’s boarding pass. Children 12 and under may accompany an enrolled parent or guardian in the TSA PreCheck lanes without restriction. This benefit is another reason to join the nearly 20 million people who have enrolled in TSA PreCheck. For customer flexibility, there are three TSA PreCheck enrollment providers from which passengers may choose: Telos, CLEAR and IDEMIA. For more information on any of the enrollment provider options and TSA PreCheck, visit www.tsa.gov/precheck .

Other advice from TSA

With more than 430 federalized, commercial airports nationwide, 685 security checkpoints and 2,412 security screening lanes, it may be challenging to know what to expect at any airport. Here are some additional tips to help ensure an efficient screening experience:

• Pack smart. Always start packing with a bag that is empty to ensure there are no prohibited items present during security screening. Place electronics larger than a cell phone and travel size liquids at the top of your carry-on so they can be easily accessible if they must be removed. Remember that all liquids must be 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less if they are in your carry-on bag.
• Arrive at the airport two hours before scheduled boarding time. Allow ample time to park,  navigate to the terminal, check luggage with the airline if needed and proceed through the checkpoint. Most flights board 30-45 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.
• Review guidelines for traveling with children. Airlines may request proof of age documentation during check-in for children 12 and under traveling unaccompanied. Proof of age documentation must also be provided for children two and under planning to sit on an adult passenger’s lap. A birth certificate is an acceptable proof of age.
• Get assistance prior to traveling. Do you have a question about an item and whether or not it is allowed through security screening? Download the MyTSA app and use the “What Can I Bring?” feature to determine whether an item is allowed or prohibited in carry-on luggage. You may also snap a picture of an item and send it to @AskTSA on X (formerly Twitter) or Facebook Messenger for real-time assistance. Passengers may text their question to TSA by texting “Travel” to AskTSA (275-872). Passengers who need additional assistance through security screening may request a TSA  Passenger Support Specialist (PSS). A PSS is a TSO who has received specialized training, including how to effectively assist and communicate with individuals with disabilities, medical conditions or those who need additional screening assistance. Individuals should request passenger assistance at least 72 hours in advance by contacting  our TSA Cares passenger support line  at (855) 787-2227. Live assistance for both the TCC and TSA Cares is available weekdays, 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, or weekends and holidays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET.
• Double-check your luggage tags. Many bags look alike, so passengers should tag every piece of checked luggage with their name and address. We also recommended they include additional addresses inside each bag in the event the outside tag falls off. When retrieving checked luggage at baggage claim, it is important that individuals check the tags to ensure they have picked up the correct bag.
• Do you carry a firearm? Prepare, pack and declare. Passengers may travel with a firearm , but it must be secured as the passenger’s checked baggage; packed unloaded; locked in a hard-sided case and declared to the airline when checking in at the airline ticket counter. Firearms are prohibited at security checkpoints, in the secure area of an airport and in the passenger cabin of an aircraft, even if a passenger has a concealed carry permit or is in a constitutional carry jurisdiction. TSA does not confiscate or seize firearms. If a passenger brings a firearm to the security checkpoint on their person or in their carry-on luggage, the TSO will contact local law enforcement to safely unload and take possession of the firearm. Law enforcement may also arrest or cite the passenger, depending on local law. TSA may impose a civil penalty up to almost $15,000, and for the first offense, passengers who bring a firearm to a security checkpoint will lose TSA PreCheck® eligibility for five years. Second violations will result in permanent disqualification from the program and additional civil penalties.
• Do you have TSA PreCheck? Make sure your Known Traveler Number (KTN) is in your airline reservation. TSA PreCheck passengers do not need to remove shoes, belts, 3-1-1 liquids, laptops, food items and light jackets at the TSA checkpoint. TSA’s wait time standards for TSA PreCheck lanes are under 10 minutes whereas as standard lanes are under 30 minutes. If you are not yet enrolled in TSA PreCheck, you may enroll via one of TSA’s authorized enrollment providers starting as low as $77.95 for a five-year membership. Most new enrollees receive their KTN within three to five days. Members may renew membership online up to six months prior to expiration for another five-year term starting as low as $68.95. Visit TSA PreCheck at www.tsa.gov/precheck for more information, and to begin your enrollment.
• Respect frontline aviation workers. Violence and unruly behavior in airports and onboard aircraft are not acceptable and will result in significant delays at security checkpoints. TSOs, along with all frontline airport and airline employees and local law enforcement, are working together to ensure safe and secure travel. Assaulting a TSA employee is a federal offense and will result in penalties and/or arrest.

‘Alexa, Book My Tour’: Viator and Amazon Give Hotels Voice Search for Travel Experiences

Jesse Chase-Lubitz , Skift

June 25th, 2024 at 8:57 AM EDT

This isn't the first time Amazon has tried to bring voice-activated bookings to hotels. But in a collaboration with Viator, guests will be able to book over 300,000 travel experiences directly from their rooms.

Jesse Chase-Lubitz

Viator , a TripAdvisor brand, has partnered with Amazon.com to integrate its vast inventory of tours, activities, and experiences into Alexa-enabled devices in hotel rooms. This marks the experience sector’s first major push into voice-activated travel bookings.

Viator, which calls itself the world’s largest travel agency for experiences, and Amazon did not share details on the financial structure of the deal. Viator said that hotels would benefit from it. 

“Every tour booked by a guest using their in-room device will generate revenue share back to the hotel,” said Sarah Dines , chief commercial officer at Viator.

The deal plugs more than 300,000 tours, activities, and excursions from Viator, an online travel agency owned by TripAdvisor, into Amazon’s Alexa service. Guests can search and book travel experiences in their hotel rooms.

This isn’t an entirely novel. Many hotel operators already provide custom Alexa-powered offerings in hotel rooms through Amazon’s Alexa Smart Properties for Hospitality program, including the Circa Resort & Casino, Reverb Atlanta, the Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu in Quebec, the NH Collection in Spain, Sapporo Stream in Japan, the Wynn in Las Vegas, and some U.S. Walt Disney World Resorts.

However, this partnership signals the first time that Viator’s experiences will be built into Amazon’s devices as a “skill,” which enables users to ask Alexa about Viator’s offerings.

The service will only apply to participating hotels. For now, that includes Circa Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. However, it is available to U.S. hotels and will go international over time. 

Viator and Amazon’s service will allow guests to see popular local tours, activities, and excursions on the screens of an Amazon Echo Show device, which is similar to a small tablet or phone-sized screen that would sit on a desk or table. Guests can then explore the activities using either voice or touch. They can also book the travel experiences they want directly through Viator using a QR code.

Amazon’s Foray Into the Hotel Industry

The move comes at a time when Amazon promises a significant update to Alexa’s capabilities thanks to generative AI .

Yet it isn’t the first time a travel company joined forces with Amazon. In 2016, Expedia and Amazon partnered up to allow customers to inquire about existing flight reservations with Expedia, the loyalty program, or book a car rental.

In 2018, Amazon launched Alexa Smart Properties for Hospitality to increase its reach in the industry. The program placed Echo devices in several hotels , including Best Western, Dream Hotels, and Wynn Resorts. 

Also in 2018, the hospitality technology company SevenRooms announced plans to build an Alexa skill that enabled restaurant operators to use voice commands to streamline table service. For example, the device could remind staff to bring condiments to a table or fill water glasses.

Since then, news on Alexa’s rollout into the hospitality industry has been relatively quiet.

In 2019, Amazon received a slew of bad press as media outlets reported that the devices were listening to people’s private conversations. Travel Weekly reported that some hotel guests had privacy concerns about having smart devices in their rooms. Others said that the devices were activating and waking them up in the middle of the night.

Amazon faced several lawsuits about Alexa’s recording practices and ultimately changed its policies.

What’s Next

Amazon declined to comment on any future plans for hospitality-based partnerships.

Viator’s leadership said it hopes the partnership will help operators expand their customer base.

“By integrating Viator’s thousands of high-quality tours, activities, and excursions into Amazon Echo Show devices in hotel rooms, we’re making it easier than ever for travelers to find and book exceptional experiences in destination,” said Dines. “This collaboration also opens new doors for Viator’s tour operators by broadening their exposure to new and expanded audiences.”

More on Tours, Activities, and Travel Experiences

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Tags: amazon , booking technology , hospitality , online travel , online travel agencies , online travel newsletter , tours and activities , Travel Experiences , travel tech , viator , voice , voice search

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Joe Burrow and Justin Jefferson Take Paris by Storm—then Walk in Vogue World 2024

By Leah Faye Cooper

For friends and former college teammates Joe Burrow and Justin Jefferson, first came a national championship with LSU, then NFL superstardom, and now an instantly viral trip to Paris Fashion Week Men’s—capped off by walking in Vogue World 2024 . “I’ve always loved clothes but never really understood the industry, so I wanted to learn more,” Burrow tells Vogue. The Cincinnati Bengals quarterback landed in Paris earlier this week, where he and Minnesota Vikings wideout Jefferson sat front row at Amiri , toured the Hermès atelier, and indulged in French cuisine.

Burrow at Vogue World

“The lobster and shrimp at L’Avenue is fiiire ,” says Jefferson, who is visiting the City of Light for the first time. “There’s a lot of traffic, and the way people drive is kinda crazy, but it’s a great city,” he says, adding that he hopes to be known “as more than just a football player” and was partial to the Amiri show. “I wear Amiri a lot. It’s my style—relaxed and chill.”

Following a whirlwind of shows and parties, Burrow and Jefferson both hit the Vogue World 2024 runway. “I wanted to get out of my comfort zone and grow as a person, [and] I think walking in the show is a great way to do that,” says Burrow, who was dressed in a backless black suit with satin lapels by Peter Do . “I think the crossover between fashion and sport is going to continue to grow.”

Jefferson getting fitted

Participating in the star-studded, fashion-filled night was just as appealing to Jefferson. “This is my first show,” he says, “and who wouldn’t want Vogue World to be their first?” Ahead, an exclusive look at Joe Burrow and Justin Jefferson’s trip to Paris.

“Night one in Paris. Dinner at Le Clarence. Hard to beat.” —Joe Burrow

“Getting dressed in the car right before the Amiri show. I would always see people on TV and social media having to do this and thought it was crazy. Now I realize between traffic and close show times, it’s just something you have to do sometimes.” —Justin Jefferson

“Out in the streets of Paris with the papz was crazzzy.” —J.J.

“Two sides of the same coin. Outside the Amiri show.” —J.B.

“Joe and me taking a tour of the Hermès métier factory. It was dope to see the history behind the brand and how everything is made. The thoughtfulness, attention to detail, craftsmanship, and ability to reuse and recycle are impressive.” —J.J.

The depressing reality of quiet vacationing

Why is everyone suddenly going on trips without actually taking time off?

Who among us has not done a little fibbing at work? A little résumé embellishment here, a fake dental appointment there. Now people are taking full-blown holidays while on the job as part of a trend that's been called " quiet vacationing ."

There's no set definition of quiet vacationing, and it can encompass a variety of behaviors — traveling to a faraway place and not saying anything while still getting your work in, or not working but keeping your mouse moving to appear as if you're online in hopes that no one will notice your drop in productivity.

On the one hand, this sounds like an awesome, novel possibility brought about by the rise of remote work. Responding to the 10th email of the day while sipping a margarita on the beach sounds a lot nicer than doing it from an office desk as a coworker nearby munches loudly on their sad salad . If work gets slow in the summer, there's no good reason to sit and stare at your computer.

On the other hand, the idea that people are under so much pressure at work that they feel they can't take true disconnect-from-everything time off or even tell their boss they're working out of town for a bit is deeply depressing. It's a stark reminder of how broken American work culture is, just in time for summer.

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"It may be a question of just psychological safety, or lack thereof, that the employee doesn't feel like they can openly have a conversation with their manager about taking real time off," said Rebecca Zucker, an executive coach and the founding partner of Next Step Partners, a leadership consultancy. "We're all big boys and girls, and it's a question of not where we're working or when we're working, in terms of the hours we're working, but are we doing what we need to get done."

The whole quiet-vacationing discourse got kicked up by a recent Harris Poll survey on out-of-office culture. It found that 28% of workers said they'd taken time off work without telling their bosses — basically, they're out of the office, but not "officially." Millennials in particular have picked up on the practice, with 37% saying they'd dipped out of work on the sly.

People feeling like they have to be sneaky about their whereabouts is not a positive sign.

It's not that these workers are unhappy with the vacation their companies offer: 83% of respondents said they were satisfied with their company's paid-time-off policy. The issue seems to be that employees don't feel like they can actually use the time off they're given. Eight in 10 workers said they didn't use the maximum amount of PTO allowed; some said they felt pressure to always be available, while others cited a heavy workload as their reason. Almost half said they got nervous about requesting time away, and three-quarters said they wished their workplace culture put more value on taking breaks. Workers reported being tricky about the whole thing, too: About a third said they moved their mouse to make it look like they were online, and about the same share said they scheduled messages outside work hours to give the impression that they were working overtime.

The problem isn't really that people are working from elsewhere, especially if it's not hurting their productivity . The greater issue is what it signifies about their relationship with work and the incentives that have been fostered at their companies . People feeling like they have to be sneaky about their whereabouts is not a positive sign, nor is feeling like the only way to disconnect is to remain half plugged in.

The people taking vacations on the sly may be at organizations that are likelier to reward overworkers, said Malissa Clark, an associate professor and the head of the Healthy Work Lab at the University of Georgia. In turn, those quiet vacations may perversely reinforce the always-on culture, even when always being on isn't necessary or leading to better business results. Clark, who also wrote the book "Never Not Working: Why the Always-On Culture Is Bad for Business — and How to Fix It," pointed to 2015 research looking at how some men at a consulting firm were able to pull back from work while pretending to still put in 80-hour weeks. Their managers couldn't tell the difference, and they were rewarded for giving off the impression that they were workaholics, whereas men who were up front about needing to downshift were penalized.

"That's why there's this pressure for people to constantly be working and feel like if they take a step back they'll be left behind, because that's a very real thing," Clark said. "Apparently, that's what a lot of organizations reward."

Pretending to work when you're not or acting like you're putting in more hours than you do is not a new phenomenon . Zucker recalled working years ago at an investment bank where men would leave their suit jackets on the backs of their chairs after hours so people would think they were still somewhere in the office. But technology does make this behavior easier. The ability to connect from anywhere is a double-edged sword: Sure, it's nice to be able to answer an email on a midday walk or work from a relative's house over the holidays, but it sucks to know your boss knows that you saw that 10 p.m. Slack message pop up on your phone.

This is a societal problem and one that is uniquely American. We're told to go, go, go, made to feel like we can never get off the treadmill for even a second, lest we fall behind or give the impression that we're not trying hard. We often don't see taking time off as necessary and well deserved but as a sign of laziness and lack of work ethic. People aren't told to work to live; they're told to live to work.

Some of the fundamentals underlying quiet vacationing are positive. We live in an era where a lot of people can work from wherever and have more flexibility to achieve a better work-life balance. The rub is the sneakiness of it all. It would be much better if we were talking about, say, "loud working from anywhere for a month," or whatever you'd want to call it. (Or we could stop coining terms for work trends, the true dream.) It should be OK to have a conversation with your manager about spending a few days in the mountains or on the beach and, as long as the WiFi is decent, fulfilling your capitalist soldier duties.

Clark said this trend may make employers even more eager to force workers back to the office. Managers don't always love the idea that they don't know where their employees are, and they have the (often false) impression that being out of sight means not working.

Working from elsewhere does not erase the need for an actual vacation. There's all sorts of research indicating that time off improves mental and physical health, reduces stress, and boosts productivity, among other benefits. Even planning a vacation makes people happier. People need to psychologically detach from work in order to relax and recover.

By always feeling like you have to stay connected, you never recover from work.

"By always feeling like you have to stay connected, you never recover from work," Clark said. "And so it's like you're constantly running a marathon, but then you never take a break, and what is it going to do? It's going to wear your body down slowly, gradually, to the point where you hit a wall. And then all of a sudden you're burnt out."

If you're quiet vacationing and your boss doesn't know, good for you, I guess. But it would probably be better if you could be honest about where you are and what you're doing. And none of this scraps the need for an actual vacation. Regardless of how up front (or not) employees are, at the end of the day, American work culture is the bad guy here. The toxicity of hustle culture is the real problem, not the person who's low-key working from a cabin in the woods or the coworker who said screw it and is taking three weeks off.

Emily Stewart is a senior correspondent at Business Insider, writing about business and the economy.

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