Can’t believe summer is coming to an end!

Will you be traveling solo with kids or grandkids in the year ahead? If so, here are five ideas to consider.

Join an organized tour

Feed your junior explorer’s natural curiosity on a memory-filled trip. Do they yearn to learn more about art, history or science? Is there a burgeoning chef, musician or engineer in your midst? How about a language-immersion class? Are your kids curious about other religions, cultures or lifestyles? Whether you opt for magnificent cities, nature’s classroom or immersive experiences, expand their knowledge (and your own) by exploring new ideas together. An organized tour can provide the opportunity for kids to connect and share the experience with others in their own age group and for adults to enjoy their own camaraderie.

Choose an all-inclusive resort

With so much to do at a resort like the Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort on the Caribbean island of St. Lucia, it will be a breeze to keep everyone happy and active. Ride a banana boat, play on the floating trampoline or clamber on the inflatable climbing wall. Learn to snorkel or try a guided “Snuba” experience, a kid-size first step toward learning to scuba dive. Sail on a catamaran, then visit a volcano or tour in a rainforest. Take an adult break at the spa while the kids take a tennis lesson or take part in the VIP kids sports activities. Traveling with a baby? Certified nanny services are available as well as essential amenities including car seats, cribs and highchairs.

Board a cruise ship

Whether you choose a small sailing ship or a city-size vessel, there will be plenty to engage the younger set, plus a multitude of ways to carve out “me time.” On the bigger ships expect water parks, ropes courses, rock-climbing walls. multiple pools, theaters, ice-skating rinks, surf simulators, a zipline and character parades. Companies like Royal Caribbean have made families a priority and have dedicated large portions of their ships to putting smiles on young faces. Many lines offer separate areas for toddlers, kids and teens and provide free daytime and early evening access to their kids’ clubs. With nursery care and after-hours fun in kids’ clubs, it’s easy to book grown up time in the evenings.

Opt for a guest ranch

With an authentic and scenic setting as backdrop, you and your junior adventurers can enjoy beautiful places and learn horsemanship from experienced hands who will tailor the instruction to your skill and interest level. Opt to ride in open meadows, on mountain trails or in the desert Southwest. Will your family members choose to participate in a real cattle drive? Are you up for a horse pack trip into the back country? Will your youngsters be eager to learn the skills required for team penning and other arena games? Or will you be happy to relax during daily trail rides. The options are yours at working dude ranches and guest ranches across the country. Furthermore, you’ll easily meet other families and share stories on the trail, around a campfire or across the breakfast and dinner tables.

Before the adventure begins

Sure, you know your kids or grandkids. But make sure you are up to speed on any new food allergies and preferences, anxieties about travel, the need for a certain stuffed animal at bedtime or a teen’s recent breakup. Will the kids have their own money to spend and should it be monitored? Cover the final itinerary with the adults in the picture to uncover any additional insights they might have for making the trip as stellar as possible.

Consider discussing the itinerary and the rules of the road before departure. If the children are old enough, talk about bedtime, dining decisions and safety measures so it will be clear who is in charge. If you’ll be traveling with older children, get clarity on guidelines regarding social media, phone and computer time and options for independent outings.

Is Argentina expensive? When is the best month to visit? What’s the best way to get around? These Argentina travel tips and advice from Buenos Aires local Martina will help you make the most of your time here.

Essential tips for first-time travelers

• Learn basic Spanish. While many locals speak English, knowing key phrases can enhance your experience and may come in handy in more remote area.
• Pack for varied weather. Argentina’s diverse climate means you might encounter everything from sun to snow.
• Plan your time wisely. Argentina is very large – 2,360 mi (3,800km) long and 880 mi (1,420) wide. So, if you have limited time, select a few towns or regions to explore rather than trying to see it all.
• Embrace local cuisine. Don’t miss trying empanadas, asado, and mate.
• Use public transportation. It’s efficient and affordable, especially in cities.
• Beware of crime and theft. Keep your belongings secure and be mindful of your surroundings.
• Bring cash. Many places prefer cash over credit cards, especially in smaller towns.
• Respect local customs. Familiarize yourself with Argentine etiquette and social norms to improve your understanding and enjoyment of the culture.
• Plan for altitude. If visiting high-altitude areas like Mendoza, allow time to acclimatize.
• Stay hydrated. The climate can be dry, especially in the northern regions, so drink plenty of water.

Is Argentina expensive?

In 2023, Argentina was very affordable for those bringing in high-value currencies, but inflation has skyrocketed in 2024. It’s still a relatively inexpensive destination, especially compared to Western Europe. If on a tight budget, expect to spend as little as US $35-40 per day, including hostel accommodation, cheap food, and local public transport.

Buenos Aires, Patagonia, and some other areas favored by travelers – including coastal towns such as Mar Del Plata and Pinamar, or iconic Iguazu Falls – are pricier. These destinations are always in high demand, both among locals and international visitors. Travel in remote areas can also be more expensive, as the transport of supplies becomes more difficult.

Money tips

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. Still, many restaurants, grocery stores, or hotels only accept cash or require a minimum expenditure before they let you swipe.

Argentina’s currency is always volatile, especially in the current economic crisis, and exchange rates and regulations change quite often. When planning your trip, make sure to find information updated within the past three months.

Always keep cash and small change handy. If you need more, simply withdraw from one of the many ATMs scattered around cities and towns. Whatever you do, be discreet, avoid flashing your wallet, and don’t extract big amounts in one go.

A 10% to 15% tip is expected but not mandatory, especially when eating out.

What is the best time of year to visit Argentina?

As a rule of thumb, it’s best to visit between September and April (early spring through the beginning of fall). In the end, it will depend on where you decide to go, as the weather varies from region to region. But from spring to fall, you can generally find good weather around the country.

If you dislike extreme cold, avoid June-August, especially if heading to Patagonia. If intense heat is not your thing, skip Buenos Aires and the central and northeastern regions during summer. Here, you can expect 90°F (32°C) on a “cool” day.

Winters in Buenos Aires are mild, with temperatures ranging around 55°F (13°C). But, as you approach the south and westernmost regions, it starts to get more and more chilly.

When choosing what to pack, don’t forget sunscreen, as the sun in Argentina is seriously strong. Also, remember to bring layers of clothing. Many travelers visiting for two to three weeks choose to fly around the country because it’s so big. So, if you’re heading from Buenos Aires to Patagonia, you’ll likely experience a big temperature change.

Layering becomes essential when approaching the Andes, as temperatures drop suddenly from day to night, even over summer. Rain gear comes in handy especially when touring the central and northwestern regions, as it can rain buckets year-round. On average, November is the wettest month, country-wide.

Local public transport in Argentina

Argentina has a massive and budget-friendly public transit network. The easiest way get around most cities is with a SUBE card, which you can purchase in lottery shops, train and subway stations, and kiosks. This rechargeable card is not valid everywhere, but covers major urban areas and over 30 other smaller localities.

As long-distance buses are the main means of transportation outside of Buenos Aires, intercity trains have been neglected for decades. But recently, there’s been a resurgence of the Ferrocarril, connecting 12 of the 23 Argentinian provinces. If you have time, the trains are a leisurely way to explore parts of Argentina that are off the beaten path, but be warned that they can be slow, are not very comfortable, and sometimes may not leave on time.

Taking a taxi or an UBER

Catching a taxi is very easy in any Argentinian city and surrounding localities. As a precaution, especially at night, always ensure your taxi is licensed and belongs to a “Radio Taxi” company.

Some taxis will display a sign on the vehicle’s roof stating the company they belong to. If they don’t, and you decide to take it anyway, check out the taxi’s registration information displayed inside.

Be aware, taxis around the country have different colors. In Buenos Aires, they’re black and yellow, in Córdoba they’re white, and so on.

UBER became officially legal to use in Buenos Aires in September 2020, so now you can ride with peace of mind. UBER’s competitor, Cabify, is also available around the main cities.

If going out at night, call a taxi or take an UBER. Avoid standing by the bus stops or taking the subway when there’s no one else around, as you could be putting yourself at risk.

Top places to visit in Argentina

• Mountains and lakes in Patagonia. Argentinian Patagonia, which covers nearly all of southern Argentina, is a must. As an avid traveler who loves to brag about her home country, I’ve yet to meet anyone daring to question the absolute beauty of this region, with its dramatic, snow-capped mountains, blue lakes, villages, glaciers, and incredible hikes. Patagonian highlights include the Perito Moreno Glacier, Bariloche in the Lake District, Argentina’s hiking capital El Chaltén, remote Ushuaia at the tip of Tierra del Fuego, and Cerro Aconcagua, the tallest mountain in the Americas, in Mendoza (slightly north of the official start of Argentinian Patagonia).
• A road trip along the Andes. A popular itinerary for road-trippers is a tour of the country’s west, driving along Route 40. This drive skirts the Andes, and also covers the regions north of Patagonia – Cuyo and Northwest. The Andes is the longest mountain range in the world, and its southernmost stretch is home to the highest peaks in the Western Hemisphere, so be prepared for altitude sickness (as I learned the hard way).
• Varied landscapes in northern Argentina. Argentina’s north offers a wholly different travel experience, ranging from the arid and striking landscapes of Salta and Jujuy, near Bolivia, to the country’s very own New Wonder of the World, 269ft (82m) high, 1.6mi (2.7km) wide Iguazu Falls, in a lush rainforest along the Brazilian border.
• Wine and more in Mendoza. Mendoza, in the Cuyo Region of the central-west, is famous for wine, but this sometimes-underrated region is also filled with otherworldly landscapes, like the Pampa Negra, a volcanic black desert in Mendoza Province, the moon-like formations at the Valle de la Luna, the windy flats of Barreal in San Juan, and the Grand Canyon-esque Sierra De Las Quijadas in San Luis.
• Other standout natural landmarks in Argentina are the Esteros del Iberá, vast wetlands in Corrientes, and the wildlife-rich Valdes Peninsula in Chubut.
• Food and culture in Argentina’s cities. Travelers eager for a dose of urban life should know Buenos Aires has a reputation as a city that never sleeps. Museums, restaurants, nightlife, tango, and more make the Porteñian city sing. But Córdoba, Rosario, and Mendoza are also buzzing cities packed with activities, local culture, and great food. Try Rosario’s staple toastie – a carlitos – a traditional empanada Cordobesa, or a Mendozan classic such as humita en chala.

Top adventure activities in Argentina

If you seek thrills or love the outdoors, Argentina is an adventure traveler’s dream. Here are some of the best ways to experience its natural beauty and rugged terrain.

• Hiking in Patagonia: Patagonia is a world-class hiking destination, offering stunning trails such as the Fitz Roy Trek, the Torres del Paine Circuit, and the Laguna de los Tres.
• Glacier trekking: The iconic Perito Moreno Glacier is justifiably famous, and hiking on its ice is unforgettable. But you can also hike the Viedma Glacier, the largest glacier in Los Glaciares National Park. Guided tours are available for both.
• White-water rafting: You’ll find great rafting rivers all over Argentina, from Iguazu Falls to Patagonia. Navigate the famously thrilling Alumine River in the Lake District, or Juramento River in Salta, which has more than 10 rapids.
• Mountain biking and cycling: Enjoy gorgeous lake views from the tracks around Bariloche, or pedal through the vineyards in Mendoza. Road cyclists will find thousands of miles of scenic, sparsely trafficked roads. Try the Seven Lakes route or tour the fascinating Quebrada de Las Conchas.
• Surfing: Argentina isn’t usually thought of as a surfing destination, but it should be. Ride the waves at popular spots like Mar del Plata or Necochea, on the coast five or six hours south of Buenos Aires.
• Horseback riding: Explore the Argentine Pampas or the Andean foothills on horseback, like the traditional gauchos do. Be sure to visit an estancia for some wine and asado along the way.
• Wildlife viewing: Spot penguins and whales in the Valdes Peninsula (sometimes called the “Galapagos of the Atlantic”) or look for river otters, monkeys and capybara in the Esteros del Ibera.

There are some travellers who love to explore new destinations and then there are those who eagerly await to vist unusual places. This one’s for the latter crowd, which most certainly includes dreamers, artists and adventurers. Take a look at these nine unusual corners of the world.

As a 19-year-old aspiring photographer who fell in love with travel and the beauty of knowing the world, ever since my sweet 16, I’ve craved the possibility of making my mark in every nook, corner and cranny of the world that I can. So, from the POV of a hopeless dreamer and after having travelled extensively around India and parts of the world, here are nine breathtaking and unusual places that one should to add to their travel bucket list, and we bet, you won’t regret it.

Centre of the universe in Tulsa | The center of the Universe in Tulsa, Oklahoma (United States) is one of the world’s most peculiar abnormalities. This concrete circle, surrounded by an even larger circle of bricks doesn’t seem that odd until you stand smack dab in the center of it. Thought to be caused by the reflection of sound off a nearby wall, standing in the middle of this circle lets your voice echo back to you after you speak, but no one else gets to hear it with you. And even with the hypothesis of sound reflection, no one’s actually figured out why this phenomenon occurs.

International zipline between Spain and Portugal | At a grand length of 720 metres, you have the opportunity to fly over the Guadiana River at a speed of 70 to 80 km per hour when you ride the zipline between Spain and Portugal. For all you travellers out there, who love the thrill of adventure sports, this is a must-see and must-do.

Bioluminescent plankton | Talk about lighting up your mood, have you ever gone swimming with bioluminescent planktons? The Ton Sai beach in Krabi is one of the top 15 bioluminescent beaches to go to if you want to see and swim among these dinoflagellates. Its recommended that you go between the months of November and April. Don’t wait, book tickets now. As a photographer and travel enthusiast, this destination calls for the perfect opportunity to see what you can do, test your skills out there.

Cherry Spring State Park | The Cherry Spring State Park, being one of the darkest spots in Pennsylvania is one of the most heavely places stargazing, and to take it one step further, a perfect place to have a gorgeous view of the Aurora Borealis (The Northern Lights). With a plethora of options to stay in, including its campground and the overnight observation field, there also opportunities there or you to go hiking. Trails such as the The Cherry Springs Working Forest Interpretive Trail and walking around Lyman Run State Park are experiences you really don’t want to miss.

Fuggerei | Take a look at the oldest and still existing housing society in the world. Located in Augsburg, Bavaria, the town with just 67 building and 147 residents was established around 500 years ago in in 1521 by Jakob Fugger. Fun Fact! | The Fugger city palace was the first Renaissance building north of the Alps. This incredibly picturesque little town, for a small entrance fee, is definitely worthwhile exploring on a sunny afternoon with your family.

Aogashima | This volcanic island in Japan resides just about 170 people, and each of these people are luckily enough to live in what the world calls a natural planetarium. Due to it being a remote island with miles before any other land meets the eye, the night sky is a beauty that cant be described, even offering a perfect view of the milky way.

Hoia baciu forest | Whose in for a thriller? You’re always going to feel watched here, so be careful. meet one of the scariest forests in the world. Located in Transylvania, Romania, Hoia Baciu is known for its peculiarly shaped trees and it’s odd tendencies. Story says there’s a circle deep within it where nothing grows at all and ghosts are seen instead. People have been known to see strange things, lights that aren’t meant to be there, some people have been said to have disappeared, and some even heard the wind speak.

Hang Son Doong | Vietnam is known world wide for its ancient history and riveting culture. For the people who want to go the extra mile to see one of the biggest natural discoveries in the world, you need to go see the Hang Son Doong, which has now been discovered as the world’s largest cave. Being 9km long and having the volume of 38.5 million cubic meters, it is officially 5 times larger than what we used to think was the largest cave , the Deer cave in Malaysia. As a musician, my first thought had to be wondering how amazing the acoustics must be.

The Earth’s Quietest Room | Minnesota brings your desires your peace and quiet to life, but some might say they’ve taken it too far. The anechoic chamber in Orfield Laboratories. Take it from the lab’s founder, Ted Thornhill, who said “When it’s quiet, ears will adapt.” “The quieter the room, the more things you hear. You’ll hear your heart beating, sometimes you can hear your lungs, hear your stomach gurgling loudly. In the anechoic chamber, you become the sound”.

Whether you’re spending the summer in Europe or embracing a South Island ski season, capturing photographs is the ultimate way to create memories and share your travels with loved ones.

Thanks to the ever-improving quality of smartphone cameras, you don’t have to spend thousands on a DSLR camera to take stunningly detailed photos and high-definition videos.

However, there are a few tips and tricks to know if you want your travel snaps to stand out. Herald Travel asks talented photographer and content creator Scott Howes to share his five biggest tips for nailing ‘the shot’ on a smartphone camera.

1. Use grids and guides

I would always recommend people turn on the grids and guides and level on their camera phone, it’s game-changing.

Most phones have the option to add a grid, which basically puts two lines down the middle and two lines across your screen. This helps you follow a popular rule in photography called the ‘rule of thirds’.

I use the grids feature every day on my phone and on my actual cameras and it means you can line up the subject or the frame that you’re trying to shoot, and place them in one of the ‘thirds’, which makes it more aesthetically pleasing.

Most smartphones also have a level in them, to save you from taking wonky photos and videos.

2. Take time and take it right

Travel can be crazy and super fast-paced and it’s easy to get excited and just snap away. It’s only when you get home to edit or review the photos you may realise you’re not happy with them.

So, despite having taken photos professionally for years, I still often take a step back and pause before taking the shot, because if you get it right ‘in camera’ it saves you so much work editing later on.

3. Think differently

I think one of the keys of photography is not to just point and shoot. Maybe research your destination beforehand and find unique places to photograph or a way to capture a popular spot differently. For instance, everyone who goes to Roys Peak takes that same standard shot looking down the viewpoint but there are endless possibilities for different photos; it just takes some time to find them.

4. Don’t forget the light

The time of day is key because the lighting is what makes a photo. For me personally, sunrise and sunset are the best times of day to shoot. The sun isn’t as high in the sky so you don’t get harsh light, it’s softer and creates nicer shadows too.

I’ll admit, getting up at 4am for a sunrise shot isn’t for everybody, some people go on holiday just to chill. Either way, lighting is worth thinking about when you take a photo and going a little earlier or later in the day can help you miss crowds at popular attractions.

5. Try shooting in Raw

Usually, you can let the smartphone choose the camera settings for you. But if you want to take your photos a step further, you can shoot in RAW if your phone camera has a ‘pro mode’. This is how we shoot on a DSLR camera and the image is minimally processed, which gives you more freedom when editing your photos in an app like Lightroom.