Colorado AAA, Englewood Police Department offer winter-weather advice

With colder temperatures comes snow blanketing the streets. The roads can be slippery and dangerous for Colorado drivers – new and native to the state. Experts say it’s important to be prepared for the difficult task of driving in the winter.

Colorado AAA says following a few tips can help keep drivers safe when traveling in the harsh winter climate.

“The first sustained, major weather event is always a useful reminder to Coloradans, regardless of whether you grew up here or if you’re new to town, to brush up on winter driving fundamentals: Slow down, don’t tailgate, and don’t slam on the gas or brakes,” Skyler McKinley, regional director of public affairs, said.

Prepare the vehicle

Colorado AAA encourages drivers to test their batteries and electrical systems, check all fluid levels, including antifreeze, transmission fluid, brake fluid and engine oil and make sure all lights operate properly.

Additionally, AAA advises people to inspect their tires, brakes, windshields and windshield wiper fluid.

“Remember, too, that four-wheel drive does not mean four-wheel stop. We’ve had to winch out many top-of-the-line trucks and SUVs, many equipped with winter tires, simply because their drivers were going too fast for the conditions,” McKinley said. “Still, as with any storm, the majority of our calls were related to dead batteries, flat tires and engine operability, and most of those were from folks who were already safe at home.”

Keep an emergency kit

For those unlucky enough to end up stranded, whether by sliding off the road or getting stuck in traffic during a closure, Colorado AAA encourages drivers to keep an emergency kit in their cars.

“Keep an emergency kit in your car with tire chains, abrasive material such as sand or kitty litter, small shovel, flashlight with extra batteries, ice scraper, rags or paper towels, flares or other warning devices, booster cables and a first aid kit,” Colorado AAA said.

Drivers should bring blankets, jackets, hats and gloves for themselves and passengers. People should also pack water and snacks, such as energy bars, and bring pet food if they’re traveling with four-legged friends.

“Finally, remember that an ounce of preparation is worth a pound of cure. Your battery likely tried to warn you it wasn’t up to the task of starting your engine in sub-zero temperatures, likely through dimming headlights or sluggish starts in warmer weather,” McKinley said.

McKinley said by addressing issues drivers will be more prepared for the conditions and any emergency situations they may accrue.

“By addressing all those issues when they first come up, you can help make our roads safer, and significantly reduce your odds of needing to call for assistance in dangerous conditions,” McKinley said.

Driving on icy roads

When driving on icy roads, Colorado AAA advises that people slow down and be careful when accelerating, turning or braking, doing all gradually.

“Adjust your speed to the road conditions and leave yourself ample room to stop. Allow at least three times more space than usual between you and the car in front of you,” the company advises.

People also shouldn’t tailgate, they need to watch the traffic ahead of them, avoid unnecessarily changing lanes and use extreme caution on bridges and overpasses.

“Black ice typically forms first in shaded areas of the roadway and on bridges and overpasses that freeze first and melt last,” McKinley said. “Although the road leading up to a bridge may be fine, the bridge itself could be a sheet of ice.”

Crystal Essman, the crime prevention specialist for Englewood Police Department, said it’s important for people to make sure they slow down and increase their distance from other cars.

“Increase your following distance enough so that you’ll have plenty of time to stop for vehicles ahead of you,” Essman said. “Don’t crowd a snowplow. Snow plows travel slowly, make wide turns, stop often, overlap lanes and exit the road frequently.”

She also encourages people to make sure their children are secure in the proper car seat and that those seats are installed correctly.

These are the top nine reasons why fall is the best time to visit Greece. There is much more to experience than heavy crowds and hot sun.

The best time to visit scenic Greece is during the fall. Although this season is technically the shoulder season, there are many benefits to visiting the city at this time of year. Instead of visiting the most popular areas in the high season, which is during summer, travelers can take it slow and steady as they get to know the country’s islands in their more relaxed state.

Greece is most enjoyable for tourists between September and November. A vacation to the islands of Greece in the fall is a journey through a land accented with autumn hues where travelers can explore wondrous and ancient history, Italian delicacies, and enchanting local culture. Discover the top eight reasons why fall is the best time to visit Greece.

Average Temperature This Time of Year

60-80 Degrees F

Weather

The weather varies throughout the fall months in Greece. Overall, the temperatures are more manageable than the summer season when the heat can be sweltering. October is a bit cooler than September. The northern regions of Greece tend to have cooler climates than the southern regions, which are generally warmer. The fall foliage in Greece is quite charming in addition to the historic sights and alluring streets. Exploring the streets with a cooling breeze and golden sun rays set the scene for travelers to notice the intimate details that may go unnoticed in seasons with fatiguing weather.

Fewer Crowds

Since the fall is during the shoulder season, travelers will notice that there are fewer crowds. Greece is typically very crowded due to it being a popular tourist destination. One of the main reasons that travelers should visit during this time is because they can leisurely enjoy attractions and worry less about overtourism. Fall is a great time for bus tours since they are not usually filled to the brim with tourists. This season is also a great time to enjoy the water and have some elbow room.

Lower Prices

During the shoulder season, travelers may notice a difference in the price of travel. Fall is Greece’s shoulder season and therefore visitors during this time will reap the benefits of that. As is common in lower tourism times, the prices for travel to and around Greece are cheaper in the fall. Between September and October, prices are particularly low for accommodations and flights. Fall travelers’ budgets will be well managed during their visit to Greece.

Cycle Through the Vineyards of Mykonos

A guided bicycle tour is a great way to observe Greece in the fall. To fully appreciate the blissful fall backdrop, it is a great idea for travelers to get active with outdoor activities. Cycling through the vineyards is a popular tourism activity in Mykonos. The cycling tours lead travelers through underrated back roads that lead to some of the most striking and beautiful views. Knowledgeable tour guides will inform tourists about cultural heritage and ensure their safety as they venture around the rocky terrain.

Visit the Beaches of Corfu

Corfu is an island off the northwest coast of Greece. The scenic island is popular for its beaches and travelers have plenty of options. Visitors should note that the cooler beaches are one of the reasons why fall is the best time to visit Greece. While Corfu has attracted mass tourism in the summer months, travelers often enjoy visiting more in the fall. During this time, there are more manageable temperatures, too, since the fall breeze is present.

One of the more popular beaches is Myrtiotissa, which is said to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Corfu. It is hidden away and is facility-free, so travelers should take those details into consideration before venturing to visit this beach. If this is not preferable for travelers, most of Corfu’s (other) best beaches are on the island’s Westside. However, beaches on the eastern side of the island are said to be calmer and best for swimming.

Visit the Archaeological Museums of Athens

While Greek archeological sites can be enjoyed all year round, doing so in the fall is a far more pleasant experience. Visiting in the fall can help avoid the overwhelming crowds and aggressive heat that summer brings. Greece will feel more spacious in fall and travelers can explore the authentic Greece that locals most enjoy. This is especially true in Athens, which is the capital of Greece so it is usually bustling with foreigners. In the fall, Athens is more like a historical oasis. Some of the most popular museums visitors can leisurely visit during fall include the National Archaeological Museum and the Acropolis Museum. These museums house some of the most significant artifacts of Greece and as a result, contain the most robust Greek archaeological collections in the world.

Thessaloniki Film Festival

Film buffs even have a great reason to visit Greece in the fall since there is an important industry event during this season. The Thessaloniki International Film Festival (TIFF) is held every November in Greece. This international film festival is held in Thessaloniki, Greece, the country’s second major cultural center (just after Athens). Travelers should note that this film fest is established as the most important one in Greece. The objective of the festival is to highlight the work of new filmmakers, so attendees may be able to view exciting and never-before-seen films. Festival attendees also enjoy special screenings, masterclasses, various presentations, and an award ceremony.

The Olive Harvest

The olive oil produced in Greece is considered some of the best in the world. Since ancient times, Greeks have been pressing olives. The harvest season typically starts in October, which makes fall one of the best times to visit Greece. Harvesting olives has even become a community activity in which people of every age contribute. Greek olives are gathered by hand, so this does take some effort and many hands to complete. The harvest is comparable to a celebration of Greek culture. Even in Greek mythology, the olive tree was significant. It was associated with Athena, the goddess of wisdom, warfare, and handicraft. Travelers who want to learn more about the rich Greek culture around olive harvesting can learn about it all throughout Greece. More hands-on learners can visit Crete, Athens, or Laconia to take part in traditional methods of olive harvesting.

Explore Historic Sites Peacefully

Whether travelers are history buffs, knowledgeable about Greek mythology, or love to see the art of such an influential culture, there are plenty of sites to see. Many historically significant places can not be seen in indoor areas, like the nice museums of Greece. Rhodes Old Town and Corfu Old Venetian Fortress are some underrated historical sites that travelers should visit in the fall. Olympia, Knossos Palace, Acropolis, and The Temple of Hephaestus are some of Greece’s more popular historic landmarks that travelers should not miss out on seeing.

Seasonal Culinary Specialties

The cultural impact of Mediterranean cuisine is known all around the world. While Greece is known for charcoal-grilled and spit-roasted meats, there are many tourist favorites worth savoring. Must-try local dishes include Souvlaki, Gyros, and the national dish, Moussaka. However, eating cuisine with seasonal foods provides an unmatched experience for the palate of visitors. Fall naturally brings apples, figs, potatoes, and olives to Greece. Some traditional meals that are popular in fall include braised lamb shanks, Kolokithopita with butternut squash, potato and kalamata olive stew, and Stifado. These comfort meals are some of the reasons that the fall is the best time to visit Greece.

The islands of Greece are wondrous places for travelers to visit in the fall. The delicious seasonal food, breezy historical areas, cultural traditions, and fall festivities make this season the best time to visit Greece. These reasons for visiting at this ideal time of year are just the tip of the iceberg to enjoying the season’s benefits.

Exploring some of the coldest tourist destinations in the world means extreme temperatures and stunning winter landscapes. These icy locales, often situated in remote and rugged regions, provide a wealth of activities and attractions that cater to adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. From the mesmerising dance of the Northern Lights to encountering diverse Arctic wildlife, these destinations captivate visitors with their stark beauty and serene, otherworldly environments. Check these coolest and coldest tourist destinations from around the world.

1. Antarctica

Antarctica, the southernmost continent, is an icy wilderness of immense scale and stark beauty. It is the coldest, driest, and windiest continent, with temperatures dropping below -60°C in winter. The landscape is dominated by ice sheets, towering glaciers, and floating icebergs. Despite its harsh conditions, Antarctica is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including penguins, seals, and whales. Visitors typically reach the continent via expedition cruises, where they can experience the pristine environment, witness stunning ice formations, and observe wildlife in their natural habitat.

2. Svalbard, Norway

Svalbard is an archipelago in the Arctic Ocean, situated halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole. Known for its remote and rugged terrain, Svalbard features glaciers, fjords, and mountains. Winter temperatures can drop to -20°C. The region is a haven for polar bears, Arctic foxes, and various bird species. Svalbard offers unique experiences such as polar bear safaris, glacier hiking, and viewing the Northern Lights. Longyearbyen, the largest settlement, serves as the main gateway for travellers exploring this Arctic wilderness.

3. Lapland

Lapland encompasses areas in northern Finland, Sweden, and Norway, and is known for its vast wilderness, snow-covered landscapes, and rich Sami culture. Winter temperatures can plummet to -40°C. The region is famous for its opportunities to see the Northern Lights, experience midnight sun, and enjoy winter activities such as dog sledding, reindeer safaris, and snowmobiling.

4. Tromsø, Norway

Tromsø, located in northern Norway, is often called the “Gateway to the Arctic.” It is renowned for its stunning Arctic scenery, vibrant cultural scene, and as one of the best places to view the Northern Lights. Winter temperatures can drop to -20°C. Tromsø is a lively city with attractions such as the Arctic Cathedral, Polaria Arctic aquarium, and the Tromsø University Museum.

5. Churchill, Manitoba, Canada

Churchill, a remote town on the shores of Hudson Bay in northern Manitoba, is known as the “Polar Bear Capital of the World.” Winter temperatures can drop to -30°C. Churchill is famous for its polar bear viewing opportunities, particularly in October and November when bears gather near the town waiting for the bay to freeze.

6. Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is a vibrant city known for its modern architecture, rich cultural scene, and proximity to natural wonders. Winter temperatures can range from -10°C to -20°C. Reykjavik offers attractions such as the Hallgrímskirkja church, Harpa Concert Hall, and various museums and galleries. It serves as a base for exploring Iceland’s geothermal spas (like the Blue Lagoon), waterfalls, geysers, and volcanic landscapes.

7. Rovaniemi, Finland

Rovaniemi, located in Finnish Lapland, is known as the “official” hometown of Santa Claus. Winter temperatures can drop to -30°C. Visitors flock to Santa Claus Village to meet Santa, cross the Arctic Circle, and send postcards from the Santa Claus Post Office. Rovaniemi also offers a range of winter activities such as reindeer sleigh rides, husky safaris, and snowmobiling.

8. Lake Baikal, Russia

Lake Baikal, located in Siberia, Russia, is the world’s deepest and oldest freshwater lake. Winter temperatures can drop to -30°C. Known for its crystal-clear waters and unique ice formations, Baikal offers stunning winter scenery. Visitors can experience ice skating, dog sledding, and ice fishing on the frozen lake. The lake is home to the unique Baikal seal and numerous endemic species.

9. Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is a city that blends modern design with rich history. Winter temperatures can range from -10°C to -20°C. The city is known for its architectural landmarks, including the Helsinki Cathedral, Suomenlinna Fortress, and the contemporary design of the Kamppi Chapel. Helsinki offers a vibrant cultural scene with numerous museums, galleries, and festivals.

Here are expert tips from doctors to avoid spending your next vacation on the toilet.

It doesn’t really matter how many stamps are in your passport or how many languages you speak. You’re not a black-belt traveler until you’ve notched at least one spectacular poop story.

There’s nothing like the Cronenbergian body horror of feeling your guts melt into loose goop when you’re thousands of miles from home. It can happen at any time, anywhere. A taxi in Mexico City. After a Michelin-starred meal in Istanbul. The best street food of your life in Cartagena. Hours after a charming lunch at a Parisian cafe. No matter the continent, bubble guts is an indiscriminate threat worldwide.

But getting food poisoning isn’t a certainty for an adventurous traveler. Some no-nonsense tips from health experts can help prevent you from spending your next trip alternating between the fetal position and the toilet. Here are some top tips from health experts on how to avoid food poisoning on your next trip.

Before you travel, hit up a doctor familiar with travel medicine

And not just for vaccinations. Two top recommendations from Dr. Partha Nandi, a board-certified doctor of gastroenterology and internal medicine, are anti-diarrheal medication such as bismuth subsalicylate (aka Pepto-Bismol), or loperamide, and anti-motion sickness meds. These pills can help a transient case of diarrhea resolve quickly or at least keep symptoms at bay. As the FDA will tell you, foreign pharmacies can sometimes contain “impure or toxic ingredients.” In a pinch, an American embassy may be able to help, but that’s definitely a last resort. It’s better to pregame with your doctor and keep your meds with you.

Any time you’re getting on a plane, eat foods that are easy on your system

Flight alone will muck up your gut. Dr. Nandi says your digestive system requires more energy to work properly at altitude. So, after and before flights, eat sensibly and skip inflammatory foods that will make you gassy; skip the greasy meats, beans, and processed carbs. Instead, Dr. Nandi says, reach for “nuts, turkey meat, and carrots, as these are all things that don’t cause inflammation.”

When abroad, avoid raw, unwashed fruits and vegetables

Traveling to a new country is not the time to try out a raw food diet. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the US Food and Drug Administration recommend eating raw fruits and vegetables only when you have peeled them or washed them in clean water. Don’t eat street mangos, don’t eat salads, don’t drink fresh orange juice. If those plants were washed, it’s likely to have been in tap water. If you wouldn’t drink the water, you don’t want to order the watercress salad.

Drink only bottled and filtered water

Ice cubes. Residual droplets on just-washed hands. Damp lettuce. Contaminated water—the top cause of illness during travel—can be sneaky stuff. Your digestive system is a dazzlingly complex ecosystem of microorganisms, prone to disruption by a change in daily routine or unfamiliar microbes from new-to-you food and water. Even if locals can drink tap water, the various bacteria, protozoa, and viruses therein can knock your newbie gut out of whack.

Bottled water is the safest bet. Order the bottled version to ensure that it was actually sealed rather than refilled at the tap. Having your own water filter and/or water sanitizer tablets is a good backup for when bottles may not be available. Use boiled, filtered, or bottled water for everything.

Make sure your food is hot

“If you’re going to eat food that should be hot, make sure that the food is very hot,” Dr. Maria Portela Martinez, a board-certified family medicine physician with a master’s degree in public health, told Thrillist. “Sometimes you can tell that there’s steam coming out of the food or that it’s a little bubbly. All of those things are a good indicator that it’s unlikely that the bacteria is living in that food.”

“Whenever you have food sitting out for a long time at room temperature or just sitting there for a long period of time, it has more of a chance of being contaminated either by itself, by being out at room temperature or by someone,” Martinez continued.

Make yourself waterproof in the shower

This one is easy to mess up because you probably don’t realize how much water you drink in the shower. Avoid getting any in your mouth or eyes while bathing in places with iffy tap water.

Take some ginger for an upset stomach

Ginger is one of the oldest natural remedies for upset stomachs. It reduces inflammation and acts as a natural antibiotic. “Taking care of your body through natural remedies can be surprisingly effective,” Dr. Nandi says. Ginger is also versatile, common, and portable. Think tea bags or candied ginger. It won’t reverse an infection but can help ease painful symptoms while you wait for stronger meds to kick in.

Keep your hands obsessively clean

Soap, warm water, thorough scrubbing, followed by thorough drying—you know the drill. Just do it way more often. Or use an alcohol-based sanitizer before eating and after using the bathroom. Pathogens can enter the system with a simple touch of your hand to your mouth, nose, eyes, or ears, so try to keep your hands off of yourself and your companions unless they are freshly cleaned.

“Wash your hands as much as possible. It’s not just washing your hands before and after going to the bathroom, but also after touching common surfaces that are shared by other people,” Martinez said.

If the sh*t does hit the fan, power down

If food poisoning hits, don’t panic. “Mind over matter,” Dr. Nandi says. “No matter how sick you are, you are only going to feel as horrible as you let yourself feel.” Once you address your state of mind, he recommends “complete and utter bed rest.” If that doesn’t improve things, it’s time to seek medical help. He recommends investing in travelers insurance to find a doctor. Occasionally, a bathroom emergency can devolve into a medical emergency.