The excursions, tours, performances, and other activities you experience on your travels can make or break a trip. No one wants to be disappointed when an activity booking doesn’t work out or turns out not to be what you though it was—so you’ll want to be able to search offerings, and preferably to compare ratings of them. Plus, it’s essential to make sure you’re booking with reputable ticket websites offering reasonable prices. 

The Best Excursion Ticket Websites for Travelers

Here are seven ticket websites and providers that won’t let you down. Click to read more.

Viator
GetYourGuide
Tripadvisor
StubHub
Airbnb Experiences
Atlas Obscura
Tiqets
Groupon

Viator

Owned by TripAdvisor, Viator is a vast activity and excursion ticket website; one of the largest out there. Travelers can book anything from airport shuttle service, to guided tours, to skip-the-line admission at attractions all over the world. And because it’s similar to TripAdvisor, travelers can also browse reviews of the activity they’re eyeing. Most listings include comprehensive details about the tour and a generous cancellation policy (usually 24-hours prior to the activity with no penalty).

Viator does not operate the tours it sells. Rather, it’s a search engine of things to do. As such, its offerings tend to focus on cities and better-known travel destinations, although that includes excursions out of those places into the surrounding areas; like tours from Boston to New Hampshire’s White Mountains, tours of the Dutch countryside from a departure point in Amsterdam, etc. This makes Viator a great option for travelers who want to headquarter themselves in one hotspot but still experience the broader region. 

GetYourGuide

Another day-tour-heavy option, GetYourGuide overlaps somewhat with Viator, but is focused more solely on experiences and tours (Viator includes services such as airport and in-town transportation services). Functionally, the sites aren’t very different; both offer an opportunity to compare tours and prices. And on that last note, it can be worth checking both: I found the exact same Niagara Falls day tour from Toronto on both sites. GetYourGuide allowed guests to book the base tour without the optional lunch and boat cruise for just $79, while Viator required guests to book the entire package for $138.

Tripadvisor

Tripadvisor leverages its massive inventory of user generated content to roll the research and booking process into one. Users can access all the standard tour information—such as age range, duration, start time, and language—while also browsing reviews and real-life photos from travelers who have actually booked the activity. The experience pages also feature what percentage of travelers would recommend a given activity, based on the “percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher.” The authenticity of the one-to-one style recommendations and opinions of fellow travelers can help give users the confidence to book.

Travelers without a specific landmark or tour in mind can also search for activities organized into top destinations like Las Vegas, Miami, and Washington D.C.

StubHub

For more event-focused resale ticket website StubHub is a useful last-minute option for verified tickets to everything from sports and concerts to comedy shows and theater seats. For the uninitiated, StubHub is a resale marketplace for ticket holders (and, let’s be honest, scalpers) to unload tickets they can’t use. This means shopping on StubHub is a double-edged sword: You’ll likely pay well above face value for high-demand or sold out events, but you can also find great deals at the last minute if the opposite is true. In the former case, StubHub (or similar initial-sale and resale option Ticketmaster) may be your only viable option. And in the latter case, StubHub can be a savvy way to save or even make some money; keep that in mind if you’ve ever bought some event tickets and then couldn’t attend.

Airbnb Experiences

Airbnb is all about living like a local, and Airbnb Experiences is no different. The emphasis here is on small or even private tours led by locals rather than tour companies, with an eye toward unique experiences rather than traditional sightseeing. Sometimes these experiences can be tailored to your interests: I booked a private bicycle tour of Berlin through Airbnb Experiences a few years back, and the guide all but ditched his preset itinerary and improvised based on my interests. As a result I got to see parts of the city I might never have found on my own. 

One important consideration to remember: These are often regular folks, not full-time professional guides or tour operators, so it’s a good idea to bring a go-with-the-flow attitude on your excursion. Your experience may not be as polished or precise as a traditional tour, even if the host has been doing this for a while. Of course, the point of these experiences is to forgo those cookie cutter tours in favor of something different. AirBnB includes reviews and makes it easy to communicate with the experience host beforehand, so don’t hesitate to ask questions prior to booking.

Atlas Obscura

Speaking of forgoing the cookie cutter experience, Atlas Obscura focuses, as its name implies, on all things obscure: The bizarre, forgotten, and hard-to-reach corners of a given city or destination that you wouldn’t normally find on excursion ticket websites. While nowhere near as robust as the other entries on this list, Atlas Obscura also offers a curated selection of tours and experiences. It’s currently in a half dozen U.S. cities, with more to come. Think: A guided wine-and-bug (yes, insects) pairing experience in Los Angeles, or a trip inside a holographer (maker of holograms) laboratory in New York. The tours are offered through Atlas Obscura, but AirBnB handles the booking. After all, anyone can visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame, right? So why not be different and check out a … Sewage Garden? 

Tiqets

Launched in 2014, Amsterdam-based company Tiqets is a comparatively newer ticketing platform that emphasizes flexibility and convenience. Optional free cancellation polices are available on all bookings, allowing travelers to cancel tickets up to 11:59PM the night before the event. Tiqets also offers last minute deals on activities and events like palace tours, broadway shows, and city sightseeing tours. Browse by location or get inspired by their list of Most Popular Places to Visit. Tickets can be managed through their app (iOS | Android).

Groupon

With a broader focus than the other sites on this list, Groupon can find great deals on everything from guided tours to restaurants at your destination. To search specifically for event tickets and travel activities, enter your destination in the search bar and browse their Things to Do category, which includes subcategories like Kids’ Activities, Nightlife, and Sports & Outdoors. From there, travelers can filter by price range, distance from the main destination, rating, and season.

Users can also browse via their Hotels & Travel section to book an entire trip via Groupon Getaways.

Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

The post The 8 Best Ticket Websites for Booking Day Tours and Travel Activities appeared first on SmarterTravel.

On these Champagne tours you can raise a glass, tour the caves, and learn the history of this festive tipple. 

Taittinger

Taittinger is one of the most iconic champagne houses in the world, and now aficionados can book a special experience for their visit. Taittinger’s At the Table of Tibaud IV tour features a guided audio session focusing on Tibaud IV, an iconic figure from the Tattinger dynasty who is known as the Count of Champagne. Of course, some Champagne samples are also included―you can look forward to glasses of the Brut Réserve and the Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs during the tour. 

Billecart-Salmon

Looking for a more intimate Champagne tour experience? You can’t just book a tour online of Billecart-Salmon. Instead, prospective visitors will have to fill out a visit request form and hope that the house will grant your wish. Maison Billecart-Salmon warns that they receive a large number of visit requests and can’t accommodate everyone who wants a tour.

If your request is granted, you’ll be treated to a small group tour of the stunning vineyard, gardens, and cellars—followed by a generous Champagne tasting. 

Veuve Clicquot

Show off your expert palate at Veuve Clicquot’s Discovering Vintage tour where you’ll have the opportunity to do a blind tasting of the house’s Brut Carte Jaune cuvée and a vintage cuvée—will you be able to identify them correctly?

You’ll also be treated to a tour of Veuve Clicquot’s crayères (the vertical chalk pits where the Champagne is aged) along with stories and anecdotes from the brand’s history.

Nicolas Feuillatte

Founded in 1972, Nicolas Feuillate is one of the youngest Champagne houses in the region, and according to them, the number one Champagne in France. Decide for yourself on one of Nicolas Feuillatte’s tours, which include a guided tour plus a tasting of several different types of bubbly.  

Maison Ruinart

Hoping for some food to soak up the alcohol on a Champagne tour? Book brunch at Maison Ruinhart, where every Saturday and Sunday the house hosts a boozy breakfast in its stunning French garden (or inside in the lounge). 

The locally-sourced brunch is paired with two glasses of your Champagne of choice.

The post 5 Bubbly and Beautiful Champagne Tours to Take appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Trafalgar

Trafalgar caters to the over 55-70 crowd and does it well, with over 50,000 5-star reviews to vouch for customer happiness. 

In 2021, Trafalgar implemented a three-step COVID-19 travel protocol. These new measures add a dedicated Wellbeing Director to trips of 21 or more, increase distancing and hygiene protocols, and feature well-thought out incident response plans.

All of Trafalgar’s tours can be booked with just a $200 deposit, and can be cancelled within 30 days of booking for a full refund. Trips can also be changed up to 30 days before your trip without penalty. 

Tours are offered across all seven continents, and there are themed tours to suit almost any interest—including national park tours, religious tours, and battlefield tours.

Road Scholar

Formerly known as Elderhostel, Road Scholar offers over 5,500 “learning adventures” across 150 countries that are targeted for travelers aged 50 and up. Tours are grouped by interest (like birding, art history, or opera), destination, and activity level.

Activity levels range from “easy going” to “let’s go” to help you pick the tour that will best suit your needs.

All of Road Scholar’s trips focus on learning and value. As a not-for-profit organization, Road Scholar promises that their tours save an average of 20 percent per night to comparable commercial trips. 

Senior Cycling

Looking to explore by bike with your fellow seniors? Senior Cycling, whose motto is “fun folks on spokes” specializes in bicycle tours for seniors and active adults, defined by the company as “50 years of age or better.”

These small group tours around the United States and Canada are limited to just 13 participants, and include options for easy, intermediate, and advanced rides. Regular bikes or class one “pedal assist only” eBikes are permitted on the trips.

Insight Vacations

Prefer to travel at your own pace? Insight Vacations offers “Easy Pace” group tours that feature 3-night minimum stays at each hotel, plenty of free time, and “relaxed starts” in the morning. 

Or, go the opposite direction with one of Insight Vacations’ Discovery Journeys, which showcase multiple countries in one itinerary—think: Italy, Paris, and Switzerland in nine days. 

Trips are easily sorted by activity levels (which range from “leisurely” to “dynamic”) to help you find the one that’s best for you.

Luxury Gold

Luxury Gold’s tours live up to the company’s name, offering five-star accommodations, unique VIP Experiences (like an after-hours visit to the Temple of Luxor), and fine dining experiences at a Michelin star restaurant or equivalent. The average travelers on their tours are aged between 45-80.

Group sizes are limited to 28 guests on most trips, but small group departures of just 15 guests are also available. Or, if you already have your own group, Luxury Gold can make your own private group tour tailored to your interests. 

The post The Best Tour Groups for Seniors appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Editor’s note: Some services and amenities at these locations may be altered/halted due to the pandemic. Save these ideas for when it’s safe to travel again, and always follow all COVID-19 restrictions, rules, and safety regulations both at your destination and upon returning home.

San Juan Islands, Washington

The San Juan Islands — about 90 miles from Seattle — are home to orcas (killer whales) year-round. Here, you can spot humpback whales, minke whales, and gray whales. For the best views on land, head to Lime Kiln Point State Park and San Juan Island National Historical Park. Alternatively, head out into the water: There are several whale-watching tour operators to choose from, including Maya’s, San Juan Island Outfitters, San Juan Excursions, or San Juan Safaris. 

Where to Stay: Friday Harbor House, located in the isle’s main town of the same name, offers cozy accommodations in a laid-back ambiance. Every one of the 24 rooms offers waterfront views and King-sized beds. Don’t miss the on-site restaurant and raw bar. 

Maui, Hawaii 

The best time to go whale-watching in Maui is from November through May. During this time, thousands of North Pacific Humpback Whales migrate down south for the winter. The whales are best spotted via boat tour, and, fortunately, there are a range of options to choose from. Traditional whale-watching tours are available via Pacwale Eco-Adventures, while more adrenaline-pumping options include snorkeling whale-watching excursions from Ultimate Whalewatch, along with kayaking whale-watching tours from Maui Kayak Adventures. 

Where to Stay: The luxurious Fairmont Kea Lani resort offers something for everyone in your group, from kayaking to walking tours. The 22-acre, 450-room property features a wellness-centric spa, island-inspired food and drink offerings, and several swimming pools. 

Provincetown, Massachusetts

Located on Cape Cod, this quaint, vibrant town — nicknamed P’town by locals and travelers — is best known for its welcoming atmosphere. It’s also a top whale-watching destination from mid-April through October. Here, you can expect to spot dolphins plus a variety of whale species, including finbacks, humpbacks, orcas. While you may be able to spot whales from land (Herring Cove Beach and Race Point Beach are both popular spots for whale-watching), your best bet would be to book a guided boat. Check out Whale Watch Dolphin Fleet of Provincetown or Seasalt Charters.

Where to Stay: At The White Porch Inn, guests can relax in one of ten nautical-inspired guest rooms — each with private balconies and soaking tubs — (some also have en-suite fireplaces!) before browsing the on-site art gallery. The intimate bed-and-breakfast is housed in a 19th century-era home that’s full of charm.    

Monterey, California

Monterey is an idyllic coastal California town that’s best known for its expansive aquarium — followed by exceptional whale-watching opportunities. While whale-watching is popular almost any time of year since the feeding season and the migrating season overlap, March through November is considered peak season. Princess Monterey Whale Watching, Monterey Bay Whale Watch, Discovery Whale Watch, Chris’ Whale Watching are all great options for sightseeing tours. You may also be able to spot whales from the shore in Monterey, but you may have better luck in nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve (which also has an on-site whaling museum). 

Where to Stay: With its central downtown location, Hotel Pacific puts you within walking distance of many Monterey must-see sights. The all-suite boutique property boasts upscale accommodations — each with luxe touches like hardwood flooring, gas fireplaces, and private balconies.  

Bar Harbor, Maine

Whale-watching season in Bar Harbor — a cozy yet vibrant waterfront town in Maine — begins in mid-April and stretches all the way into October. You can expect to spot (mostly) humpback whales and perhaps a few minke, finback, and North American right whales during this time. The popular summer locale offers some of the best sightseeing opportunities to spot the creatures in action. For the best views, hop aboard a sightseeing cruise led by Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co.  Alternatively, bring a pair of binoculars to try your hand at whale-watching from shore at one of the area’s many beaches. 

Where to Stay: The waterfront Bar Harbor Inn & Spa dates back to 1887. Today, on-site activities and amenities abound: There’s a spa, swimming pool, cooking demos, history tours, waterfront yoga, and, of course, plenty of children’s programming. Accommodations are spacious and spread across three buildings. You’ll also find several dining venues here, too. 

Cape May, New Jersey

Whale watching may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the Jersey Shore, but the truth is, Cape May offers (almost) year-round whale and dolphin sightings. While excursions typically run from March through December, the “peak season” for prime viewing is June through November. Humpback whales are the most commonly spotted. No visit is complete without a narrated tour aboard the Cape May Whale Watcher. The Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center also offers informative, guided tours. 

Where to Stay: With its grand Victorian-era, bright yellow-hued exterior,  it’s hard to miss Congress Hall. The property is located in downtown Cape May right along the beach. Rooms here are whimsical, with vibrant colors, playful patterns, and sun-drenched surroundings. The four on-site dining options are sure to please foodies, while the spa offers beach-inspired body treatments, services, and massages (think algae masks, sand scrubs, and more). 

Newport, Rhode Island

The Ocean State is chock-full of whale-watching opportunities from June through October — so grab your cameras and hop aboard a boat via Classic Cruises of Newport. You can even book a private charter and have the entire vessel to yourself. And, if you’re lucky, you’ll spot finbacks, humpbacks, or right whales. 

Where to Stay: The design-forward Wayfinder Hotel is best known for its eclectic eats (plus indulgent cocktails!). The property boasts an overall laid-back vibe with funky rooms complete with custom furniture, vintage accents, and a coastal-inspire color palette. 

Jacksonville, Florida

Florida may not be known for its abundance of whale-sightings, but hundreds of endangered right whales migrate here during the winter months. You may be able to spot from a distance via the Jacksonville Fishing Pier. Otherwise, your best bet would be to head out onto the water with River City Charters or Jax Boat Rentals. 

Where to Stay: The centrally located Sheraton Jacksonville Hotel makes an excellent (budget-friendly!) home base for exploring. Rooms and suites are standard with comfy beds, basic furnishings (i.e., seating, desks), and marble-tiled bathrooms. 

Montauk, New York

Sperm whales are often spotted along Montauk’s shallow waters — along with humpback whales, minke whales, dolphins, and other majestic wildlife creatures. Summertime is usually prime time for whale-watching in Montauk (think July through September). Viking Fleet offers marine biologist-led boat tours. 

Where to Stay: With 96 rooms, Marram offers a central Mountauk location right on the ocean. Rooms are sun-drenched and feature warm colors inspired by the surrounding beach. Activities include biking, beachfront yoga, nature walks, meditation, and evening bonfires. No stay is complete without a meal at the on-site Mostrador restaurant.

Depoe Bay, Oregon

The Oregon coast is teeming with thousands of gray whales from mid-December to mid-January and late February and May. Depoe Bay is the best place to spot ‘em all. Visit the Depoe Bay Whale Watching Center, which has friendly, helpful staff and a heated indoor viewing area. Or, if you’re brave enough to battle the weather, head out onto the water: Dockside Charters, Tradewinds Charters, and Whale Research Eco Excursions all offer whale-watching cruises.

Where to Stay: SCP Depoe Bay is an eco-friendly surf lodge. The low-key, laid-back, and minimalist-inspired property seeks inspiration from its coastal surroundings. Rooms here are done in soft whites, grays, and blues with reclaimed wood furnishings adorned with fishing artwork. 

The post The Best Whale Watching Destinations in the U.S. appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Editor’s note: Save these ideas for when it’s safe to travel again, and always follow all COVID-19 restrictions, rules and safety regulations both at your destination and upon returning home. 

Grand Canyon Railway, Williams, Arizona

Trip length: 2 hrs, 15 min

Hop on the restored Grand Canyon Railway, which replicates the important journey from the town of Williams to the Grand Canyon. Travelers board at the Williams Depot and experience 65 miles of beautiful desert terrain, traveling from prairie to pine with an abundance of photo opportunities with different views. The voyage ends in the middle of the National Park in the historical Grand Canyon Depot.

White Pass and Yukon Route Railway, Skagway, Alaska

Travel length: 2.5 hours

The historic narrow-gauge White Pass and Yukon Route Railway in Skagway, Alaska is an incredible feat of engineering. The first tracks were built in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush and you may wonder how they managed to build along sheer cliffs. Chugging along this route reaches almost 3,000 feet in elevation offering vistas of waterfalls, lakes and snow-covered mountains, gorges, and glaciers and traveling through several tunnels. There are three distinct excursions to choose from, all departing from Skagway.

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, Bryson City, North Carolina

Trip length: 4-4.5 hours 

For anyone who wants to experience the Great Smoky Mountains, taking the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is one of the most delightful and easy ways to see this mountain range. There are two different trips you can take. One is a 32-mile Tuckasegee River excursion that is more centered on the history where passengers will see fertile verdant valleys and many important bridges or opt for the 44-mile Nantahala Gorge Excursion offering vistas of the Nantahala and Tennessee Rivers that leads to the gorge and is more focused on nature.  

Amtrak’s Adirondack, New York City, NY to Montreal, Canada

Trip Length: 10 hours

With daily departures leaving New York City’s Penn Station in the early morning, hopping aboard Amtrak’s Adirondack route will bring you to Montreal just in time for dinner. You’ll have vistas of the Hudson River with plenty of well-kept mansions along the riverbank, vineyards, forests, as well as quaint towns. Spend time in the observation car for better views, especially when you’re near the Adirondack mountains.

Alaska Denali Star, Anchorage to Fairbanks, Alaska

Trip length: 12 hours

During the summer, the Alaska Railroad ferries passengers from Anchorage to Fairbanks daily on this 356 mile track. Travel from one city to the other on a scenic and relaxing passage while you take in Alaska’s Southcentral and Interior landscape. This journey is a popular way to reach Denali National Park, too. On a clear day, you’ll want to spend more time in the observation deck to take in the backcountry, the Indian River and vistas from a 296-foot bridge of Hurricane Gulch.

Coastal Starlight, Los Angeles, California to Seattle, Washington

Trip length: 35 hours

The Coastal Starlight is an opportunity to enjoy the West Coast in all its splendor from Southern California to the Pacific Northwest. Departing from Los Angeles three days a week, the route offers travelers an opportunity to see incredible views of the Pacific coast that are often only available aboard as it passes through Santa Barbara, the Central Coast, and whisks past the San Francisco Bay Area as it continues north through beautiful forests, valleys and the snow-capped Cascade Mountains before arriving in Seattle. 

Empire Builder, Chicago, Illinois to Seattle, Washington

Trip length: 46 hours 

This scenic train ride departs three times a week from Chicago. Chugging alongside the Mississippi River and jagged mountain ranges, there are plenty of photo opportunities as you glide by Glacier National Park in Montana. Once you reach the Pacific Northwest, this ride passes along sections of Lewis and Clark’s expedition before arriving at its final destination—Portland. If you want to be well-rested when you arrive, consider booking a sleeper car so you can get enough shut eye—after looking out at the starry night sky. 

California Zephyr, Chicago, Illinois to Emeryville, California

Trip length: 51 hours, 20 min

Amtrak’s California Zephyr debuted in 1949 and since then has given passengers the chance to adventure across the heart of America and the Continental Divide. The route begins in Chicago and ends in the San Francisco Bay Area in the city of Emeryville, California. Spend time in the observation car to experience the magic of the Rocky Mountains, the Sierra Nevadas blanketed in snow and gorgeous views of Utah’s well-known red rocks before passing through Nevada and arriving in SF.

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Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands is one of the best places to go in New Zealand for fishing, sailing, and other watersports. The Bay of Islands is about three hours by car from Auckland. This gorgeous region is made up of 144 islands between Cape Brett and the Purerua Peninsula.

What’s there to do in the Bay of Islands? Get on or in the water! Try scuba diving with Paihia Dive‘s intro-to-diving course. You will be ferried far out into the bay to explore a whole new underwater world.

Or get up close and personal with the marine life in the Bay of Islands on a Fullers GreatSights Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise. On a good day, you’ll see both whales and dolphins on this cruise.

The cruise will take you to one of the Bay of Islands’ most famous sights, the Hole in the Rock. You can sail through this unique opening in a rock formation when the tide is right.

Where to stay: Spend a night at the historic Duke of Marlborough Hotel, which has the distinction of holding the oldest pub license in New Zealand and is located on a peninsula that sticks straight out into the middle of the bay.

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Milford Sound, New Zealand

Rudyard Kipling called Milford Sound the “eighth wonder of the world,” and if you visit this region of New Zealand, you’ll see why. Formed by glaciers during the Ice Age, the landscape around Milford Sound still bears evidence of its creation in the form of epic scenery: Cliffs rise from fjords crowned by mountains and waterfalls.

The best way to see Milford Sound is via boat. Take a sightseeing cruise on the fjord to see waterfalls and wildlife such as dolphins and penguins. Or navigate the waters under your own steam on a kayaking tour.

Once you’ve experienced the water from the surface, go underneath with a visit to the Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory. This is the only floating, underwater observatory in New Zealand, and visitors can go more than 30 feet deep (while staying dry) and get 360 degrees of the underwater environment.

Where to stay: There are not a lot of places to stay close to the Sound, but if you’d rather not drive the three and a half hours from Queenstown, consider The Milford Sound Lodge. The lodge offers several packages for hiking and boat tours, and there really is no beating this spot in terms of access to the Sound.

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Auckland, New Zealand

As both the largest city in New Zealand and its international air travel hub, Auckland is one of the best places to go in New Zealand. Many international flights arrive in New Zealand through Auckland Airport, which makes it an ideal city from which to start your exploration of New Zealand.

Spend at least a day or two in Auckland to get over your long flight and explore the vibrant metropolis before venturing farther afield in New Zealand. Here are our suggestions for what to see and do in Auckland:

• Get some culture by visiting one of the many museums in Auckland, such as the Auckland Art Gallery. This is the largest art institution in New Zealand, featuring more than 15,000 works of historic, modern, and contemporary art.
• If the weather is nice, take a stroll through the 185-acre Auckland Domain park. If you’re visiting on a Saturday, include a stop at the nearby Parnell Farmers’ Market, which sells fresh produce in the morning.
• Auckland is also home to a host of multicultural bars and restaurants serving up all types of cuisine, so be sure to dine in downtown Auckland (and go out for a cocktail or two to check out the nightlife).
• If you’re looking for adventure activities in Auckland, consider the Auckland Bridge Climb. And if you’re really brave, try the Auckland Bridge bungee jump.
• If you’re looking for guided trips in Auckland, book an Auckland City Tour or an America’s Cup sailing experience on Waitemata Harbour.

Where to stay: Just a 10 minute drive from many of the city’s main attractions, Poenamo Hotel is a great option for travelers who value their peace and quiet but still want to stay in a central location.

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Waiheke Island, New Zealand

Just a little more than 30 minutes by boat from downtown Auckland is Waiheke Island, one of the best places to go in New Zealand for wine lovers. For a small island in the middle of Hauraki Gulf, Waiheke Island sure is home to a lot of vineyards. To sample as many of them as you can on your visit to Waiheke Island, you’ll want to find someone else to drive. Our pick is Waiheke Island Wine Tours, whose expert local guides will shuttle you around to three vineyards to sample 14 different wines.

All that wine from the vineyards of Waiheke Island will make you hungry. When it’s time to eat, book your lunch or dinner at the Mudbrick Vineyard Restaurant, a gorgeous eatery with sprawling views of the vineyard and the sea. For a really special meal, book the Mudbrick Vineyard Restaurant’s tasting menu, a seven-course event with wine pairings.

Of course, there’s more to do on Waiheke Island than just drink wine! Waiheke Island is also famous for its vibrant art community, beaches, forests, and olive groves. We recommend booking a culture tour, scenic flight, or hiking trip while you’re there to really see why Waiheke Island is one of the best places to go in New Zealand.

Where to stay: It’s definitely worth staying overnight on Waiheke Island, too. Choose the Delamore Lodge, one of the best-reviewed Waiheke Island hotels on Tripadvisor (SmarterTravel’s parent company). The hotel also offers some great packages featuring everything from wine and food to spa treatments for couples.

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Christchurch, New Zealand

Despite being rocked by four large earthquakes between September 2010 and December 2011, Christchurch has made a true comeback. Visitors to Christchurch will see evidence of the city’s rebirth everywhere, including new buildings made out of old shipping containers and other unique materials like the Cardboard Cathedral.

Of course, many of Christchurch’s original attractions are still standing. One of the best places to visit is the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, a sprawling network of conservatories, walking tracks, and horticultural displays. The gardens also feature some of the largest, tallest, and oldest trees in New Zealand.

Take in the new and the old of Christchurch from above with a journey on the Christchurch Gondola. This cable car lifts you on a scenic ride to the top of Mt. Cavendish.

Where to stay: Peppers Clearwater Resort Christchurch overlooks Lake Kaikainui, offering a glimpse of the beautiful nature the rest of the region has to offer. Located under 10 minutes from Christchurch Airport, resort amenities include an 18-hole golf course, on-site bar and restaurant, and conference rooms available for large events.

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Queenstown, New Zealand

Located on the southwest side of the South Island, Queenstown has a well-deserved reputation as the adventure capital of New Zealand. During the winter and spring months (June to October), Queenstown is known for world-class skiing. Of course, there’s plenty to do in Queenstown year-round. Adventure activities such as bungee jumping, skydiving, jet boating, and river rafting will let you experience the region from dizzying heights and at breathtaking speeds.

Queenstown is also home to the world’s highest cliff jump, the Shotover Canyon Swing, where you can hurl yourself off a cliff in a number of different ways—including backward or tied to a chair.

If you haven’t lost your appetite (or your lunch) on these adrenaline-pumping activities, enjoy the dining scene in Queenstown—it’s one of the best in New Zealand. As locals and tour guides alike will tell you, one of the best places to eat in Queenstown is Fergburger, which CNN says “may be the best burger joint on the planet.”

Where to stay: Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel is located on the edge of town, giving easy access to the restaurants and other shops but also letting you sleep in relative peace away from the hub of activity.

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Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley, New Zealand

No list of the best places to go in New Zealand would be complete without mentioning Te Puia, the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute located in Rotorua’s Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley. At this Maori heritage center, you can get an authentic “steambox” meal prepared using ancient geothermal cooking techniques. You’ll also experience a Maori welcome ceremony and traditional song and dance performance.

The Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley is also home to a number of active geysers, including Pohutu, the largest active geyser in the southern hemisphere. Mud pools are another natural attraction in the geothermal valley: These boiling pools reach temperatures of more than 200 degrees Fahrenheit.

Where to stay: Located close to the city center and near the Whakarewarewa Forest, the Distinction Hotel Rotorua is a great jumping off point for your Rotorua vacation. Amenities include free WiFi, a heated swimming pool, on-site spa, four dining options, and a hotel bar.

Check Prices for Distinction Hotel Rotorua in Rotorua, New Zealand

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Waitomo Glowworm Caves, New Zealand

The Waitomo Glowworm Caves, naturally illuminated by thousands of glowworms, are among the most unique places to go in New Zealand—and a visit to the caves is one experience you’ll be hard-pressed to duplicate anywhere else. You can take a boat ride through the caves to learn about the history and science behind the phenomenon.

Or, if you really want a unique adventure, try black-water rafting with The Legendary Black Water Rafting Company, which will float you on an inner tube down a subterranean stream. It will be pitch-dark (except for the glowworms), and you’ll get to do everything from jumping off waterfalls to rappelling down cave walls. Choose your own adventure when you book the tour.

There are other (non-glowworm) caves in Waitomo, too. Aranui Cave features ancient cave decorations; Ruakuri Cave has an awesome spiral entrance and unique limestone formations—and, okay, more glowworms, but in this cave, you can do a walking tour rather than a water-based excursion.

Where to stay: The Waitomo Caves Hotel is minutes from the famous glowworm caves. It offers a spa as well as cave tour reservations through its website.

Check Prices for Waitomo Caves Hotel in Waitomo Caves, New Zealand

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Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand

You can hike an actual glacier in New Zealand. The Franz Josef Glacier plays host to both guided walks and jaw-dropping helicopter tours. Tours offer everything from ice climbing to a more relaxed hike on the 6.8-mile-long glacier.

Won’t you be freezing on top of a giant glacier? Nope! The Franz Josef Glacier receives a lot of sunlight, and temperatures on the ice are usually only a few degrees colder than in the nearby town.

Cap off a day touring the Franz Josef Glacier with a soak in the Glacier Hot Pools. The pools are fed by the waters from the Franz Josef Glacier, and you can use one of the three warm pools or get a private pool.

Where to stay: Franz Josef is a small enough town that precise location won’t make too much of a difference (you’ll be close to everything no matter where you are). Consider the Aspen Court Franz Josef, which has received some of the best ratings in the area.

Check Prices for Aspen Court Franz Josef in Franz Josef, New Zealand

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Aoraki Mount Cook National Park

See New Zealand’s highest mountains and longest glacier in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. There are plenty of opportunities for hiking here, no matter what your skill level. For experienced climbers, there are 23 peaks over 9,800 feet. For those looking for something a little more low-key, there are lots of walks along paved trails or boardwalks that still offer spectacular views.

Make sure you stay past sunset for a visit to the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, where light pollution is strictly controlled for amazing stargazing opportunities.

Where to stay: Located inside the national park, The Hermitage Hotel will put you close to everything you want to see and do. Splurge on a room with a view of Mt. Cook—it’s worth it.

Check Prices for The Hermitage Hotel in Mt. Cook Village, New Zealand

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Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2014. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post 10 Best Places to Go in New Zealand appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Buynak has been with Universal Orlando for nearly 30 years and currently serves as the resort’s Vice President of Entertainment. She’s overseen everything from stunt shows to attraction openings, but during her recent interview with Family Vacation Critic, it was clear the holiday transformation of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter holds a special place in her heart.

“One of my favorite things about the holidays is watching the reactions of our guests when they step foot in Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, and see the wizarding world come to life before their eyes,” Buynak told Family Vacation Critic. She also let us in on a few details and secrets you won’t want to miss if you visit Universal’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter during the holidays. Here’s what you’ll want to keep an eye out for during your next trip.

Take a Close Look at the Holiday Decor

“You will see, hear and taste the traditions throughout the streets of both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley,” Buynak explained. Inside King’s Cross Station, where guests can ride the Hogwarts Express to Hogsmeade, carefully wrapped gifts sit among the luggage carts on the train platform.

Over at Hogsmeade, pinecones, berries, greenery, and lights join the perpetually snow-capped roofs to add to the wintertime merriment. It’s snowy year round in Hogsmeade village, so the snowman with his striped scarf and wizard’s hat are ever present, but it makes for a pretty sweet photo spot this time of year. 

Shops Are Adorned WIth Unique Holiday Details

When you look just a bit closer at the holiday decorations in Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade, you’ll notice each building’s decor has embellishments that complement the shop within. “Guests will see the magnificent decorations throughout the land which are each so unique to the personality of the individual shopkeepers,” Buynak said. “Each proprietor adds a special touch to their shop-front decorations. In Hogsmeade, owl feathers are nestled in the strands of garland outside the Owl Post. Down the path at Spintwitches Sporting Needs, home-crafted golden snitches adorn the festoons.” 

In Diagon Alley, guests will find wreaths with book pages fashioned into flowers at Flourish and Botts bookstore and, “not to be outdone, the folks at Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes have of course used firecrackers in an ornamental fashion,” Buynak pointed out. “There is so much more to discover for yourself.”

Get Carried Away By Bewitching Holiday Tunes

“We have two original entertainment experiences that can only be seen during the holidays at The Wizarding of World of Harry Potter,” Buynak told us. Though entertainment is available daily in Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, performers in both parks swap out their typical setlists for holiday tunes that wizards and muggles alike will enjoy.

“The Frog Choir is comprised of Hogwarts students and their giant croaking frogs, which will of course handle the bass notes. They perform just outside Hogwarts Castle in Hogsmeade,” Buynak said. She also noted how the lyrics of their songs give amazing insight to the happenings at Hogwarts during the Christmas season. “From accidentally casting a spell on Father Christmas to the stress of finding a date to the Yule Ball, it is all somehow oddly relatable to what we muggles experience this time of year.”

We don’t like to play favorites, but nothing gets us dancing like Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees. They perform holiday hits like “Nothin’ Like a Holiday Spell” and “My Baby Gave Me a Hippogriff for Christmas” all the way through the holiday season in Diagon Alley. Which brings us to our next secret.

See Snow…In Florida

There’s not many places to see snow in Central Florida, but Universal Orlando just so happens to be one of them. This year, you can catch a gentle snowfall while Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees sing and dance, or see snowflakes slowly swirling down from the rooftops in Hogsmeade village. In a state where the temperatures only fall below freezing once in a blue moon, it’s a truly magical sight.

Savor a Cup of Hot Butterbeer

Hot Butterbeer is only available during the holiday season at Universal Orlando, making it one of the most highly coveted varieties of Butterbeer. In the Harry Potter book series, Hogwarts students would drink foaming mugs of Butterbeer when they visited Hogsmeade. 

At Universal, you can get the drink with flavors reminiscent of shortbread and butterscotch (and, yes, topped with a delightful foam) from Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade, Leaky Cauldron and The Hopping Pot in Diagon Alley, and street carts in both lands.

Stop By Hogwarts Castle At Night

While this year’s The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle projection show is on hiatus due to COVID modifications at Universal, Hogwarts Castle still receives a winter projection overlay each night when the sun goes down. The rocks surrounding the castle appear to be covered in snow, holiday lights bathe the castle walls with a warm glow, and a large Christmas tree is projected onto one of the castle towers.

There is actually one way to see The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle show this year, but it’ll cost you. For the first time ever, Universal is offering an exclusive guided tour of its holiday offerings. Pricing for Universal’s Holiday Tour starts at $59.99 (plus separate theme park admission) and includes a private viewing of The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle show. 

Pick Up a Harry Potter Holiday Gift

From ornaments to robes to stuffed owls, holiday gift ideas abound in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. If you want to give an extra special gift this year, though, some of the shops offer personalization services that’ll help you win the holidays for the Harry Potter fan in your life. At Quality Quidditch and Dervish and Banges, you can shop for personalized Quidditch jerseys. 

While technically outside the Wizarding World, in Universal’s first-ever Holiday Tribute Store, there is an entire room dedicated to Harry Potter where guests can get their name embroidered on their house scarf or robe.

Before you go

To experience all that the Wizarding World of Harry Potter has to offer for the holidays, you will need a Park-to-Park ticket that includes admission to both parks. It’s the only way to hop on the Hogwarts Express train that connects the two lands.

Universal’s holiday festivities will continue daily through January 3, 2021, including Universal’s Holiday Tour, and Buynak’s team can’t wait to see you. “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is one of the most impressive areas of our destination, as they are a favorite to so many. Being able to bring the holidays to these lands for our guests is a top highlight for me every year.”

More from SmarterTravel:

• Orlando Travel Guide
• 10 Best Hotels in Orlando
• Which Disney World Hotel is Right for You?

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It’s easy to soak up the sun on Waikiki Beach for a week, sampling the area’s many restaurants and taking side trips to nearby Pearl Harbor or Diamond Head. But if you limit your Hawaiian vacation to just one area, you’re missing out. There are plenty of other things to do in Oahu, an island that spans 597 square miles of golden beaches, crashing waves, deep green forests, and laid-back surf towns.

To learn about Honolulu’s most popular attractions, see SmarterTravel’s Honolulu Travel Guide. But for the best things to do in Oahu outside the capital city, read on.

Have an Adventure

Sprawling across 4,000 verdant acres on Oahu’s Windward Coast, Kualoa Ranch offers just about every adventure you can imagine, from horseback riding and zip-lining to kayaking and ATV tours. This private nature reserve is also a popular Hollywood filming spot; movie tours lead visitors past familiar landmarks from films and TV shows such as Jurassic Park, 50 First Dates, and Lost.

You can also relax at Kualoa’s exclusive Secret Island Beach, where you can swim, kayak, play beach volleyball, or simply enjoy the views of Mokolii, a small island off the coast also known as “Chinaman’s Hat.”

Other adventurous things to do in Oahu include a hike or off-road expedition with North Shore EcoTours. The company operates on private conservation land, so there are no other tourists around.

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Hit the Beach

Waikiki is the island’s most famous (and most crowded) beach, but there are plenty of other golden stretches of sand on Oahu where you can lay your towel. On the island’s Windward (eastern) Coast is Kailua Beach Park, which spans more than two miles and includes bathroom facilities, picnic tables, and multiple parking lots. Its calm waters are popular for swimming and kite surfing. Nearby is Lanikai Beach, which some travelers find even more beautiful, despite its lack of facilities and limited parking.

On the North Shore are beaches with towering wintertime waves for surfing, including Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach. Or head to the Leeward Coast on the west side of the island to catch the sunset from Keawaula Beach, also known as Yokohama; keep an eye out for dolphins or whales.

Help alleviate the environmental effects of your visit by participating in a beach cleanup. The company Travel2change offers a variety of activities like a yoga class or biking trip combined with a beach cleanup after your desired activity.

Soak Up Local History and Culture

Oahu may be best known for beaches and natural beauty, but it’s also home to a wealth of fascinating cultural attractions. Start with the Polynesian Cultural Center, where you can watch performances and visit villages representing the cultures of Hawaii, Tahiti, Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, and Aotearoa. The popular attraction now offers immersive cultural experiences with locals like the Umu Making Experience. Each ticket entry (when purchased online) allows you to come back for free for three days, so you can experience other parts of the center.

Learn about the island’s history at Hawaii Plantation Village, which features restored buildings from the sugar plantation era of 1850 through 1950. Follow it up with a visit to Queen Emma Summer Palace, the former royal mountain retreat that’s now a museum housing furniture and regalia belonging to the 19th-century queen. Oahu is also home to spectacular museums like the Bishop Museum, Honolulu Museum of Art, the Hawaii State Art Museum, Iolani Palace, and the Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture & Design.

And don’t discount Oahu’s modern art scene; street art is increasingly prominent in Honolulu and its surrounding neighborhoods. Check out Pow! Wow!’s interactive mural map of Oahu.

Taste the Island Flavors

From fresh seafood (poke, anyone?) to shave ice, Oahu offers plenty of delicious flavors to sample throughout your trip. A great place to start is at the many farmers’ markets that take place around the island, offering locally grown produce and artisan food items. You can visit the North Shore Country Market on Saturday mornings, the Windward Mall on Wednesdays and Sundays, or a number of others supported by the Hawaii Farm Bureau. If you’re in Oahu on a Saturday or Tuesday evening, check out the KCC Farmer’s Market for fresh and local food like fried mochi balls, seafood, coffee, and more.

Also be sure to explore the island’s more modern neighborhoods like Kaka’ako for juice bars, farm-to-table dining, and its own farmers’ market. And don’t leave the North Shore without trying shave ice: Visitors line up for the famed Matsumoto Shave Ice, and it’s worth it!

And, of course, you can’t visit Hawaii without going to a luau. This traditional Polynesian-style feast typically features pork roasted in an umu, or underground oven, as well as other Hawaiian dishes such as poi (mashed taro) and poke. Some of the most popular luau events on Oahu include the Alii Luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center and the Ka Moana Luau at Sea Life Park.

Take a Hike

Stretch your legs and enjoy some of Oahu’s best views by incorporating a hike or two into your vacation. One popular, not too strenuous option is the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail, located along the Kalanianaole Highway east of Honolulu. The two-mile paved trail overlooks the ocean; keep an eye out for whales in season.

Not far away is a significantly more challenging hike, the Koko Crater Railway Trail, where railroad ties now serve as steps for a steep uphill climb. The reward for all that effort? Sweeping views of Hanauma Bay, Diamond Head, and other landmarks in the eastern part of Oahu.

Other trails to consider include the Kuliouou Ridge Hike and the coastal trail at Kaena Point State Park.

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Stroll Through Gorgeous Gardens

Nature lovers will enjoy the lush foliage and vibrant flowers in botanical gardens across the island. A particular highlight is Waimea Valley, where a walking trail winds through a mix of tropical plants and cultural sites on the way to a waterfall visitors can swim in.

Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden is another serene place for a stroll, spanning some 400 acres of plants from various parts of Asia, Africa, Polynesia, and the Americas. Or you can wander among the native Hawaiian plants at Wahiawa Botanical Garden, located just down the road from Dole Plantation.

You can also stop by Byodo-In Temple, a scale replica of a Japanese temple surrounded by Japanese-style gardens.

Hit the Water

If you wanted to, you could spend the majority of your vacation enjoying the crashing waves and turquoise waters surrounding Oahu. Learn to hang 10 with a surfing lesson at Uncle Bryan’s Sunset Suratt Surf Academy or North Shore Surf Girls. Or, for something a little different, go “canoe surfing” with We Go! Island Canoe in Kailua. On the North Shore, Sea and Board Sports Hawaii offers a little of everything, from stand-up paddleboarding to glass-bottom kayaking.

And don’t neglect Oahu’s underwater world. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, just a short drive from Honolulu, is one of the island’s most popular snorkeling spots, but you can also snorkel right off the beach at Shark’s Cove or Kuilima Cove on the North Shore.

The brave can book an open snorkeling session with famed marine biologist Ocean Ramsey and her company One Ocean Diving. The pelagic shark research snorkel teaches you about shark safety, biology, and conservation. And yes, you really get to swim in the open ocean with these fantastic animals.

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Play a Round

The spectacular views at Oahu’s courses might ruin you for golf at home, but it’s a risk worth taking. Many of the most popular courses are on the grounds of resorts, including Ko Olina Golf Club, which features a Ted Robinson-designed course with plenty of water features, and Turtle Bay, which has two 18-hole courses on the scenic North Shore.

Non-resort courses to consider include the Ewa Beach Golf Club, a challenging course on the western side of the island, and the Royal Hawaiian Golf Club, offering lush foliage and mountain views on Oahu’s eastern side.

Learn About Agritourism

Many of Hawaii’s former sugar plantations are getting a second life. One example is Ko Hana Distillers, which is a rum distillery set on a former sugar plantation. You can even combine a distillery tour with a hike through the company Hawaii Forest & Trail. Or experience even more agritourism with the Farm to Forest Experience, which includes a tour of a working organic farm and a hike with amazing views.

A visit to Gunstock Ranch is another agritourism experience on Oahu. The ranch is home to a Hawaiian Legacy forest and offers tours to help plant trees as well as go horseback riding or tour the ranch. 

Kahumana offers tours of its organic farm, which offers vocational training for locals struggling with homelessness or disability. You can also enjoy a delicious meal on site at the Kahumana Cafe.

Kahuku Farms offers tours as well as a cafe featuring ingredients grown on site. At the Dole Plantation, you can take a train tour, find your way through a garden maze, and sample ice cream made with the company’s famous pineapples.

Discover WWII History

Of course, no visit to Oahu is complete without a visit to the USS Arizona Memorial, but there are three other Pearl Harbor Historic Sites that are also worth visiting: the Battleship Missouri Memorial, USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. Experiences range from guided tours to climbing aboard a real WWII-era submarine. The USS Missouri Memorial and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum are located on Ford Island and accessible via shuttle buses. Here you can tour the historic battleship, see the battle-damaged airfield, and even walk inside hangars with a fleet of vintage airplanes. Tours and passes are available for all four sites.

What to Pack

More from SmarterTravel:

• 10 Best Things to Do in Hawaii
• What’s the Best Island in Hawaii for You?
• 12 Things You Should Never Do in Hawaii

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Sarah Schlichter traveled to Hawaii as a guest of Hawaiian Airlines and Barclays. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor for more travel tips and inspiration. 

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2019. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Ashley Rossi contributed to this story.

The post 10 Fun Off-Resort Things to Do in Oahu appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Few travelers think to contact the hotel concierge for much more than directions or restaurant recommendations—but if you don’t, you’re missing out on a wealth of local expertise. A good hotel concierge has impressive powers and can assist with almost any travel problem you might face, so you shouldn’t be afraid to take advantage.

That said, a concierge is not a magician. Below are 14 things your hotel concierge can do for you, six more they can’t, and four tips for maximizing your moments at the hotel lobby.

What a Hotel Concierge Can Do for You

Save You Money

The concierge can tell you how to get to the airport for less, where to find nearby happy hours, what the best free sights and activities are, and how much is a fair price for a taxi.

Recommend Fitness Facilities

If your hotel doesn’t have a gym or lacks the equipment you want, the concierge can usually point you to an affiliated hotel with better facilities, recommend a good running trail, or give you a list of nearby fitness centers that offer daily or weekly passes.

Get You a Ride When There Seems to Be None Available

If it is rush hour, raining, or really late, finding a taxi or Uber ride can be tough. The concierge can make this happen with a phone call in many cases. This can even work if you’re not staying at the hotel in question. I once saw a friend walk into the lobby of a New York hotel and offer the concierge a tip; within seconds, we had a ride.

Get Tickets for You

Many concierges are careful to say they can’t get tickets for sold-out shows, but the truth is they sometimes can. They may have relationships with brokers, or know season ticket holders who may not be using their seats, or even have tickets themselves; Michael Fazio, author of Concierge Confidential, started to purchase tickets to certain shows that he would then sell to guests, usually at a markup that matched the secondary market.

Keep You Safe

A concierge can offer advice on whether a neighborhood, park, or activity is safe to visit, and what you can do instead if your idea is iffy.

Help You Celebrate

Are you proposing to your partner or celebrating a landmark birthday? Your hotel concierge can help with anything from filling your hotel room with flowers and balloons to organizing a rooftop proposal, complete with a photographer to document the occasion.

Help You Do Your Job

A concierge can assist with all kinds of work-related tasks, such as getting materials to a printer, setting up a courier service, mailing packages, and setting up a meeting space.

Help You Look Good

A concierge can get you an appointment with a barber or hairdresser, get clothes pressed, and more.

Fix Sticky Travel Problems

A concierge can help you find an expeditor or make an embassy appointment if your passport is stolen, or facilitate repairs if your smartphone goes on the fritz. They can also accept overnight mail or late-arriving luggage.

Get You a Table

Restaurants will often find a way to fit in customers who are recommended by their preferred concierge contacts. If the restaurant is truly full, the concierge can often get you to the front of a waiting list.

Recommend Local Service Folks

Need a babysitter, an auto repair shop, or a dog walker? Your concierge can help.

Create a Custom Itinerary

If you have a bunch of stuff you definitely want to do but are uncertain how to make it all fit together, the concierge can take your list of attractions and put together a coherent and achievable plan. He or she can also help you avoid pitfalls such as road construction or closed subway stations.

Help with Special Needs

If you are disabled, aren’t feeling well, or have other special needs, a hotel concierge can offer considerable assistance—like calling wheelchair-accessible taxis, finding English-speaking doctors, and recommending restaurants that can accommodate certain food allergies.

Provide Assistance Before You Arrive

The concierge can be a resource not just once you’re at the hotel but beforehand as well. For instance, he or she could help you plan out your first day, including a restaurant reservation for dinner.

What Your Hotel Concierge Can’t Do for You

Gossip

Discretion is an integral part of a concierge’s job, so they tend not to talk about other guests, including which celebrities might be staying in the hotel.

Illegal or Immoral Activities

You shouldn’t expose a concierge to risk by asking him or her to help with illegal—or dubiously legal—activities such as obtaining drugs, forging signatures, finding “companions,” or the like.

Babysit

A concierge can help you find someone else to look after your child, but he or she can’t actually do the babysitting while on duty.

Float You a Loan

They’ll help you with money concerns, but concierges are not banks; don’t ask them to dig into their pockets for you.

Sell Stuff for You

Concierges are also not your personal eBay or Craigslist; they can’t sell tickets you no longer need or items you don’t want to take home. However, he or she may be able to recommend a place where you can do the sale yourself.

Book Tickets to Sold-Out Shows

Truly sold-out shows tend to be just that; however, you can ask if the concierge has any ideas or contacts to help get you tickets, and he or she might have a strategy for you. If there is truly no way to get certain tickets, the concierge will tell you so.

Tips for Using a Hotel Concierge

Don’t Be Shy

You might feel as though the concierge is only there for the folks in the penthouse suite, but this isn’t the case; he or she is there to help all guests, so feel free to ask.

Give Them Some Time

Concierges can often pull off difficult tasks, but to do so on very short notice is tricky, and it distracts them from helping other guests. Give the concierge some notice if you need something beyond simple advice.

Present the Concierge’s Card

When a concierge sends you to a restaurant or other establishment, it is often his or her name, not yours, that is the attraction for the proprietor. So if a concierge asks you to show his or her card, do it; these relationships are what makes concierges able to help you now and in the future.

Not All Concierges Are the Same

Concierges at the very best (and most expensive) hotels are notorious for pulling off near-miracles; those at less prestigious establishments typically don’t have the same pull.

Traveling? Get a Carry-On That Does More

3 words: lightweight, durable, & multi-functional. The Carry-On from Away makes traveling that much easier, especially with its removable, TSA-approved battery for your electronics.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 10 Hotel Room Exercises You Can Do Without Any Workout Gear
• 9 Luxe Hotels You Can Actually Afford to Book
• The 11 Best Hotel Booking Sites

Ed Hewitt is a seasoned globetrotter who brings you a biweekly glimpse into the latest travel news, views, and trends—and how they could affect your travel plans.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated with the latest information.

The post 14 Things a Hotel Concierge Can Do for You (And 6 Things They Can’t) appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Tipping in Greece is customary, but is by no means obligatory. This Greece tipping guide will help you navigate when/where you can leave a little extra for great service.

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Tipping in Greece

Tipping in Greece may be expected in most places, but it is by no means an obligation. There is no set standard for how much to leave when service exceeds expectations, but there are certain times when it’s expected you’ll tip. For instance, some restaurants may round up the bill to include gratuity, so it is wise to look for this inclusion before tipping. Note that it’s also common for servers not to receive tips included on a credit card, so try to leave cash whenever possible so ensure the person you’re trying to tip actually receives the gratuity.

Want to know when to tip for other services? Read on to make sense of where, when, and how much to tip when you’re traveling in Greece.

How To Tip In Greece

Cafe Server:

Greece doesn’t have a strong culture of tipping at cafes. But if there is a tip jar by the cash register, it’s a nice gesture to leave a couple of coins. For exceptional table service, round up to the nearest €1.

Restaurant Server:

A tip is typically expected, especially for stellar service, but some restaurants round up the bill to include gratuity. Check the bill first for these inclusions before deciding whether or not to tip. If there is no added tip, leave 5 to 10 percent, and a few coins on the table for the busser. Some restaurants may refuse gratuity for service, so if you’re unsure, you can certainly ask before tipping. There may be a “cover charge” on the bill, which covers the cost of bread and non-bottled water, but doesn’t include gratuity.

Bartender:

At bars, it’s not necessary to tip a bartender, as most do not expect it; but it is considerate to round to the nearest €1 for great service.

Tour Guides:

In Greece, it’s customary to tip tour guides. Tip €2 to €5 per person, per day for a group tour; and €20 per person, per day for a private tour.

Taxis:

A good rule of thumb is to round up to the nearest euro. This approach simplifies paying with cash, and it’s not an unusual way to tip without actually tipping. For exceptional service, or if you use a taxi driver for multiple stops, for a longer distance, or as a guide, you might add 5 to 10 percent of the final fare to your total payment.

Airport Shuttle Driver:

It is not necessary to tip your driver, but feel free to give €1 per bag if they help with your luggage.

Doorman:

If a doorman assists with luggage or hailing transportation, a simple thank you is appreciated. But for exceptional service, it certainly wouldn’t be remiss to offer €1.

Bellhop:

At hotels, feel free to tip the bellhop €1 to €2 per bag delivered to your room, but no more than €5 total. 

Housecleaning:

At hotels, or in vacation rentals that have daily cleaning services, it’s customary to leave €1 per night, especially if the cleaner is doing a great job.

Concierge:

If the concierge goes above and beyond with helping you book reservations, giving you directions, and/or providing insider recommendations, it’s considerate to tip €5 to €10. For answers to quick questions, though, you shouldn’t feel obligated.

Stylist:

For haircuts, shampoos, trims, and shaves, it’s considerate, but not expected, to tip 10 percent of the final bill if you’re satisfied with your new look.

Spa Service Provider:

A tip isn’t expected, but you can leave up to 10 percent for anything that goes above and beyond your expectations. Simply ask for an envelope for the tip at the front desk, and then either deliver the envelope to your provider or leave the tip at the front desk.

More from SmarterTravel:

• Tipping: The Ultimate Guide to Tipping for Travelers
• Does the Hotel Maid Look Through Your Stuff?
• Hotel Tipping—Do You or Don’t You?

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