Travel Tuesday: 25 BEST Places to Visit in 2016!

Lonely Planet and Afar Media selected the very best places to travel in 2016. (Lonely Planet released its book Best In Travel 2016 and Afar magazine released its “Where To Go In 2016” issue, also available online.)

Some of these places are celebrating big anniversaries, some are in the midst of a resurgence, and some have landmarks that are nearing extinction — but all of them have something special going on right now. Here are the top 25 places you must travel in 2016. Choose one, or choose them all — whatever you do, happy adventuring!

For the complete list visit:

http://www.buzzfeed.com/anniedaly/best-places-to-visit-in-2016

Travel Tuesday: Some of the BEST American Road Trips!

While filming KRUSING AMERICA, we traveled thru 37 different US States in 18 months 

and if there is one thing I learned: America is a BIG Country! 

If you're planning a road trip – it will take time, research and a few helpful websites. 

Click the link below to find some of the BEST AMERICAN ROAD TRIPS:

https://www.pinterest.com/explore/american-road-trips

TRAVEL TUESDAY: Cheapest Cities in Europe to Fly into...

As the creator of KRUSING AMERICA - I have traveled all over America producing and directing that family travel series but my earlier years as an Army Brat was spent stationed with my family in different parts of Germany, summers in my hometown of Aorivola, Italy and college in England so I grew up on trains traveling through Europe. However, today most families can only travel if they can find discounted rates therefore I try to devote my #TravelTuesday blog posts to helping people find the easiest and cheapest way to see the world.

There’s no denying that a trip to Europe is a right of passage for any and all travellers. But there’s also no denying that a trip to Europe is expensive, especially when you try to ‘see it all’ in one trip. But it can be done. Whether you’re coming from nearby America where the price of a return ticket is cheaper than a one-way flight for Australians, or whether you’re venturing to the other side of the world from down and under and eager to learn how to save a tonne of cash – here are…

The Cheapest Cities in Europe to Fly Into (top 14)

http://www.worldofwanderlust.com/the-cheapest-cities-in-europe-to-fly-into/

List provided by World of Wanderlust.

Travel: 29 Apps That Will Make Traveling So Much Easier

So many people travel for the holidays and as a Army brat, professional traveler and creator of KRUSING AMERICA – I've picked up a few tips on traveling that I thought I would share.

Today there are so many cool Apps to make your travel experience that much easier so you can focus on enjoying where you are and where you're going….

I've highlighted a few below but be sure to click the link to see all 29 Apps that will make traveling so much easier – all you’ll have to worry about is having a good time by Jenny Chang of BuzzFeed. 

1. Roadtrippers is a must-have for anyone planning a road trip in the US. Enter where you want to go, make selections depending on what you want to see (natural wonders! weird stuff!), and the app will create a customized map for you.

Download Roadtrippers here.

Find other cool places to stop on your journey using AroundMe, iExit, and Field Trip.

Read the whole article by Jenny Chang / BuzzFeed

http://www.buzzfeed.com/mallorymcinnis/make-traveling-so-much-easier?utm_term=.uhggKmJ1y#.bwwYnKXq4

KRUSING AMERICA: Throwback Merry Christmas in Texas!

One of our favorite stops while KRUSING AMERICA was our Christmas episode in Boerne, Texas!

Some of the best memories include parking the camper on Enchanted Springs Ranch, participating in The Western Show at The Ranch, meeting all the animals on The Ranch, Steak Night, the new KRUSING AMERICA Bowling Team, receiving an Honorary Award at Lukenbach, TX. Of course  meeting Santa and riding at the front of the Christmas Parade was one of the best evenings! We met so many amazing people in Boerne, TX that left a lasting impression and memories etched into our hearts forever. 

There truly is nothing like Christmas in Texas!!

May Lovely Happy Times 

Decorate your Holiday Season. 

May Warm Special Memories 

Brighten your New Year 

&

May the Wonder of Christmas 

be with you forever!

Happy Holidays from our family to yours!

KRUSING AMERICA

Travel Tuesday: Don't Forget Those That Can't Go Home.

On one of the busiest travel days of the year – Not everyone goes home for Thanksgiving. Don't forget those that can't go home….

Thousands of uniformed men and women can't return home for Thanksgiving this year. As Americans, we have to take pause to make sure our service members know we're thinking of them and are grateful for their sacrifices.  

Thank our Armed Forces and their families for their sacrifices by signing the USO's card this Thanksgiving.  Show Your Support!

http://action.uso.org/thanksgivingcard

Travel Tuesday: Swan Hotel & Cottages Port Townsend, WA / Video by Director Linda Kruse of KRUSING AMERICA

The Swan Hotel is the latest hotel video series by KRUSING AMERICA creator Linda Kruse. Many of the images in this video were created during the award-winning KRUSING AMERICA Washington episode.

The Swan Hotel and Cottages, located on the waterfront in the vibrant downtown district was voted as one of the top 25 places to visit in America. The Swan features suite, studio, and hotel-style rooms, as well as deluxe cottages that are popular with independent travelers, couples, and business clients. Many of our hotel rooms feature either waterfront, mountain or cityscape views, and our private cottages are the only such accommodations downtown.

For more information and to check availability contact:

The Swan Hotel at 

www.theswanhotel.com

(Ask for the KRUSING AMERICA discount)

222 Monroe at Water Street 

Port Townsend, WA 98368

United Stated of America

(800) 776-1718 | (360) 385-1718
frontdesk@theswanhotel.com

Video created by Atticus Productions, Inc.
Written, Directer, Produced and Voiced by Linda Kruse
Director of Photography and Editing by Tom Geagan

Travel Tuesday: A collection of The 30 Best Travel Tips from years of Traveling the World! (Part 3 of 3)

This is the third part of blog "The 30 Best Travel Tips After 4 Years Traveling The World" by MATTHEW KARSTEN. This is one of the best collections I've read. Read on below for last 10 of 30 tips.  

PART 3 of 3

It’s now been 4 years since I sold everything and left the United States to travel the world. These are the best travel tips I’ve discovered along the way

It all started when I took a one-way flight from Miami to Guatemala City, leaping nervously into the unknown and leaving much of my old life behind while embarking on an epic travel adventure around the world.

It’s been a wild ride, and I’ve learned a lot since I first left. To celebrate my 4 year “travelversary”, I’ve decided to share a collection of my best and most useful travel tips to help inspire you to make travel a priority in your life.

Feel free to share your own best travel tips at the end!

21. Slow Down

Please don’t try to cram 6 countries into 6 weeks of travel. All the good stuff happens when you really take the time to explore. You’ll learn about activities that aren’t in your guidebook and meet people who are eager to show you around.

I can honestly say that NONE of my best travel experiences happened within the first few days of arriving somewhere. Spend more time in fewer places for maximum enjoyment.

22. Keep Good Notes

My memory for details sucks. When I first started traveling the world 4 years ago, I didn’t keep a good journal, and now I’m regretting it.

Information like the names of people I met, conversations I had, feelings about a new experience, or what a particular town smelled like. If you ever want to write about your travels, these details are handy.

23. Break Out Of Your Comfort Zone

Challenge yourself to try things that normally give you anxiety. The more you do this, the more that anxiety will fade away. Not a hiker? Go on more hikes. Have trouble talking to strangers? Talk to everyone. Scared of weird food? Eat the weirdest thing you can find.

The reason this works so well while traveling is because everything is already so different, what’s one more new/uncomfortable experience?

24. Don’t Plan Too Much

I cringe when readers ask how many days they should spend in a particular country or city. The truth is I have no idea what you’ll enjoy or who you’ll meet. I thought I’d rocket through Nicaragua in a week or two, but ended up living there for 4 months.

My advice is to pick a starting point, 1 or 2 must-do activities, and an ending point (or not). Then just let the universe determine the rest.

25. Pack Less Stuff

You don’t need 1/2 the gear you think you do to travel anywhere. We’ve all done it. It’s a right of passage for travelers to slowly become better at packing less. My first backpack was 70 liters packed full, my current bag is only 38 liters.

As a full-time vagabond, everything I own fits on my back. If you’re not sure about packing something, you don’t need it. It’s also possible to buy most things at your destination country if you discover you need them.

26. Listen To Podcasts

Podcasts are awesome. It’s like creating your own personal radio station and filling it with shows and music you always want to listen to. I never thought I’d actually look forward to a 10 hour bus ride. But with podcasts, it’s possible (well, as long as the seats are comfortable).

Time will fly by as you listen to incredible storytelling, fun music, or interviews with experts. Here are some of my favorites: This American Life, The Moth,RISK!, Radiolab, Smart Passive Income, and Electro-Swing.

27. Treat Your Body Well

Travel can throw your body out of whack. When you’re moving from place to place it’s difficult to maintain a workout routine, and many of us slack off. Or we don’t sleep enough. Or we eat too many cupcakes. I’m guilty of not flossing my teeth.

Remember to be nice to your body. Get enough sleep, stay hydrated, eat healthy, use sunscreen, and exercise often (check out this bodyweight routine, no gym required!). And, yes, flossing too I guess.

28. Stay In Touch

Remember to call your family & friends from time to time. Maybe surprise them and go old-school by sending a postcard (it’s in the mail, Mom!). Travel isn’t lonely, far from it. You constantly meet other people. But many of those relationships are fleeting. So maintaining a strong connection with the people who know you best is important.

29. Get Off The Beaten Path

I know it’s cliché, but you should still attempt it. Seek out interesting and unusual places that don’t see much tourism. Many memorable travel experiences have happened to me in areas that are not easy to visit. By all means travel to popular sites, but don’t rule out other locations just because they’re not on the tourist trail.

Although please realize that just because an area is remote or dangerous doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll have a life-changing experience.

30. Travel More

If there’s one thing I’ve noticed over the past 4 years, it’s that many people back home love to tell me how lucky I am while making excuses why they can’t travel. It’s too expensive. They can’t get time off work. Who will feed their pets?

When I suggest solutions to these “problems”, they still don’t take action. Why? Because they’re often hiding behind the true reason: they’re scared.

Unfortunately most people who wait to travel the world never do.

You don’t need to sell all your worldly possessions and become a homeless vagabond like me. Just get out there more than you do now. Start with a weekend in a different state. Then maybe try a week in the country next door.

The new car, remodeling project, and iPhone can wait. If you truly want to travel more, you can make it happen. Career breaks are possible. You have friends who would love to watch your pets.

It’s a big, beautiful, exciting, and fascinating world out there.

Explore some of it now, rather than later. ★
Unfortunately most people who wait to travel the world never do.


Travel The World

Want to know how to travel the world? I’ve put together a huge page full of useful world travel resources that should point you in the right direction. Learn how I fund my adventures, how to find cheap flights, different ways to save money for travel, how start a travel blog, and more.

30 Best Travel Tips After 4 Years Traveling The World
BY MATTHEW KARSTEN

Travel Tuesday: A collection of The 30 Best Travel Tips from years of Traveling the World! (Part 2 of 3)

Continuing with "The 30 Best Travel Tips After 4 Years Traveling The World" by MATTHEW KARSTEN. This is one of the best collections I've read. There is so much great advice, that I'm sharing it over the next 2 weeks. Below is the first 20 of 30 tips.  

PART 2 of 3

It’s now been 4 years since I sold everything and left the United States to travel the world. These are the best travel tips I’ve discovered along the way

It all started when I took a one-way flight from Miami to Guatemala City, leaping nervously into the unknown and leaving much of my old life behind while embarking on an epic travel adventure around the world.

It’s been a wild ride, and I’ve learned a lot since I first left. To celebrate my 4 year “travelversary”, I’ve decided to share a collection of my best and most useful travel tips to help inspire you to make travel a priority in your life.

Feel free to share your own best travel tips at the end!

11. Smile &; Say Hello

Having trouble interacting with locals? Do people seem unfriendly? Maybe it’s your body language. One of my best travel tips is to make eye contact and smile as you walk by. If they smile back, say hello in the local language too. This is a fast way to make new friends.

You can’t expect everyone to just walk around with a big stupid grin on their face. That’s your job. Usually all it takes is for you to initiate contact and they’ll open up.

12. Splurge A Bit

I’m a huge fan of budget travel, as it allows you to travel longer and actually experience more of the fascinating world we live in rather than waste your hard-earned money on stuff you don’t need. In fact you can travel many places for $50 a day with no problems.

That said, living on a shoestring gets old after a while. It’s nice (and healthy) to go over your budget occasionally. Book a few days at a nice hotel, eat out at a fancy restaurant, or spend a wild night on the town.

13. Keep An Open Mind

Don’t judge the lifestyles of others if different from your own. Listen to opinions you don’t agree with. It’s arrogant to assume your views are correct and other people are wrong. Practice empathy and put yourself in someone else’s shoes.

Embrace different possibilities, opportunities, people, suggestions and interests. Ask questions. You don’t have to agree, but you may be surprised what you’ll learn.

14. Try Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing.org is a large online community of travelers who share their spare rooms or couches with strangers for free. If you truly want to experience a country and it’s people, staying with a local is the way to go.

There are millions of couchsurfers around the world willing to host you and provide recommendations. It’s fun and safe too. Expensive hotels are not the only option, there are all kinds of cheap travel accommodation options out there.

15. Volunteer Occasionally

Make it a point to volunteer some of your time for worthwhile projects when traveling. Not only is it a very rewarding experience, but you’ll often learn more about the country and its people while also making new friends.

There’s a great site called Grassroots Volunteering where you can search for highly recommended volunteer opportunities around the world.

16. Pack Ear Plugs

This should actually be #1 on the list. I love my earplugs! Muffle the sounds of crying babies, drunk Australians, barking dogs, honking horns, dormitory sex, natural gas salesmen, and more. A traveler’s best friend. These are my favorite earplugs for comfort & effectiveness.

Read More: My Complete Travel Gear Guide

17. Don’t Be Afraid

The world is not nearly as dangerous as the media makes it out to be. Keep an eye out for sketchy situations but don’t let that be the focus of your whole trip. Use common sense and you’ll be ok. Most people are friendly, trustworthy, generous, and willing to help you out.

This goes for women too. I realize I’m not a woman, but I’ve met plenty ofexperienced female travelers who agree.

18. Get Lost On Purpose

If you want to see the parts of town where real people live & work, you need to go visit them. The best way to do this is on foot — without knowing exactly where you’re going. Write down the name of your hotel so you can catch a taxi back if needed, then just pick a direction and start walking.

Don’t worry too much about stumbling into dangerous neighborhoods either, as locals will generally warn you before you get that far.

19. Eat Local Food

Think you already know what Mexican food tastes like? You’re probably wrong. Taste a bit of everything when you travel, especially if you don’t know what it is. Ask local people for recommendations. Eat street food from vendors with big lines out front.

I’ve been very sick only twice in my travels. Don’t be scared of the food.

Read More: The Food Traveler’s Handbook

20. Say Yes Often

Be impulsive and say yes when someone randomly invites you to meet their family, try a new activity, or explore a place you didn’t know existed. It’s these unexpected and unplanned situations that add spice to your travels and always turn into the best stories later.

Accept the kindness of strangers when you travel — you’ll have plenty of opportunities.

Next week, I'll share the next 10 points from Matthew Karsten's "The 30 Best Travel Tips After 4 Years Traveling The World."

Want to know how to travel the world? I’ve put together a huge page full of useful world travel resources that should point you in the right direction. Learn how I fund my adventures, how to find cheap flights, different ways to save money for travel, how start a travel blog, and more.

It’s a big, beautiful, exciting, and fascinating world out there.

Explore some of it now, rather than later. ★

30 Best Travel Tips After 4 Years Traveling The World
BY MATTHEW KARSTEN

Travel Tuesday: A collection of The 30 Best Travel Tips from years of Traveling the World! (Part 1 of 3)

I travel A LOT - I was born in Italy and grew up overseas in the US Army. I traveled most my early life and today as an adult, I still travel extensively for work as a Director for Travel Documentaries and TV Shows and as an International Public Speaker. 

The past few years on the road shooting KRUSING AMERICA and only 37 days home last year alone, I am constantly asked to put together some of my best travel advice. So I have been compiling a list and researching some of the best travel blogs available today. 

"The 30 Best Travel Tips After 4 Years Traveling The World" by MATTHEW KARSTEN is one of the best collections I've read. Matthew has collected so much great advice, that I'll share it over the next few weeks.
Below is the first 10 of 30 tips.  

PART 1 of 3

It’s now been 4 years since I sold everything and left the United States to travel the world. These are the best travel tips I’ve discovered along the way

It all started when I took a one-way flight from Miami to Guatemala City, leaping nervously into the unknown and leaving much of my old life behind while embarking on an epic travel adventure around the world.

It’s been a wild ride, and I’ve learned a lot since I first left. To celebrate my 4 year “travelversary”, I’ve decided to share a collection of my best and most useful travel tips to help inspire you to make travel a priority in your life.

Feel free to share your own best travel tips at the end!

1. Patience Is Important

Don’t sweat the stuff you can’t control. Life is much too short to be angry & annoyed all the time. Did you miss your bus? No worries, there will be another one. ATMs out of money? Great! Take an unplanned road trip over to the next town and explore. Sometimes freakouts happen regardless.

Just take a deep breath and remind yourself that it could be worse.

2. Wake Up Early

Rise at sunrise to have the best attractions all to yourself while avoiding crowds. It’s also a magical time for photos due to soft diffused light, and usually easier to interact with locals. Sketchy areas are less dangerous in the morning too. Honest hardworking people wake up early; touts, scammers, and criminals sleep in.

Read More: 15 Common Travel Scams & How To Avoid Them

3. Laugh At Yourself

You will definitely look like a fool many times when traveling to new places. Rather than get embarrassed, laugh at yourself. Don’t be afraid to screw up, and don’t take life so seriously.

Once a whole bus full of Guatemalans laughed with glee when I forced our driver to stop so I could urgently pee on the side of the road. Returning to the bus and laughing with them gave me new friends for the remainder of the journey.

4. Stash Extra Cash

Cash is king around the world. To cover your ass in an emergency, make sure to stash some in a few different places. I recommend at least a couple hundred dollars worth. If you lose your wallet, your card stops working, or the ATMs run out of money, you’ll be glad you did.

Some of my favorite stash spots include socks, under shoe inserts, a toiletry bag, around the frame of a backpack, even sewn behind a patch on your bag.

Read More: How To Protect Your Money Traveling

5. Meet Local People

Make it a point to avoid other travelers from time to time and start conversations with local people. Basic English is spoken widely all over the world, so it’s easier to communicate with them than you might think, especially when you combine hand gestures and body language.

Learn from those who live in the country you’re visiting. People enrich your travels more than sights do.

6. Pack A Scarf

I happen to use a shemagh, but sarongs work great too. This simple piece of cotton cloth is one of my most useful travel accessories with many different practical applications. It’s great for sun protection, a makeshift towel, carrying stuff around, an eye mask, and much more.

7. Observe Daily Life

If you really want to get a feel for the pulse of a place, I recommend spending a few hours sitting in a park or on a busy street corner by yourself just watching day to day life happen in front of you.

Slow down your thoughts and pay close attention to the details around you. The smells, the colors, human interactions, and sounds. It’s a kind of meditation — and you’ll see stuff you never noticed before.

8. Back Everything Up

When my laptop computer was stolen in Panama, having most of my important documents and photos backed up saved my ass. Keep both digital and physical copies of your passport, visas, driver’s license, birth certificate, health insurance card, serial numbers, and important phone numbers ready to go in case of an emergency.

Backup your files & photos on an external hard drive as well as online with software like Backblaze.

9. Take Lots Of Photos

You may only see these places & meet these people once in your lifetime. Remember them forever with plenty of photos. Don’t worry about looking like a “tourist”. Are you traveling to look cool? No one cares. Great photos are the ultimate souvenir.

They don’t cost anything, they’re easy to share with others, and they don’t take up space in your luggage. Just remember once you have your shot to get out from behind the lens and enjoy the view.

10. There’s Always A Way

Nothing is impossible. If you are having trouble going somewhere or doing something, don’t give up. You just haven’t found the best solution or met the right person yet. Don’t listen to those who say it can’t be done.

Perseverance pays off. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been told what I want isn’t possible, only to prove it wrong later when I don’t listen to the advice and try anyway.

Next week, I'll share the next 10 points from Matthew Karsten's "The 30 Best Travel Tips After 4 Years Traveling The World."

Want to know how to travel the world? I’ve put together a huge page full of useful world travel resources that should point you in the right direction. Learn how I fund my adventures, how to find cheap flights, different ways to save money for travel, how start a travel blog, and more.

It’s a big, beautiful, exciting, and fascinating world out there.

Explore some of it now, rather than later. ★


Travel The World

30 Best Travel Tips After 4 Years Traveling The World
BY MATTHEW KARSTEN

Travel Tuesday: 14 Ways to Work While Traveling

I get asked this question a lot - is there a way to make a living while traveling? One of my favorite Travel Blogger / Experts on this subject matter is Stephanie Be: Connecting Travelers. So I had to include some of her suggestions on my Travel Tuesday Blog Post:

You can work AND travel. Do it! Here are your options:

1. TEFL - or Teaching English as a Foreign Language. Maybe you'll pick up a language abroad too.

2. Be an Au Pair abroad.
It's more common than you'd think. You can interview with hosts families online with Au Pair World.

3. Contract Work.
Some countries provide contract work for "work and holiday." These jobs are very competitive, but worth a shot if you have the resume to back you up. Try One Shift Jobs in Australia.

4. Work at a hostel or hotel.
You don't have to pay for accommodation. Perks: you'll meet lots of other travelers!

5. Bar-tender/ Restaurant Server
Can also be very competitive in bigger cities, but do-able.

6. Peace Corps
Requires an application process and a two year commitment, but you get to play hero.

7. U.S. Department of State *Careers Representing America*
Also requires a competitive admission and serious commitment, but it's a nomadic lifestyle of luxury.

8. Get a career with an international company that has offices overseas.
They're always looking for young folks that don't have serious obligations at home, and can go abroad.

9. Create a career that allows you to work from home.
Home can be overseas if you feel like it. Try copywriting, marketing, and social media. Photography and videography is always trending. Works for Me!

10. Apply for graduate education overseas.
Use scholarship funds, loans, etc to pay for it as you would pay for graduate education domestically.11. Pursue international careers in entertainment.
Be a dancer on tour, play basketball or volleyball overseas, or try BMX in Nitro Circus.

12. Work as a travel guide.
Congratulations, you get paid to give the gift of travel!

13. Work on a cruise ship.
Would you like to be a chef, host, skipper, or dancer on a cruise ship?

14. Seek sponsorship for your talent.
If you're truly a phenomenal photographer, adrenaline junkie, videographer, or writer -- you could work for GoPro, a magazine, or just have costs covered by travel companies as a blogger.

The websites Helpx.net and WorkAway list organizations for which you can volunteer at in exchange for meals and accommodation.

Follow Stephanie Be on Twitter: www.twitter.com/StephBeTravel

Connecting Travelers

********************************

We’re committed to building a better future and highlighting the best of the best of us. 

We're always looking for great places and great people to feature on this blog…

Please send a message

CONNECT with us, JOIN the conversation, 

SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel to see more!

www.youtube.com/KrusingAmerica

FOLLOW us on Twitter 

@KrusingAmerica  

@lindamkruse   @AtticusProd

LIKE us on Facebook

Thanks for watching and subscribing, 

Linda Kruse

KRUSING AMERICA

Creator / Producer / Director

Travel Tuesday: INDEPENDENT TRAVELER – Explore, Experience, Engage & Help travelers plan the best trips! @TravelEditor @KrusingAmerica @LindamKruse

As many of you know, I have been traveling since before I can remember. I grew up in the US Military overseas, born in Italy and traveled around Europe before I could even walk…or so it seemed. Today, over 30 years later I am still traveling. I was struck with Wanderlust at an early age so its no 'wander' I created KRUSING AMERICA. I continue to travel, write, shoot for TV and online.

Each week on this blogs Travel Tuesday, I feature travel information and organizations and one of my favorites is the INDEPENDENT TRAVELER – They help travelers plan the best trips, explore new places and cultures, and share their experiences with other travelers. Read one to learn more….

INDEPENDENT TRAVELER is an interactive traveler's exchange and comprehensive online travel guide for a community of travelers who enjoy the fun of planning their own trips and the adventure of independent travel. You can access our wealth of travel resources and great bargains at IndependentTraveler.com.

One of the world's first travel Web sites, IndependentTraveler.com debuted on America Online in 1990 and quickly established its credentials as an authoritative Internet resource for objective travel information. Over the past 22 years, IndependentTraveler.com has developed a loyal following and a devoted online community as it has expanded to include travel deals, practical advice, destination resources and an expansive online travel community.

IndependentTraveler.com is published by The Independent Traveler, Inc., a subsidiary of TripAdvisor LLC. The Independent Traveler also publishes Cruise Critic and Family Vacation Critic.

********************************

We’re committed to building a better future and highlighting the best of the best of us. 

We're always looking for great places and great people to feature on this blog…

Please send a message

CONNECT with us, JOIN the conversation, 

SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel to see more!

www.youtube.com/KrusingAmerica

Thanks for watching and subscribing, 

Linda Kruse

KRUSING AMERICA

Creator / Producer / Director

FOLLOW us on Twitter @KrusingAmerica  @lindamkruse   @AtticusProd

LIKE us on Facebook

www.facebook.com/KrusingAmericaTV

Travel Tuesday: ONE WORLD 365 – Meaningful Travel & Volunteer Opportunities Worldwide! @Oneworld365

ONE WORLD 365 is a directory of meaningful travel and volunteer opportunities worldwide. Their extensive website features hundreds of trips in over 100 destinations from the worlds leading travel operators. They help thousands of people travel abroad every year and by booking a trip through ONE WORLD 365 you can do more than your average holiday. You will be able to get off the beaten track away from the tourist crowds, integrate into the culture, learn more about your destination, mix activities with adventure, meet new people from all over the world and also give back to the local communities and countries you visit.

Visit http://www.oneworld365.org

Travel Tuesday: KRUSING AMERICA goes to India! ACCEPTED to Access Code Short Film Festival in Srinagar

Dear Linda Kruse,

Access Code Short Film Festival has accepted KRUSING AMERICA to be included in the festival.



The Access Code Short Film Festival is a festival with specific goal of supporting and promoting photography and fresh filmmaking talent.

It is a festival where films from a wide spectrum intersect.

Having a film in the festival is one of the most exciting experiences you can have with your short film. The best thing is that almost every film that enters the contest will be screened at the festival, no matter how many days the festival runs.

1-3 October 2015
Sher-e-Kashmir, Srinagar
Bangalore, Karnataka
India

About the City:

Srinagar is known as the "Mini Switzerland". It is situated in the Kashmir Valley and lies on the banks of the Jhelum River, a tributary of the Indus. The city is famous for its gardens, lakes and houseboats. It is also known for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and dry fruits. 

Travel Tuesday: KRUSING AMERICA Submitted to International Tourism Awards / UN World Tourism Day September 27, 2015 #WTD2015 #1billiontourists

The International Tourism Awards was established to promote world tourism attraction and places, conserve world heritage and tourism centers by nurturing awareness among international community, and improve socio-economic development of regions and countries in the tourism regions. As the sister festival of the prestigious International Film Festivals (www.internationalfilmfestivals.org), we aim to help the United Nations promoting the World Tourism Day September 27, 2015.

Theme for 2015: "One Billion Tourists, One Billion Opportunities"

Every time we travel, for whatever reason, we are part of a global movement; a movement that has the power to drive inclusive development, create jobs and build the sustainable societies we want for our future; a movement that builds mutual understanding and can help us safeguard our shared natural and cultural heritage.

This year on the 27th of September, we want you to talk Tourism. Help us raise awareness of the important impact tourism has on countries and communities around the world and its potential as a force for good, creating a better world for all.#1billiontourists#WTD2015

Burkina Faso will host the Official Celebration 2015.

Current developments and forecasts:

• International tourist arrivals grew by 4.3 % in 2014 to 1.133 billion
• In 2014, international tourism generated US$ 1.5 trillion in export earnings
• UNWTO forecasts growth in 2015 international tourist arrivals of btw 3% and 4%

http://www.un.org/en/events/tourismday/

Travel Tuesday: Portugal's ART&TUR International Tourism Film Festival evaluating KRUSING AMERICA

Dear Linda Kruse,

We want to thank you for your participation in the International Tourism Film Festival ART&TUR 2015, whose 8th edition will take place in Porto, 20 to October 24.

ART&TUR Festival is the representative for Portugal and Spain's on CIFFT - Comité International des Festivals du Film Touristique, a worldwide network of festivals dedicated to cinema and audiovisual in tourism, recognized by the World Tourism Organization.

Every year since 2008, the ART&TUR Festival selects and distinguishes among hundreds of productions in competition from dozens of countries, the best tourism film at national and international level.

This edition has the participation of 254 films from 53 countries, thus bringing into play its international character and its high competitive level.

The National Competition, created in 2014 with the intention of reward and recognize the best works of the Portuguese Tourist Audiovisual,will feature 88 films in this issue.

Your film “Krusing America“ is being evaluated by our Jury. After this phase, you will receive an email with the first results, expected in the second week of August. Simultaneously we will inform about the program and how you can be present during the days of the event.

The display of films will take place between 21 and 24 October in the city of Oporto, and the access to the Festival Program activities is free.

You can see all the films entered in the ART&TUR 2015 on our website, visit our Filmography.

We invite you to following us through our Facebook page where you can follow all the news relating to the festival.

We wish you very success in the competition ART&TUR 2015 and hope to see you in Porto in October.

With our best regards,

APTUR – Associação Portuguesa de Turismologia
Rua Rei Ramiro nº 646, SL Fração E4 | 4400-281 V.N. Gaia - Portugal
WWW.TOURFILM-FESTIVAL.COM

ART&TUR is a multi-genre international film festival that takes place each year in one of the most iconic and beautiful City of Portugal, the Oporto´s wine city. Started in 2008, this relative newcomer to the festival scene showcases over 80 films. The rising acclaim of the event coupled with low prices for submissions makes the ART&TUR Festival an attractive venue for filmmakers to showcase their work and to the tourist offices promote their destinations.

The three-day event includes industry mixers/networking events, filmmaking, Branding and Tourism discussion panels. The fest puts an emphasis on National and international Documentaries, promotional, Corporate, Commercial and Television films related History, Culture, Heritage, and Tourism.

What makes the ART&TUR Festival unique among other festivals is its emphasis on screenwriting. In addition to filmmaking awards, the festival celebrates innovative work in both screenplay and Audiovisual Tourist Promotion.

The ART&TUR Festival is a CIFFT Member since 2008, endorsed by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), European Travel Commission (ETC), Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), Central America Tourism Organization (CATA) and Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO).

Travel Tuesday: EXPLORE THE WORLD! Airbnb not just for vacationers now for Businesses Travelers/Companies

I travel the world on a regular basis but after awhile I just can not stay at another hotel, order room service or eat out, anymore. So I started staying with Airbnb long before anyone else did. It changed my travel experience: I met new people, stayed in off-the-beaten-path places, learned and experienced so much more than just traveling from point A to point B. For me, it really is the only way to travel. 

Much of my experiences with KRUSING AMERICA were similar to staying at an Airbnb – that personal connection to the place and people became the heart and soul of the series I created.  Learn more about Airbnb below. 

What exactly is Airbnb?

Airbnb is a community marketplace where guests can book spaces from hosts, connecting people who have space to spare with those who are looking for a place to stay. Through their experiences on Airbnb, guests and hosts build real connections with real people from all over the globe.

We specifically created a secure payment system to ensure that money is fully collected and safe. Once a reservation is completed, both guest and host can review each other to build a reputation in the community.

Check out our comprehensive Help Center for information about hosting, traveling, and your account: www.airbnb.com/help

And now, Airbnb isn't just for vacations.
According to CNN: The online home-sharing company announced this week that it is taking its business travel program global and adding new features, making it easier for employees and company travel managers around the world to book lodging, submit bills and keep track of corporate expenses.

Airbnb said business travelers will be able to easily set up accounts and expense trips directly back to their companies. Businesses will be able to catalog current and upcoming trips through the new interactive platform.

"Our employees worldwide appreciate the choice and flexibility that Airbnb listings provide them when they're on the road — whether for conferences, meetings, or team offsites" said Darragh Ormsby, Google's global travel manager, in the statement released by Airbnb.

Airbnb's business travel program grew 700 percent since its launch last July, with more than 250 companies having joined the service, according to reports.

Airbnb is also giving out $50 in Airbnb credit to business travelers of companies who sign up with the program between now and September 1.

From: http://money.cnn.com/2015/07/20/news/airbnb-business-travel/

Travel Tuesday: Boerne, TX & Enchanted Springs Ranch / Cowboys, Cattle Ranches & Chuckwagons. Must visit!

Me with my niece & nephew hamming it up
at Enchanted Springs Ranch.

My brother having fun with his kids
at Enchanted Springs Ranch. 

I'm traveling this week to Texas so I thought I'd share one of my favorite stories while shooting KRUSING AMERICA in the Texas Hill Country outside of San Antonio: all of the towns I had research weren't the right fit - so my bother, Victor (the star of the series) and I started driving… We made a wrong turn off the freeway and ended up in this amazing little town called Boerne, Texas and at Enchanted Springs Ranch. 

The easiest group to direct - A bunch of hams!

When I think of Texas and the Old West - I think of cowboys, cattle ranchers and chuckwagon's. That charm does exist in the Texas Hill country. Just 20 minutes north of San Antonio is a delightful small-town rooted in the Texas heritage of hospitality, courtesy and kindness.  open friendly community who's spirit will warm the heart of any stranger. Beautiful winding roads carved into the scenic rolling hills where sunsets give way to star-filled nights and the morning sunrise comes up on the people as genuine as the land they tend. Next stop on Krusing America is the charismatic hill country town of Boerne, Texas and Enchanted Spring Ranch. Definitely must stop and see when you visit Boerne. 

Krusing America family & the family
of Enchanted Springs Ranch

Behind the scenes filming at
Enchanted Springs Ranch in Boerne, TX

I've include a few pictures from our shoot at Enchanted Springs Ranch with owners & retired military Steve & Vicki Schmidt and their family. A perfect fit and a perfect time. 

http://www.enchantedspringsranch-crazycow.com

Visitors come to Boerne to lazily stroll Main Street, see some historic sites, discover the variety of wonderful shops, galleries and restaurants and enjoy a slower pace of life. The warm friendly community of Boerne won't discourage you from indulging. Rest up at one of the quaint Inns or B&Bs and embrace the cozy, Southern hospitality at its best! 

Visit Borne websites and see Where to Shop, Where to Eat, and Where to Stay pages to find out how to make the most out of your getaway! Perfect place to visit on Travel Tuesday and any day. See and read more at: http://www.visitboerne.org