After 25 years of travel, you think you’ve seen it all, but there’s still plenty of experiences still to tick off our travel bucket list.

If I was starting all over again, knowing all I know now, what experiences would I really say are bucket list worthy?

Some of the usual bucket list items that people do have proven to be overrated for me (such as seeing the Grand Canyon), and some of the experiences I’ve had I’ve felt should be bucket list worthy after I’ve done it, without realizing how cool they are at the time.

In this guide, I’ve reflected on my 25+ years of global travel experience to highlight some experiences that are absolutely worthy of adding to the list of things to accomplish before you die.

Experiences To Add To Your Travel Bucket List

1. Live and work in another country

A bucket list experience everyone should have on their list is to live and work in another country. Living in another country gives you a whole new view of a place compared to just visiting.

When you live in another country, you learn to adapt to a new culture, way of life, and custom.

You also learn a lot about yourself and your ability to change, live in the moment, and adapt to a new life.

You also get to meet other travellers and likeminded people. The friendships you make as an expat are the kind of friendships that last a lifetime.

It doesn’t matter where you choose to live, just make sure it’s different from your home country.

2. Travel around Africa independently (no tour groups)

There’s something empowering about traveling around Africa without the help of a tour guide and navigating it yourself. Africa is a huge continent and every country is as vast and diverse as the next.

Getting around is an adventure, to say the least. You need to be prepared to rough it, and you will encounter challenges along the way.

It’s not an experience for the faint hearted, but if you’re looking to put yourself out of your comfort zone, then traveling around Africa should be a bucket list experience to remember.

3. Backpack Southeast Asia

Everyone needs to backpack Southeast Asia at least once in their life. It’s a traveler’s rite of passage.

You might think that spending a year traveling around Asia and living out of a backpack is only a trip for 18 year olds on their gap year – but this is a stereotype from the past. Today, it’s widely acceptable, and popular, to take a gap year at any point in your life.

You will meet just as many 30 years olds as you do 18 year olds.

Southeast Asia is a popular place to go backpacking, particularly for the first time, because it’s cheap, it’s easy to get around, it’s well trodden and you meet a lot of other travelers, and it’s full of bucket list experiences.

Whether you want to exploretemples in Thailand, see the Asian elephants in Chiang Mai, or watch the sunrise over Angkor Wat in Cambodia, or learn to surf in Bali – backpacking around SE Asia will chill you out and make you realize what is important in life.

Once you start heading West to Central Asia, from India and Nepal onwards, then it’s a whole other kettle of fish!

4. Climb the Great Wall of China

Most people will have at least one or two of the New Seven Wonders of the World on their bucket list, and you should absolutely make sure to see as many as you can, but not all of them offer an experience, and are merely something to look at.

The Great Wall of China, a wall spanning 13,170 miles (21,200 km), which is so large you can see it from space, has many sections that allow you to climb or hike without the tourist crowds.

Why not add a hike along the world’s largest wall to your bucket list?

5. Go whitewater rafting on the Colorado River

White water rafting is a unique experience that you may only want to do once in your life. It’s an activity that gets the adrenaline pumping, the heart racing, and the fear of God frightened into you – but it’s also incredibly thrilling and you feel so rewarded at the end.

The real question is, which river should you white water raft? We have white water rafted many iconic rivers, from the Nile River to Tongariro River in New Zealand, but one that is on many people’s bucket list is the Colorado River.

The Colorado River is world famous for its white water rafting, and has some of largest whitewater in North America!

It’s also spectacularly beautiful, as the river winds and turns between canyons in both Utah and Arizona.

If you’re only going to do one adrenaline-fuelled activity in your life, let it be this!

6. Go on a safari in Africa

Wildlife and animal lovers should make a safari in Africa number one on their list of bucket list experiences. There are many places in Africa to take a safari, but the most iconic are Kruger National Park in South Africa, the Masai Mara in Kenya, Etosha National Park in Namibia and the Okavango Delta in Botswana.

There is something magical about seeing a giraffe eating leaves off a tree in the savannah, or see a herd of zebras grazing next to a water hole. You can also make your safari interesting by seeing how many of the big five you can see – elephants, lions, leopards, cape buffalo and rhinos.

For a once in a lifetime experience, consider taking a walking safari and get up close with African wildlife. You can smell where lions stood only hours before you, see tracks in the mud, and watch animals from within their habitat. It’s something you would only want to do once in your life.

7. Hike to Everest Base Camp

If you’ve never hiked a mountain before, it doesn’t really matter which one you choose, just make sure you hike one! Not only do you get incredible views from the top, but the accomplishment you feel when you’ve completed the journey is a feeling I cannot put into words.

Perhaps the biggest bucket list experience for hikers is to hike to Everest Base Camp in Nepal. This is like the grandaddy of hikes, without actually hiking to the summit.

The 21 day hike, reaching altitudes of 5,364 meters above sea level, is the ultimate test of endurance and stamina.

8. Eat street food

If street food is not part of your culture, be sure to add it to your list of bucket list experiences to do once in your life. There are many reasons to eat street food, but we honestly believe it’s some of the best food you can buy.

It’s cooked fresh in front of you, it’s cheaper than restaurants, and it’s delicious!

Some of our favorite countries to eat street food in are Thailand, Mexico, Vietnam, China, South Korea and Poland.

9. Hitchhike at least once

Getting around is the hardest part of travel, as you are always trying to work out the local customs and how to get from A to B.

Once mode of transport that often gets overlooked is hitchhiking. Most people think of hitchhiking and think of horror movies where travelers get chopped up and shoved in a suitcase, but the reality is you get to have a deeper travel experience when you hitchhike.

In many countries, such as in Eastern Europe, hitchhiking is a common form of transport and is not unusual at all. We hitchhiked a few times in Namibia which was pretty common practice.

Try it at least once and see what happens! It’s best not to hitchhike alone and be sure to use your street smarts to assess whether the driver seems honest or not.

10. See the Silverback Gorillas in Uganda

When I look back at all my years of travel, I can honestly say that seeing the gorillas in Uganda were a memorable highlight.

That may have been because we were charged at by a silverback in the Bwindi National Forest, Uganda – you won’t forget the fear you felt that day in a hurry!

Being able to sit in a jungle amongst the trees and observe these incredible creatures in their natural habitat really drills home to you how precious this Earth is – not just for humans, but all life on it.

11. Attend a Full Moon Party in Thailand

If you’re at a stage in your life where you want to feel young again, then head to Haad Rin on the Thai island of Koh Phangan and party all night at a Full Moon Party.

Drink booze from a bucket, limbo under a fire stick, jump a fire rope, and dance the night away to dance music.

The next day, spend your time swinging in a hammock and nurse your hangover, and when the sun goes down, watch the sunset from one of the best beaches in Thailand. It’s not just the parties that makes Thailand worth visiting, but the beaches, the people, and the affordability.

12. Spend a summer in Europe

If you’re from America or Australia, then you may have been dreaming about, or heard people talk about, visiting Europe in the summer. It’s not that any other season is a bad time to visit Europe, but summer in Europe brings a whole new vibe to the continent.

Go on road trips through the Alps and hike through the lush meadows, swim in the ocean in the south of France, sit in piazzas in Italy and gaze upon the many historical landmarks in the basking golden sun, or feel the pulse of the nightlife in Paris pull you in.

Summer in Europe has warm weather that doesn’t feel too overbearing, long days of day light, and it’s when most people visit so you will always make new travel friends.

13. Island hop the Greek Islands

The Greek Islands are some of the most enchanting places in the Mediterranean.

You could spend weeks hopping around them, swimming in the azure waters, hiking in the verdant hills, exploring ancient monuments, and soaking up the laidback lifestyle.

14. Watch a sunrise over Mount Bromo, Indonesia

There are many places in this world that are known for their sunrise views, but when I think of sunrise, I think of Mount Bromo in Java, Indonesia.

Mount Bromo is one of the most famous volcanoes in Indonesia, and it’s unique in that it’s surrounded by several others, so the landscape is often shrouded in smoke and haze from the active volcano craters around it.

As the sun rises, the scene becomes incredible. You can see all the folds, dips and crevaces, in each volcano, and if you’re lucky, see the smoke bellowing out of the crater into the sky.

15. Watch a volcano erupt in Guatemala

Speaking of volcanoes, have you ever wanted to see one erupt? You could go to Kīlauea in Hawaii, Bardarbunga in Iceland, or if you want somewhere more affordable to visit, I recommend visiting Mount Fuego in Guatemala.

Just outside the city of Antigua, Fuego, or Chi Q’aq to the locals, is the most active volcano in Guatemala, erupting on average every 20 minutes.

Most people will hike up Acatenango, a dormant volcano offering views over Fuego’s active crater. It’s best to hike to the top, and camp over night, so you can see the lava in all its glory erupting in the dark.

The sounds of the lava booming into the sky, the dazzling display of molten rock and lava being thrown in all directions, is something you will never forget. Nature is wonderful. Nature is powerful.

16. Learn to surf at Bondi Beach

If you’ve ever wanted to learn to surf, then the most iconic beach in the world to learn at is Bondi Beach in Australia. Made famous for the TV show of the same name, Bondi Beach is a surfer’s paradise, offering excellent surf no matter how skilled you are.

On top of that, Bondi Beach has a surf culture. Everything from its shops to its cafes to its people are all about surfing.

You might even be surfed out after you visit!

17. Jungle trek in Borneo to see wild orangutans

Another wildlife experience for the animal lovers, is to see wild orangutans in the Bornean jungle. There isn’t much jungle left in Borneo, unfortunately, but it’s still possible to see them if you choose the right place.

I recommend a jungle trek at Bukit Lawang, Sumatra. The Rainforest of Gunung Leuser National Park is known to be one of the best places in the world to see orangutans.

You can find more places to see orangutans in our guide on sanctuaries in Borneo.

18. Meet the Masai Warriors in Kenya

Part of the reason I love traveling is to integrate and experience a culture and way of life so different from mine. It teaches me valuable lessons on kindness, generosity, and to truly appreciate my life.

There is no community I’ve met on my travels more diverse and interesting than the Masai Warriors in Kenya. The experience of visiting their village, seeing their traditions and hearing their stories, is an experience I won’t forget.

No matter where you go on your travels, spend time, lots of it, getting to know people from all walks of life.

Learn how they live and what is important to them. Make friends in every country you go.

19. Cruise down the Amazon River, Brazil

Wow, what an adventure!? There is no greater bucket list experience to give you an appreciation for this planet than a cruise down the Amazon River.

The largest and longest river in the world is flanked by verdant rainforest, filled with squawking animals and thriving wildlife. You can see pink dolphins swimming in the river, see toucans resting on branches, catch pirranha off the back of the boat, and stop off for jungle treks to see bugs and anacondas in their natural habitat.

If you want to feel the power of nature, this is the ultimate way to do it.

20. Watch the Northern Lights in Finland

The Northern Lights, also known as aurora borealis, are a highlight on most people’s bucket list. Experiencing this dancing display of color from Lapland in Finland is a whole new level of wonder.

This far north, the aurora is at its most vibrant, and it’s possible to see it without the use of a camera.

There are not many places where the lights are visible with the naked eye (mostly in Scandinavia such as Sweden or Norway), so if you’re planning a trip to Finland, be sure to make the trek up north to see this spectacle.

21. Dune safari the Sahara Desert

A desert safari, or dune bashing as it’s often referred to, is an off-road experience where you drive through the desert in a 4X4 Jeep, climbing up sand dunes and whizzing down them. It’s a thrilling experience no matter where you go!

Of course, if you’re going to go dune bashing, you got to do it in the largest sand desert in the world!

The Sahara Desert spans 11 countries, covering an area of 9.2 million square kilometers. Some of the dunes are as tall as mountains, reaching heights of up to 465 meters!

After dune bashing, head to a Bedouin camp for an authentic desert dinner and to star gaze under some. ofthe darkest skies in the world.

22. Snap selfies at in the salt flats in Bolivia

The Uyuni Salt Flat in Bolivia is one of the most unique places to visit in Bolivia and is known for its vast, desert-like landscape that often reflects in the sun and provides optical illusions for visitors.

Capturing an iconic optical illusion photo in this desert is one of the quirkiest bucket list experiences you can get!

The Uyuni Salt Flats are the largest salt flats in the world, covering an area of 11,000 square kilometers, and are also dotted with small, cacti studded islands.

The salt flats appeared after a prehistoric lake dried up, but it still is called home by many pink flamingos who migrate here each year. Pretty cool, huh?

23. Ride a camel around the Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

The Great Pyramids of Giza, a Seven Wonder of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are some of the most iconic historical landmarks in the world.

The sheer size and magnitude of what the Ancient Egyptians built, is an experience in itself to witness. However, if you’re going to see the pyramids, you’ve got to do it in style.

People having been riding camels in Egypt for more than 2,000 years, so it’s arguably the most authentic way to experience the pyramids. Camel rides take you to see the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure. Don’t forget to get your iconic photo of yourself on a camel with the pyramids behind you!

24. Climb the Eiffel Tower

Perhaps the most iconic monument in Paris is the Eiffel Tower, a wrought-iron lattice tower known for its unique engineering and architecture.

The best way to appreciate this engineering however is to go up the tower and see it close up. You can take a lift, but you don’t get to see the lattice-work and intricacy as close as you would if you took the stairs.

It’s not too challenging to walk up to the viewpoints, plus you should go slow anyway to admire the details.

You can read more about how to climb the Eiffel Tower in our guide here.

25. Ride a gondola in Venice

Another iconic experience not to miss off your bucket list is a chance to ride in a gondola in Venice, the most romantic city in the world.

Gondolas have been a mode of transport in Venice for more than 500 years, and are synonymous for being a romantic activity to do in Venice.

If you’re planning a proposal, or you’re looking for a unique bucket list item to check off with a loved one, call over a gondolier and ride around the canals of Venice. Here’s how to spend a day in Venice and theguided walking tour of Venice that included our private gondola ride.

26. Ride in a hot air balloon in Cappadocia, Turkey

Riding in a hot air balloon should be an experience on most people’s list, but if there’s one place in the world where hot air balloons are more than just a ride in the sky, it’s Cappadocia.

Every morning at sunrise, more than 150 balloons soar into the sky, giving riders a birdseye view of the rocky landscape below.

Being in the sky at the same time as hundreds of other hot air balloons at once is a unique experience you won’t find in any other place in the world.

27. Swim with whale sharks in the Philippines

One of the most well known places in the world to swim with whale sharks is Bohol in The Philippines. It’s where some. of the largest concentrations of whale sharks in the world live.

The Lila whale sharks which swim here are often fed by tour groups, which brings them back to the waters where they know they can. befed.

It does mean you can get a pretty close up photo of them in the water, but to ensure the whale sharks are undisturbed in their natural habitat, they only allow tourists to swim with them in the morning.

28. Snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef

For those wanting to explore the udnerwater world, what better place to do so than on the largest living reef in the world?

The Great Barrier Reef in Australia spans for 348,700 square kilometers and is made up of 2,900 individual reefs.

The reef is also threatened, with climate change, pollution, and over fishing threatening its life span. However, it’s resilient, and is bouncing back each year, as long as we continue to protect it.

Swimming in the Great Barrier Reef is not just about looking at pretty coral and shoals of fish, but to understand and learn about the threats humans have on our planet and to do your bit to stop it.

29. Sleep in an overwater bungalow in the Maldives

Another romantic bucket list experience is to sleep in an over water bungalow in the Maldives.

Wake up to sounds of fish jumping out of the water, and sip your morning coffee while looking down at black tip reef sharks swimming beneath your living area.

It’s an expensive activity, but it’s absolutely worth it.

More Bucket List Inspiration

To help you put your bucket list together, here are some other helpful guides:

• I want to Know your Secret 
• You’ve got Time + the end of 22 years of nomadic travel
• Experiences NOT to put on your bucket list!
• Destinations to add to your bucket list
• 20 Places to see before you die
• Festivals around the world to add to your bucket list

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It’s the last day before the weekend and you’ve got an incredible trip lined up, the first one as a family.

You’ve got an action-packed itinerary, you’ve got a lovely hotel booked, and you know where you’re going to eat – but somethings eating away at you.

Could it be the anxiety of travel with kids?

Don’t worry, this is normal. It’s ok to feel overwhelmed about the idea of travelling with kids, it’s going to be different from before you had children, and I won’t lie, there will be challenges too.

But it will also be the best trip you’ve ever had. There is nothing like a family vacation with your own little family.

In this guide, I’ve shared some of my top tips for traveling with kids, so you can have a stress-free trip!

Travel Tips for Traveling with Kids

Here are our top tips for making your vacation stress free and enjoyable.

1. Know the Right Age to Travel

We have been traveling with our kids since they were babies, but we can honestly tell you that toddler age is the worst age to travel.

They have so many needs, both physically and emotionally, that it will cause you a lot of stress trying to keep them happy – and that can take away from the experience.

That’s not to say don’t travel with your toddler, but we recommend those with younger kids take road trips from home rather than international travel.

When you fly, you need to pack so many things it’s impossible to travel lightweight. You need diapers, wipes, travel strollers, snacks, possibly a car seat, and toys – and that’s just in your carry-on backpack!

Once your child hits school age, international travel becomes much easier.

2. Give Your Child Independence & Responsibility

You can easily stress yourself out by spending every waking moment of your trip worrying about your kids and doing everything for them.

Give them a little freedom to be independent, such as carry their own luggage or pack their own suitcase.

Buy them their own pair of headphones and a tablet so they can entertain themselves on the airplane by watching movies or TV shows they selected.

If you have older kids, such as teenagers, give them their own room in a hotel and plan for some downtime where everyone can be alone.

The thing that makes family travel the hardest, is living in each others pockets.

3. Get Away From Theme Parks

Disneyland is great because it’s fun for all the family, but it’s hardly an enriching experience. There’s only so many zoos, playgrounds and parks that one person can take.

You might think your kids are not interested intemples in Thailand or food tours in Europe, but you’d be surprised.

Plan some cultural activities as well as kid-friendly attractions and you may find your child has a new interest.

After all, it’s your vacation too.

4. Plan Ahead

“Fail to prepare, then prepare to fail” is one of the most poignant quotes when it comes to traveling with children.

Be sure to research your destination and create an itinerary that includes a variety of attractions, but also suggestions for places to eat.

Allow plenty of time between the time you book and the actual trip, so you can keep going back to your itinerary and adapting it.

Be sure to look for accommodation that offers family-friendly amenities for children, such as play areas or swimming pools, and that the rooms are child-friendly (no balconies).

Check our travel resources page with our favorite providers.

5. Pack strategically

Make a list of essential items for your kids, including diapers, wipes, extra clothes, snacks, toys, and any medication they may need.

Use packing cubes to separate things and make them easier to find.

Pack a variety of healthy snacks and drinks to keep your kids energized and hydrated. This will help avoid meltdowns and keep hunger at bay.

Try to plan their outfit for each day in advance, so you can avoid meltdowns picking clean clothes each day.

Pack more socks and underwear for them than you think you need, and prepare a change of clothes for them to sleep in if you have a layover flight.

6. Stick to routines

It can be overwhelming for kids to travel, with so many new senses and experiences coming at them.

Try to maintain some sense of routine so they don’t feel overwhelmed.

Keep your children’s regular bedtime routine and meal schedule as much as possible.

By sticking to familiar routines, kids will feel more comfortable and less cranky during the trip.

7. Take breaks

Plan regular breaks during long days so your child can take time out to just play, stretch their legs, or take a nap.

This is especially true for those long road trip journeys when kids need to stretch their legs, use the restroom, and burn off some energy.

Look for parks or playgrounds where they can run around and play.

8. Be flexible

Understand that traveling with kids may not always go according to plan, especially if they are young infants.

Be prepared to adapt and make changes if needed.

Embrace unexpected detours and enjoy the journey together.

9. Safety first

Ensure your kids are properly secured in car seats or booster seats while traveling by car. If you are getting a rental car, make sure you book a car seat.

You may need to take your own car seat with you if you’re traveling to places like Southeast Asia.

Teach them basic safety rules, such as staying close to you in crowded areas or holding hands while crossing the street.

Have a meeting point at attractions incase you get separated, and make sure they know the name of your resort so they can ask someone for help should they need it.

10. Stay positive and patient

Remember that traveling with kids can be challenging at times, but if you let yourself get overwhelmed and stressed, your child will too.

Kids tend to feed off of their parent’s emotions, so if you maintain a positive attitude and be patient, it will go a long way to help keep your kids calm and peaceful.

11. Remember The WOW and LOVE Moments

The reason why I overcome the pain and challenges of traveling with kids, is because I remember the moments when it was all amazing.

Travel with kids has way more WOW and LOVE moments in between the parenting challenges. There’s more connectedness to each other and to life. We feel our bonds grow stronger with every step into the forest.

Yes, the tantrums are still there, there are many cons as well as pros to family travel.

Sometimes I want to scream “this sucks!” and then in the afternoon I’m filling up of awe as I watched Savannah’s fearlessness riding the flying fox with me and Kalyra’s enthusiastic determination, or see her try to hit bullseye on her first game of playing archery.

This is who my children are. That crazy meltdown in the forest earlier was sandwiched between sooooo much goodness.

It didn’t stress me out or make me feel like a failure as a mother, which is how I feel most of the time when I’m trying to cope as a parent in a normal-life setting.

12. Go slow and go with the flow

Start off slow. Go to the edges of your comfort zone. Give up the worry of getting it right and the fear that you won’t cope.

Go with the flow and just enjoy doing something different and fun with your kids.

Yes, routine and structure kind of slips away when you travel, but that’s the beauty of it and it’s where you’ll find a lot of ease and fun.

It’s actually easier than trying to fit into the rules.

If you plan and prepare for it correctly, it won’t be hard at all.

13. Pack entertainment for the flight

If you can, choose an airline with child entertainment, like Qatar Airlines who have kid’s boxes with sticker books and other things they can do.

Go on Amazon and get some cheap new toys before in case you have flight delays and you need something to keep them busy in the airport.

Airports are usually boring for kids and don’t have play areas. There’s only so long they can watch the planes take off before they get bored.

Take an ipad or electronic devices and download movies, games, and stories for them. Remember there’s no wi-fi on the plane, so be sure to have everything downloaded before you leave home.

14. Take a comfort item

Take one comfort item from home, such as a stuffed teddy or a blanket, so they have something familiar with them.

Keep it in your carry-on bag and bring it out when they need comforting.

Be sure to look after it though, you don’t want to loose it!

15. Remember you can buy things there

We’ve all done it, we’ve left the house, got to the airport, checked in, and realized we’ve left some essentials at home.

It happens, but don’t let it stress you. There are shops at your destination.

Most necessities you can buy when you get there, or maybe it’s a blessing in disguise and you really don’t need it anyway.

Relax mom and dad, you don’t need everything in that purse, you’re not Mary Poppins!

16. Book your child their own airplane seat

If it’s not too expensive, get your child their own seat, so you can stretch out and have space.

If your child needs to sleep, they can lounge over two seats, or rest their head on your lap.

17. Get TSA Precheck

TSA Precheck is a new-ish thing where you can enroll online and bypass the long security lines and breeze through security in about 10 minutes.

You also don’t need to remove shoes, take out your laptops or liquids, or remove jackets and belts. This is a lifesaver for parents!

All you need is your passport and boarding pass, and to complete the online enrollment.You can do that here.

Why You Should Travel with Kids

Does traveling with your kids stress you out?

Family travel is not as hard as your freaked-out fears tell you.

You’re possibly judging it from that of living a normal parenting life.

It’s draining and hard and you DREAD the thought of that coming into a holiday, which is meant to be light, relaxing and fun.

When you travel with kids, all your pre-conceived notions of what a holiday means are smashed and that can be hard to handle.

Simply change your perspective. Think of the rewards, not the challenges that family travel brings.

I have a glaring newsflash for you: PARENTING IS HARD!! Period. No matter where you are!

It’s the most exhausting and emotionally draining thing I’ve ever encountered. But it’s also the most rewarding.

Here are some reasons why you should travel with kids:

• You live life on your terms.
• You can choose to rest when you see the kids are tired.
• You can work around everyone’s likes and moods.
• There’s no box of should, musts, have to, and needs suffocating you.
• You spend quality time with your kids.
• There’s no freakin toys and accumulation of useless junk piling up around you (I’m banning the plastic bits along with budgie smugglers).
• There are fewer demands on your time like social events, kid’s parties, swimming lessons, drama etc.
• Conversations are no longer about the school friendship dramas.
• Speaking of drama, there are no endless playground social dramas.
• There’s more laughter and ease.
• You have exhilarating adventures together
• There’s no TV with its sneaky manipulative ads and depressing news flashes. (Although we do love X-Factor).
• There’s more fun and adventure.
• You experience life rather than trying to learn about it through text books and irrelevant exercises. Travel gives you a deep knowing.
• You have freedom.
• You’re learning to adapt – to go with the flow, to throw out rules and routines, which only build up walls that tell us we can only be happy and manage if everything is structured in a certain way. What happens when it doesn’t? It won’t because life is a constantly flowing source of energy, it cannot be contained or controlled. So when it wants to tear down the walls it will and then what?
• You get to know and fall in love with your children. They’re not just little beings that you have to somehow manage and work a life around without needing to swill a vodka every hour.
• Everyone gets to express their personalities without judgement. We see that with our daughter’s drama classes she was enrolled in. Kalyra is a hilarious actress. She puts on her own performances and vlogs and hosts her own show. It’s delightful to watch her do it around the campfire and completely express her personality. When she took the classes it was gone. She was frightened of saying the wrong thing, not being cool enough, and not doing it how the teacher said because that was the right way.
• You’re out of the freaking controlling box. Like the school demanding to know why Kalyra was missing school today. My text reply: family commitments. They always come first.

Why I’m Traveling With My Kids

I get asked all the time by parents how I manage to travel with my kids so frequently.

Don’t they drive you crazy? Isn’tfamily travel too hard? What about all the stuff you have to take? You must be so organised. I don’t think I can cope.

Yes, they drive me crazy and family travel is definitely harder than when I was traveling solo, or when Craig and I spent years traveling as a couple.

I can’t just storm off when the kids annoy me like I did to Craig down a dusty African road because the tyre on our run-down pickup fell off in mid-drive.

I can’t let exhaustion and frustration get a destructive hold on me.

You need far less than you think when traveling with kids and I’m definitely not organized.

As you can see by our attempts to hike to the top of Mount Kosciusko in this photo.

Kalyra is dressed more for the catwalks of Paris than a walk to the roof of Australia – in snowy and windy conditions.

Traveling with kids is NOT always like you see on those happy snappy brochure pictures (just like those baby nappy ads).

However, I keep traveling with my kids because these are only small inconveniences that happen on the way to something far more valuable.

Final Thoughts

Traveling with kids is the best way to travel, in my opinion. Think about all those holidays you had as a child and how much you enjoyed it – now you can provide your own kids with that same level of enjoyment.

If you are feeling overwhelmed or stressed out about the idea of taking your kids on vacation, then I hope our top tips help make family travel easier.

We’ve traveled with our two girls since they were babies, they are now tween and teen age, so we’ve experienced it all and made all the mistakes, so you don’t have to.

We have a free six-part email series designed to help you plan a family holiday everyone will love and overcome potential challenges before you even leave.

Click here now to join the Family Travel Tribe community (including private Facebook group) and uncover the fun of family travel and take control of the challenges.

This is what I believe and what my advice is to any parent that expresses their concern to me that travelling with their kids is too hard:

More Family Travel Tips

• Tips for traveling with a baby
• Travel with toddler tips
• Travel tips for preschool kids
• The Pros and cons of traveling with kids (ages 5- 8)
• Things to know about traveling with teens

Does the idea of travelling with your kids being too hard stop you from doing it? Why do you choose to do it regardless? Let us know in the comments!

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When your shopping for your next trip, picking the best shoes for travel is the hardest decision to make. They don’t just need to be comfortable, but they need to be stylish, they need to fit the purpose, they can’t take up too much space, and they need to be lasting.

Finding shoes to meet this criteria is no easy task, and the criteria also differs depending on the type of shoe you’re looking for, and the purpose of your trip.

Since I can’t be the only one who feels overwhelmed at the idea of shopping for shoes, I decided to write this guide on how to pick the best shoes for travel so you can make decisions about what’s right for you when you go out shopping.

How to pick the best shoes for travel?

I absolutely love stylish-looking shoes, but when it comes to travel, you need to look for comfortable travel shoes that are durable and good for your feet.

Before we go into how to pick the best travel shoes, think about where you will be traveling. If you will be visiting mostly cities, you will need stylish and comfortable travel shoes that you can walk in for a long time.

Carefully think about where you will be traveling and what activities you will likely end up doing. This will help narrowing down your shoe options much easier.

When choosing shoes, here are some tips to consider before making any purchase!

Picking city shoes

For city trips, you’re going to need something that’s comfortable for a lot of walking. European city breaks are common, and most people think they can wear Chelsea boots or flip flops, and then find their feet hurt after a long day of walking.

This is because of the terrain. In most cities, the terrain is either flat pavement or cobbled street, which can hurt the balls of your feet if you don’t have comfortable shoes.

The best travel shoes, if you will be visiting cities, are either comfortable walking shoes or sandals that are light, breathable and durable.

Pick a shoe with an arch, so that your feet don’t feel too flat throughout the day. Consider a running shoe or Birkenstock sandals, which have a soft sole, and can absorb the shock of the terrain and stop your feet from hurting. You don’t want to come home with plantar fasciitis!

You may not want to take Birks if you’re visiting in the winter, of course. Always consider what time of year you’re visiting and the temperature of the destination.

My Teva sandals were perfect for walking in the city in hot climates. They were foot flattering yet had arch support and straps that held the sandal firmly to the foot.

Tips for picking the best city travel shoes

• Choose a breathable material or shoes that have a mesh area for ventilation. Leather shoes can be too hot and don’t bend well, especially sneakers, so choose ones that have a fabric material.
• Choose shoes with thick yet flexible soles to help with shock absorption on hard pavements.
• Ensure that the shoe is attached firmly to the foot. Ballet flats may look stylish but they are terrible for your feet.
• If you want to wear stylish ballet flats, choose ones with a thick sole and straps that attach the shoe firmly to your feet. Rubber soles are best as they are slip resistant, comfortable, and durable.
• Wear small socks with walking shoes and hiking boots to prevent rubbing. Bring enough pairs so that you can wash them in the bathroom with soap and wear a new pair each day.
• Get a pair that’s lightweight and doesn’t feel like you’re wearing shoes at all!
• Supportive hiking boots such as Tevas are great for city travel. They look stylish yet are supportive and practical.
• Avoid white sneakers, they just get dirty too quickly and you don’t want grubby shoes in your photos!

Picking shoes for Backpacking

Often when you are backpacking, you don’t know what’s around the corner. One week you might be traipsing around in a European city and the next you might be hiking in the jungle. It’s best to pack a couple of pairs of shoes for different occasions (see below).

My Karrimor walking shoes were perfect for this purpose. They weren’t too bulky in my suitcase and supported my feet, so I could wear them with multiple occasions.

The material was waterproof too which meant I could walk through rice paddies or shallow rivers and not have to worry about soaking wet feet.

Versatility is important when picking a backpacking shoe. You need ones that you can wear hiking in rugged National Park adventures, but also match your travel outfit if you were to stroll through a city.

My latest favorite backpacking shoes are Caco Z classics. I wore them every day in Europe for a month – they were comfortable, secure, and went with every outfit, even my nighttime fit!

Tips for the best backpacking shoes

• Waterproof shoes are best. If your feet get wet in a hot climate, fungal infections can form. No one wants an infection on their vacation, so try to avoid wet feet at all costs.
• Reiterating the top point, choose travel shoes that are constructed with breathable material too.
• Do the bend test. The soles of the shoes should bend slightly. If they can fold back on themselves they are not supportive and will not do their job.
• Don’t get leather sandals wet. The material can easily stretch when wet and it will crack when it dries in the sun. Sandals made with plastic are best if you will get your feet wet frequently. If you do wear sandals in the water, don’t get slip-ons, they will just float away.
• If you have especially sweaty feet try wearing `silver socks` when wearing enclosed footwear. The silver nanoparticles kill harmful bacteria and fungi, preventing fungal infections and keeping the feet healthy and odourless.
• Many nice bars or restaurants require closed toe shoes. Bring a pair of fold up ballet flats which you can wear with skirts and dresses for this purpose. They don’t take up much room and are an ideal emergency pair of shoes.
• Try to bring shoes in excellent condition, as they are going to get a lot of use. If you bring old shoes, they are likely to break on the trip!

Picking hiking boots for travel

If you don’t plan on hiking there’s no point buying hiking boots because they are heavy and bulky and will mark you out as a tourist straight away.

If you are planning to go hiking on some serious trails, such as the Camino de Santiago, Appalachian Trail or Machu Picchu, you will need serious hiking boots to protect your feet and ankles.

If the trails are not serious, you may find a pair of trainers or trail runner shoes will be comfort enough.

It really depends on the hikes you want to do. If they are less than 8km and have little elevation, then go for trainers. If you are hiking for longer and have a rugged terrain and lots of elevation, get hiking boots.

Hiking boots are best for supporting your ankles and feet on the descent, so the elevation is your biggest consideration when picking shoes for hiking.

Tips for choosing the best hiking shoes

• If the soles of the boots bend at all, they are not suitable for this type of hiking. Make sure the soles are near 100% ridged to prevent injuries to the foot.
• The best walking shoes are ankle boots because they are better for serious walking and prevents the ankle twisting when on uneven ground.
• Choose fabric that is breathable.
• Choose a shoe brand that’s recognisable. You don’t want to skimp out on hiking boots, they are worth the investment.
• I recommend buying hiking boots that are at least half a size bigger than your regular shoes. When walking downhill the foot slides to the front of the shoe. If there’s not enough space, you could get serious injuries to your toes and may even lose a toenail.
• Try on multiple pairs of hiking boots. This is an occasion where buying online won’t work.
• Wear these hiking boots for a minimum of three weeks before your trip. Even good boots may be slightly painful to wear. Let the boots adjust slightly to the unique shape of your feet before setting off on your big trek or you might regret it.
• Wear sock liners under socks when hiking to prevent rubbing and to wick the sweat away from your feet.

Picking Beach Holiday shoes

Many people wear only flip flops when traveling to a beach destination, and this is a rooky mistake. Last summer, I wore sandals every day, and my feet were destroyed by the end of the trip – they were dry, cracked, and looked a state. Nobody wants to bring home yukky feet from their trip!

Sand is one of the worst surfaces you can walk on. If there’s any problem with your foot, it can exaggerate it tenfold.

While it’s ok to wear flip flops for short periods of time, but make sure to wear a supportive sandal the majority of the time.

You got to find the perfect balance between sandals and flip flops.

Tips for choosing beach holiday shoes

• Choose a sandal made of plastic or a robust material as leather can stretch, crack and lose its shape when exposed to water for long periods of time.
• Choose a thick sole to minimise the amount of sand that goes under your feet when walking on the beach.
• Make sure your feet are completely dry and sand free before putting on your enclosed shoes after the beach. Saltwater and sand can irritate the skin.

Before You Go

Your travel experience will be spoilt if you suffer from painful or infected feet, so choosing the perfect shoe is important to make sure your trip isn’t ruined.

In many places, it can be hard to find larger sized shoes that fit, so make sure you buy the perfect pair of travel shoes before you hit the road.

Remember to wear your shoes for at least three days before you travel to check for any problems that might come up.

If you have any problems with your feet, be sure to see a podiatrist before you travel, to treat any problems and to give individual advice about what travel shoes will be suitable for you.

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London is one of the biggest, and most exciting cities in the world, but it can also be overwhelming for first timers, especially when it comes to finding accommodation.

Most first time visitors wonder where to stay in London, as the thousands of accommodation choices can be confusing and difficult to whittle down.

But don’t worry, we’re here to make the decision easier for you. We lived in London for two years, and know the best neighborhoods for tourists to put you close to the tourist attractions, but also stay safe, and be within convenient distance of places to eat.

If money is an issue for you, we’ll also share some inexpensive accommodation options and some more luxurious options, so you can find something within your budget.

There are literally thousands of places to stay in London, in fact, it has more 5-star hotels than any other city in the world! So don’t feel overwhelmed, take a look at this guide…

The Best Neighborhoods in London

There is no ‘best’ area of London to stay in, as everyone’s needs and interests are different.

As a rule of thumb, most properties in Central London (Zone 1 and 2) are the best for first timers, as this puts you near to London’s top attractions and will save you time getting around.

You can stay further out of the city to save some money, but sometimes the trade-off between saving money and saving time on commuting by being central cancels each other out, particularly on short getaways!

Wherever you stay in London, be sure to pick accommodation near a Tube station (London Underground) to save you time traveling around.

Kensington

First timers will love Kensington. It’s an upscale neighborhood close to Kensington Palace (home of Princess Diana), the Natural History Museum and Science Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum, and the Royal Albert Hall.

Kensington High Street is well known for its boutique shops, and you will find some of the best antiques stores in London on Kensington Church Street.

It has many upscale restaurants and trendy bars and cafes, the high-end neioghborhoods of Chelsea and Belgravia, as well as being close to Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park, two of the royal gardens worth exploring if the honking of London becomes too much.

If you stay close to the tube, it’s also conveniently served by the District, Circle and Piccadilly lines, making it an excellent location for exploring central London and the top attractions.

Some places we stayed in Kensington are:

Millennium Gloucester, South Kensington

We stayed at the 4-star Millennium Gloucester Hotel in South Kensington, which is one of the best areas to stay.

It is within walking distance to many restaurants, bakeries, cafes and pubs. You can also easily walk to Kensington Gardens and Palace and further to the Westminster area if you’re up for it!

The Millennium Gloucester Hotel is also across the road from Gloucester Road Tube (Piccadilly Line and Circle Line /Blue and Yellow), which made getting around London so easy!

The hotel rooms were small, which is expected in London, but it was comfortable and clean. They came with a desk area for our remote workers and Wi-Fi is included. We loved the Buckingham Palace mural behind the beds! Families will be happy to know there were lots of kids around.

Their hot buffet breakfast had plenty of options to suit all dietary conditions and was a hearty start to the day. The girls enjoyed a pizza in the Humphrey’s Café and Bar, which was delicious.

Hilton London Kensington

Another fantastic 4-star boutique hotel in London, especially for families, is the Hilton London Kensington located in between Kensington and Shepherd’s Bush, West London. We stayed here for two nights as guests of the hotel.

Our girls LOVED the interconnecting rooms, which is a great option for families, especially for teenagers who love their space.

The rooms were very light, spacious, comfortable and modern, with a work desk area. Wi-Fi is included in your stay. We had lovely views out over a residential garden across the road.

We found the service at the Hilton Kensington to be very friendly and accommodating. They knew we were going to Harry Potter Studios and so left Harry Potter themed treats for the girls, and delicious desserts for us!

The buffet breakfast had lots of options and was a perfect start to the day. I loved the kids breakfast section they had – the girls especially with the doughnuts available!!

The location of the hotel was excellent. It’s a give minute walk to Shepherd’s Bush tube station and five minutes in the other direction to Holland Park Tube, both on the red Central line.

You couldn’t find a better location if you plan on visiting Warner Bros Harry Potter Studios. Shepherds Bush Train station runs trains to Watford Junction (with only one quick change).

Close by is the stunning Holland Park and Kyoto Gardens ( a London park hidden secret) and Westfields Shopping Center is across the road – this is the largest shopping center in Europe with more than 265 shops and 50 restaurants.

On the Southern terrace closest to the hotel is a cluster of 17 restaurants, which is where we stopped for great Thai one evening.

YHA London Earls Court

Full disclosure, London doesn’t really do budget accommodation. Even hostels are the same price as a budget hotel in London, so unless you’re traveling alone and want to stay in a hostel for the social vibes, we’d personally recommend a hotel.

However, for those who insist on a hostel, YHA hostel is the best choice – they are a chain of hostels, so you can pretty much know what to expect at each one you stay at.

This YHA is a 5 minutes’ walk from Earl’s Court Tube Station (District Line and the Piccadilly Line) and has both shared dorms and private rooms. It boasts a 24-hour reception, free Wi-Fi and self-catering facilities.

It also has an onsite café with breakfast and snacks throughout the day, and the common area has board games and a TV.

Soho and Covent Garden

This is the best area to stay in for nightlife, as it’s a stone’s throw from the West End and all the theatres, as well as the most prestigious clubs and bars in Leicester Square.

Also within walking distance of Soho is Oxford Street, known for its excellent shopping, and the London Transport Museum, The British Museum, and The Royal Opera House.

The tube stations in Soho are Oxford Circus, Tottenham Court Road and Piccadilly Circus, which connect you to the Victoria, Bakerloo, Central, Piccadilly and Northern Lines.

It would also be possible to walk over to Westminster, through St James’s Park, to reach Buckingham Palace. You can also walk to the embankment for views of the London Eye over the River Thames.

Claridge’s

Claridge’s is a sophisticated 5-star hotel between Soho and Mayfair. It offers spacious and lavishly furnished rooms with a marble bathroom.

The onsite restaurant, The Reading Room, has a contemporary menu, and the 1930’s themed cocktail bar, Fumoir, is known for its craft cocktails.

Claridge’s is famous for its afternoon tea, which comes with a choice of over 50 types of tea.

Also inside the hotel is a juice bar, gym, and spa.

The Savoy

Located in the heart of Covent Garden, The Savoy is a beautiful and contemporary hotel nestled inside a heritage building.

Just like Claridge’s, The Savoy is known for its legendary afternoon tea.

The hotel opened in 1889, and has had prestigious guests such as Sir Winston Churchill, Frank Sinatra and Katherine Hepburn.

It has 195 guest rooms and 73 suites, each decorated with a lovely Art Deco style, and some have lovely views over the River Thames.

It has three onsite Gordon Ramsay restaurants, and two cocktail bars, American Bar and Beaufort Bar.

Marble Arch & Paddington

Nestled between Marylebone and Mayfair, the Marble Arch area is a great place to stay if you plan to explore other parts of the UK by train, since it’s conveniently located near Paddington Station.

Some top attractions in this area are Baker Street and the Sherlock Holmes Museum, as well as Madame Tussauds.

DoubleTree by Hilton – Marble Arch

DoubleTree by Hilton is just minute’s from the Tube Station and the shopping facilities of Oxford Street. Rooms are simple, but comfortable.

It’s famous for its onsite restaurants, including a Michelin-starred restaurant, Fire and Spice, offering authentic Indian cuisine.

Every morning, guests are treated to a buffet breakfast, and in the evening, soak up the ambiance in the champagne bar.

London Marriott – Marble Arch

The Marriott Hotel Marble Arch is a four star hotel with contemporary rooms with floor to ceiling windows, offering lots of natural light and views overlooking Marble Arch.

It has a fitness center, executive lounge, and a contemporary restaurant called The Pickled Hen, which serves traditional British food.

It’s also within walking distances of Hyde Park, and you can reach the boutique shops of Knightsbridge in just 20-minutes walk.

YHA London Central

Another YHA worth a stay is the YHA Central, located in Marylebone. It has comfortable dorm rooms, which are small but clean and well appointed.

The communal areas are what make this hostel though, with an onsite bar and restaurant, and plenty of common areas to meet other travelers.

It’s a short walk to Great Portland Street Tube Station, which serves the Metropolitan, Hammersmith & City and Circle lines, and you can easily walk to Oxford Street and Regent’s Park from here.

Notting Hill

Notting Hill is an area made famous by the movie with the same name. You know the one where Julia Roberts says “I’m just a girl, standing in front of a boy, asking him to love her.”

It’s an iconic area known for its colorful houses and vintage/thrift stores. It has lots of trendy restaurants and cafes, and a handful of bohemian outlets.

The famous Portobello Road is where to go for antiques and vintage fashion, whereas Westbourne Grove is where to go to eat.

It’s a trendy neighborhood, and it’s also very close to Kensington, Westminster, and other popular areas of London.

The Portobello Hotel

The Portobello Hotel is what I would consider to be quintessential Notting Hill. The chic, floral design with elegant Goergian touches make it unique and artistic.

It has boutique rooms, each individually styled with their own unique flare. You can expect character features in each room, from claw-foot baths to round beds.

The hotel also offers daily breakfast with organic coffee, and locally sourced produce.

Ruby Zoe Hotel London

Also within a short walk of Portobello Road is Ruby Zoe Hotel, which has sleek and modern rooms and a whimsical bar.

Breakfast is served daily, and it’s also been praised for being clean and comfortable every time!

Camden Town

Camden Town is a bit of a wild card neighborhood as people tend to love it or hate it. Some say it’s dangerous, but I’ve never encountered any problems there, especially if you stay in a group.

The worst that could happen is someone approaches you to ask for the time and their friend is trying to pickpocket you.

However, despite its reputation, it’s still the best place to stay in London if you love music. London’s music scene is probably the best in the world. Camden is where all the biggest and most prestigious venues are, and it has a ton of pubs and bars with nightly live music.

Since we travel with a teen now, Craig and I could duck out of an evening to enjoy the Camden nightlife with a few drinks at some pubs, some with live music, and all with a really cool Camden vibe.

Camden Market is also a cool place to shop for boutiques and antiques, as well as gorge on street food, and Camden Lock has a nice riverside walk you can do.

It’s also close to King’s Cross Station.

Holiday Inn Camden Lock

We stayed for four nights at the 4-Star Holiday Inn situated right on the Camden Lock. We were very surprised at the number of kids staying at the hotel. I wouldn’t normally typically consider Camden an overly family friendly place, nor for a place for tourists to stay, but we really enjoyed it.

Here’s one reason families love it! Kids ages 17 and under stay for free when sharing their parents’ room. Up to four kids ages 12 and under eat free any time of the day in any Holiday Inn® on-site restaurant.

Our girls absolutely loved being able to grab some snacks as they came in after a long day exploring. Well played Holiday Inn.

Its location right on Camden Lock places it a two minute walk to Camden Markets, 15 minutes to Regents Park, and five minutes to the tube – ideal.

Their buffet breakfast had plenty of options and was the perfect hearty start to a day of exploring.

The hotel has a Camden vibe with local artwork adorning the walls, a 24-hour bar, and a very cool mural that shares the music history of this London neighborhood.

St Pancras Renaissance – a Marriott luxury hotel

Just outside the Camden Town district is the St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel, near to King’s Cross St Pancras Tube Station.

This five-star hotel has spacious and lavish rooms with a seating area and private bathroom.

The hotel also has an onsite bar, restarant, and a pool and sauna. There are also free bikes for guests to use.

The daily breakfast is pretty good too, with à la carte, vegetarian or vegan options available.

Final Thoughts

I hope this page helped you to find the best accommodation in London and area to suit your needs and budget.

There are so many places in London you can stay in, but we hope this guide helped you narrow down your options.

More London Travel Tips

Need more inspiration for visiting London? Check out these other guides…

• City Guide – things to do in London
• Insider London travel tips
• Our thoughts on why we loved our trip to London
• Is the London Eye Worth it? (Includes the River Thames Cruise)
• The best views in London (from above and below)
• Top Things to do in London for Teens
• Best Places to visit in London

FREE London Bucket List Printable PDF

We’ve created a simple one-page checklist of all the top things to do in London, UK and London itinerary guides for you! Pop your name in the form below to access.

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Teaching English as a second language has been a popular way to travel and work for many decades, but thanks to the internet, now you don’t need to leave your house to be able to teach ESL to students across the globe.

Teaching English online has always been a multi-billion dollar industry, but after COVID, the demand seemed to increase.

That is except for China.

China was once the biggest buyer of online English lessons, with more than 15 million kids signed up to online English classes back in 2019.

This all changed in 2021, when the Chinese government banned tutoring online because they believed it was giving some kids an unfair advantage.

Bye bye cushy remote online teaching job, right?

Wrong! You can still teach English online to Chinese students. And here’s how…

Can you teach English online to Chinese students in 2024?

First, let’s address the elephant in the room. Back in September 2021, China enforced a ban on tutors offering online lessons because the government felt that the industry was giving some children an unfair advantage.

They also felt that it was adding additional pressure to children academically, and also a financial burden on their parents.

However, the ban was focused on tutoring. The terms were a little unclear for companies who have their own curriculum, so many companies are still operating.

These companies were also allowed to honor their commitment to students who have already paid for classes – some parents had bought over a year’s worth of classes upfront – which meant some companies still operate.

This ban also extended to kids only, so you can still teach English online to adults without any restrictions.

The TLDR version is; yes, you can still teach English online to Chinese students. Most companies are not accepting tutors to teach children, but you can still teach to adults.

It’s still possible to teach English online to Chinese students but the landscape does look volatile.

What companies hire online English teachers to teach in China?

There are many online teaching companies you can work for that allow you to teach English to Chinese students, but the company you choose will largely depend on the age of your student, your qualifications, where you’re from, and your salary expectations.

Here are the major players in the industry…

VIPKid (and VIPTeacher)

VIPKid is the most famous an online English education platform in China. Back before the ban, it had 1,000,000 students enrolled and 40,000 teachers.

Today, VIP Teacher, a new enterprise by VIPKid, has 200,000 teachers employed, not just as teachers, but in curriculum development roles too.

Based in Beijing, they are widely considered the pioneers of online English education. VIPKid was originally designed for children (age 4-12) and required teachers from North America only (USA and Canada).

It has its own unique curriculum that combines EFL teaching best practices with the U.S. Common Core State Standards – fostering creativity, critical thinking, and curiosity for our hundreds of thousands of learners.

English classes are delivered online in a 1:1 environment from the comfort of their homes. Teachers can earn anywhere from $14-$22 per hour.

However, they have been impacted by the tutoring ban and had to cease tutoring Chinese students, though they are branching out into other countries, so the company still exists.

Preply and iTalki

Preply and iTalki are two companies that connect self-employed online English teachers to adults, where you can offer their 1:1 tutoring services.

You market yourself, create your own materials, and source your own students. You even set your own rate.

It’s great for those who already have some teaching experience, and want a platform to work under and find students.

However, for new teachers, it’s not ideal as there is no set curriculum.

Cambly

With Cambly, you have a lot of flexibility with who you teach. Cambly has two companies – Cambly, which is where you can teach adults, and Cambly Kids.

Cambly Kids pays more (about $12 USD an hour), though they do not have Chinese kids enrolled due to the ban.

However, you can still teach kids from around the world, from Japan, South Korea, South America and the Middle East. Cambly Kids is for ages 4-15, and you would be required to teach 1:1 classes.

Cambly is a 1:1 tutor platform for adults, where you are paid roughly $10.20 USD per hour.

The annoying thing about Cambly is you are paid by the minute, so if your student leaves 1 minute early, you lose $0.20. It may only be 20 cents, but if it happens every time, it adds up.

Who is best suited to teach English online to Chinese students?

Anyone can teach English online, as long as you meet the requirements that companies require to employ you.

If you’re wondering if teaching online is the right career move for you, here are a few people that it could benefit…

• Anyone who enjoys teaching and is looking for ways to earn money online providing a valuable service from the comfort of your own home.
• Stay-at-home moms looking for ways to earn money working from home around the hectic schedule of their parenting lifestyle.
• Expats already living abroad teaching English. I used to have to catch the bus into Siam Square every Saturday in busy, polluted Bangkok to get to my private language school and earn supplemental income. How nice it would have been to have this opportunity to not leave my home and do the same thing.
• Professionals wanting to earn extra money and save to travel.
• Current teachers looking to supplement wages that never match your worth!! I KNOW!
• Retired teachers wanting to stay connected to teaching and earn play money. I know so many retired teachers in the US trying to find odd teaching jobs to not only make money but have rewarding experiences teaching without classroom pressures.

Benefits of Teaching English Online

Ok, so you tick off one of the boxes above and you’re now wondering what benefits come with the job.

Here are just a few perks from this career path…

• You can work from anywhere.
• You get valuable experience teaching English as a foreign language.
• It’s flexible – you can create your own hours around your schedule.
• You can choose how many hours you work – part time or full time.
• All materials are provided by VIPKID. This is hugely important. As a previous teacher, I can tell you that sourcing your own materials, and lesson planning is very time-consuming. To have it ready for you will make your work (and the money you earn) so much easier and more rewarding. You can then focus on quality and enjoyable teaching.
• No grading. This is awesome! I can’t even begin to tell you how painful grading is for a teacher.
• No need to know Chinese. The best way to learn a language is through immersion, so it is better that you do not know Chinese.
• Lessons are only 25 minutes long.
• Cool bonuses and incentives to help you earn more and have a better ESL teaching experience.
• A supportive Facebook group for the English language teachers to share ideas and help each other.

Requirements for teaching English online

The good news is, the application process to teach english online to Chinese students is easy for most online English teaching companies.

First, you need to establish who you want to work for (see above) and then complete the online application form.

Most companies require you to have:

• A bachelor degree in any subject. They prefer a degree from an English speaking country such as USA, Canada, Australia or America, but some companies are flexible.
• A TEFL Certificate. Most companies require you to have a TEFL Certificate, usually 120 hours, from a reputable company. You can usually complete these TEFL courses online.
• At least 1-2 years of teaching experience. If you’ve never taught before, you might have issues being hired as an online teacher. Try to get some volunteer experience under your belt to give you some prior teaching experience put you in better stead with hiring managers.
• Be a native English speaker. Some companies require English to be your first language, though some companies are flexible with this. You are considered a Native English speakers if you are from the United States, Canada, UK, Ireland, New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa.
• Have access to fast and reliable internet connection and a laptop.
• Eligibility to work in USA, Canada, UK. Most companies have moved their offices outside of China and so for tax reasons you need to be able to work in USA, UK, or Canada.
• To perform a demo class. Most companies require you to record a 10-minute demo lesson, in which they will provide instructions for you before you begin. A top tip for providing your demo class – be happy! They love teachers who are enthusiastic.
• Be available on Beijing time. You may be working late at night or very early in the morning if you are working from the USA. This is something to consider.
• The right equipment. You will need a laptop with a webcam and microphone and fast reliable internet.
• Most companies require you to use a headset.
• Some companies require you to have some props.
• Paypal or an international bank account. Some companies will only pay you via PayPal, which is annoying as PayPal takes a fee. I recommend you sign up to Wise or another global bank so you can receive multiple currencies.

The hiring process for online ESL teachers

To break it down for you, here is what you can expect to happen when you apply for a teaching job online.

Most companies are pretty much the same, but there may be slight variations to this depending on who you apply for.

• Step one: you apply online.
• Step two: You are invited to participate in a 10-minute virtual interview/ teaching demo. This mock teaching experience is an excellent way to show that you have the skills and qualities of a teacher and it is an experience you’ll enjoy. You’ll also get feedback from the interviewer outlining your strengths and weaknesses, which is essential information for a teacher to have. Don’t be nervous about this. You’ll get a chance to prepare for the mock interview. Just give it your best and have fun with it.
• Step three: training begins! You will usually have to go through a training process, which may consist of watching some YouTube videos that explains their teaching methods, or you might have official training. It depends on the company. You will likely be given information on the dos and don’ts and general information about booking, how to use their platform, etc.
• Step four: Contracts are signed. Some require you to work for a period of time, some are flexible and allow you to set your own schedule if you prefer to work part-time.
• Step five: trial period. Most companies put new teachers on a trial period, of one or two classes. This is to ensure that you are comfortable teaching and are implementing best practices.
• Step six: Start teaching your Chinese students.

Tips to help get that online English teaching job

To help you nail the interview and get that online English tutor job, here are my top tips…

• Make sure you have all the qualifications. Most companies are vigorous about having the qualifications, and you might think it’s over exaggerating, but it’s usually because of visa-related or tax reasons that you need the right requirements. I know some teachers who have taught for 20 years and are fantastic, who haven’t been able to be employed because they don’t have a bachelor’s degree.
• Show up on time and be professional in your interview. It proves you will show up on time for your lessons.
• Practice with a friend. If you’ve never taught a virtual classroom before, it would be a good idea to practice your lesson with someone first so you can get used to what it would be like.
• Plan for a tech issue. Most online teaching platforms are simple and easy to use, and rarely do they break, but it’s a good idea to have an activity you can do with just the camera and some props in case there are any issues and you can’t access the platform. The interviewer will love this!
• Be prepared and have a few props, materials and learning resources with you that you can use for modeling.
• Have fun! Happy students + happy parents = more work
• Be positive, they love overly smiley teachers. You might feel like a performing monkey but they love that.

If you’re looking for job opportunities teaching abroad, have a look at Global Work and Travel.

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When I arrived at the Borobudur Temple in Java, I distinctly remember being amazed by its grandeur and the spiritual aura you feel when you stand atop of the hilltop, looking out over stupas and Buddha statues.

Borobudur is the largest buddhist temple in the world, and is famous for its decorative relief sculptures, and long-standing history as a a training center for those looking to reach spiritual enlightenment.

In Indonesia, they regard it as one of the seven wonders of the world, but this hasn’t extended to the rest of the world. It’s still a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Southeast Asia, if not the world.

Visiting the Borobudur Temple helped ignite what has turned into a lifelong passion for discovering different beliefs and viewpoints.

I knew little about Buddhism at the time, but I was determined to learn and find out. What better place to do that than from within the stone circular walls of a magnificent temple – the ancient Borobudur Temple in Indonesia?

In this guide, I share everything you need to know about visiting the Borobudur Temple, including its history, how to get there, and what special features to look out for.

The History of Borobudur Temple

Borobudur sits in an area between two twin volcanoes, Sundoro-Sumbing and Merbabu-Merapi, and two rivers, the Progo and the Elo, on the island of Java.

This area has been dubbed the “Garden of Java” and is known as a sacred place.

If you enjoy contemplating the mysteries of ancient structures, it was found that the three Buddhist temples in the region. Borobudur sits in the middle of the three temples, the others, Mendut Temple (3 km away) and Pawon Temple (2 km away), are built in a perfect straight line, and together they represent the phases you would take on a spiritual journey to reach Nirvana.

The Borobudur Temple is in the Kedu Valley, in the southern part of Central Java, Indonesia.

It was once the center of Buddhist life in Indonesia until sometime around the 15th centuries when it was mysteriously abandoned and remained undiscovered until the early 20th century (around 1814), when it was found buried under a pile of volcanic ash.

Somehow this massive temple was swallowed up by the trees and vines of the jungle and hidden from the eyes of humanity.

It as the first time I asked the question, “How did something like this disappear? How could the surrounding civilization just allow the vines and animals to take away such a sacred and exquisite monument to the divine?”

How amazing is the earth that it just keeps growing and reclaiming no matter what we do? It’s such a force.

After it was discovered, more of its history came to light. It’s believed to have been built in the Sailendra Dynasty (8th and 9th Century AD), where it was used as a Buddhist temple until sometime in the 15th centuries when it was abandoned.

Design of Borobudur Temple

The design of the Borobudur Temple is no accident, everything from the way it faces to the height of the upper level has been carefully considered.

In Buddhist cosmology, the universe is divided into three spheres; kamadhatu (the desire realm), rupadhatu (where we are bound by desire), and arupadhatu (formless space).

Borobudur Temple’s base represents kamadhatu, the five square terraces represent rupadhatu and the three circular terraces and large central stupa represent arupadhatu.

It’s also a good time to marvel on the incredible design of Borobudur Temple. It’s also said to have been built in the style of a mandala, which represents the Buddhist teachings.

This enormous stepped pyramid temple measures 123 x 123 meters and is constructed of 60,00 cubic meters of lava rock. It took an army of workers to build.

It has stood the test of time even though it has suffered through abandonment, nearby volcano eruptions, terror attacks, and earthquakes.

What is most astounding is that this centuries-old temple was built without any cement or mortar, but held together by interlocking pieces. Could we say they hold the patent on LEGO?

Borobudur is said to mean “City of Buddhas high on the hill” and once you see it – you believe it.

Hindu influence is evident in the Gupta architecture, although it incorporates many uniquely Indonesian design elements, carvings, balustrades, and scenes.

The monument is decorated with 504 Buddha statues and 2,672 relief panels that depict daily Buddhist life in Java. It’s a step-style pyramid with six square bases leading up to three circular layers and a large main stupa.

Around the circular platforms are 72 openwork stupas, each containing a statue of the Buddha.

As well as the main stepped pyramid, Borobudur has two other important temples in the region worth noting; Mendut Temple (3km away) and Pawon Temple (2km away). Borobudur sits in the middle of the three, in perfect straight line, and together they represent the phases you would take on a spiritual journey to reach Nirvana.

The Restoration of Borobudur into a UNESCO site

In the 1970’s, a massive restoration project began to restore the ancient temple to its former glory and make it one of the world’s most valued treasures.

The restoration cost twenty-five million dollars, had the support of UNESCO and professionals from 27 countries, and took eight years of labor to finish.

Over one million stones were moved and set aside to be identified, catalogued, cleaned and treated for preservation and put back in its place. It set the standard for future preservation efforts around the world.

Restoration and preservation continues through traditional Javanese methods to repair and replace the many damaged sculptures, including more than a few headless Buddhas.

Borobudur is now a protected UNESCO site.

With an abundance of human footprints, proximity to a few active volcanoes, and location in an area used to some intense shaking earth, it’s quite the effort to maintain its beauty, but conservation is intent on it.

My Experience Visiting Borobudur

The Borobudur Temple complex is now the single most visited site in Indonesia and one of the most amazing things to do in Indonesia.

Borobudur sits on top of a hill standing guard over paddy fields, jungle canopies and distant hills.

Not only is the temple and its intricate designs something to marvel at but the surrounding jungle landscape will press upon you a presence of divinity. 

The world’s largest Buddhist Temple is made up of five large square terraces, with three circular platforms on top of them, and then a magnificent stupa at the very top.

You start at the base of the temple and follow a guided path around the square terraces and circular platforms taking in thee relief panels and statues of Buddha as you pass to eventually reaching the magnificent stupa at the top.

It’s the path of the pilgrim helping you to feel closer to the Gods as you rise towards the heavens!

It’s a time to contemplate the world of forms, your attachment to it, and the gradual release from that to one that embraces a life without form, or oneness with divinity.

And don’t forget to look back at those views, they will be heavenly.

I only wish I could visit again now that I am a highly spiritual person with a deeper connection to mysticism.

I can only imagine how elevated I would feel meditating at Borobudur and absorbing the ancient wisdom.

Give yourself time when you visit to walk slowly and take in the essence of this spiritual place. It’s worth it and if you move too fast with all that steep climbing, you’ll get tired pretty quick!!

Back when I visited, we were encouraged to reach inside the stupa and rub the Buddha for good luck. Now I know better.

The bottom part of the stupa has become soft and it lost its original shape due to being touched repeatedly by tourists. So please refrain and help preserve one of the wonders of the world.

Say a silent prayer to the Buddha asking for good luck instead. I’m pretty sure he will grant it to you and much prefer that than a belly rub.

After seeing this photo, I am immensely disappointed, I did not visit Borobudur for sunrise. Look how quiet, still, and spiritual it feels.

Writing this post has created a longing for me to return to this place. My travel life lately has been missing ancient wonders.

I can feel what I felt all those years ago – the recognition that my life will never be the same and this was all I wanted my life to be.

Sunrise is ultimate time to visit Borobudur and see it peeking out from behind Mt Merapi. Fees will be slightly higher though, and despite it being sunrise, it’s still busy at this time.

How to Get to Borobudur Temple Indonesia

Borobudur is only one hour’s drive from Yogyakarta. The easiest way to get there is byjoining a tour or renting a car or scooter, or taxi. Once there, it is easy to explore by foot.

I recommend you download the ride share app, Bolt (Grab also works), and you can rent a scooter or car to take you there. You should negotiate with your driver a price to come and pick you up after.

The cheapest, but least convenient way is to go by public bus. They depart from Jombor Terminal in the North of Yogyakarta and it takes approx. 90 minutes.

However, the first bus may not leave earlier enough to get you there in time for sunrise.

In the tourist areas of Yogyakarta, you’ll find minivan transfers to Borobudur or you can arrange a transfer with a tour company (you can often negotiate with your hotel/hostel on this).

Opening Hours & Entrance Fees

The temple is open to public from 6:30 AM to 4:30 PM daily. It’s best to visit in the morning to escape the Indonesian heat! You are near the equator here and it is intense.

The price of a ticket is about $25 USD per adult and $15 USD for a child. You would need to pay in Indonesian Rupees.

There is also an additional fee to climb up the temple now, which wasn’t there when I visited. You absolutely must climb up the temple to see the views and the stupas up close, so make sure your ticket has this included.

Guided Tours of Borobudur Temple

I think visiting the temple with a guide will be the best way to experience Borobudur as you can get a deeper insight to its significance.

Here are a couple of options:

• Best Selling: Sunrise or sunset half day private tour
• Borobudur Temple admission ticket
• Best of Yogyakarta: Private customized full day tour

Where to Stay near Borobudur Temple, Java

Borobudur Temple is about an hour’s drive from Yogyakarta, the gateway to Borobudur and an ancient city worth hanging around a few days in.

It’s surrounded by beautiful countryside, lush jungles, volcanoes, and waterfalls to swim in.

Yogyakarta a very important city of Java, what they call the cradle of civilization. It was the seat of power that produced the magnificent temples of Borobudur and Prambanan in the 8th and 9th century and the new powerful Mataram kingdom of the 16th and 17th century.

I wont go into detail for things to do in Yogyakarta, but even though it’s a city, there is still lots to see and do here, and it’s very well known for its arts scene and temples.

It felt very ancient to me and again helped me feel connected to something mysterious, which back then I had no idea how to explain or what it was.

So I’d recommend adding time to your trip to explore this ancient city. And I highly recommend you visit Prambanan, another exquisite ancient temple in Java.

Oh I also think it is the coolest name and still love saying it. It is pronounced Jogjakarta. Just another thing that mesmerized me at the beginning of my travels – things are never quite as they seem and languages differences are delightful.

If you’d prefer to stay closer to Borobudur so you don’t have to get up early for sunrise, there are a few rural homestays, guesthouses and hotels nearby which would be good for one night:

• Best Borobudur Homestays
• Best hostels in Borobudur
• Hotels in Borobudur

Final Thoughts

It’s easy to get caught up in the intoxicating parts of travel, like ziplining across a jungled canopy, snorkeling with colorful gigantic fish, or indulging on the finest wine paired with cheese.

Often it’s the quieter, more grounded experiences that can connect us to something deeper and grant us an insight into an ancient world our DNA has always been a part of, but one we consciously don’t understand or know.

It’s surprising how easy this guide to visiting Borobudur Temple was for me to write and update.

That proves the long lasting effect it had on me and how timeless the experience is.

More Indonesia Travel Tips

• Reasons to visit Raja Ampat (one of Asia’s most beautiful places)
• Where to Stay in Bali With Kids (Adult’s love these places too!)
• Sunrise over Mt Bromo in Java, Indonesia
• My First Trip Abroad in Indonesia
• Jungle Trekking in Bukittinggi, Sumatra

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There is no greater city for a girls getaway than New York City. It truly has something for everyone! Whether you’re looking for a girls weekend to celebrate a birthday or you’re just looking to spend quality time with your girlfriends, NYC has so much to offer a group of girlfriends!

From rooftop bars to underground speakeasy clubs, to world-class restaurants and high-end shopping, to Broadway shows and museums, there are plenty of girly things to do in NYC that make it ideal for a long weekend vacation.

So if you’re planning a NYC girls trip and not sure what to do, here are some top attractions and activities to map out your NYC itinerary!

Girly Things To Do In NYC

1. Take a scenic Circle Line Cruise

If you haven’t been to NYC before, then you should make sure to spend time exploring the city’s top attractions. Take a Circle Line cruise for amazing views of the city skyline. This is my favorite way to introduce yourself to the city.

You sail right by the Statue of Liberty and get to see the skyline from the water, and they drop plenty of funny and interesting tidbits about the city.

And if you’re looking for the same gorgeous New York City views, but absolutely none of the price, hop on the Staten Island Ferry.

It’s free, but you have to make sure to get right off and hop on the ferry coming back to Manhattan, or else you’ll be stranded at the not-very-fun-at-all Staten Island Ferry Terminal for longer than you’d like.

2. Go Museum Hopping

Some of the world’s best museums are located in Manhattan, and I do love a classy museum date with a girlfriend!

Some of the best museums to visit with the girls are The Met, MOMA, and the Guggenheim.

You can spice it up with a hilarious Museum Hack tour, like the Badass B**hes Tour of the Met (Metropolitan Museum of Art).

3. Have a boozy brunch!

The café on the terrace at The Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) is a fantastic place for brunch (and Bloody Mary’s).

Alternatively, head to The Met roof garden café and martini bar for a beautiful place to have a fancy cocktails after you’ve gotten your fill of art.

Some other popular brunch spots in NYC are Gage & Tollner, Sidney’s Five (a great place for Drag Brunch!) and This Astoria – which allows you to have unlimited drinks for $25!

Just make sure you make reservations before you go no matter where you choose to eat in NYC!

4. Chase those NYC views

Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge or walk down the High Line for free and iconic views of the NYC skyline.

Head up to Top of the Rock for the most incredible view of the city, I prefer it to the Empire State Building and One World Observatory because a) you can see just how huge and beautiful Central Park is and b) it’s outside, so you don’t have to jostle around tourists to see outside of fingerprint-smudged windows.

It’s also the best place for a group photo with the entire island of Manhattan for a backdrop!

Check out the New York City High Line in this video

5. Go on a Sex and The City Tour

If you’re a fan ofSex and the City or Friends (or any of the other million movies set in NYC), On Location tours are actually really fun and not too corny.

These tours take you around all the filming locations and also share some behind the scenes secrets from their productions.

Fans of Gossip Girl will enjoy a self guided Gossip Girl tour of filming locations!

6. Shop ‘Till You Drop!

When I need something – almost anything – I head to SoHo. There are all of the standard wonderful chain stores: JCrew, Madewell, Anthropologie, Club Monaco.

There’s also a huge Topshop and Bloomingdale’s, and a smattering of smaller boutiques and pop-up shops. And if you need a snack, pop into classy grocery store Dean & Deluca or grab a hot chocolate and baked good at the little Balthazar to-go store.

Also, SoHo is a great place to spot a celebrity in the wild!

For the grand iconic shopping experience, stroll down Fifth Avenue. This is especially true during the Christmas season, but the windows at Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Lord & Taylor are always gorgeous.

The stores themselves are grand and expensive – and can be a little hoity-toity but still so glam to waltz through. And of course, you can’t miss Tiffany & Co.

If you want to find something a little more original, head to Bedford Avenue (and surrounds) in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Catbird and Mociun are funky, locally-owned jewelry shops, and Awoke and 10 Ft Single are great vintage options in the area.

Nearby, Artists & Fleas is an indoor market full of (you guessed it) artisan and vintage goods (there’s also a location in Chelsea Markets if you don’t make it to Brooklyn).

On Saturdays, Smorgasburg, a collection of the best food trucks in the city, sets up on the waterfront; on Sundays, the Brooklyn Flea features furniture, vintage clothing, collectibles, and antiques.

7. Primp yourself on your girl’s getaway

One of the greatest things about New York City is there is a nail salon on every block.

There are also a ton of Chinatown massage parlors that are perfect to pop into with a friend for a cheap (but oh so good) foot massage after a long day of walking.

If you want to splash out on a spa day, AIRE Ancient Baths New York is a thermal bath where you can get beauty and massage treatments, relax in a fancy sauna or in thermal pools.

8. Go for a night on the town

What would a girlie trip to NYC be without hitting the bars? When it comes to finding somewhere to eat before a night out, Chelsea Market is your go-to spot to find something for everyone and it’s all really, really delicious.

One of my favorite bars in NYC to enjoy with the girls is The Tippler, a great little bar tucked away beneath the market that’s the perfect place to rest and recharge after walking the High Line.

For amazing views while enjoying a Saturday night on the town, head to 230 Fifth, aNYC rooftop bar in the shadow of the Empire State Building – it’s best on long summer evenings, but it’s also mostly enclosed and heated on winter nights. 

For clubs to go dancing in, head to Brooklyn or Ridgewood, where all the best night clubs are!

9. Nurse your hangover with a bagel breakfast

You’re in the Big Apple, you have to eat a bagel! Pop by Black Seed Bagels for some creative hand-rolled, wood-fired options.

Another great place for bagels and delicatesan goods, is Katz. It’s definitely a touristy spot but for good reason. The pastrami sandwich is as good as it gets.

Buvette is a gem in the West Village that is just as good for breakfast (the granola with fresh berries!) as it is for cocktails as it is for dinner. Extra Virgin and Jack’s Wife Freda are other favorites among my friends for brunch and/or dinner.

10. Go for high tea

Located on the seventh floor with sweeping views of Central Park, high tea at Bergdorf Goodman is as much about the ambiance as the food itself.

They have delicious cake, pastries, and little sandwiches, plus a nice selection of teas.

It’s so fancy, but such a fun thing to do for a girls getaway in New York City.

11. Watch a Broadway Show

Of course, this is the home of Broadway and Lincoln Center: you can’t go wrong with a girls night watching show or a night at the ballet.

Use TodayTix to get the best last-minute deals!

Where to Stay in New York City on a Girl’s Getaway

If you have a group rent an apartment as hotel prices in Manhattan are insane and the rooms are TINY, even at some of the best NYC hotels, you will find little space for a group of girls.

Stay in a neighborhood like West Village, Greenwich Village, or Upper East Side NYC, where it will be ritzy but also convenient to get around all the attractions – think Carrie Bradshaw brownstones, and all of the best restaurants on your block.

But you can also head into Brooklyn for a more laid-back vibe that also might be more affordable. Just make sure you are near a subway station and you can’t go wrong.

And if you do decide to stay in a hotel, don’t stay in Midtown, no matter how convenient it seems! Although it’s where many of the typical touristy spots are located – Empire State Building, Times Square, Grand Central Station – it’s mostly skyscrapers and office buildings.

Tours in New York City

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San Fran is the perfect city for a family vacation. It has tons of parks and green spaces for the little ones to run around in, many family orientated museums, and tons of kid-friendly attractions and activities.

We have visited San Francisco many times in the past, so when we took our two daughters, we were pleasantly surprised by how many family activities there are in San Francisco that are not only fun for kids but us big kids too!

It turns out, there are so many things to do in San Francisco with kids. Our girls, Kalyra (age 11) and Savannah (age 7) loved exploring San Francisco and experiencing a city with natural beauty, fun attractions, incredible food and great views.

In this guide, we are sharing our best tips on what to do in San Francisco with kids, including some info on how to save on attractions and how to get around, and a few delicious places to eat with kids!

Things to do in San Francisco with kids

1. Stay on the Right Side of the Cells at Alcatraz

Fun or scary? Let your kids decide! Alcatraz Island is not the place for every family, but our two daughters loved it!

No matter which they choose, I’m sure fascination will be a part of their Alcatraz experience – as well a commitment to stay on the right side of the law.

We believe Alcatraz Island is one of the best attractions in San Francisco. I was surprised by how much Kalyra enjoyed it – both our kids had curious questions after visiting.

They were both interested to learn more about what really happened to the two escapees when our friend told us the next day. They discovered they did in fact escape successfully and made it to somewhere in South America.

They also couldn’t get over the fact that the warden and guard’s children lived on the island (and loved it) and there was NO WAY they’d ever live with prisoners right next to you.

Walking into those prison cells and feeling what the prisoners would have experienced was quite unnerving and Savannah was understandably a little freaked out.

Alcatraz Audio Tour

The Alcatraz audio tour is exceptional. They have managed to create an authentic experience with real sounds in the background, like clanging cell doors and footsteps as former inmates and guards recant stories and explain what life was like on Alcatraz.

Conditions would have been brutal with the wind cooing off the chilly water. But I guess, on a fog free day, they would have had good views at least.

I love experiences that have my children talking about it for days after it. You know they gained something important from it then. They found it one of the most fascinating San Francisco family activities.

2. Ride the Cable Cars

Finally, after a week of exploring the city, we found time to take our kids on the famous cable cars.

They’d been hearing the bell clang, watching it go up and down those hilly streets and even learning about how they worked on our private walking tour (more on that down below).

We took the cable car to extreme thrill levels by letting the girls stand on the side – is there any other way to ride a cable car in San Francisco?

I was freaking out a little, but trusted they were responsible enough to hold on tight and not fall off. You’d have to be monkeying around a lot to come off.

I enjoyed riding inside the cable car watching the driver work the brakes, the lever and the bell, and then spent the last five minutes off the side once a space opened up.

Our kids think the cable car was one of the most fun things to do in San Francisco with kids.

3. See the Sea Lions and attractions at Pier 39

We’ve seen so many sea lions before that the girls weren’t super excited about the sea lions of San Francisco.

find these animals so cute, playful and funny, and I enjoyed watching them bark, wrestle, sleep and swim in the waters just off Pier 39 at Fisherman’s Wharf.

They have taken over several of the docks here, and if you are not experienced with seeing sea lions in the wild, add this to your list!

Some other Pier 30 attractions your kids might enjoy are the Flyer Thrill Zone & 7D Experience, a seven-dimension ride experience that takes you through San Francisco, and the Magowan’s Infinite Mirror Maze.

Pier 39 is full of those touristy kitschy things. We didn’t hang around for too long, but we did those activities as it was included in our Sightseeing Pass and didn’t cost us any extra – and the girls really loved it.

4. Zip around in a GoCar

Driving around in a GoCar is an activity to do with your kids that you may not have thought of. Actually, when you see these small yellow cars zipping around the streets, you may think it’s not kid-friendly at all!

But our girls had a blast and it’s an activity that they were most looking forward to. Since it was part of our Sightseeing Pass, we gave it a go.

We only had an hour included with that, and I didn’t feel that was enough time. We left in peak hour traffic so got held up with that and didn’t get to jump out of the car.

I’d recommend hiring a car for more time and doing the longer routes around the Presidio and Golden Gate Park.

It really was a fun way to get around and are pretty easy to drive.

5. Get inspired at the Walt Disney Family Museum

The Walt Disney Family Museum is dedicated to the life, perseverance and imagination of Walt Disney, creator of some of America’s and the world’s’ most beloved animations, most notably Mickey Mouse – the mouse that started it all.

The museum features gallery and exhibits that showcase his early cartoon drawings movies, and models ofDisneyland.

I especially enjoyed hearing about his ‘failures’ and determinations to succeed and sitting on the park bench that helped plant the Disneyland seed.

While watching his daughters ride the carousel in Griffith Park in LA, Walt began to dream of a place where parents and kids could enjoy rides together.

See a problem, create a solution. I love Walt Disney!

When we visited the Mickey Mouse exhibit had just been been opened. It’s worth a visit to learn more about Mickey Mouse and even try your hand at drawing him. I was impressed with the girl’s efforts.

6. Cross the Golden Gate Bridge

We crossed the Golden Gate Bridge on the open air Big Bus, in a luxury Audi, and by driving our very own truck (Ford F250). No matter how you decide to cross it, crossing one of the world’s most iconic bridges is quite the thrill for everyone. Our kids found it most fun on the open air bus – although extremely windy and cold.

This made the Big Bus worth it for me and the ticket was included in our Sightseeing Pass, so it was a no brainer to use it as a way to get around the city and see the sites (see more on this bus down below).

I also loved seeing it through the front and roof windows of the Audi on our private driving tour of the city.

Cycling across the bridge is another wonderful way to experience the Golden Gate Bridge and you can’t miss the views from these places:

• North Vista
• South East Vista
• Baker Beach
• Overlook near the batteries

If you are long on time and energy, I suggest cycling all the way to Sausalito for lunch and maybe check out the Bay Area Discovery Museum, then catch the ferry back.

The real adventurous families could cycle all the way to Tiburon even!

7. Ride the Hop On Hop Off Bus

Don’t just use it to cross the bridge, young kids love sitting at the top of a big double decker bus! Use it to your advantage and travel around the city.

We like starting a visit to a new city by doing these hop-on-hop-off buses as it gives you a nice overview of the city and allows you to see some cool places you may wish to return to, whilst also sitting comfortably.

It can also help you save on transportation fees as they typically take you to the most iconic San Francisco points of interest.

And they are usually included in the Sightseeing Pass, which is also why we jump on these buses and suggest you add this activity to your list of things to do with kids in San Francisco bay area.

8. Take in the Spectacular Views from Coit Tower

I visited Coit Tower on my solo trip to San Francisco and instantly regretted not doing it on our family vacation.

The views from Coit Tower are absolutely stunning, especially if the typical San Francisco fog has risen and the blue sky is radiating.

Coit Tower is a 210-foot white, fluted tower in the Telegraph Hill neighborhood of San Francisco. It’s surrounded by Pioneer Park, which was established in 1876 on the former site of the telegraph station.

It costs $10 for tourists to go to the top of the tower for the views, but it is worth it. You’ll get 360-degree unobstructed views of San Francisco city and bay area – all the way out to the Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Bridge, Alcatraz Island and Angel Island.

You may enjoy the murals downstairs on the walls telling the story of life in California during the Depression.

Pioneer Park, at the bottom of the tower has nice gardens and seating areas and trails. I absolutely LOVED the gigantic gum trees around here. As if San Francisco didn’t’ remind me of Sydney enough.

I’ve been told there are parrots along the paths in Pioneer Park, which younger kids especially will love I did not see any but was not paying attention.

9. Shop in Haight-Ashbury

If your kids have grown up and you’re visiting San Francisco with teens, chances are they like shopping! So put the Haight-Ashbury district on your list. This neighborhood is the birthplace of the 1960’s counterculture movement and draws a diverse crowd looking to soak up the vibe.

Upper Haight Street is a hodgepodge of vintage clothing boutiques, record shops, bookstores, and casual, eclectic restaurants.

Our eldest had been wanting to buy a pair of Doc Martens boots with her pocket money for a while, and we convinced her to wait as buying a pair in Haight-Ashbury would be pretty cool.

Bordering Golden Gate Park, this neighborhood also features many colorful, well-preserved Victorian homes and is just a fun place to walk around.

The Japanese Tea Garden and Stow Lake is in Golden Gate Park near here as is Ocean Beach – a long wild rugged beach.

10. See the Painted Ladies, Alamo Square

Thanks to the TV show Fuller House and Netflix reruns, the Painted Ladies may be something everyone in your family will love. Our girls became fans of this hit TV show set in San Francisco thanks to Fuller House.

They loved visiting the Painted Ladies on Alamo Square and watching these famous colorful Victorian homes, figuring out which one is “the house.”

Here’s the truth: None of them!! These were just used as opening San Francisco homes. The Fuller House “house” is actually in Pacific Heights.

It’s mind boggling to see the amount of people enjoying a picnic and drinks and just sitting watching the houses… but hey, it’s free to do!

11. Get your Selfie on at the Museum of 3D illusions

Instagram cameras at the ready! The Museum of 3D Illusions will give you multiple backdrops and set changes to make your Instagram photos pop.

At the Museum of 3D Illusions they’ll even tell you where to stand with a circle camera on the floor indicating how you can create the perfect 3D illusion.

You’ll have artists from all over the world contributing to your set.

Just be aware there are plenty of people behind you waiting their turn – so sweet and snappy please!

What I love about visiting the Museum of 3D Illusions with kids as it’s about less about creating the perfect shot for likes but fostering their imagination and creativity.

The girls had a blast at each piece of artwork coming up with ideas on how to act to fit in with the artistic piece.

It is a bit pricey as far as San Francisco kids activities go ($25 for adults and $12 for kids), but the kids are sure to remember it! And much cheaper then buying all those props for your Instagram shots.

12. Walk down the Famous Lombard Street

A must do in San Francisco is walk or drive down the famous Lombard Street in the Nob Hill District.

Known as the most “crookedest street in the world”, Lombard’s 27 degrees was too dangerous for cars to drive down it so they added in a series of 8 hairpin turns.

It’s now filled with tourists walking, driving and biking down to get their Instagram shots of the quarter mile downhill stretch lined with gorgeous gardens.

You also get great city views of Fisherman’s Wharf and Alcatraz from the top of the street.

It’s much harder to take photos and videos when you drive down it, although it is a cool experience in San Francisco with kids not to miss.

13. Play at the Exploratorium Science Museum

We’ve done plenty of these hands on science museums and almost didn’t go here, however, The Exploratorium down at Pier 15 was absolutely worth it!

I was worried it would be too similar to what we have done before, but this was a very unique place with cool experiments that foster exploration and curiosity. The Exploratorium is included as anoption in the City Pass.

Sadly, we went an hour before closing time so had to race through it. You definitely need a few hours at the Exploratorium.

I LOVED the summer exhibit they had on Self, Made.

There were amazing experiments to give you greater insight into yourself and how to fit into a world that may feel so different and often uncomfortable.

14. Pose with the Murals in the Mission District

The interesting Mission District (an evolving neighborhood with Latino roots and hipster vibe) could be called a virtual outdoor art gallery full of vibrant murals and street art.

There are hundreds of walls and fences throughout the neighborhood showcasing colorful works of art featuring various themes.

Best viewed on foot, we took a stroll along Clarion Alley, between 17th and 18th streets, and Mission and Valencia streets. Clarion Alley is known for community and arts activities and often depicts themes of social inclusiveness.

More than 700 murals have been created since 1992, speaking to community concerns of social, economic, and environmental justice.

Our girls enjoyed posing in front of the colorful murals and also learned some important life messages.

Balmy Alley in the Mission District is also where you’ll find more vibrant street murals.

15. Relax in Mission Dolores Park

Whilst in the Mission District, head to Mission Dolores Park located on a hillside between Dolores and Church streets and 18th and 20th streets.

This park is one of San Francisco’s most beloved gathering spots: a hotbed for public rallies, marches, and clean park initiatives. It offers fantastic city views, open space for the kids to play (including a kid-friendly playground), and prime people watching.

It’s a wonderful place to visit in San Francisco with kids.

16. Meet Your Fave Celebrity at Madame Tussauds

Can you get more touristy than Madam Tussauds? Typically not what is at the top of our list of family vacation activities when visiting cities, but I actually really liked this one as it told the San Francisco story well and had pretty cool interactive museums.

We got to jam with Janis Joplin, Bob Marley and Jimi Hendrix! Plus fight Muhammad Ali and sit next to Al Capone in Alcatraz. You can’t get better than that.

Madame Tussauds is included in the San Francisco Sightseeing Pass so a no-brainer to go if you get the Day Pass.

17. Explore Chinatown with kids – food and murals

As the biggest Chinatown in the world, and the oldest in the USA, this is a place in San Francisco where your kids can learn about cultural diversity as they will feel like they have been transported to China.

Chinatown is bustling with markets, restaurants and small alleyways. Wander the streets and admire the pagodas and murals depicting Chinese customs, culture and beliefs.

The kids will definitely want to visit the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory in Ross Alley. They have been making fortune cookies by hand since 1962.

You can watch the ladies making the cookies and inserting the fortunes, sample some or buy your own box of cookies.

Be sure to check out more of Ross Alley while there. Once a notorious and dangerous street as the location of the Tong Wars. It’s also the location for scenes from Karate Kid II and Big Trouble in Little China.

And get a little insight into Taoism at the Tin Hau Temple hidden on the 4th floor of an apartment building on Waverly Street.

It is the oldest Taoist temple in San Francisco’s Chinatown, and one of the oldest still-operating Chinese temples in the US.

18. Take a private San Francisco walking tour

If your kids are like our girls, they love walking tours. They love the stories and characters and history they learn about.

City walking tours are a fantastic way to engage kids and help them connect to a destination and a real life learning experience. WAY better than learning about it from a textbook, or even a museum.

Like why they rushed to save the whisky distillery in the great fire, where the old heart of San Francisco used to be, the oldest Chinese restaurant in San Francisco, how some of the buildings were built on old whaling boats, and where delicious food can be found!

It’s also great to have a tour guide on hand to help snap family photos. We got so many good ones on this tour!

I’m sure like us, you rarely get a photo with every member of your family in it. This is such a special way to create lifelong memories of your trip.

All you have to do is relax and enjoy it and perhaps strike a Kung Fu move or two.

Video of our Private Walking Tour of San Francisco + Alcatraz

Click play below to watch our video.

What did you think? Cool walking tour huh?

19. Browse in the City of Lights Bookstore

City Lights Bookstore was founded in 1953 by poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti and Peter D. Martin and became became an instant gathering place for readers, writers, artists, and activists.

This bookstore is synonymous with Beatnik culture, showcasing the Beat Generation’s writing works and is best known for publishing Allen Ginsberg’s Howland Other Poems.

City of Lights is one of the most famous independent bookstores in the USA and has the most comprehensive collections of any bookstore in San Francisco.

Across three floors you’ll find new-release books from major publishing houses as well as harder-to-find, specialty publishers.

They also have a children’s book section, with selections for the children who are activists!

While here pop outside and enjoy…

20. Jack Kerouac Alley

Named after the famous writer, Jack Kerouac, this small alley is filled with murals and poetic wisdom from the greats starting from Confucius at the East side of the Alley (which is in Chinatown) moving down to Mayou Angelo down the west side of the alley.

While it’s fantastic for your literature loving teen, younger kids will love the vibrancy of the street art!

21. Play and Picnic at The Presidio Park

Oh yes. The Presidio Park quickly became one of my favorite places to go in San Francisco, particularly after seeing all you can do there.

Common utterings from me on our San Francisco trip was, “Wait, this is also part of The Presidio?”

Odds are you may have not heard of it Presidio Park. It’s a national park in an urban landscape and forms part of the greater Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

You can read our full post on thePresidio Park San Francisco.

These are the top things to do in Presidio (they will love the quiet escape from the madness of the streets of San Francisco)

• Ecology Trail
• Woodline in lovers lane
• Presidio Picnic
• Walt Disney Museum
• Julius Kahn Playground
• Crissy Field
• Yoda Statue at the Letterman Digital Arts Center Go into the lobby of Lucas films to also see Darth Vader. Can you find the small statue of chew backer

22. Learn at the California Academy of Sciences Museum

Many people recommended the California Academy of Science as a family attraction not to miss, and I’ll admit it does sound awesome.

However, we did not visit California Academy of Science as we found it expensive, costing our family of four over $140 to visit for the day.

Considering we travel full time and are immersed in the world of nature, science and natural history every day, we didn’t feel this was worth our money.

But, for you, this children’s museum may be completely different. I’d highly consider it on a return trip to San Francisco with kids if we had more budget.

Why is it so popular?

It’s an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum in the heart of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park and known to be a “powerful voice for biodiversity research and exploration, environmental education, and sustainability across the globe.”

The California Academy of Science includes:

1. Morrison Planetarium (within a 75 foot dome)
2. Steinhart Aquarium:  one of the most biodiverse and interactive aquariums in the world. home to nearly 40,000 live animals, representing more than 900 unique species
3.  Osher Rainforest: neotropical rainforest stretches 90 feet high with 1,600+ live plants and animals
4. Kimball Natural History Museum: interactive displays highlighting the uniqueness of our planet in surprising ways. 

It’s most noted for its living roof, which is a 2.5 acre rooftop of rolling hills and fields and plants, offering a home to local wildlife and helping to keep the building sustainable.

23. Hike the Lands End Trail

Looking to escape the congestion of the city? The The Lands End Trail is part of the Golden Gate Recreational Area and is one of my favorite hikes in San Francisco with kids.

This area reminded us so much of Australia with its rugged coastline trail, views of the bay and Golden Gate Bridge, and trees and wildflowers.

It is a tranquil and pretty spot to get out in nature and stretch your legs, and you’ll feel like you’re in a small coastal town.

It’s a 3.4 mile return trail, but we only walked a short way as we were short on time. I recommend going further down to the Lands End Labyrinth which looks super cool!

24. Bike the Golden Gate Park

In the 1870s’ more than 150,000 trees were planted on 1,000 acres to create a city park.

Golden Gate Park is now one of the largest urban parks in the United States, stretching more than 3 miles from the sea to the Panhandle. It’s easy to get lost in this verdant park with its wooded network of trails, gardens, lakes and museums.

The neighborhoods surrounding Golden Gate Park are worth exploring more for their diverse and award winning restaurants including Richmond, Sunset and Haight Asbury.

Hiring bikes is a great way to explore the park for a couple of hours up to a whole day if you like.

On the weekends they close part of the main thoroughfare which makes it a safe and more enjoyable ride. Although there are many trails off road which are just as good. Just watch for pedestrians.

There is plenty of places to visit in the Golden Gate Park on your ride.

• Koret Children’s Quarter has colorful slides, swings, rope climbing structures, an authentic carousel from 1914
• The Botanical Garden has more than Has more than 8,000 species of plants
• Japanese Tea Garden is a serenity place to sip on a cup of green tea. Craig and I loved visiting here on our San Francisco trip pre-kids.
• The aforementioned California Academy of Science and De Young Museum is also in the park.

There are even buffalos in the western end of the Golden Gate Park!

25. Visit Baker Beach

If your kids need a bit of beach play time, Baker Beach could be a worthwhile stop. But, wouldn’t be a place I’d recommend to hangout for a whole beach day.

I wouldn’t spend the whole day here. It’s too cold, too windy, dangerous water conditions. I also found the sand pretty dark and yucky and there was a bit of trash around.

Thankfully, our girls picked up a lot of it – the good Junior Rangers they are. There are picnic tables and grills here, which adds to the attraction of some family beach time out

The best reason for visiting is stunning view from Baker Beach of the Golden Gate Bridge against the Marin Headlands.

You can also admire the houses perched on the cliffs at Sea Cliff. The big brownish red one at the end is Jack Dorsey’s house, owner of Twitter. You can also see it from the Lands End Trail from the China Beach side.

Be sure to drive through the gorgeous Sea Cliff neighborhood after to look at the million-dollar homes lining the cliff face.

26. Slide down the Seward Street Slides

We didn’t make the Seward Street Slides, but we had several people recommend it to us. The Seward Street Slides are two long, steep concrete slides, designed by 14-year-old Kim Clark, and are the main event in the community park, Seward Mini Park.

It says to bring a piece of cardboard and wear sturdy pants and enjoy the thrill. All adults must be accompanied by children!

27. Visit the Redwoods at Muir Woods

If you’re looking for San Francisco kids activities that involve nature, don’t miss immersing yourself in the green world of the redwood forest in Muir Woods National Monument.

Muir Woods is one of the unique San Francisco attractions – well it’s just outside of the city, so it’s one of the top attractions near San Francisco. You can easily visit Muir Woods in just a couple of hours.

Our girls learned so much about the redwoods through the Junior Ranger Program at Muir Woods.

These are magnificent trees and you may want to hug a few. Redwoods are the tallest living thing and have very shallow roots that would be the equivalent to your big toe. Such a fun fact.

Do the easy 2-mile loop walk.

Start on the right hand side of the trail beside the serene and pretty creek and then at the end go left and up the hill to take the more slightly elevated trail back.

This will give you a great overlook from the canopy and will end up joining with the creek trail. Then take advantage of the many seats along the way to pause and soak up their beauty.

Thankfully because of the parking permit situation the crowds here are managed and it’s not too busy.

Video of Muir Woods, San Francisco

Click play below to watch us walk amongst these giants.

Aren’t they just incredible trees? Definitely make time to go see them.

28. Eat Delicious Ice cream from Bi-Rite Creamery

There are several places to get ice cream in San Francisco with kids of all ages that adults will love too, but many Bay Area locals will agree that you can’t beat a cup of Bi-Rite Creamery.

You’ll find them down in the Mission District, or if you see the ice cream truck go by be sure to wave it down.

I recommend the salted caramel and honey lavender. I thought my coffee toffee was the ultimate.

29. Taste Chocolates and Cheese (AND wine) at Ghirardelli Square

There is something for all members at the family at Ghirardelli Square. It was my favorite area of Fisherman’s’ Wharf and didn’t feel as touristy as Pier 39 and the main hub of Fisherman’s Wharf.

Ghirardelli Square is the site of the old Ghirardelli Chocolate Factory. It’s now a combination of retail and dining, but there is a Ghirardelli store and ice cream bar to satisfy your chocolate cravings.

You can order them a sundae from the ice cream bar (expect a wait on the line here) or pick your favorite chocolate flavors and fill up a to go sample box (line much shorter).

With chocolate box in hand, walk through the middle of the square and past the fountain to The Cheese School. Order a platter of local cheese and a glass of wine and find a seat in the glassed conservatory and admire the views over the bay and a slight glimpse of the bridge.

This was perhaps my favorite twenty minutes of our entire San Francisco trip and nothing you will find on any other things to do with kids in San Francisco list.

30. Eat the best Chocolate Croissants in the USA

Who cares about giving the kids a chocolate croissant treat? Well, this is one delicacy you’ll push your kids out of line for!

The chocolate croissants at Arsicault Bakery were named best in the country. Yes you heard that correctly.

I’m gluten free and couldn’t resist a bite. OMG. I could have easily demolished the whole thing but exercised restraint. Move over Paris you have some competition! Get there as close to opening as possible as the pastries sell out early!

31. Enjoy Smitten Ice Cream

Oh, go on then! Since you’re in San Francisco for longer than a day, you can have more ice cream.

Another local’s fave in San Francisco, and what kids don’t love ice cream?

Robyn Sue Fisher is a lifelong ice cream freak from Stanford University who started selling her Smitten Ice Cream out of a Radio Flyer wagon in 2009.

Her homemade ice cream was made to order, flash-frozen at the time of sale with liquid nitrogen in her own ice cream machine that was powered by a battery pack she built out of an old motorcycle battery.

Due to the smaller-sized crystals achieved with liquid nitrogen, the ice cream was ultra-creamy. She uses only unprocessed, real, locally sourced and sustainable ingredients.

Using social media, she alerted her fans to the flavor of the day and the wagon’s whereabouts.

Today she has three shops in SF and one in Oakland.

How to Save Money on San Francisco Attractions

As mentioned before, we used a sightseeing pass called San Francisco Sightseeing Pass on our visit to San Francisco and it saved us a ton of money!

Traveling with kids always adds an additional cost, and we couldn’t have visited as many museums and attractions as we did without it.

The San Francisco Sightseeing Pass can save you up to 42% or more on combined admission to San Francisco’s top attractions.

Getting Around San Francisco

• MUNI buses are good for cheap city wide travel. There are over 50 routes. Google Maps is best for helping you figure out what lines to take to your destinations. You can buy and use tickets through the Muni app. Fare is $2.75 for adults $1.35 for kids. You can buy day prices. You need exact fare. Cash only.
• Cable Cars are best for tourist thrills and capturing views. The Cable Cars will help you navigate the San Francisco steep hills. Lines: Powell-Hyde, Powell Mason, and California st $7 one way; $21 day pass
• The BART is best for East Bay exploration. The Bay Area Rapid Transport connects San Francisco t5o the Easter and southern sides of the aby and beyond.
• San Francisco Bay Ferries are best for North Bay exploration.
• Ride and bike share are best for setting your own schedule. Lyft and Uber can help you get to where you want to go quickly and easily. May be cheaper for group travel.
• Bay Wheels Bikes are docked on the city streets and require an app to use.
• Clipper Card is the all-in-one transit card for the Bay Area you can load it with cash to ride on Muni, Bart, Caltrain and ferries.

Be warned, this city has a lot of hills, and can get windy!

Video: Visiting San Francisco with Kids

Click play to watch the fun we had visiting the San Francisco with our kids, especially the fun we had at the Museum of 3D Illusions!

More Northern California Travel Tips

Need more inspiration for Northern California? Here are some other helpful guides…

• Lost Coast California Road trip: from black sand beaches to giant redwood trees.
• Reasons to Visit Russian River, California
• Amazing things to do in Yosemite National Park with kids
• Incredible places to visit in California
• Things to do in Napa Valley, California

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As a perpetual solo traveler and someone who is always on the lookout for the next big adventure, it can be a fine line trying to stay on budget and make your dream trip come true at the same time.

When traveling alone, the conception is that it’s going to be more expensive as you have to pay the whole cost alone, rather than splitting it.

Though with some careful planning and awareness, solo travel on a tight budget is possible and also pretty easy.

Here is how to travel solo on a budget for those who want to get the best rate possible!

How to save money on accommodation

I think many people are under the impression that if you are traveling by yourself, accommodation is more expensive.

Personally, I haven’t really found that to be the case.

Most hotel booking sites or house rental sites ask how many people are looking for a room and the number of rooms, and many times you get a different quote for single occupancy.

Sometimes if that isn’t the case, I’ve contacted hotels directly via phone or email saying it’s just one person in a double room (if single supplement prices aren’t an option) and if I can get a discount.

Otherwise, consider these accommodation options…

1. Stay in hostels

If you are traveling alone and don’t mind staying in a hostel, then this is usually the cheapest accommodation.

You pay per person, per bed, which usually is drastically cheaper than single rooms in a hotel.

Hostels also allow you to mingle with other solo travelers, so you can join together for sightseeing or sharing a taxi, which works out cheaper.

2. Book accommodation late for last minute deals

Most people assume that you get a better deal if you book in advance. This can sometimes be the case, but you can also nab last minute deals.

If you can, be flexible with accommodation, the later you book the better deal you get.

You can always book in advance when you see a good deal, but make sure it’s a place that offers free cancellation within 24 hours of your stay.

Then you can shop around for last minute deals and cancel if you find something better.

Nowadays, I don’t even book in advance unless I have to.

I find the place I want to stay online on a booking site, and then phone the hotel directly to enquirer about prices and book whichever one is cheaper.

3. Stay in a private room on Airbnb

If you don’t like hostels and find them too loud and noisy, another way to save on accommodation is to stay with hosts on Airbnb.

This is a great way to connect with the local community and meet new people, as well as getting a cheap bed for the night and a quieter atmosphere.

Airbnb hosts often have tips for saving money in their destination, such as cheaper forms of public transportation, or where to find local street foods, or tell you of websites that might have sign-up bonuses or free classes and vouchers.

4. Volunteer for free accommodation

You can also volunteer in a hostel or hotel for free accommodation, in exchange for a couple of hours of work.

In some countries, you might even earn a small wage for your time as well as get a free bed for the night.

You may have to clean hotel rooms, manage the reception, or work on the vallet. Be sure to negotiate the terms in advance though – you don’t want to be taken advantage of and work full time for free!

How to save money on transportation

Personally I find transportation to be much friendlier for solo travelers than the other way around.

The one time I volunteered to sort out transport on a group trip, I gave up after a day and had to delegate the task onto someone else with more patience than me. After all time is money.

1. When renting a car, look for rental relocations

For me, the only time staying on budget with transportation comes into question is with car or campervan rentals, though that hasn’t stopped me in recent years. Check out my campervan trip in New Zealand.

It just means I have to get creative with my budget. Between the cost of the hire, insurance, gas, and parking costs for campervans, it can get expensive.

Here are some ways I cut down costs on rentals:

• First off, I get the cheapest rental with basic insurance online in advance, not in the airport when I arrive. I go through all of the sites and look for deals until I find a good one from a good company. Oftentimes car hires have weekly discount rates too.
• Do you need insurance? My credit card/property insurance in the US covered rentals overseas as well, or if you book travel insurance, this might help you save on insurance costs at the rental company.
• One of my best secrets are rental relocations, especially for campervans. Oftentimes a rental company with give you a free or $1 a day rental for you to move it between cities for them. For example in New Zealand, it’s very common to fly into Auckland, rent a car and drive all the way to Queenstown and fly out. If you go the opposite direction, you can likely move a vehicle back to Auckland for very little. Oftentimes they’ll include a tank of gas ($100+) and a ferry ticket as well.

2. Use Gas Buddy

There is an app called Gas Buddy, which allows you to look online to find the best gas prices to help you save.

Most holiday parks, at least in New Zealand, have a cheaper rate for solo travelers in campervans as well.

If you are traveling alone, you don’t have to pay a higher rate.

This isn’t assumed though so make sure you say that when you book in.

3. Use Uber Pool

In some countries, like Australia, you can use Uber Pool, which is a feature of Uber that allows you to split the cost of your fare with someone.

Remember that tip earlier about finding friends in hostels?

You can also select ride share options on other ride share apps like Grab and Bolt, where you allow someone to share your cab with you if you’re going in the same direction.

4. Always use local transportation

Get around the same way that the locals do. If it’s buses, get the bus, if it’s trains, take the train.

If the locals are doing it, then it’s usually the least expensive travel method.

How to save money on food

1. Cook with new travel friends

Most group travelers save on food by cooking together and sharing meals, something intrinsically more difficult to do as a solo traveler.

Often times when I am staying in hostels or guesthouses with communal kitchens and end up making friends with the other people staying, we would sometimes cook a dinner together, but not always.

Cooking for yourself can sometimes work out cheaper, and sometimes work out more expensive than eating out.

2. Stay in places with breakfast included

Generally, I try to stay in places where breakfast is included so that leaves lunch and dinner to sort out for myself.

As a rule, I usually have a big breakfast and one other proper meal and a light, snack per day to keep costs down.

Though costs vary so widely depending on where you are in the world. You can gorge yourself on street food in Thailand, and barely make a dent in your wallet.

3. Have a daily budget and stick to it

Many places meals are so cheap you don’t even have to budget for them while in others they can break the bank, I try to do a daily meal budget wherever I am if I have to be careful and stick to it.

If you are by yourself, eating meals is so easy because you can do whatever you want and don’t have to compromise on anything.

Over the years I find I spend less feeding myself when I am alone than when I am with others because there is less of an urge to go out and take on the city and go a little crazy.

And I certainly save on alcohol when I am alone, a total bonus.

4. Eat street food and the local cuisine

International food, especially fast food, is usually the most expensive form of food when you travel.

In many countries, street food is widely popular and is nearly always the cheapest option. It’s certainly cheaper than eating in a restaurant.

5. Eat away from tourist attractions

A top tip, which we especially found in Italy, is to eat away from the tourist attractions.

Eating close to historical sites and landmarks usually adds a tourist tax to the meal, as you are paying for the view.

Look for restaurants down side streets, or outside the main city center, for more affordable prices.

How to save money on sightseeing

1. Go on free walking tours

My top solo travel budget tip is to always take a free walking tour of any new destination when you arrive.

Not only are they free, and you just tip what you feel the tour is worth at the end, but you also get a local’s knowledge of the area and can ask for more budgeting tips.

They might know some great places to eat, things to do, and provide more inspiration for your trip.

2. Look for free museum nights

Sometimes museums have free nights or days, such as the last Sunday of the month, or Tuesday evenings.

They vary depending on the museum, so you would need to look this up beforehand.

3. Go to free attractions

Many destinations have free attractions, such as nature parks where you can hike through amazing landscapes, or temples and churches, which are often free to enter.

Look for parks, rivers, markets, and sometimes even museums and galleries, which have free entry.

On most of my solo trips, I’ve spent more time in free attractions than paid ones.

4. Sign up for group tours

You can sometimes find solo travel deals with tour companies like G Adventures or Intrepid.

Some countries which are not cheap for solo travel, such as Japan or North America, are cheaper with group travel.

There may also be places you feel uncomfortable traveling alone to, such as South America if you don’t speak Spanish.

Just because you take a trip alone, doesn’t mean you have to be alone.

How to save money on flights

1. Look up the exchange rates before booking

When affordability is really important to you, it’s always a good idea to check the exchange rate before booking.

If you see the currency of the place you are going to is falling, you might want to book elsewhere, as airlines often put up the prices of fares to accommodate the loss in the future.

If you visit countries with a more stable currency, the prices of the flights won’t fluctuate so much. This is more important when booking international flights.

2. Fly midweek

Having a bit of flexibility in when you fly is always a good way to save money when traveling solo.

Flight prices tend to be cheaper if you fly midweek, as there is less of a demand for seats on those dates.

On Fridays and the weekend, there are more people flying for short breaks and business travel, so flying on a Tuesday – Thursday may offer better deals.

3. Search on Google Flights and then book direct

I always use Google Flights to look up fares and schedules to find the most convenient flight.

Then I go through my price comparison by looking up prices on Google, Kiwi, Skyscanner, Momondo, and with the airline directly.

Most of the time, booking direct with the airline has worked out better. They often have rewards for returning customers, and you can add baggage and meals for a cheaper price.

Sometimes, Kiwi has shown up cheaper flights than with an airline directly, but may not come with hold luggage.

4. Fly carry-on only

Your big suitcase is not only going to be a pain in the backside lugging around all over, but it will cost you to fly with.

The price of hold luggage on planes these days is getting crazy expensive.

Don’t burn a hole in your pocket and fly carry on only, and avoid paying for excess baggage fees.

5. Get a travel credit card and earn points

If you sign up for a travel credit card, you can earn points when you buy things, which can then be used to pay for hotels, flights, car rentals, and other perks when you travel.

It’s something that requires investment beforehand and pays off later, so is really a budget saving trip for people who plan to travel long-term or more frequently.

More Solo Travel Tips

• Ways to Deal with Solo Travel Negativity from Family & Friends
• Easy Tips to meet people as a Female Solo Traveler
• Tips to nail effective communication as a solo traveler
• Destinations For First Time Solo Female Travelers
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If you’re planning a trip to LA, you might be considering staying in downtown Los Angeles.

It’s not the hippest neighborhood in the city, but that doesn’t mean your accommodation has to be rundown and dreary.

Hotel Indigo Los Angeles Downtown is a boutique hotel just a 10-minute walk from the 7^th Street Station.

Not only is the location ideal, but the service, facilities, and variety of entertainment on offer, make it a wonderful place to stay when you need an urban vibe.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in a non-touristy part of LA, here is why you might want to consider this boutique hotel in downtown as a base for your adventure.

What I Liked About 4-Star Hotel Indigo – Los Angeles Downtown, IHG Hotel

1. A Downtown LA Hotel Original As Its Surroundings

With 350 guest rooms and suites, the 18-story hotel pulls inspiration from the city’s past to create a chic, upscale design with innovative twists, creativity, and floral accents, that caught my eye the minute I walked through the door.

I’ve stayed in a couple different Hotel Indigo properties before, and I always love the original, artistic design.

No two Indigos are alike, and this Los Angeles property in Downtown definitely had its own personality.

Entering the lobby, I was greeted by a floor to ceiling installation of bowler hats stationed above vibrant flower-patterned carpeting that references La Fiesta de Las Flores, a Los Angeles cultural celebration that dates back to 1894.

2. The Prohibition Era Lounge Bar

Nods to LA history and culture carry throughout the hotel, continuing from the lobby and upstairs to 18 Social Lounge, a penthouse cocktail lounge that evokes the Golden Age of Hollywood, located on the 18th floor.

From here you views of the dazzling lights of downtown cityscapes, all while being surrounded by flashy décor and classy cocktails.

One important note: this lounge is only open Wednesday through Saturday from 7.00pm – 10.00pm.

3. The Metropole Bar + Kitchen

If you miss out by staying on a Tuesday night, as I did, the downstairs bar at Metropole Bar + Kitchen is just as classy.

The LA story of Golden Age Cinema continues in The Metropole Bar + Kitchen, which is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Plus, happy hour from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. has a variety of small bites and classy drinks for decent prices.

The restaurant also has a fantastic continental breakfast menu; the huevos rancheros was definitely on par with authentic Mexican fare from traditional restaurants around LA.

4. Lots of common areas

Beyond cocktail lounges, this boutique hotel has plenty of other common spaces to either relax or get some work done, especially on the third and fourth floors.

I spent the better part of the afternoon reclining on one of the poolside lounge chairs next to the outdoor swimming pool, with an expansive view of the city.

When I initially entered the hotel off the chaos of Figueroa and 9th Streets, I never would have expected to find such a tranquil oasis.

The hotel’s central location puts you right in the center of the action, so having quiet time is important.

There are also 12 meeting rooms, a 24-hour business center, and a conference center with high speed & wireless internet, and has a total exhibit space that can accommodate 600 people.

5. The pool

The outdoor pool turned out to be the perfect place to not only recharge but also bring out the laptop: the free common area internet access works throughout the hotel.

There’s also a state of the art fitness center near the pool which is great for guests who like to stay active on their trips.

After I had enough sun, I descended a spiraling marble staircase to the light-filled common space on the third floor to wrap up work on its plush, modern couches.

6. Rooms Designed for Hollywood

After exploring the hotel, coming back to my stylish, inviting guestroom felt like walking through the door of the city apartment I’ve always dreamed of having.

The executive king room is modern, comfortable, and light-filled with high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, and plush bedding.

It continued the hotel’s theme of artistic design elements with an oversized mural and a Klieg light: a feature of many old school Hollywood movie sets.

The air-conditioned rooms come with all the mod cons you need, such as a snack bar, free Wi-Fi, seating area, a hairdryer, refrigerator, and even slippers and robes.

You also get a separate toilet and spa-style bathrooms. In the bathroom, decorated in pre-Hollywood glamour, with a rainfall walk-in showers and Aveda amenities, it felt invigorating and luxurious.

Though there’s much to explore outside the hotel, I wasn’t quick to turn off the flat-screen TV and leave my satellite channels and chaise lounge, but I knew I had a lot of sites to see.

See rates and availability here.

7. A Downtown LA Location Like No Other

When I was younger, my family would come to town to shop for deals on clothes along Santee Alley, then leave.

In the last few years, though, Downtown LA has become a destination itself, especially since the opening of downtown’s new metropolis development, which locals like me have come to appreciate.

It seems every month I hear about a new experimental restaurant concept, or a new café like Don Francisco’s Coffee Casa Cubana inside the Spring Arcade Building.

Hotel Indigo is located on Francisco Street, putting it within convenient access to many top attractions. Microsoft Theater is a short 550 meters walk down the street from the luxury hotel, and is one block north of LA Live entertainment district and its neon lights!

The Arts District, a 15-minute drive from the hotel, also can’t be missed, but my favorite spot is the Grand Central Market. Inside the market vendors serve up international cuisine from Thai curry to pupusas, a traditional dish from El Salvador.

Within two blocks of the Indigo Hotel, Staples Center hosts popular concerts and sporting events, which draw crowds to the adjacent LA Live complex, making it a lively place to hang out any night of the week whether or not you see a show.

Within the entertainment complex, the Grammy Museum tells the history of the music industry, but it doesn’t outweigh the option to just pop into one of several restaurants in the complex.

The lobby’s touchscreen neighborhood guide is also a good way of discovering attractions within the local area, as well as recommendations for nightlife in the entertainment district of Los Angeles.

8. The staff

The team members at Hotel Indigo are locals themselves, so they were very helpful guiding me through the best things to see and do in the Downtown Los Angeles neighborhood.

They made check-in and check-out easy, helped with our special requests, such as providing a crib for a baby, and making sure you have the best experience possible.

9. Close to the airport

Traveling to LA means getting stuck in traffic, and you don’t know traffic until you have tried getting to and from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

Fortunately, Hotel Indigo is only a 35 minute drive on two highways from Los Angeles Intl Airport and Long Beach Municipal Airport.

The nearest airport is LAX but only marginally.

The Verdict: Would I Recommend It?

There were plenty of things I liked about Hotel Indigo in Downtown LA, and not much that I didn’t like.

So yes, I highly rate this hotel as a place to stay in downtown.

Just one night certainly wasn’t enough to unlock all of the best experiences downtown, so I look forward to returning to Hotel Indigo – if only because that sky-high pool is the best place to close out summer.

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