How to Authentically Experience Culture While Supporting Locals

April 2, 2024

Getting in touch with locals is the perfect way to engage meaningfully with all a destination has to offer.

A meal shared in the Philippines. Avel Chuklanov. CC0 1.0

Whether you are growing distrustful of hyped social media recommendations when traveling somewhere new or are merely trying to find a way to support locals on your journey, there are many ways to create an enjoyable trip while experiencing the beauty of a city from the perspective of one of its inhabitants. From sharing meals to discovering the delights of a city beyond mere tourist attractions, engaging with locals is an excellent way to enjoy the unadulterated beauty of a destination.

For many, part of immersing themselves in a culture revolves around the dinner table. Although both dives and upscale restaurants offer a plethora of meal-sharing experiences, there is nothing like enjoying a home-cooked meal. Spanning 6 continents, Traveling Spoon connects travelers with locals hoping to welcome tourists to their culture through the power of food. Whether it be a traditional cooking class using family recipes in Ecuador or gaining new insight into French cuisine through a vinegar tour in Cognac, the website provides a variety of options for travelers to experience a full range of culinary experiences. From market tours to cooking classes, Traveling Spoon cultivates connections and allows those coming from near or far to feel at home when abroad.

Similar to Traveling Spoon, Eat With is a popular sight for travelers looking to get an authentic food experience. While Traveling Spoon offers more destinations, eatwith.com is a good source for those visiting major cities such as New York, Rome and Paris. Both sites offer experiences as low as $15, but some vendors can charge into the hundreds of dollars depending on the city and precise details of the experience.

With 151 destinations spanning 40 countries, theInternational Greeter Association is a non-profit offering free walking tours around various cities. Started in 1992 in New York City, this free-of-charge service is now expanding again after the Covid-19 pandemic. The greeter network is composed of passionate locals looking to show off what their city has to offer and to provide a friendly face to those visiting.

The not-for-profit nature of the organization makes utilizing the International Greeter Association an excellent way for tourists to engage with a city and its culture from an insider's perspective; learning about local gems, using public transport and discussing the greeter’s personal relationship with their city can be a great way to engage on with a destination on a whole new level, and maybe make a friend along the way.

Although social media is riddled with hyped restaurants and attractions that can make searching for cultural authenticity difficult, following creators that unveil local secrets is an excellent way to leverage new technology. For example, Elizabeth and Sophie Michilli are a mother-daughter duo from Italy who showcase their experiences in Puglia and Rome, highlighting local favorite restaurants and boutiques. Though it can be difficult to navigate through sponsored and algorithmically recommended content, using social media as a tool to engage with local creators can be an effective way to meaningfully tailor your trip to support local establishments.

Nicola DeGregorio

Nicola is studying English Literature at George Washington University, where she also reports for the student newspaper, The Hatchet. Nicola's passion for literature and writing has sparked an interest in exploring the broader context surrounding written texts. Researching and writing for Catalyst Planet allows her to investigate nuanced issues that intersect with her interests in art history, culinary practices, and cultural traditions.

How to Score Cheap International Flights

May 2, 2023

International travel doesn't have to break the bank - learn how to find the best deals.

Are you tired of scrolling through endless airline websites, only to find overpriced flights and unreasonably long layovers? You might spend hours scouring the internet for the cheapest flights, only to end up with a ticket that costs more than your entire travel budget. How can you really be sure you're getting the best price? And what about all those rumors about using incognito windows or clearing your search history to save a few bucks? So, get ready to take some notes and let's explore some reputable tips and tricks of budget-friendly flights.

First step: Use Google Flights for searching

Let's face it, nobody has the time to sift through every single airline’s website to find the best deals on international flights. That is where Google Flights comes in handy. Think of Google Flights as your personal travel agent, minus the hefty commission fees, and available 24/7. Unlike other travel search engines that act as online travel agents, or OTAs, Google Flights is a global distribution platform, giving starters the access to the most reliable and up-to-date information on travel pricing. Furthermore, thanks to its advanced filters, you can easily find flights that fit your exact requirements, whether it is the cheapest option, the quickest journey time, or the most convenient route.

But what actually distinguishes Google Flights is its ability to show you alternate airports and routes. For example, if you are flying to a major city, Google Flights will display all nearby airports, allowing you to select the cheapest choice. If you are willing to change flights or go greater distances, Google Flights can show you alternate routes that may offer lower fares.The search engine giant automatically presents the top outgoing flights based on a range of characteristics such as price, routing convenience, number of stops, and journey time. Rather than having to navigate various airline websites and keep track of all the different costs, Google Flights brings together all of the information you require in one spot. It also allows you to book flights up to 11 months in advance, helping you take advantage of the best offers first.

Book directly from airline companies

Booking airline tickets through third-party sites like Kiwi.com, Booking.com, and Expedia may seem like a convenient option, but they can often lead to trouble. Potential issue with booking through third-party sites is that they may not always have access to the most up-to-date information about flight schedules and changes. This means that travelers who book through a third party may not receive timely notifications about changes to their itinerary, leaving them stranded or unsure about the status of their flight. Many travelers have experienced the disappointment of canceled or delayed flights, caught in a frustrating blame game with the online travel agency and airlines. That is why booking directly with the airline is often the best choice. Not only will you receive the most up-to-date information and pricing, but you will also enjoy added benefits such as loyalty rewards and upgrades. Certain credit cards like Citi AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard and Marriott Rewards Premier Credit Card offer exclusive advantages when you book directly with the airline, such as discounted fares or bonus miles. Qatar Airways rewards you with a 2,000 Avios bonus for first-time direct bookings, which can be redeemed for reward miles on Qatar Airways, oneworld airlines, or airline partners, helping you save money and earn perks on your next international flight.

Be flexible with travel dates and times

If you are looking to save money on international flights, flexibility is key. Being open to traveling during off-peak seasons can often result in significantly lower prices. For instance, visiting Europe during the summer months when demand is high will almost always come with a hefty price tag. Avoid mid-June to August if possible. Additionally, the day of the week you choose to fly can also make a difference. According to Google data from the past five years, flying on a Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday can be 12% cheaper than flying on a weekend. So, remember the “Flight first” principle - focus on finding the right flights before locking in specific travel dates. Rather than limiting yourself to a particular day, consider a week-long window of time that works for you. And don’t forget to pay attention to flight times as well. While “red-eye flights” that cross multiple time zones may not be the most comfortable option, they are often less expensive than shorter, direct flights. So, be flexible with your travel plans, weigh the costs and benefits, and choose the most cost-efficient and convenient option for your next adventure.

Book in advance

Proper planning and preparation are the keys to snagging the best deals on international flights. It is important to strike a balance between booking early and not booking too early. Booking early for the right amount of time can provide you with more options, better pricing, and minimize the risk of missing out on seats, but it can also mean missing out on last-minute deals. Different airlines have different time frames for when you can start booking, so it is essential to do some research and find out when the best time to book is.

According to research, the best time to book a flight in general is between 320 and 106 days before your trip. The best time to book an international flight also depends on the destination. For instance, the cheapest airfares for destinations such as Canada can be found if you book two months before departure. The best time to buy flights to other parts of the world, including the Caribbean, Mexico, the Middle East, Central America, Asia, Africa, and Europe is at least three months before the departure date. The cheapest flights usually start dropping at the 105-day mark. It is also important to keep in mind that pricing is affected by seasonality. For example, the best time to book a flight for summer vacations is 67 days before departure. For winter trips, it is 94 days before the departure date, and for fall trips, it is 89 days before departure.

Consider positioning flights to major hubs

This strategy involves taking a domestic or short international flight from your home airport to a bigger gateway city with more award availability on foreign airlines. Some of the biggest U.S. airports with regular international flights include New York (JFK), Miami (MIA), Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), Seattle (SEA), Chicago-O’Hare (ORD), Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), Houston-Intercontinental (IAH), and Boston (BOS), and other major cities. The price difference can be huge when flying from major hubs. For example, a flight from Chicago to Prague costs only $437, while the same flight from New Orleans costs $1,580. Similarly, as you can see from the screenshots below, for the flight in June, a nonstop flight from LAX to Dubai costs $880, while a 2-stop flight from Long Beach International Airport costs at least $1332.. However, it is important to keep in mind that using positioning flights can also come with additional expenses and risks. For example, you may need to book a hotel if you are arriving the night before your flight. If you book your flights separately, you'll need to collect your baggage and check in again for the second segment of your flight. This can be a time-consuming process, so be sure to leave plenty of time between flights. Be flexible, do your research, and position yourself for the best deal on your next international flight.

Screenshots from Google, flying from Long Beach to Dubai

Screenshots from Google, flying from LAX to Dubai

Look for flexible booking options

Flexible flights offer travelers the option to change or cancel their flights without any extra charges, making it convenient for them to reschedule or cancel their flights. Major airlines like Delta, Southwest, United Airline, Jetstar, and Qantas all offer flexible flight options, and you can check their website to see if they offer free flexible, changeable, or refundable fares. Usually, you can change your travel dates within the validity of your ticket, which can range from one month to one year, but changes must be made at least 24 hours before your outbound or inbound travel for domestic flights and before the departure date for international flights. Name and destination changes are not allowed, and changes can only be made during business hours. However, it’s worth noting that some airlines charge slightly higher fees for Flexi fares. But it is still a great deal because with ordinary tickets, you typically have to pay both a change fee and a rebooking fee. Flexible flights are perfect for travelers who want to extend their trip or travel earlier.

Consider flights with layovers instead of direct flights

According to new data, adding a layover to your flight itinerary can save you around 20% on airfare. And while some may grumble about the inconvenience, there are actually some unexpected benefits to taking a break in your journey. For one, layovers give you the chance to stretch your legs and release some energy, which can be a godsend for families with restless children. Many airports even have kid-friendly play areas, and some, like Singapore's Changi Airport, boast amenities like gardens, a swimming pool, and even a movie theater. Layovers can be a healthy choice, too. At high altitudes, the air pressure is lower and the air is thinner and less humid, which can be hard on your body. Taking a break between flights can help your body acclimate and reduce your risk of developing health issues. And if you need a quick refresh before your next flight, some airports have short-stay hotels with showers and other amenities. Some layovers offer unexpected scenery, like the beaches of Hawaii or the mountains of Switzerland. While layovers can offer many benefits, note that not all airlines or airports offer them. Be sure to check the airline's website for any restrictions or fees associated with layovers before booking your ticket. Additionally, some layovers may be longer than others, so make sure to plan accordingly and pack any necessary items in your carry-on luggage.

Take advantage of airline discounts and deals

While it's impossible to monitor every single discount out there, signing up for notifications from airlines you frequently travel with can help you stay up-to-date on potential deals. For instance, Southwest recently extended its 2023 Travel Sale, offering one-way fares starting at $59. These sale fares must be booked by the end of the day on Thursday and are available for midweek travel to most destinations through May 17. Air Tahiti Nui is also offering a great deal with their Explore New Zealand rate. This offer is perfect for travelers departing from Los Angeles or Seattle, as it offers a round-trip fare to Auckland starting at $975 per person for flights booked by April 24, 2023, and scheduled between now and the end of June. To stay on top of these deals, sign up for notifications and newsletters from airlines and travel websites. Frequently checking your inbox can lead to finding great discounts and deals on your next flight. It's also important to note that some deals may have restrictions or specific booking dates, so be sure to read the terms and conditions before booking.

Consider booking one-way tickets instead of round-trip tickets

Round-trip tickets include both a flight to the destination and a return flight to the starting point, while one-way tickets offer more booking flexibility and allow travelers to earn rewards points with two different airlines that service the destination, and they may avoid expensive penalty fees for changing flights. If a traveler needs to change their plans, they can simply not use one leg of the trip and purchase another one-way ticket, which can be cheaper than changing a round-trip ticket. Additionally, one-way tickets may be beneficial for travelers who are uncertain about their return date or who plan to travel to multiple destinations. However, before booking, it's important to compare the prices of both options. Round-trip tickets may be cheaper in certain situations, particularly for domestic flights or for travelers who are certain of their travel dates. It's also important to consider the potential inconvenience of booking two separate tickets, such as the need to recheck bags or to switch terminals between flights.

In the end, the key to booking the best deal on international flights is to consider your priorities. Are you a traveler on a budget, or do you have some extra cash to splash? Are you flying solo, or do you have a whole squad to accommodate? And most importantly, how much value do you place on your time and comfort? These factors will help determine whether you opt for a budget airline with no frills or a full-service carrier with all the bells and whistles.

But regardless of your preferences, there are some tricks of the trade that can help you save both time and money. Do your research and stay informed. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to figure out the best way to book your flights. But by keeping these tips in mind, you can feel confident that you're getting the best deal possible on your international travel.

Hope is a Chinese international student at Wake Forest University in North Carolina studying sociology, statistics, and journalism. She dreams of traveling around the globe as a freelance reporter while touching on a wide range of social issues from education inequality to cultural diversity. Passionate about environmental issues and learning about other cultures, she is eager to explore the globe. In her free time, she enjoys cooking Asian cuisine, reading, and theater.

Rising Travel Fees in Bhutan

July 26, 2022

After two years of being closed off to visitors due to COVID-19, Bhutan is re-opening to tourism, but with an increased tourism fee.

Children and pigeons in Thimphu. Xiaojun Deng. CC BY 2.0

Bhutan is a beautiful Buddhist country located in Southeast Asia. It is located along the eastern edge of the Himalayas, and there is plenty of mountain and valley scenery, as well as Buddhist monasteries. There are a multitude of reasons to visit Bhutan, but there is one interesting reason that might stop some people from going: the “High Value, Low Impact” tourism fee.

In the past, the government of Bhutan has charged the equivalent of $65 USD per night per traveler. This has been a system implemented for three decades, but after COVID-19 and the decrease in tourism everywhere, the Tourism Council of Bhutan will raise the fee to $200 during the low travel season when the country reopens on September 23, 2022. During high season, the fee will be $250 per day for every person. India, Bangladesh and Maldives have been exempt from the tourism fee thus far, but when the country reopens, the government has decided to charge visitors from these three nations $17, with a few exceptions for certain age groups. Bhutan has been closed to outsiders for the past few years due to strict COVID-19 guidelines. The money gained from the travel fee increase will be used to decrease the carbon footprint created by tourists visiting the country, as well as to help the Bhutanese who work in the tourism industry. Even with the fee, tourism in Bhutan does make up 6% of the country’s GDP.

Keeping Bhutan’s rivers clean. United Nations Photo. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

There is a misconception that the $200 is an extra expense in addition to the usual travel costs, but that is incorrect. These fees are actually all inclusive, meaning it covers the cost of typical travel expenses, such as food, accommodations (though choosing to stay at luxurious hotel will cost extra), tour guides, transportations and tourist site entrance fees. Souvenirs, tour guide tips and drinks are the most common travel expenses that are excluded from the tourism tax. Those people have to pay for themselves.

A large question about the existence of the travel fee is where the money goes. Part of it, of course, goes to the government (around 30%), but the rest does go to the tour guides, hotels, drivers and other staff mem bers in the tourism industry. The government also does work to improve education, infrastructure and healthcare systems for its citizens, so the money tourists pay does go to improving the country. Furthermore, whether flying or driving into Bhutan, carbon emissions are being produced, and the tour buses and other modes of transportation add to it. Offsetting people’s carbon footprint from all that is an area the government is devoted to. The promotion of carbon-neutral traveling and making the tourism industry more sustainable overall are what Bhutan is committed to achieveing in order to improve the country.

Bhutan is not the only country with a tourism fee. There are other countries that have implemented it as a way to combat over tourism and protect the tourist industry in each country, such as Italy, Japan, Germany and Spain. There are many more countries that do this, and the tax ranges from less than $1 to over $50, depending on the country. The money goes back to it, from the workers to the upkeep of tourist attractions. Many countries have implemented it, and the fee is worked in as a tax for things like airline tickets or hotels. Bhutan does the highest tax, but with the money, the country has worked hard to preserve its culture and natural beauty.