There’s never a bad time to become knowledgeable.

Like they say in the Lion King, what’s in the past is in the past. We’re here to help dispel the silly tips and genuine fake news the internet may have delivered into your traveling tool box.

With far too much straight up bad information out there from upgrade tips to currency exchange tricks, there are quite a few myths which need to be debunked to get your next trip started off right, and to avoid sounding like. an idiot when talking to friends.

Here are 10 of the worst travel myths, debunked…

To Get Flight Upgrades, Don’t Assign A Seat

Not only are you not going to land a cushy upgrade with this advice, you’re probably going to get the worst seat in the cabin you paid for. Many airlines charge for advanced seat assignments, but there’s no advantage to not assigning a seat at all when they become free to select at check in.

Long story short: you should always assign a seat as quickly as you can.

Good seats get selected immediately when the 24 hour or 48 hour free seating assignment window opens and realistically, upgrades are dished out to top tier customers or travelers who have been inconvenienced and it’s almost never based on not having a seat. Here’s how to actually get upgrades…

There’s One Magical Cure To Jet Lag

If there is, the closest thing is melatonin – but there’s not. Fighting jet lag is about masterfully planning and orchestrating a series of events which keep you hydrated, get your eating cycles on destination time and send the correct signals to your brain about when you’re tired and what time it really is. It’s about light, diet, rest and invigorating your body, in a masterful concerto.

Here’s the very best advice for tackling jet lag. Sadly, it’s not a one word read.

On that front, fasting, including resisting alcohol, is very sadly one of the best ways to avoid jet lag on significant time zone changes. Here’s more on that, in case you feel like joining the crazy anti jet lag crowd. If you really want to tackle jet lag, you’re going to need to devote an hour to planning.

All Touristy Things Are Bad

There’s a never ending supply of tourist mistakes around the world, but being a snob is one of the biggest. Some places, no matter how touristy, are worth visiting even if just for the view, the scent, the history or the waves.

Don’t be so cool that you miss one of the best attractions and see what makes people happy by thinking you’re Anthony Bourdain. There was only one.

Be as willing to explore the pop culture stuff as you are to jump off the beaten path and you will be rewarded with a wealth of happiness and cultural understanding. And don’t be afraid to explore this one simple rule for travel, which helps to bring the most rewarding experiences.

Use Home Currency When Paying Abroad

Travellers throw away billions of collective dollars every year by getting short changed on credit card transactions abroad. It’s called DCC, or dynamic currency conversion. The next time you hear “it doesn’t matter which currency you choose”, they’re wrong and usually lying.

To avoid this frustrating travel myth, always choose the currency of the country you’re standing in – not the currency you use at home. Just make sure you use a credit card with no foreign exchange fees too. Here’s more on all that. Basically: pay in whatever currency is the local currency, every time.

All Hotel Booking Sites Offer The Same Price

Hotels love offering “best rate guarantees”, but those are based on the best rates you can find publicly. The truth is: there are better rates out there in private. Travel agents and private hotel membership can offer rates which aren’t shown to the general public via things called “bed banks”.

Though they sound dingy, they’re worth learning about. They’ve saved up to $1000 on just a three night stay for us before. Never buy a hotel room without checking at least three websites, comparing the price with booking directly and then also looking into any membership sites, or travel agent perks.

Countries With Travel Warning Should Always Be Avoided

Dreaming of going to Rome, Paris, Turks and Caicos, Cancun or the Taj Mahal on your next vacation? If you follow every travel warning, you’ll never get there. Travel bans are different, but warnings at most levels are just warnings, not advice not to go.

The United States issues travel warnings on 4 levels, and these “Level 2” countries mean to simply exercise increased caution and be careful in large crowds. Basically, don’t be an idiot – which is good advice anywhere.

But also: Don’t let cheap fear mongering headlines, like “Italy moved to level 2 travel warning” ruin travel dreams.

We’ve got a great resource which breaks down what travel warnings actually mean, including links to what they really suggest. Most of the time, they’re just telling you to be careful. They’re not telling you not to go. The world is too amazing to miss.

There’s A Magic Day Or Week To Book Travel

Know this: Black Friday and Cyber Monday are no joke, but they’re the very closest thing you’ll find to a magical day to book travel. Hint: it’s not “Tuesday”. To score the best flight deals, it’s often more about when you want to go than when you want to book, and setting price alerts to see when prices do change.

Want to really win?

Think about changing your travel plans to shoulder season months when airfare can be 43% lower or better. Here’s a few tips. As far as magic days, it’s easier to talk about ones to avoid, like any number within 7 days of flying, when last minute penalties kick up, unless you book a package with hotels too.

Also, don’t be afraid to learn everything you can about Google Flights, so you can let the best deals you’ve searched for come to your inbox. Setting price alerts early, sitting back and relaxing is often the best strategy to save.

It’s Always Cheaper To Buy Wine When You Visit A Country

Wrong, and to the tune of 20% in some places. It’s true: it’s cheaper to buy (great) wine in France than just about anywhere else on earth, but some countries are far more focused on exporting their precious grapes, than travelers guzzling wine on home soil.

In Australia, it’s actually 20% cheaper if you buy the wine and have it shipped out of the country, which basically means it’s the same price outside of the country too. If you want to stay extra savvy, Vivino is the best wine app for travelers, in our opinion.

The Airport Is The Best Place To Take Money Out

This is flat out wrong. Despite the “no fee”, “no commission” or other alluring neon signs you’ll find, you’re getting duped another way. These money exchange services use a consumer rate of exchange which is often 10% worse than the actual current exchange rate offered at that moment between banks.

It’s almost always cheaper to take out one large sum with your debit card abroad, paying just one ATM fee, or ideally – none. By doing so, you’ll get a “bank rate” of exchange, which can save 10% or more. Just tell your bank you’re traveling first.

Paying one ATM fee is almost always going to save more thanks to the bank rate of exchange, than a ‘no commission’ exchange using the consumer rate. Oh, and here’s a full guide on the subject, since this can get complicated.

The Northern Lights Are Only In Iceland

You’ve gotta give Iceland credit. Despite the Aurora Borealis existing since the dawn of time and covering vast swaths of the upper Northern Hemisphere, travelers seem convinced that Iceland is the only place offering the dazzling, electrically charged light display.

They’re wonderful there, no doubt, but there are so many other places to see them, and many which are cheaper. The Northern Lights are best viewed anywhere with minimal artificial light, so the more remote you can go the better. There are countless places to find them, like Norway, Canada, or Lapland.

Frequent Flyer Miles Are Too Complicated To Bother

Why bother, right? No. Credit card points and airline miles may be complicated, but anyone not bothering with collecting them is simply a fool. At the very least, they’re a rebate towards future travel.

The way the industry is going, points are becoming easier to use and even have more defined value than ever. For example, Delta lets you use 10,000 points to take $100 off a flight. This is a myth too expensive to believe. You need to play the points game, and you can do it without even flying or having a credit card.

The post 10 Silly Travel Myths Debunked, Including Upgrades appeared first on God Save The Points.

It’s officially time to not to let those bucket list dreams fall through the cracks.

Europe trips can be life changing, and after a few years of being cut off from many of the most beautiful parts of the world, it’s more important than ever to plot a course to the essential trips in life.

It’s never been easier to earn the miles, points or referral credit needed to travel for next to nothing, and with so much of the world to see, you’d best get started sometime soon, right? But — before you focus on seeing the remote parts of the world, give these swoon worthy Euro trips a whirl.

The Cinque Terre

One could be forgiven for opting for the Amalfi Coast instead, and some might even suggest it. Either way, one of these is a must, and if you have the time, both would go down all too well.

The Cinque Terre is an improbable group of five fishing villages set against the most rugged terrain imaginable, and for those reasons each is stunning in its own right.

Come for the Ligurian specialties like fresh pesto, catch of the day and deeply profound hillside grown wines and stay for the wave pools crashing along the rocks, the idyllic boat rides along the coast and the fabulous hiking from place to place. Just under 2 hours from Pisa, it’s easy.

The Swiss Alps

There is no “one” destination you must hit in the Swiss Alps, but hit them you must. Be it Zermatt, Interlaken, Lucerne, Montreux or Saint Moritz, you just can’t go wrong when you look out the window and see snowcapped mountains out of a fantasy.

Hike in the summer, ski in the winter and enjoy fondue all night long, paired with mineral driven wines.

Though you wouldn’t guess it from the all-too-agreeable people of Switzerland, what makes this trip a must before you die is the intense drama. From the gondola rides up hair raising hills to looking out of a quaint ski chalet and seeing angles no math teacher could ever prepare you for, the visuals are just unmatched anywhere else.

The Scottish Highlands

Don’t be afraid. Despite many eyewitness accounts, there’s no evidence to suggest that an actual monster exists in Loch Ness. In the iconic highlands of Scotland however, you will find: whiskey trails, dolphins, the highest peak in the UK, scenery that rivals Iceland and so much more. Plus, they do B&B’s at a masterful level.

Come during those two good weeks of weather during the summer, bring your hiking gear, rent a car and just explore.

While the highlands are vast in depth, Scotland as a whole is very manageable, since you’re rarely ever more than 2 hours by car from a major city like Inverness, Glasgow or Edinburgh at any point of your highlands tour. Don’t come home until you’e done the Gairloch Beaches, Fairy Pools or Isle of Skye.

The Basque Country

If your favourite dinner party topic includes asking everyone what they’d eat as their last meal, it’s only appropriate to first do some research in a place where you really could die happy with virtually any bite.

The Basque country and surrounding areas are home to more Michelin starred restaurants per capita than any other region of the world, and the scenery, towns and vibes match.

Food aside, it’s the riviera lifestyle that makes this such a photogenic spot, and the melting pot of cultures. San Sebastian, a hub for all things delicious is just mere miles across the border from France and so much of the culinary mastery, rocky cliffs and crystal waters feel like St. Tropez. And of course, for any art fans, Bilbao features a Frank Gehry designed Guggenheim Museum…

The Greek Islands

Mamma Mia sold the dream in cinemas, but the beauty of the Greek Islands has never been in question. The only question is when you’ll get there, because you must.

No matter how many tourists make their way to Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes or Athens, what makes Greece a “must” is everything you’ll see in every direction. The bluest blues, the volcano cut islands and the people who have managed to maintain their culture.

Fish really does come directly from the sea into the tavernas, and you’ll never be able to eat a “Greek Salad” at home ever again, after tasting the genuine article.

Whether you’re looking to plunge into an infinity pool high above the cliffs or lay low on a secret beach, using the interconnected ferry systems between each island is easy, and of course, so is flying. Don’t just see one island, see a few, and make sure to see them from land, air and sea.

The Fjords Of Norway

The best way to describe some places is perplexing. How could such a thin, narrow waterway fit such a large cruise ship, and how could it be surrounded on all sides by mountain tops which rival the best views in the world. That’s the fjords, for you.

Fly into Bergen and branch out. After all, there are at least 1,190 fjords to see, and even if you’re lucky you’ll only catch a small percentage.

If you like a little buzzy adventure, it’s tough to beat the zippy catamaran journey to Søgneford or the epic viewpoints after hiking near the fjords of Flåm.

The Bike Rides Of Bordeaux

When wine and exercise are in the same sentence, there’s often folly afoot, but this may be an exception. With rolling hill after rolling hill, and opulent drop after drop, one of the best ways to see Bordeaux – which you totally should do – is to do it by bike.

Not only will biking burn off a few of the lovely side dishes you’ll be served during the best tastings, it’ll also give you an appreciation for the amazing terroir of the region, which makes its wines so prolific.

After you’ve made your way through Pomerol, Medoc and all the hectars of wonderful wine, the best part of this journey is the culinary delights within arms reach. Of course, you’re in Bordeaux, a classic and beautiful city, but you’re also just a 3.5 hour drive from San Sebastian, which quite literally boasts more Michelin starred restaurants per capita than anywhere else on earth. It’s a foodie and wine snob ultimate dream.

The Drive From Vienna To Salzburg

Bringing the “open jaw” into your travel trick sheet is a wise move, because it makes adventures like this one all the more rewarding. It’s where you fly into one place, and out of another.

If you’re going to Austria, you just can’t leave with only one city under your belt, and flying into Vienna and out of Salzburg, or vice versa, is one of the most rewarding journeys.

While driving may not sound all that exciting, this drive is a definitive exception, with incredible countryside, mountains and views to die for. Two of the most notable? Hallstatt and Dachstein! These are the towns where you realize that some post cards are actually real places, and not just things of fantasy.

If you’re just stopping to take pictures, the drive is just a few hours, but you’re going to want to make this into a two day trip – at the very least.

The Iceland Ring Road Experience

Iceland is an experience in itself, and any journey to the country is incomplete without doing the ring road trek. Best of all, it’s an easy one to do by yourself, at your own pace, without the need for guides.

Think: volcanoes, rugged terrain, hot springs, geothermal baths, ice caves and places that look like sci-fi movies.

So, how long, right? Done in full, this is a circa 800 mile drive, which deserves at least four days to allow plenty of stops, but it wouldn’t be out of the question at all to extend that to double, or more. If you want to save money, renting an RV is a popular choice, and however you go about it, it’ll blow your mind.

The Cappadocia Experience

Cappadocia is a walk through time, and is easily one of the best journeys in Turkey. With most travellers heading to Istanbul, or Ankara, it’s also great way to enjoy a deeper look at the country.

If you need inspiration, or a little push, just google “Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon”, and you’ll be off in no time.

Cappadocia is a hiking paradise, with a side dish of incredible history dating back as far as history goes. You just can’t go without hitting Cavusin, Love Valley, or Monks Valley, which will provide more stunning photos, and questions about extra terrestrial life than anywhere you’ve been. Finish things off with the absolutely stunning hillside town of Ortahisar and your Euro Trip bucket list is complete.

The post 10 Euro Trips You Must Take Before You Die appeared first on God Save The Points.

I’ve already talked about my favorite times of year to visit New York City. I’m here during one of those windows right now and it’s absolutely glorious. If you listened, and are here now enjoying too, you’re welcome! And before you ask, yes I’m a New Yorker and have lived in the city for most of my life, even though I call London home now.

Speaking to friends who still live in this great city, we got onto the topic of friends asking for hotel recommendations and the nuance that goes into that. It’s just not all that easy to recommend a singular property here, because it’s the desires of the stay that drive so much of the experience.

There are amazing hotels downtown, but they might be terribly located for some trip needs; and vice versa for uptown, or hotels further afield in Brooklyn. Here’s how I approach choosing location in New York, and a few hotels which are sure to please.

Plan Your Center Of Gravity

The best way to approach New York is to really put a map of your interests onto a Google Map and get a feeling for your center of gravity. Think of this like a scatter plot exercise and use the closest proximity of dots to find your neighborhood to base in.

If you have 20 restaurants and things you want to do in downtown New York, and just one in nearby Brooklyn, you’re probably best off staying downtown, right?

Once you’ve established that, a little bit of reconnaissance on public transportation can do a lot of good. New York is very good in regards to mass transit travel — ok, the tube system in London is better but so what — and that should factor.

If you know you can find a great hotel near a tube stop with express service, or convenient access to other points of interest, you’ve hit the jackpot. Here are a few top places to set up shop.

Central Park South

Great for: culture creatures, good eats, park lovers and long walks.

Many times of year, it’s hard to argue with Central Park. It’s uniquely wonderful and has so much going on all around it, from uptown museums to concert halls and top shopping just south along Fifth Avenue.

If you stay in the high 50’s, you’re either near the NQRW line or 4,5,6 on the East, or a personal favorite, Columbus Circle station, with express train access on the B,D lines as well as A,C,E on the West. These trains can get you further uptown, or downtown in just a few minutes and really opens the city up with an enviable home base.

A Few CP Hotel Favorites: There are a few obscenely expensive hotels near the park such as the new Aman, but places like the Thompson Central Park, The Whitby, The 1 Hotel, The St. Regis and the Mandarin are all stunning and some take points.

Midtown and Times Square

Good for: midtown business, first timers, Madison Square Garden, garment district.

No New Yorker with a clear conscience could ever advocate staying in Times Square. New Yorkers don’t set foot there unless being paid or performing on nearby Broadway. But that doesn’t mean it’s not worth seeing for a first time nor are all the nearby areas.

Midtown however, is perfectly acceptable. The 30’s have become revitalized with new and exciting dining options and projects such as Hudson Yards have transformed the once dreary and even a bit weird West 30’s.

Given the great accessibility to Long Island and Metro North rail and the abundant subway options, Midtown is a solid option and one I consider, particularly for trips where I know I’ll be downtown sometimes, midtown sometimes and uptown sometimes too.

A Few Midtown Hotel Favorites: If budget is open, The Pendry is an absolutely fantastic new hotel next to Hudson yards with access to great dining and bars on site. Hyatt’s Andaz 5th Avenue remains a staple in the city as well, with perfect access to Bryant Park. The Ned Nomad is also a great choice with a cool members vibe.

West Village & Chelsea

Good for: boutique shoppers, people seeking local experiences, foodies.

The West Village and Chelsea are two staples of New York originality. In the West Village you trade gridded streets for idyllic quiet neighborhoods with hidden gems and beautiful townhouses. It’s more like London than New York in many ways. Chelsea is still hustle and bustle, but with a contemporary artistic flare.

Between these borders you’ll find some of the best food in the city and shopping to match. Don’t forget the cocktail bars either. This is a great locale to choose if you don’t plan on traveling a whole bunch to other areas and really want a local centric take on boutique shopping, food and buzzing bars.

A Few West Village & Chelsea Hotel Favorites: The Standard High Line is a very quintessential New York experience with a buzzing rooftop and great views along the river. Both areas offer boutique gems like The Moore, The Hotel Chelsea and big chain options too.

Soho, Lower East Side & Downtown

Good for: downtown business, access to Brooklyn, boutique shopping, dining.

There’s a lot of distance between the areas of Soho, The Lower East Side and Downtown but many of the reasons to stay, or not to stay overlap, particularly for the Lower East Side and Soho. Downtown — it’s often a case of nearby work or nearby friends.

Soho and the Lower East Side continue to be vital creative centers for the city with so much of the art scene and up and coming restaurant and bar scene glued to this area. New York changes, but this has remained a constant.

These areas are fabulous choices for long aimless city walks along gallery and cafe lined streets, walks across a bridge to Brooklyn and shopping the brands that keep New York at the top of the fashion world.

A Few Soho, Lower East & Downtown Hotel Favorites: you’re spoiled for choice in these areas. The Beekman is a great “new” addition and is part of the Thompson and Hyatt brands. The Arlo Soho is a great option at a nice price point and if you want to go a bit higher end, The Crosby and the Bowery are top notch. For high end downtown business, the Four Seasons is exactly what you’d expect.

Brooklyn & Other Ideas

Good for: those who’ve “done” the city, looking for savings or love artsy areas.

From the start, it’s worth knowing that Brooklyn is massively expansive. DUMBO and areas like Park Slope are totally different in geography and style to Williamsburg or Greenpoint. They each represent a unique, neighborhood centric slice of New York, each with unique charms.

Williamsburg benefits from “L” train access which runs along Manhattan’s 14th street. Dumbo benefits from the F train, which runs up Manhattan’s Middle West from lower Manhattan up to the Bryant Park area in the 40’s.

If you’ve “done” Manhattan, don’t need to spend too much time in the city and want to explore a different side of how people live in New York, these hyper local areas are a welcome respite, particularly for the art, boutique and food minded. Think breweries, hidden gem restaurants and a more alternative crowd.

Hoboken, just across the water in New Jersey is a place with great Manhattan skyline views and when prices are shocking in NYC, it can be a decent alternative that’s about a 20 minute ride into the city.

A few Brooklyn Hotel Favorites: The Hoxton Williamsburg offers delightful views and some of the best food in NYC at rooftop restaurants Laser Wolf. The 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge is in the heart of the DUMBO waterfront and is fantastic understated luxury.

That’s It, Go Explore New York!

With a better sense of where you should place your center of gravity, you can ensure less time spent wasted in transit and more satisfaction that the neighborhood you’re in fits your desires for the trip.

The good thing about New York is that outside of Times Square, pretty anywhere you stay will be a “real” neighborhood. There just isn’t enough space in this city to have things solely for tourists, and wherever you end up you’ll have a chance to explore elsewhere, thanks to solid subway links and walking opportunities. Enjoy NYC!

The post Where To Stay In NYC: A Locals Guide appeared first on God Save The Points.

You can be one of those annoyingly happy people too…

Unless you’re seated in one of those increasingly luxurious flat beds up front, the idea of sleep on a plane seems like some sort of cruel joke to most travelers.

Anxiety about arriving looking like a derelict, and worse, sleeping through a holiday in its entirety with jet lag is one of the big things that keeps travelers from enjoying the more exotic destination around the world, despite lower airfare than ever.

If you want a fighting chance at getting some sleep in any airplane seat, follow these easy, logical tips…

Window

Simple? Yes. Overlooked? Also, yes. On any plane, the window seat is the only seat on the plane where you control your own destiny.

Sit in the middle, you may have the window stepping over you. Sit on the aisle, you’ve got at least two passengers to worry about. If you want to tuck into a corner and enjoy uninhibited sleep, a window seat is unquestionably your best shot.

Time

Depending on your lifestyle, it’s not often easy to doze off at the ripe hour of 2pm. If you want to easiest ride to sleep, pick a ride that flies during times you’ll naturally want to. Simply enough, right?

It’s always important to consider sleep schedules at your destination to avoid jet lag, but if you can find a 9PM flight, you’ll find it a lot easier to conk out than a 3PM. Be sure to prepare mentally for what time it will be at your destination, as well.

Meal

Especially on short overnight flights like East Coast to West Coast, or USA to Western Europe, meal time is rarely worth it. By the time you’ve been served and had your food cleared away, you have wasted multiple hours of sleep.

If you really value quality sleep, eat in the airport, or better yet – at home before the flight. It’s only plane food, after all. This is a major reason airlines started to offer pre-flight dining to business and first class passengers, to help create great sleep. If people have a great rest, they’re more likely to fly again.

Game

If you can’t have a bed in business class, why not snag one in economy? Using apps and a little bit of airport savvy, it’s pretty easy to figure out if any rows are going empty, and if you find one, you may just end up with three or four seats to stretch out across. Here’s how to play the game to your advantage and score a bed in the back.

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with politely asking a cabin crew member if there’s an open row you can move to, once boarding is complete. You may not get the answer you want, but you just may!

Melatonin Or CBD

If you chat with enough frequent travelers, you’ll hear this one quite a lot. Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone which can help sync up your sleep cycles and circadian rhythms.

It’s 100% natural, available over the counter in most countries and is considered the best natural “sleeping pill” out there. Melatonin and some chamomile tea and you’ll be out like a light.

As cannabis related products become more mainstream, so too has CBD, which offers tranquility without any of the hallucinogenic effects, and is legal in many frequently traveled countries.

Browse

On more than a few days this year, there have been opportunities abound to book business class, or at least premium economy for lower prices than economy.

It doesn’t sound like something that would really ever happen, but for a few hours, every once in a while – it happens. Never book a flight without at least glancing at the other price columns, and be sure to follow these easy tips to never miss a great flight deal.

No joke, I recently saved money by buying first class instead of economy. Here’s proof.

Bulkhead

When you walk into the economy cabin, it often looks pretty decent at first glance – and that’s because the bulkhead, or first row of any cabin is almost always really decent.

Legroom is far better and the proximity to the door of the plane makes these seats a treat. For a long journey, paying that extra little bit to secure a bulkhead or exit row can make all the difference.

Amenities

Why rely on others when you can bring your own eye mask, ear plugs, blankets or personal pillows. Neck pillows sold at the airport are almost always useless as a neck pillow, but a decent pillow from home to push between the seat and the cabin walls can be a total gem.

Miles

Did you know that quite a few airlines let you upgrade international plane tickets with miles? 20,000 points can be the difference in premium economy and business class, or even from economy to business class.

Check out this article on airlines with the friendliest upgrade policies, and see what can be done to get the most bang, errr sleep for your travels. This is one of the greatest ways to turn modest budgets into immodest comforts in the sky.

Noise

Most happy travelers share one thing in common: noise cancelling headphones. A good set of noise cancelling headphones can mute babies, engines, noisy neighbors and make great content sound even better.

A wireless pair only adds to the fun. If you want to get serious about blocking out sleep distractions, investing in a decent pair is life changing.

What’s your best tip for sleeping on planes?

The post 10 Vital Tips To Sleep Well On Planes (Zzzz’s) appeared first on God Save The Points.

When you land in New York, Barcelona, London, Hong Kong or Sydney, you just know you’re going to get gouged on well… just about everything. Everything you want to see has been on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter. There are no “secrets” here, just more choice to disperse crowds.

You go anyway, because they’re iconic and life wouldn’t be complete without seeing each one of them, at least once for most people. I’ve heard from plenty of people who can’t die happily until they’ve seen that one thing in that one place. It’s usually like the Sagrada Familia or something.

Living in them can be amazing too, don’t get me wrong. I do.

But once you’ve done the bright lights and big cities, and find yourself craving a style of travel that offers a more intimate look, what do you do? The answer: take a flight, then maybe a train, plane or automobile to a secondary, or even tertiary city or town.

“I just can’t stand the crowds in Barcelona”…

Timing is everything in travel, and with more flights from more places at sliding prices, you’d need lucky timing or the flexibility of avoiding dreaded school holidays to swerve the crowds in any major city.

Sure, some major cities were built with mass tourism or transient lifestyles in mind but others weren’t, and either way it can be chaotic. There’s really no “easy” way to miss big crowds at the iconic tourism sites.

For those that have “seen it all”, or don’t care about the tick box style of tourism, preferring more personal experiences, it’s the secondary and tertiary cities in each country which should really be on the radar.

If you once flocked to Barcelona, no one is saying it shouldn’t still be on the itinerary, but it just may not be the final destination for a trip that offers a sense of true “place” in Spain.

After a flight into the Catalan capitol, it’s a train ride or car journey to nearby Girona for the idyllic views, outrageously good food, lower prices and a slightly less cosmopolitan glimpse into true Catalan life. The nearby beaches don’t hurt either.

But we’re talking about everywhere, not just Spain…

The rise of these second cities is nothing short of exhilarating. Immensely talented chefs, designers, artists and curators are returning to their regional roots as airlines open up more point to point direct flight routes to bring “in the know” tourists to these new hot spots.

With more people fleeing the big cities, there’s more demand to create something special in a smaller environment. Work from “anywhere” is fueling this interesting shift that is dispersing talent more broadly.

It’s why we’ve said go here not there, or alternatives to major cities in Italy, within an easy ride to a city worth visiting, but without all the fuss of finding food coloured gelato and Caprese salad in the middle of winter.

Call it “big fish, little pond” or whatever you will, but it’s making for incredible tourism in a time where people crave new places to go, and unique experiences they won’t see everyone else sharing. You can’t beat a restaurant where you must adjust to their culture, not yours. No menu in English is often a great sign.

That includes cities like Bilbao, which has always played Spain’s third or fourth fiddle, just as much as Gothenburg, Brisbane, Taipei or Calgary. Yes, they’re big cities, but they’ve always been part of the orchestra. It’s why we recommend these budget friendly Southeast Asian gems over the ones you were probably thinking of.

Forget a New York foodie trip! Pittsburgh is winning all sorts of culinary awards. Just don’t go in winter.

Everyone goes to Tokyo! Osaka has better food and cheaper hotels.

Why Miami? Tampa is up and coming with a cool new waterfront.

No one is saying you should skip major cities, but if you’ve done them, or are seeking a place you can sink your teeth into for a bit more breadth of understanding for a place, there’s genuinely never been a better time to spread your proverbial wings and fly somewhere new.

Thanks to new planes which are smaller and more fuel efficient, airlines are prioritizing direct flights to more cities over flights from one major hub to another, the possibilities are everywhere.

In other words, cities which were once a few stops are now direct, or one stop at the worst. Rail connections are the largest focus in Europe right now, so connecting even between multiple countries is easy.

For every action there’s a reaction, and as locals lose their grip – and neighborhoods – to mass in major cities, they’re bringing all the good stuff back to local environments where you’ll feel a deeper sense of discovery. The world is getting “small” again, and to grab the horns of the next travel trend, look at that great big city you were considering and then find the closest nearby getaway.

The post Secondary Cities: The Mass Tourism Antidote appeared first on God Save The Points.

“Oh no, our flight is delayed an hour.”

“No, it’s delayed about two hours, trust me. We can finish dessert.”

This was the conversation I had recently with friends and family visiting us in Palm Springs, California. A series of unusual weather events across the US wreaked havoc on the system and headwinds along with it, causing a rise in flight delays.

No one likes a flight delay, obviously, but what people really don’t like is feeling like they’re getting suckered. Quite often, that’s exactly what happens with airline delay estimates.

If you’d like to be among the informed crowd who can almost pinpoint the perfect arrival time, here are a couple tricks of the trade that’ll transform your insights into airline delays.

Airlines Have Good Reasons

First, airlines almost always downplay delay times. That’s not quite as devious as it may sound and there are many good reasons for it, even in disingenuous.

Times can often be made up in the air and the worst thing for a delayed flight is when passengers aren’t ready to go. Giving shorter delay estimates helps to get passengers to a place where the airline is in control — airside.

Once through security and near a gate area — aka “airside” — it is much easy to get passengers boarded. If they haven’t yet cleared security, or are still somewhere in the city, the airline has a tougher time with a quick turnaround.

Plus, those people will need to be booked onto later flights, causing knock on issues. Other things like staff time outs, overtime and delay fines all factor into airline desire to corral people at a gate, long before the plane arrives. It’s not evil, it’s just annoying!

What You Can Do To Call Delay “BS” Responsibly

No one likes a showboat and no one wants to ruin anyone else’s plans, so take this seasoned advice responsibly. Don’t go shouting around the airport about how wrong the delay time is.

The main thing to know is that apps and technology will often tell a different story to the latest airline delay times. A great place to start is FlightRadar24. You’ll need your flight number, and that’s about it.

By entering your flight number you’ll be able to see the aircraft operating your flight today. Nope, not just the general type, but the actual “tail number” or unique aircraft identifier that’ll be operating the flight. Some geeks like me keep track these to know if we’ve flown on the specific aircraft before.

Inbound Flight Tracking For The Win

Once you’ve found your flight on FlightRadar24, tap “aircraft info”, where you’ll see a list of other recent flights the plane has operated. Included in that, directly below your flight, will be the flight it’s operating to reach you.

This is the golden nugget of information.

Let’s run it through step by step, with American 104, a daily London – New York flight.

I search the flight number in FlightRadar24 as noted and then select the scheduled flight. I then am presented with the last 10 or so flights, with green meaning on time, orange meaning minor delay and red meaning significant delay.

I want to click today’s flight, the one I’ll be on.

Once I’ve clicked the date of the flight I’ll be on, the next step is the most important. You want to hit “aircraft info” and go from there.

You can fairly accurately predict the actual delay time by seeing how long that flight still has to reach you, and then adding circa 20-30 minutes on top for the turnaround on the ground. In this instance, it’ll be landing early, as we see below.

Based on the information above, I’d have no reason to believe my flight will be departing late. I’ve had countless times though, where the airline still says a flight is on time yet I see that the inbound aircraft is still yet to take off, waiting on issues.

When not in a hub city where an aircraft swap could happen, I can usually hang my hat on the fact that there will be a delay, and if I’m really good, I can notice before the airline tells me.

When Things Aren’t On Time

In the case of my family and friends visiting in Palm Springs there was a JetBlue flight which was scheduled for 8:45PM. For about a week, each night quickly popped up a delay time of 9:30. Most people obviously believed and followed that.

They either arrived at the same time, or a few minutes later. Naturally, JetBlue tells them to arrive on time “just in case” and whatnot.

But using FlightRadar24 I could see that at 8:45 the plane would still have an hour and a half in the air to reach Palm Springs, there was no alternate aircraft available here and in reality, a 10:30 departure was really the true-true best case. That’s a full hour difference.

What can you do with an hour? Well, not wait at a gate for one. In cities where the airport is easy to reach it can mean an extra hour at home, fun in a restaurant or just doing anything but grinding with the masses in a cramped gate area!

Other Resources Can Help

Things like FlightAware, OAG, Cirium and even just Google can be really good at showing prompt and timely delay information, or historical data on how often a flight is late, cancelled or heavily delayed.

Whenever I need to get somewhere on time, I’ll consult FlightAware historical data or other sources to get a good picture of the likelihood this route poses for delays. And FlightRadar24 can help well with that too.

Caveats For Closure

It’s important to factor in things like hubs and major airports in your planning. If you’re flying from an outstation — aka anywhere that’s not a hub of the airline you’ll be flying, chances are the plane that’s coming in for your flight is the only plane around to get you home on that airline.

At a place like say, Atlanta, flying Delta, there’s a small chance that another bird is in a hanger somewhere and if push comes to shove, they may be able to swap the heavily delayed inbound aircraft or find a new one if there’s a mechanical delay.

These things are typically unlikely, but the warning is that if your flight out of an airline hub is increasingly delayed, you’ll want to get more information. In the example of the plane arriving at Palm Springs, there’s no JetBlue hangar here, so it was a sure thing.

You don’t want to bet on a plane being four hours late only to find out that they found a replacement plane and everyone left without you. Again, uncommon, but this is the internet and there’s responsibility if we’re talking hub cities.

For most flights though, use technology to tell you what airlines might be slow, or woefully inaccurate in volunteering up. It may allow you one final toast, or breath of fresh air outside of the airport.

The post How To Call “BS” On Short Airline Delays appeared first on God Save The Points.

Did you know that three Michelin stars means a restaurant is so good, it’s worth traveling to, just to have a meal? Fun fact, but those are expensive, and I’d rather head to a destination like Tel Aviv, Israel where you can enjoy a never ending supply of outrageously good meals, at far more palatable prices too.

In this ever satisfying pursuit, Tel Aviv is one of the finest cities you can aim for, with distinctive twists on Middle Eastern cuisine and things you won’t find anywhere else.

Here’s a guide for dining through the city’s endless delicious options, since it’s tipped to be one of the best places to visit for years to come…

Coffee Time In Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv is easy access from most of Europe, but after any flight – coffee is always the right play. Always. If you’re into the good stuff, like V60, pour over and flat whites with alternative milks, Tel Aviv has a few gems that will satisfy a coffee snob without doubt.

Cafelix is a choice staple with a few locations, Nahat is fabulous and if you need a couple more, CoffeeShop 51 and WayCup deliver the goods with all the single origin, oat milk goodness you need. And yes, they have regular milk too.

Tel Aviv Lunch Time Gems

When the coffee starts to wear off, you can’t go wrong with lunch spots in Tel Aviv’s hip districts like Florentin, Shabazi, Neve Tzedek and Lev Hair. While in Israeli, it’s tough to pass on Israeli cuisine and you’ll find fabulous options with Casbah or Mashya.

If you’re saving the local stuff for later in the day, Romano and Vicky Cristina offer fantastic settings and food that shouldn’t be too hard to figure out.

What to eat? Tel Aviv is famous for shakshuka, hummus, ful, burika and anything else that sounds yum. Whether you’re vegetarian or not, Israel has superb produce, and with accompaniments like yoghurt in spices and potent sauces, vegetables shine here, as does the sun.

To make your life easier, we made a map with all these places which you can download, so you’ll always know which great option is closest. You’re welcome.

Best Dinner Options In Tel Aviv

If there’s a simple way to describe Tel Aviv, it’s like the buzz of Southern California, with better and generally cheaper food. And I love Southern California!

From low key delight to finding dining spotlight you can find just about everything you could want in Tel Aviv. Oh, and if you’re craving some Southern California, Mezcal does great tacos – and of course… mezcal.

For “cheaper” eats,  Miznon, Ha’Achim and Port Sa’id are super, with nice vibe and eclectic regional options. Trust in the staff and go with the flow.

If low key, delicious but chic is what you’re after, Mashya is simply exceptional, with inventive twists on great Middle Eastern ingredients in a buzzy but understated setting. Night Kitchen, HaBasta and Casbah are also superb. They’re not “budget” but they’re reasonable and you’ll devour every morsel.

For posh-o, sterling silver and white linen style service, Tel Aviv has a real top chef scene, particularly in hotels. Sharon Cohen is a star here, and Shila is a super treat – if you’re a baller, as are OCD TLV and Toto. All high end, all quirky, all cool. And yes, all worth checking the price before sitting down.

If you’re still hungry or in need of bar recommendations, we’ve got a deeper guide to Tel Aviv, here. It’s free, of course.

The post Dining Through Tel Aviv’s Delicious Food Scene: Tips And Top Spots! appeared first on God Save The Points.

With limited vacation time, money and other real life factors, vacation is a sacred institution. Why see one city, or country, when you can see two or more, without adding any major costs? You can.

One of the simplest yet most effective travel tricks is the “open jaw”, where you fly into one city and out the other, connecting the dots with a simple one way journey in between. Here’s how to bring it into your travel skills arsenal…

What’s An Open Jaw?

Think of a typical round trip journey like drawing a closed mouth. It’s just a flat line from one place to another. Adding a second destination creates what looks like an open jaw, if you were viewing a face from the side.

Here’s the boring round trip…

And here’s the open jaw…

The basic takeaway here is that many of the most worthwhile places require traveling a long distance and while you’re in that far away place, it can be great to see more than one city or country while you’re there.

It’s a lot easier than going back and forth, right?

Europe is a great place to use as an example, as is Asia because flights in both places from one country to another can be as low as $5.99 one way, and there’s countless rail and driving options as well.

If you only get one or two shots at seeing Europe in your life, why settle for just one culture or city when you could see two or more with total ease and delight?

Good, we’re on the same page!

They key is all about how you book and search for your flights.

One of the many reasons Google Flights is a great tool for searching and booking flights is how easy it makes it to search for seemingly complicated things.

While it’s not guaranteed, it’s not uncommon for flights to and from nearby parts of the world to be similarly priced, so for the same price of a simple round trip, you may be able to spice things up.

How To Research An Open Jaw

Instead of booking New York to London round trip, you may be able to book an “open jaw” from New York to London, back from Rome, Lisbon or any other European city to New York for similar, if not the same money.

The added beauty of this is it allows you to keep moving forward, never backtracking to where you started. You’re in perpetual, forward motion with your travel.

To search for this type of “open jaw” trip, you’d select “multi city” rather than “round trip” on a flight search with your favorite booking site or airline, and enter something like NYC-LON for the first flight and PAR-NYC for the second. This example would mean flying into London and out of Paris.

You’ll worry about getting between the two cities on a separate ticket, or a different means of travel, like Eurostar. Europe just improved high speed services between major cities, by the way!

Here’s an example in Google Flights for a trip into Milan and out of Rome, to get you started.

This same concept would work wherever your starting city (your home) may be, and to regions all over the world.

In the example above, you could swap out those two cities for any other cities in the world. You could depart from wherever you are and head to Tokyo, flying back from Bangkok. The opportunities are endless.

If you want to get really tricky, you can always double open jaw as well, where you fly back to a different city, other than the one you originated from. This can be fun if you’ve got plans elsewhere and don’t want to waste time by flying “home” first. Take a peek…

And before you ask, this trick works in all cabins whether you want a single “open jaw” or a “double. It even works on tickets you book with points and miles too!

It’s a great tool for premium economy, business class or first class flights too.

Finding great prices just takes a bit of trial and error! To ensure you’re getting a great price, search for a simple round trip to one city to get an idea of how expensive the trip should be, and then see if you can get a similar price when flying out of another.

Saving both time and money is what makes this such a simple yet effective way to travel. You don’t need to buy a separate round trip ticket to get back to the city you started exploring, nor do you need to plan a second trip to that part of the world, just to see another city or country. This can be fun for something as simple as flying into Paris and out of Nice, or as exotic as flying into Tokyo and out of Bali.

The world is quite literally your oyster…

The possibilities are endless, the search process is simple and there’s nothing more exciting than squeezing more greatness out of your precious vacation time. If you only get one or two chances a year to go somewhere, this is your ticket to feeling like you took double the vacations, or more. What’s not to love?

The post Open Jaw Flights: The Trick To Your Best Vacation Ever appeared first on God Save The Points.

One of the very best perks of elite frequent flyer status or scoring a great business or first class deal is airport lounge access.

Away from the increasing crowds, lounges are generally on the up and up, offering refined wines, spirits, beers hot food and even occasionally some showers to refresh!

While some of the finest lounges offer nifty cocktail bars, others leave a “help yourself” shelf to make your own magic. Here’s how to take your lounge cocktail experience to the next level, if so!

The “Espresso” Martini

Virtually every lounge offers an espresso machine and some decent vodka – the two key components of a great espresso martini. Here’s how to refine the art and create something excitingly drinkable.

There are many ways to play with this recipe to add a little bit more or less sharpness and it may not be fully traditional — but it works.

If you want something creamy and decadent, adding a little baileys certainly won’t hurt! This is a fantastic way to start the day, or end the night.

Airport “Espresso Martini” Ingredients

Double Espresso, Plain Vodka (or Vanilla), Sugar.

Optional: Cinnamon, Frangelico, Baileys.

Step 1: Take a cup or glass and fill it up with Ice. Pour sugar on top, dash Cinnamon. 

Step 2: Place cup in espresso machine and dispense double espresso into cup. Let chill.

Step 3: Stir double espresso, sugar, cinnamon mixture and then pour into new glass, sans ice. 

Step 4: With another new glass, pour preferred amount of vodka over Ice into new glass. 

Step 5: Pour espresso mix into glass with vodka on ice. Stir vigorously.

Step 6: Add Baileys or Frangelico to taste (optional).

“Old Fashioned”

Lounges are a great place to find whiskey. It’s often poured less aggressively than other spirits, which allows airlines to bring in some premium stuff. Lounges are also known to carry fruit for passing guests, and of course – sugar.

By request, you can almost always find some bitters as well. If you love an Old Fashioned, they’re extremely easy to make. Rum can make a nice twist.

And don’t forget, things under 100ml, which many bitters are, can be brought through airport security without issue. So, if you have a favorite bitters or spirit, no excuses.

Ingredients

Rye, Bourbon, Scotch or Rum, 1 Orange, Sugar packet, Water.

Optional: Soda Water.

Step 1: Grab a sugar packet and open it into preferred low ball glass. 

Step 2: Grab (or request) Angostura (or similar) bitters. Dash bitters over sugar. 

Step 3: Use cutlery from lounge to press down on sugar, releasing bitters into sugar.

Step 4: Add dash of water or soda water to slightly dissolve sugar.

Step 5: Use knife, fork or hands to peel large skin section of orange. 

Step 6: Twist orange peel and rub around rim of glass, place inside glass after twist.

Step 7: Add ice as desired and pour preferred spirit over cube. Stir as desired. 

The Airport “French 75”

It’s zingy, sharp, herbal and refreshing with crisp Champagne or Prosecco to top it all off. This one is good at any time of day and for a very refined drink, it’s totally doable.

Yep, even for a novice cocktail maker this is as simple as dissolving sugar and a little sqeeze of lemon. You may look a bit crazy at first with all the glasses and pouring, but it’s worth it in the end. We promise.

Ingredients

Champagne or prosecco, gin, lemon, sugar, water.

Optional: aromatic bitters.

Step 1: Open 2 packets of sugar into coffee mug. Pour minimal hot water over to dissolve.

Step 2: Grab another cup, fill with ice. Once sugar dissolves, pour mixture into ice cup.

Step 3: Squeeze 2 or 3 lemon wedges into champagne glass or similar. 

Step 4: Pour sugar syrup (without the ice) over lemon juice in glass. 

Step 5: Add one measure of preferred gin (chill before adding). Stir mixture vigorously.

Step 6: Fill to top with Champagne or Prosecco. Garnish with lemon (optional). 

Cuban Sidecar

If you’re headed to or from a sunny destination, there’s nothing like ingraining the memory of sunshine with some proper rum. T

hrow in citrus and aromatics from lime, orange and cointreau and you’ve got a captivating and complex way to pass some time waiting for flights.

Cointreau can be found at many airport lounges, making this a surprisingly easy delight!

Ingredients

Dark or light rum, limes (or lime wedges), cointreau.

Optional: Orange, Cherry Brandy or Pineapple.

Step 1: Squeeze 2/3/4 lime wedges into glass. Push skins down with cutlery to release zest. 

Step 2: Add ice to glass, swirl around to release lime zesty aromas. 

Step 3: Add equal parts Cointreau, Rum. 

Step 4: Fill separate glass with ice, transfer mixture back and forth between two glasses.

Step 5: Optional garnish or squeeze fresh orange, pineapple or dash cherry brandy. 

Moderation

Obviously, making drinks is exciting and the more you experiment, the better you get. With that said, keep it within reason with your new airport mixology skills.

Nothing will kill your buzz quite like being tasered or duct taped to your seat, shall your destructive alter ego kick in at 33,000 feet. Airlines put up with drunk idiots every day and it ruins it for everyone else who can handle their booze.

Be smart, be safe – and enjoy!

Which of these cocktails will you test out?

The post DIY Cocktails You Can Make In Airport Lounges With Ease appeared first on God Save The Points.

Whether it’s an infinity pool overlooking the skyline of a megalopolis, a pool perched on the cliffs of a mountain, or a pool tucked deep in a lush, exotic jungle, taking in the scenery from a world-class pool can make all the difference during your vacation. They’re spots to soak up the sun after seeing the sights, or even the place to relax at for the entire day.

To kick off 2023, GSTP has rounded up our list of the 80 best and most beautiful pools in the world, which are all destinations in their own right.

1. Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

Located on the 57th floor of the luxury Marina Bay Sands hotel, guests can marvel at the downtown Singapore skyline from the world’s largest, rooftop infinity pool.

2. Aureum Palace Hotel, Bagan, Myanmar

Set within the Archaeological Preservation Zone, Aureum Palace Hotel is in a unique location amongst the ancient temples of Bagan.

From the Aureum Palace Hotel’s infinity pool, you’ll be able to take in views of a handful of the more than 3,000 pagodas and temples of Bagan, which date back to the 9th to 13th centuries.

3. TWA Hotel, New York City

This one is of for the #avgeeks! There is nothing — and I mean nothing! — like the combo of the nostalgia of the Golden Age of travel, plus the ability to watch jumbo jets take off and land at one of the busiest international airports. No matter the weather, this rooftop infinity pool is heated to 95 degrees Fahrenheit or 35 degrees Celsius every day!

4. Belmond Splendido, Portofino, Italy

Live like silver-screen royalty at this glamorous heated, salt water infinity pool. Hemmed by lush jasmine gardens and commanding sensational views of the Ligurian Sea, you’ll never want to leave this slice of Italian Riviera paradise.

5. Aqua Dome, Tirol, Austria

Nestled in the breathtaking Ötztal valley, Aqua Dome is surrounded by serene, majestic mountains, which creates an atmosphere that takes wellness to a whole new level.

6. Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Lake Como, Italy

Dip your toes into this unique pool that floats on the lake! Surrounded by beautiful scenery and staggering mountains, this pool is one-of-a-kind, and offers sun, sand and luxury all in one.

7. Address Sky View, Dubai, UAE

The Address Sky View’s 54th floor infinity pool puts swimmers face-to-face with the recording-breaking Burj Khalifa tower.

8. Four Seasons Serengeti, Tanzania

At this luxury safari lodge in Tanzania, guests can swim next to African wildlife in their natural habitat. The 82 feet, free-form infinity-edge pool overlooks the famous Serengeti plains, showcasing front-row views of a local watering hole where herds of elephants, giraffes, zebras and more spend lazy afternoons.

9. Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur, India

Fondly known as the “City of Lakes”, Udaipur is synonymous with vast hilltop forts, palaces, temples and gardens, which serve as reminders of its majestic history. And at the Oberoi Udaivilas, the hotel’s temperature controlled pool embraces the history of the city with its Mughal inspired design features.

10. COMO Laucala, Fiji

COMO Laucala’s massive lagoon-style pool comes complete with a picture-perfect, Instagrammable 82-foot raised glass cube pool.

11. La Mamounia, Marrakech, Morocco

Fans of Netflix’s Inventing Anna will remember La Mamounia’s cameo in the series. La Mamounia has long been the epitome of luxury Moroccan hospitality, and has stood as a beacon of the golden age of grand hotels.

12. Hanging Gardens, Ubud, Bali

You will become one with nature at Hanging Gardens Ubud, located in the heart of the Balinese jungle. This hotel’s twin-tiered, cascading infinity pool is world-famous, since it has a nearly 360 degree view of never-ending acres of lush rainforest.

13. Al Bustan Palace Ritz Carlton, Muscat, Oman

Originally built as the Sultan of Oman’s guesthouse, the Al Bustan Palace’s infinity pool is literally fit for a king.

14. InterContinental Hayman Islands, Australia

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty of the Whitsundays, on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. At this iconic private island resort, you’ll experience sacred moments of connection with your family and friends, nature and yourself.

15. Tierra Patagonia, Chile

The Torres del Paine Massif’s silhouette serves as a backdrop for Uma Spa at the Tierra Patagonia. Encased in tall glass walls, you’ll feel effortlessly connected to the region, all the while enjoying the pool, spa and wellness facilities.

16. Amangiri, Utah, USA

Surrounded by 600 acres of undeveloped land in the desert of Utah, the 50-foot-long infinity pool at Amangiri wraps around an expansive stone jutting out from the landscape.

17. Le Sirenuse, Positano, Italy

Le Sirenuse is a fabulous place from which to enjoy the simple pleasures of the dazzling Amalfi Coast. John Steinbeck, who visited in 1953, wrote “Positano bites deep. It is a dream place that isn’t quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real after you have gone.”

18. Hotel du Cap Eden Roc, Cap d’Antibes, France

Every summer for the past 150 years, the tip of Cap d’Antibes has been the mythical destination where the global jet set gather to soak up the sun and the fragrant Mediterranean air in an atmosphere that is the epitome of élégance.

19. Habitas AlUla, Saudia Arabia

Ancient desert serves as the mesmerizing backdrop for Habitas AlUla, Saudi Arabia’s newest luxury resort.

20. Fairmont Mayakoba, Mexico

Fairmont Mayakoba just underwent a major, multi-million dollar renovation of its sprawling 240 hectare property, and the resort is perfectly picturesque and luxurious. Designed to preserve the native mangrove forest and pristine white-sand beaches, this environmentally conscious resort is thoughtfully built in and around the jungle and sea.

21. Beverly Hills Hotel, Los Angeles, California

For over a century, The Beverly Hills Hotel has been the spot for Hollywood’s brightest lights, the ultimate beacon of glamor. She greets you like a movie star from the moment you pass the iconic signage, step onto the signature red carpet and jump into the Instagrammable pool of this vibrant “Pink Palace.”

22. Kasbah Tamadot, Morocco

Situated in the spectacular Atlas Mountains in Morocco, the award-winning Kasbah Tamadot was bought by Sir Richard Branson during one of his famous ballooning expeditions. Each of the 28 rooms and suites has been individually decorated to reflect the beautiful architecture of the castle and features antiques from all over the world.

23. Belmond Hotel Caruso, Ravello, Italy

Between impossibly blue sea and sky sits Caruso, an 11th-century palace and the crown jewel of Ravello. It’s like a fairytale, where original frescoes and vaulted ceilings converse with contemporary Italian flair. A place where Amalfi culture is alive, and new ideas are formed. Here, guests savor aperitifs and fine dining, soundtracked to enchanting music and enhanced with charming company. Paradise was never lost — it’s been hiding at Caruso all along.

24. Retreat at Blue Lagoon, Iceland

Enjoy a private and more secluded way to commune with the storied waters of the Blue Lagoon. At the Retreat, you’ll float through the lava canyons and become one with the mineral-rich warmth of the volcanic earth.

25. St Regis Lhasa, Tibet

The indoor gold energy pool at The St. Regis Lhasa Resort in Tibet is lined with thousands of tiles plated in real gold. Heated to between 82 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, the pool contains therapeutic saltwater and provides guests with lovely vistas of the resort’s lake.

26. Rabot Hotel by Hotel Chocolate, St. Lucia

You’ll enjoy an incredible view of St Lucia’s staggering Pitons from the infinity pool at Rabot Hotel.

27. Grace Santorini, Greece

The Grace Hotel’s 22 meter pool is the largest on Santorini. It overlooks the volcanic caldera and provides blissful views of the Aegean.

28. Manon Les Suites, Copenhagen, Denmark

An Instagram wonderland of umbrellas, tiles, dangling fish light fixtures, and plants sprouting from terracotta pots. This pool hooks guests right from the get-go.

29. Bondi Icebergs Club, Sydney, Australia

Open to the public year round, the famous Iceberg Baths have been a historical landmark of Bondi Beach for over 100 years.

30. Hotel Indigo, Hong Kong

Hotel Indigo Hong Kong’s dramatic, cantilevered glass-bottomed infinity pool and Skybar are perfect spots to take in the jaw-dropping views of the bustling city. Located on the 29th floor, part of the pool hangs over the edge of the hotel allowing swimmers to look down on the streets of Wan Chai below.

31. Amangani, Jackson Hole, Wyoming, USA

This heated, outdoor 35-meter pool with hot tub has ethereal views of Grand Teton National Park.

32. Belmond Cap Juluca, Anguilla

In this gem of the Caribbean, you’ll find the Moroccan pool at Belmond Cap Juluca, which is the perfect place to take in views of the sparkling sea.

33. Regent Pudong, Shanghai, China

A dimming sunset slowly cascades through a wall of windows, peeking through the ever-expanding Shanghai skyline. The glowing city lights bounce gracefully off marbled surfaces, creating a rhythmic sense of calm amid a bustling city. The sights and symphonies of the city are awaiting to be discovered, yet the hotel’s sky-high infinity pool on the 41st floor looks ever so indulging.

34. Cambrian Hotel, Adelboden, Switzerland

Amid the majestic scenery of the Swiss Alps, the Cambrian offers idyllic views in every direction, including from its heated, outdoor infinity pool.

35. Omaanda by Zannier Hotels, Namibia

Every day in Namibia is an immersion into the exotic. From your chaise at the Omaanda infinity pool, you’ll watch wildlife drink at the nearby watering hole all while taking in otherworldly landscapes.  

36. Belmond La Residence d’Angkor, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap offers an explosion of color, flavor and mystical intrigue to satisfy the most intrepid traveller. Tour intricate Angkor temples, cycle through emerald-hued countryside, explore local gastronomy or ascend the sacred Phnom Kulen mountain range with expert guides. After your adventures, you can retreat to this lovely salt-water pool, and feel at one with the Cambodian jungle.

37. Enchantment Resort, Arizona, USA

Sedona is a spiritual mecca, and the pool at the Enchantment Resort is blessed with this transcendent energy. Swim under the desert sun surrounded by the gorgeous red rock mountains—or book an appointment at the on-site spa where treatments are all inspired by Native American traditions.

38. The Oyster Box, Durban, South Africa

One of South Africa’s most famous and most cherished hotels, The Oyster Box stands majestically on Umhlanga’s beachfront, overlooking the Indian Ocean and the iconic red lighthouse.

39. Tierra Atacama, Chile

Outside, you can bathe in the waters of an al fresco hot tub while admiring the Licancabur Volcano. Or, you can enjoy a dip in the infinity pool, surrounded by the hotel gardens, before having a rest on one of the wicker sun loungers and taking in the miraculous views of Atacama.

40. Gellert Thermal Baths, Budapest, Hungary

Whether you’re a local or a tourist, soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters of a thermal bath is a quintessential Hungarian experience. An Art Nouveau architectural masterpiece built early last century, it’s hard to believe that such a grand building could be a mere public bathing house, and not the remnants of a former Hungarian prince’s palace.

41. Hoshi Onsen Chojukan, Minakami, Japan

Hidden in the depths of the Joshinetsu Kogen National Park, the 140-year-old Hoshi is a Meiji-period onsen featuring six baths under an awe-inspiring vaulted wooden ceiling. The architecture echoes the railway boom of the 19th century and its beauty has earned it status as a protected, historic landmark.

42. Park Hyatt Bangkok, Thailand

A spectacular garden terrace flanks this 40-metre saltwater pool, which is located on the 9th floor of the hotel and offers views of Bangkok’s burgeoning skyline.

43. Four Seasons San Domenico Palace, Taormina, Italy

Fans of HBO’s White Lotus will undoubtedly recognize the Four Seasons San Domenico Palace in Taormina, Sicily. The property, which serves as a backdrop for Season 2 of the dark comedy, features stunning views from its 69-foot infinity pool. If you’re looking to splurge, you can book the Royal Suite, which has its own private plunge pool with vistas of the Ionian Sea and views of Taormina’s famous, ancient Greek theater.

44. 1 Hotel Brooklyn, New York City, USA

Located directly across the East River from downtown Manhattan, 1 Hotel’s uniquely shaped pool serves up one of the best views in all of New York City.

45. Amanjiwo, Java, Indonesia

Named “Peaceful Soul” for the serenity of its setting in Central Java’s cultural heartland, Amanjiwo overlooks the Unesco World Heritage Site of Borobudur. Perfectly placed for exploring the region’s historic and natural attractions, or for simply relaxing in blissful surroundings, the resort cascades from a lofty rotunda down the hillside to its magnificent pool. 

46. Colony Hotel, Palm Beach, Florida

Know affectionately as the “Pink Paradise,” The Colony celebrated its 75th birthday in 2022 with a new design inspired by the joyful spirit of Palm Beach. This iconic destination is beloved for its bold-colored brand of luxe, and has been a smart second home for statesmen and stars, as well as for the town’s chicest residents. From this exclusive address, in the heart of Palm Beach, guests can cruise to the ocean or to Worth Avenue, which boasts some of the world’s best restaurants and boutiques.

47.  Library Koh Samui, Thailand

The pool at The Library features orange, yellow and deep-red mosaic tiles that reflect underneath the water’s surface, which gives it its unique, fiery red hue.

48. Hubertus Alpin Panorama, Dolomites, Italy

Between heaven and earth, in a picturesque place amidst the Dolomites, lies this unique hotel in Olang. The hotel’s 12-metre-high and 25-metre-long Sky Pool is heated all year round to 33°Celsius. This infinity pool is an architectural masterpiece that floats over the alpine meadows, touches the horizon and gives you an incomparable feeling of freedom.

49. Parker Palm Springs, California

The entire hotel is an Instagrammer’s delight, but the pool at the Parker is the picture-perfect backdrop to snap amongst the sprawling Palm Spring’s desert.

50. One and Only Reethi Rah, Maldives

One and Only Reethi Rah is literally heaven on earth, and the pool here is no exception. Plus, the hotel has recently launched a pop-up Missoni Resort Club in collaboration with the fashion house. Inspired by the vivid palette of this Indian Ocean hideaway, Missoni has emblazoned the resort spaces and selected villas in its signature zigzag motifs, showcasing a vibrant spectrum of blues, greens and turquoise that echo the idyllic landscape.

51. San Alfonso Del Mar, Algarrobo, Chile

San Alfonso Del Mar is the world’s largest swimming pool, clocking in at an awe-inspiring one kilometer long and holding a ginormous 250 million liters or 66 million gallons of filtered ocean water.

The pool directly overlooks the Pacific Ocean is big enough for sailing, kayaking, scuba-diving instruction, all manner of aqua-fitness classes, and more. And should you encounter a day of less-than-blissfully-perfect weather, it even has South America’s only “roofed beach,” housed in a glass pyramid-shaped pavilion, with temperate-controlled water and heated sand.

52. The Brando, French Polynesia

The Brando is a unique luxury resort on French Polynesia’s breathtakingly beautiful private island of Tetiaroa – an atoll composed of a dozen small islands surrounding a sparkling lagoon, which is 30 miles northeast of Tahiti.

The resort is named after Hollywood actor Marlon Brando, who owned the island and once called it his home. Brando first came to Tetiaroa while filming Mutiny on the Bounty, and he was immediately enchanted by the island’s rare beauty and the sense it gave him of being closer to paradise. Enthralled by the Polynesian way of life – and the leading lady Tarita, the love of his life – he resolved to find a way to purchase this piece of paradise and succeeded in his goal in 1967.

53. Hacienda Uayamon, Mexico

Built in 1700, Hacienda Uayamon, a Marriott Luxury Collection Hotel, reflects a sophisticated vibe surrounded by the natural beauty of enchanting Campeche. Part of the original working buildings of the 18th century hacienda have been turned into a unique swimming pool, complete with original pillars.

54. Six Senses Zighy Bay, Oman

Arguably the best hotel in the country, this resort is nestled in Oman’s dramatic Musandam Peninsula, where rugged mountains converge with the vibrant emerald waters of the sea. At Zighy Bay, you’ll not only be able to dig your toes into powdery, white-sand beaches, but you’ll experience the culture of Oman and the serenity it bears through unique experiences and encounters, such as diving, hiking, biking or the aah of the spa.

55. Albatroz Madeira, Portugal

This cliffside pool sits right on top of the Atlantic and has 400 meters total of sea front.

56. Faena, Miami, Florida

Perched overlooking spectacular white sand and turquoise waters, Faena Miami Beach boasts decadent design, luxe amenities, and legendary service, making each and every guest feel like a star.

Plus, how many pools do you know of that have a gilded woolly-mammoth-in-residence? This three-meter tall skeleton coated in 24-karat gold and designed by British artist Damien Hirst is on display in the pool garden — it makes for a pretty epic selfie if you ask me!

57. Four Seasons, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Nestled among emerald rice fields, Four Seasons Chiang Mai is a sanctuary of well-being, perfect for unwinding and recharging. The resort’s two infinity-edge pools overlook the tranquil terraces of the Mae Rim Valley, providing a picture perfect backdrop.

58. Six Senses Zil Pasyon, Seychelles

Discover the ecological jewel of Seychelles and the private-island home to Six Senses Zil Pasyon. Coral-fringed beaches and massive granite rocks create an air of drama and beauty in this haven of perpetual summer. Step in tune with nature, swim with turtles, and enjoy an intimate destination that is a tropical ode to well-being and absolute comfort.

59.  The Joule, Dallas, Texas, USA

The Joule hotel’s rooftop pool extends 8 feet beyond the building, so that guests can float over the streets of downtown Dallas. Heated year-round, the pool is outfitted with a plexiglass window that offers guests incredible views of the city.

60. The Silo, Cape Town, South Africa

This architectural masterpiece towers above the V&A Waterfront and is offers panoramic views of Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, The Harbour, the Atlantic Ocean and the city. It makes this pool one of the best rooftop pools in all of Cape Town — if not the best!

61. Mulia Bali, Indonesia

Mulia Bali’s Oasis Pool is a divine infinity pool that is only steps from the Indian Ocean. Flanking this large pool are signature Balinese-inspired statues of ladies harvesting rice, which in Balinese culture signifies prosperity and wealth.

62. Golden Nugget, Las Vegas, Nevada

Given Sin City’s love of excess, almost any Vegas could make this list. But The Tank at the Golden Nugget has a little something special — a shark tank. Thanks to a recent, $30 million renovation, you can swim right up to this 200,000-gallon tank and snap a selfie with the sharks, or take a ride through the center of the tank via a raucous waterslide.

63.  Le Meridien Pyramids, Cairo, Egypt

Five words… Ancient Egyptian Pyramids of Giza — enough said! :O

64. Four Seasons Maui, Hawaii, USA

Celebrate the wonders of Maui in at this open-air beachfront resort – and allow the staff to pamper you in the spirit of Aloha. During your stay, you’ll iInhale the fragrance of plumeria, as you dip into this fabulous adults-only infinity pool.

65. Shangri La London, England

Located in the famous Shard building in the center or London, the pool floats 52 stories above the city. Knows as the “Sky Pool,” it’s the highest hotel pool in Western Europe, and offers guests a wellness oasis with unparalleled views.

66. Tortuga, Mustique

Decorated with Italian fabrics and furnishings, this four-bedroom villa sits comfortably on slopes high above the sea, surrounded by lush gardens with mesmerizing views of Britannia Bay and neighboring Caribbean islands.

67. Las Grutas Tolantongo, Hidalgo, Mexico

Las Grutas Tolantongo is a collection of natural hot spring pools perched along a cliff in Hidalgo. The epitome of a bucket-list destination, you’ll find these pools three to four hours northeast of Mexico City in a picturesque canyon.

68. Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona, Spain

Mandarin Oriental Barcelona is an exclusive hotel located on Passeig de Gràcia, the most famous shopping boulevard in the heart of the city and home to historical modernist sights and Gaudi’s architectural gems. On the 9th floor rooftop deck of the hotel, you’ll find this gorgeous pool with one of the most epic, bird’s eye views of any major European city.

69. Dorado Beach, a Ritz Carlton Reserve, Puerto Rico

First developed as a pineapple, grapefruit, and coconut plantation in the early 1900s, Dorado Beach didn’t become a resort until 1958, when tycoon Laurance Rockefeller developed it as a hotel and nature preserve. In 2012, Ritz-Carlton purchased the property and transformed it into its first exclusive Reserve property in the Americas.

70. Le Reserve de Beaulieu, Cote d’Azur, France

La Réserve de Beaulieu is an exceptional place for a luxurious stay combining relaxation and luxury in a breathtaking setting. An icon of the French Riviera since the Belle Epoque, La Réserve de Beaulieu has kept its excellent reputation in the eyes of the global jet set who’ve fallen for the charm of this luxury hotel in pursuit of the good life.

71. Canvas Suites, Santorini, Greece

Canvas Suites in the famous village of Oia, Santorini, offers minimalist-style, elegant accommodation surrounded by the world-famous breathtaking views of the island and caldera.

72. Cap Rocat, Mallorca, Spain

Located in a fortress built for the surveillance of the Bay of Palma, Cap Rocat posed a great challenge in terms of its restoration and renovation, which involved transforming the facilities into a hotel as well as complying with the strict regulations governing a building declared a Heritage Asset and listed as a National Monument. The fortress lies within a Protected Natural Area and blends perfectly into the striking natural landscape.

73. Four Seasons The Nam Hai, Hoi An, Vietnam

With an idyllic location on Vietnam’s culturally rich central coast, The Nam Hai offers a portal to three extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage sites and a breezy respite on the country’s most celebrated beach. You’ll have a chance to reconnect with your loved ones – whether you take to the East Sea by kayak, explore the glory of the imperial city of Hue, or simply savor quiet moments at the resort’s picturesque infinity pool.

74. Neptuno, Laguna del Sauce, Uruguay

This rockstar hideaway is a private villa located in the Punta del Este region of Uruguay, which is an A-list celebrity paradise.

75. Belmond Reid’s Palace, Madeira, Portugal

Surrounded by lush subtropical gardens, Reid’s Palace perches above picture-perfect Funchal Harbor. Having welcomed guests for 130 years, the hotel has perfected the art of indulgence. Anticipate gorgeous panoramic views, innovative cuisine and the superb service of a bygone era— it’s so incredible you may never want to leave!

76. Aman Sveti Stefan, Montenegro

A country famed for its beauty, Montenegro’s most iconic destination is the tiny islet of Sveti Stefan overlooked by Villa Miločer, a graceful stone residence set on a pink sand beach. The former summer residence of Queen Marija Karađorđević, Villa Miločer offers several elegant suites, while the island provides accommodation in 15th-century stone cottages.

77. Rosas y Xocolate, Mérida, Mexico

Rosas y Xocolate boutique hotel is two exquisite, restored, French-style mansions on Paseo Montejo, in the heart of Mérida.

78. Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, Thailand

Welcome to the adventure of a lifetime in the natural surroundings of northern Thailand, bordering Myanmar and Laos. Interact with rescued elephants, explore spectacular mountain trails or bamboo jungles and unwind in luxury tents. Let the adventurer’s spirit in you come to life – while enjoying signature hospitality and all-inclusive experiences, all in the heart of the Golden Triangle jungle.

79. Al Maha Desert Resort, Dubai, UAE

Al Maha, a Marriott Luxury Collection hotel, is a private, guest-only oasis nestled among the lush palm groves, emerald canopies and iconic sand dunes of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. This 5 star hotel offers secluded tranquility and iconic vistas of the sweeping plains and Hajar Mountain massif. This luxury hotel boasts private swimming pools from each room with majestic dune and desert views.

80. Belmond Hotel Cipriani, Venice, Italy

Cipriani gazes across the lagoon at St Mark’s Square, enjoying all the intimacy of its island perch. With Michelin-star dining and unrivaled views of Venice, this is indulgence that knows no bounds. By day, take in the poolside scene while enjoying a Bellini, or find calm in nature, as you wander through the sprawling private gardens. A serene home-from-home, a careful blend of relaxation and artistry is why this Venice hotel is a true legend.

Which pool do you think is the best or most beautiful? Drop us a comment below with your pick or let us know if your favorite pool didn’t make our list!

The post The 80 Best and Most Beautiful Pools in the World appeared first on God Save The Points.