Unfortunately, my experience was
underwhelming. I had glasses all set up and ready to go, but I couldn't view anything because it was cloudy.
Oh well!
This week's issue will be shorter because there's something you need to obtain now, if you haven't already.
Global Entry is receiving a price increase.
Starting October 1st, the price will increase from 100 to 120 dollars. As a result, most credit cards that cover this benefit will no longer fully cover it, as they have a maximum limit of 100 dollars. Link
Brief blurb about Global Entry:
It's a service that allows you to clear customs in just 10 minutes when returning home from another country, instead of waiting in line for an
hour.
This was particularly helpful when I fell ill after my trip to France. I needed to get home ASAP!
I think I got sick from eating all the macarons, croissants, and éclairs…
Me in Paris
Global Entry Has a Bonus:
PreCheck is automatically included in Global Entry, so you can
skip the TSA lines when traveling domestically.
Things aren't so simple...
Securing an appointment may take time (4-6 months) and could require an interview. So…
If you haven't applied for Global Entry yet, what's stopping you?
Cocktail of the Week
One cocktail invented in France is the "Bijou." It is a classic cocktail that dates back to the late 19th century and was first documented in Harry Johnson's Bartenders' Manual in 1900. The name "Bijou" means "jewel" in French, and the cocktail is named for its colorful appearance, which is reminiscent of a jewel box.
Recipe:
1 1/2 oz gin
3/4 oz sweet vermouth
3/4 oz green Chartreuse
1 dash orange bitters
Preparation:
Stir all ingredients with
ice until well-chilled.
Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
Garnish with a lemon twist or a cherry.
Random Travel Thought
An earthquake took place in Philadelphia last Saturday, followed by an eclipse today. What’s next?
Follow me on Instagram.
The Plug
Cheap flights:
Going.com: This might be the only discounted flights website you need.It’s a paid service that sends you notifications when deals become available, but they expire in a couple of days so Act Fast!!
Secret Flying 🤫: This website emails you about free flight opportunities and even better… it doesn’t cost a thing!!
Skyscanner: An older, but still reliable website that’s also *FREE* so there’s no reason not to use it. Use the "Explore the World" feature and set your departure date to "Whole Month" to find the cheapest deals.
Insurance:
Safety Wing: I use Safety Wing as my travel insurance because the plans are flexible. You can easily insure a 1-week trip for like $11 dollars which is less than the cost of a cocktail at the bar.
Travel Gear
Compression socks: Sitting for extended periods of time is not good for the body, so keep
yourself healthy enough to go on more trips.Link
Apple AirTags: Consider getting Apple AirTags for the peace of mind of always knowing where your luggage is. Link
Smart Phone holder: It's a foldable sheet that can be used as a stand for your iPhone or iPad.Link
Packing cubes: Having a separate container works wonders for keeping clothes wrinkle-free. It also makes packing/unpacking much easier.Link
Donut Power Strip: Power outlets are always in demand, but sometimes they're in weird spots. I use this bagel because it's lightweight, and I don't have to think about it.Link
Travel Case Organizer: Cable organizers can be a pain, but this is what I use to keep my cables organized. Link
Backup batteries: I like these backup batteries because they have three important components for me: 1. They have enough power to recharge my phone multiple times at
once, 2. Are small enough to put in my pocket, and 3. Are sturdy enough to survive a fall. Link
Yoga Mat: I use this thin mat to get my stretching in even when I'm traveling. Link
Jump Rope: It's so easy to bring a jump rope with you for exercise because it weighs almost nothing and takes up no space. Link
Liquid IV: Great for hydration to keep you from dying. When you're traveling,
it's time to live it up! Link
*Above are Affiliate links at no additional cost to you.
