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London Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum

How to Spend Three Days in London

London is, in many ways, iconic to travel in Europe. For many traveling outside the United States for the first time, London represents something attainable and less intimidating because of its similarities to culture in America, and is therefore a first pick for tourists who have never been outside the U.S. In fact, it was our first destination in Europe for the much same reason. Yet, traveling to London presents its own challenges. Namely, the amount of things you’ll want to do and see in London will be staggering. London is massive, and ten trips to this sparkling city wouldn’t be enough to fully uncover all there is to experience.

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Read more about the article Rio on the Cheap
The view from the Christo

Rio on the Cheap

Known as "the marvelous city," Rio de Janeiro is one of the hottest travel destinations in the world, and the most visited city in all of the southern hemisphere. Nature lovers and city slickers alike can find something to enjoy in the various terrains Rio has to offer, from its mountains and rain forests to the beaches and concrete playground of the city center. With the Summer Olympics quickly approaching, the costs to visit Rio de Janeiro are expected to skyrocket.

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Hmong Woman
The Hmong people of northern Vietnam

Why You Should Always Negotiate

If you've traveled in a developing country, you've probably been in a situation where you need to negotiate a price. Actually, you've probably been in this situation hundreds of times. Whether it's a taxi ride or a souvenir, in many places in the world it is perfectly normal to negotiate for a price. Many tourists and travelers have trouble with this concept. Depending on where you are, it might only cost a few bucks at the most. But to that local shopkeeper or taxi driver, it's a lot of money. Why not just give them that little extra that they are asking for? What's the harm? They need the money, and they are supporting their families, right?

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Read more about the article Syria: Extreme Friendliness
Baklava in the souq of Aleppo, Syria

Syria: Extreme Friendliness

Because the U.S. Dollar is so strong against the Syrian Pound, we found ourselves much wealthier than our Syrian counterparts. Despite this, the local people treated us as if we were the guests of honor to be looked after and taken care of - and they were not after our money. We were invited into homes for lunch, given free food at restaurants, and taken on free tours of historic sites.

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