Everyone loves a freebie. Theres a certain satisfaction in getting something for nothing, isnt there? In reality, there are a lot of free items, fee-free entry programs and smartphone apps that can help you save time and money when you travel. There are travel freebies out there. In fact, some travel freebies are practically essential items. Here are some travel freebies. Maps Even in this era of the GPS unit, paper maps can be amazingly useful travel tools. You can use them but you can also use maps to gain a sense of perspective on your journey. Happily, most tourist welcome centers and information offices in the US and Canada offer free state and provincial maps to anyone who walks in the door. Tourist information centers in Europe typically have free maps, too. Travel Guides When you visit the tourist information center, remember to ask for a local travel guide. Although many of these free publications are stuffed with advertisements,they also have information about hotels, restaurants, attractions, shopping and outdoor activities. Many offer discount coupons for restaurants and local sights. You can order free travel guides to use when you plan your trip from state and provincial tourism offices in the US and Canada, either by telephone or through their websites. Fee-Free National Park Days If you plan to visit a national park in the United States or Canada, take a look at the annual schedule of free admission days. In Canada, July 1, Canada Day, is often designated as a free admission day by Parks Canada. In the US, there are several free admission days during the year. Typically, these days are Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend in January, National Park Week in April, Get Outdoors Day in early June, National Public Lands Day in late September and Veterans Day weekend in November. Of course, US citizens and permanent residents over age 62 can also get a Senior Pass for $10 ($20 if processed by mail), which offers free admission to all United States national parks and is valid for life. Museum Free Days Many cities and countries around the world offer museum free days, some on a regular schedule and others in conjunction with special events. Before you travel, take a few minutes to look up museum free days in your destination city or country. Here is a partial list of cities and countries that offer museum free days: Chicago Denver Greece London Los Angeles Madrid New Orleans Phoenix Rome San Francisco Historic and Scenic Trails, Byways and Roads In the United States, you can experience the journeys of earlier Americans on National Historic Trails. Some of these journeys, such as the California National Historic Trail, were made in hope, while others, like the Trail of Tears, were bathed in sadness. The National Park Service, state park systems and local history groups have created an amazing number of historic and scenic adventures you can experience on foot or by car. GasBuddy If you are driving in the US or Canada, you need to know about GasBuddy. This handy website and free smartphone app can help you find the lowest gas prices no matter where you are. Even better, you can download a map that shows you how to get to the cheapest gas station – a lifesaver when you are traveling in an unfamiliar area. XE This currency conversion website and free smartphone app takes all the guesswork out of exchange rates. Exchange rates are updated daily, and you can calculate conversions in an amazing number of currency combinations. Avid shoppers and budget travelers will especially appreciate the power of XE. Skype Before you leave home, convince your family and friends to join Skype, join it yourself, and call everyone for free no matter where you travel. Wishing you the best in a free travel experience!!
Posted on: Mon, 18 Nov 2013 12:15:26 +0000
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