Priceless Gallery

The beauty of Canada

Typical prices for a wide range of goods and services are generally higher in Canada than in the United States, from books to bars. So when the recession hit last decade and the strong Canadian economy caused its currency to rise, the situation got even worse.

But that was then. Now, as the U.S. dollar has gained strength, the Canadian Rockies, panoramic train journeys, and polar bear experiences are beckoning. Vancouver hotel prices were frequently topping $450 at the end of the last decade, but now luxury hotels in that city are showing rates in line with what you would pay in Seattle . You can now party late in Montreal or explore Quebec for rates in line with U.S attractions.

Since many Americans can drive across the border to Canada with only minor hassles, a car trip to this destination also lets you go even further, given this summer's gas prices.

Magical Mexico

Just south of the United States, the Mexican peso historically trades at around 12 to the dollar, but is now hovering around 15. That means you can travel with your friends and family and partake in the simple pleasures of Mexico—a plate of tacos, a round of crisp beers—at a 20 percent (or more) discount. You can splash out at one of the top beach resorts in the world, or explore the thousands of miles of coastline to find your own secret spot. In the bargain-priced colonial interior, cities founded a century or two before Jamestown are near Mayan ruins that date back more than a millennium.

While driving to Mexico may seem attractive, given fuel prices, be advised that you'll need to purchase temporary insurance and leave a deposit. Flying might be an easier option. Increased competition from new route openings and expanded operations from Mexican carriers like Volaris and Interjet means that flights to this country are priced only slightly above domestic ones.

The family road trip

In the summer of 2013, a gallon of gasoline topped the $5 mark in much of the United States. This summer it is more likely to average around $3. That means driving 600 miles on a road trip in a car that gets 20 miles to the gallon will cost $90 instead of $150. That frees up more funds for amusement parks, pizza nights and once-in-a-life-time experiences, like seeing the Grand Canyon for the first time.

Drive Route 66, one of the country’s original highways. Marvel at the California coastline along Highway 1 and push even further up the coasts of Oregon and Washington. Travel Florida, all the way down to the southernmost point buoy in Key West. Witness Montana’s majestic Glacier National Park. The Maine coastline, the Blue Ridge Mountains (a.k.a. “America’s Favorite Drive”) and the Badlands of South Dakota are all calling.

And while the average hotel rate in the U.S. has risen slightly, from $113 to $121  since 2013, that has been offset by the rapid rise in inventory of short-term vacation rentals.

Venice Simplon Orient Express

Gleaming oak-paneled train cabins restored to glory and indulgent services are hallmarks of this Paris-to-Istanbul route, famously traveled by rail since 1883. This six-day, five-night journey starts off with an afternoon tea after departing Paris, which only seems appropriate. In Budapest and Bucharest, enjoy guided city tours and a castle visit, then cross the Danube through pastoral countryside. On the last day, the train glides into Turkey's plains and on into ancient Istanbul. One annual departure.

Glacier Express

Clocking in at just seven hours, this is a rollercoaster of a slow ride via hundreds of narrow-gauge bridges and tunnels, gorges and passes. Sit in panoramic cars, Prosecco in hand, and appreciate the precise Swiss engineering as you climb Oberalp Pass at nearly 7,000 feet. “Traveling by train allows for eyes to be engaged on the view and await the next turn and corner, which is fun when with kids," says Claudia Laroye, a Vancouver, B.C.-based mother and travel blogger, regarding her time aboard the Glacier Express. Year-round departures.

Grand Tour of Great Britain

The Scottish, Welsh and Lake District countryside whir past on this circular route that takes a leisurely eight days and seven nights. Stops include a Scottish distillery, a Welsh castle and Roman baths, and the ride features on-board cocktails and elegant meal service. At night, settle into your dark-hued, en-suite cabin kitted out with vintage-style touches, sure to give a good night's rest. One annual departure.

Empire Builder

This 46-hour Seattle-Chicago trip offers spectacular views. Upon awaking after the first night aboard, riders are greeted by Montana's majestic Glacier National Park along with the morning sun. Then the Empire Builder glides into Big Sky Country and North Dakota's plains.

Tip: Splurge for a Superliner Bedroom Suite, which bunks four passengers in fresh beds with turn-down service and includes all meals. "I enjoyed actually seeing the country, which you don't get flying, and basking in wide spaces," says Seattle resident Clara Berg, who has taken the route twice. Departs daily.

Classic First Passage to the West

This four-day, three-night excursion takes riders through impossibly dramatic scenery as it travels from Vancouver, B.C., to Banff, Calgary: the picturesque Fraser Canyon, Thompson River's rush, and the Canadian Rockies' glaciers and peaks. Premium GoldLeaf Service pampers riders in a bi-level, glass-domed coach and gourmet hot meals. Departs June-October only.

Pullman Rail Journeys

Pullman Rail Journeys' first-class trips trundle along the iconic tracks between Chicago and New Orleans on a two-day, one-night (19 ½-hour) journey. Classic train cars contain expansive picture windows, historic interiors and premium white bed linens, along with modern amenities like Wi-Fi. On-board live entertainment, meals and spirits are part of the all-inclusive package. Departs once weekly.

Kids will enjoy a visit to Chapultepec Park, which Frommer's calls the “centerpiece of the city." At 543 acres, it is one of the largest city parks in the world. Hop a ride on the miniature train, wave hello to the animals at the zoo or get your paddle on in a canoe on the park's lake. There's also a children's museum and an amusement park.

The park is also home to Los Pinos, the official residence of the Mexican president. Admission to the park is free.

For families looking to branch out, the ruins of Teotihuacán are located 30 miles outside Mexico City. Bring your own lunch and picnic as you explore the pyramids of this ancient city where the Aztecs believed the gods created the universe.

Toronto

For parents traveling with toddlers, check out the Ontario Science Centre's KidSpark, which has its own toddler area for little travelers to explore shapes and textures.

Looking to take a break from city life? Head outside Toronto and into Blue Mountains, Ontario, to wander through massive caves at Scenic Caves Nature Adventures. No fear of heights? Then inch your way across a 420-foot footbridge and take a ride on Canada's longest twin zipline.

For younger visitors and those who prefer their feet closer to the ground, this spot also offers a playground, tractor rides and panning for gemstones.

Paris

Ah, the City of Lights. For years Paris has been synonymous with romance and… kids?

Actually, yes.

There's more to Paris than the Eiffel Tower and escargot. Consider places like the Parc André Citroën, where you can dodge water jets and discover waterfalls. You can also climb aboard a hot air balloon for city views you can't get from a tower.

Paris is also well known for its unique markets, and Île de la Cité is no exception. With vendors selling colorful orchids and other exotic plants, it's a full-on feast for little eyes. And for wandering hands, there's a pet market where visitors can ogle and even pet some of the many animals, including chickens and bunnies.

New Orleans

New Orleans is known for its thumping jazz music, crawfish delicacies and of course, the nightlife of Bourbon Street.  But that's only a very small part of the magic of this city.

While New Orleans has dozens of attractions aimed at children—there's also an insectarium and an aquarium—the city itself is ideal for families to explore. Head into the French Quarter and listen to jazz music from the street performers who are out nearly every day. Dancing is encouraged. Taste the beignets and stroll past the local artists that set up shop in Jackson Square. Walking tours also delve into the city's history of ghosts and voodoo.

And if you are feeling adventurous, bring your family to New Orleans during Mardi Gras season. While some parades are adult-only, most are made for kids. Locals prop their little ones on ladder stands so they can get the best chance at catching beads, cups, stuffed animals and other toys and throws that are tossed off the floats as they roll by. It's one of the biggest parties in the world—and definitely worth the trip.

London

Back across the pond is another major European city that has a reputation for being more of an adult travel destination—but really provides an adventure for the whole family. After all, the city is home to two of the most famous children in the world (hello, Prince George and Princess Charlotte!) so, of course, local Londoners know how to show little ones a good time.

For the toddler and young school age set, the South Bank is the place to be. With very few steps, it's an easy stroll to check out the boats on the River Thames or the shows at the Southbank Centre. And of course there’s the breathtaking views atop the London Eye, the biggest Ferris wheel most kids will ever see.

London is also a great walking city and home to many famous Brits, real and fictional. Visitors can make like they're at Hogwarts at Harry Potter movie locations or get in spy-mode during the Sherlock Holmes tour. Older kids and teens can retrace the steps of London's most famous serial killer, Jack the Ripper.

Asheville, North Carolina

This up-and-coming city is one huge backyard adventure, with the Blue Ridge Mountain as a breathtaking backdrop. Ziplining, hiking, paddle boarding—the to-do list is extensive.

At Asheville Treetops Park, kayak enthusiasts can try kayaking in mid-air on a harness suspended three stories high. Younger kids or those who like to hang out a little closer to earth can do a tamer version. The rivers that run through Asheville range from serene to rushing white water. Visitors can go paddleboarding, whitewater rafting, tubing, canoeing or kayaking.

For parents with foodie leanings, Asheville is also home to a burgeoning food and craft-beer scene. In fact, the wealth of Asheville breweries has earned it the nickname, “Beer City, U.S.A.”

Street falafel in Paris

One of Paris's most charming neighborhoods is the Marais (where I live). There are many reasons to visit, including the history, the 17th-century architecture, the shopping and the falafel. When you enter the Jewish quarter you'll see people holding pita sandwiches wrapped in yellow paper, and you definitely want to be one of them.

Get in line at one of the shops on Rue des Rosiers and order a sandwich of fluffy pita bread filled with crispy falafel balls, marinated eggplant, shredded carrots and cucumber, and a healthy dollop of humus and crème de sesame. Take your sandwich to Le Jardin des Rosiers and dig in. Tucked behind buildings, the courtyard park has benches and a grassy area for children to play.

Pizza in Rome

Naples may be the birthplace of pizza, but the quintessential Italian dish is enjoying a renaissance in Rome. Traditionally thought of as a quick, eat-on-the-street meal, pizza in Rome has always been plentiful but not always great. Now, however, more and more restaurants are making artisanal pies with fermented dough and quality ingredients.

Roman pizza is different than the Neapolitan style. It has an airy, almost focaccia-like dough and is cut into rectangles. Recently, after a visit to the Vatican, I enjoyed slices topped with smoky scamorza cheese, hazelnuts and arugula, while standing up at a table in the Prati neighborhood surrounded by a mixed crowd of young families and hip 20-somethings drinking craft beer. It was a quick and satisfying meal.

Fish and chips in London

When I studied abroad in London during college, I thought I would enjoy fish and chips often, but I found most that I tried to be greasy and mediocre. It was only recently that I realized this is a meal that should be enjoyed at a restaurant with white tablecloths and a wine list. London's venerable institutions do it best.

The fish should be flaky haddock battered and fried to a crisp golden brown. Proper fish and chips is served with thick cut fries and a side of bright green mushy peas. Douse with vinegar and enjoy—with a knife and fork.

Risotto alla Milanese in Milan

Perhaps the world's most well-heeled risotto, Risotto alla Milanese, is an absolute must do in Milan. The golden hued pasta dish is made with pricey saffron, and the best versions are creamy but also include riso carnaroli, rice that retains a bit of bite. It's that interesting contrast of textures, combined with the rich ingredients, that make this dish stand out.

Milan's best chefs often play with the genre. Look for updates, like the addition of roasted bone marrow, crunchy toasted almonds and pine nuts.

Jamon Iberico in Barcelona

You can't even bring this delicacy into the U.S. legally, so it's best to gorge yourself on it while in Spain. Made from the Iberian breed of pig also known as pata negra, the animals require more time to reach maturity than other breeds. Acorn-fed Jamon Iberico de Belotta is the most prized, due to its silky, melt-in-your-mouth texture. It's the perfect thing to purchase at Barcelona's La Boqueria market for a picnic in the Park Guell. Or enjoy it at one of Barcelona's many tapas bars, with a glass of round and aromatic white rioja.

Stroopwafel in Amsterdam

No visit to Amsterdam is complete without tasting Stroopwafel, the syrup waffle cookies that date back to the 18th century. While many packaged brands exist, the best way to experience the treat is to find a shop that makes them fresh. You can watch as they press the waffles with an iron and split them into two thin halves. A layer of caramel is spread between the waffles to glue them together.

I love that these cookies aren't too sweet. They're nutty and a tiny bit spicy, thanks to the cinnamon that is often included in the filling. You can certainly enjoy this cookie as you walk along the canals or dip it in coffee for a morning indulgence.

Currywurst in Berlin

The history of currywurst is quite fascinating and dates back to post-WWII Berlin, when food was in short supply. The Allied powers introduced imported ingredients, like ketchup and English curry powder, and the curry-ketchup sauce was born. This casual dish, which also consists of sliced sausage—with or without casing—is so popular in Berlin that it even has its own museum. And it goes great with Germany's national beverage, beer.

Balik Ekmek in Istanbul

When lunchtime rolls around in Istanbul, follow the locals to the ornate boats on the waterfront near the Galata Bridge. The boats are equipped with large grills, where mackerel filets are cooked and then placed on a white hoagie-style roll and served with onion, lettuce and a sprinkling of red pepper. Make sure to squeeze lemon over the top and eat it right away at one of the awning-covered tables outside. The last thing you want is for this sandwich to get soggy!

Continue south to the Trevi Fountain, tossing in a coin to ensure you'll come back to Rome. Head west into Piazza di Pietra to admire ancient Hadrian's Temple, then south to the church of Sant'Ignazio di Layola, whose frescos include a trompe l'oeil dome.

Further west, find the 2,000-year-old Pantheon, that impressive ancient temple turned church whose wide concrete dome remains a wonder. Finish just west, in long, oval Piazza Navona—lined with shops and cafes, filled with street performers and merchants—to take in the Four Rivers fountain by Gianlorenzo Bernini, arguably Italy's greatest Baroque sculptor.

Food for thought Cipro & Trionfale

After a Vatican visit, bite off a snack-filled jaunt in the neighborhoods north. Start near the Vatican's northwest corner, at Pizzarium—chef and baker Gabriele Bonci's homage to oblong Roman pizza al taglio—then head north for something cold and sweet at Il Gelato Bistrò.

Next, it's an amble southeast on tree-lined streets to Mercato Trionfale, one of Rome's most extensive covered food markets, to browse stalls selling meats and cheeses, spices and olive oils, pasta and pastries, and fruits and vegetables of all kinds.

For a final nibble, scoot northeast to Panificio Bonci, where the eponymous cook turns out breads and pastries both sweet and savory.

Boutique buys Monti

To go beyond the fabulous international brands found in Centro, amble through the quiet and largely residential Monti district, located between Centro and the Forum. The parallel streets of Via dei Serpenti and Via del Boschetto, bisected by the perpendicular Via Panisperna and ending in ViaLeonina, offer plenty of retail pleasures: independent fashion designers, boutiques selling a mix of small and often local labels, home décor both new and vintage.

From Centro, work your way south on Serpenti then north on Boschetto, ducking in and out of charming shops, pausing for drinks and snacks at one of the cafes ringing lovely Piazza della Madonna dei Monti, which connects the two streets near their southernmost point.

Ancient adventure The Forum & environs

Start exploring ancient Rome at the Theater of Marcellus—a sort of Colosseum in miniature—near the Jewish Ghetto. Then walk north and climb the long staircase of the Campidoglio. This hilltop square, laid out by Michelangelo and now the site of City Hall and the ancient artifacts of the Capitoline Museum, once housed one of the Rome's earliest temples, the ruins of which can be found in the museum's lower floor.

From here, look over the columns, pediments and porticoes of the Roman Forum. Then proceed along Via dei Fori Imperiali, between the Forum and Trajan's Market to the Colosseum. Walk the mega-theater's circumference, or head inside, then continue south to Basilica San Clemente, where you can descend through three layers of civilization and 2,000 years of history.

Steve Vickers, founder of RoutesNorth.com, a travel guide to Sweden, treasures a tiny painted Dalahäst (a traditional wooden horse) that he bought on his first-ever trip to Stockholm. “I spent a long time back home wishing I could visit Dalarna, the rural part of Sweden it was made in," he says. "That dream came true and six years later I'm still in Sweden, running an online travel guide to the country. The little red horse sits on my desk as a reminder of where it all began." 

For travel writer Zach Everson, the souvenir he holds onto is both kitschy and a token of his wife's affection from before they were married. “In Rome in 2005, I really coveted a Vatican ashtray (it's an official item, sold at a licensed souvenir store)," he says. "I'm not Catholic and don't smoke, but it seemed like the perfect mix of high brow and low brow, emblematic of my time in Europe.” He still had another month left of travel, though, and was sure it would break in his luggage. “I refrained from buying it, but whined about missing my chance regularly thereafter,” he says. “Six months later, my new girlfriend—now wife—returns from a trip to Italy with the Vatican ashtray as a gift for me, and a Vatican shot glass to boot. Both have been on my desk ever since."

With certain items, it’s less about the item itself and more about the person behind it. When travel writer Lauren Matison visited a traditional Samburu homestead in Kenya, she purchased a beautiful beaded bracelet directly from the elderly woman who made it. “I got to learn a bit about her nomadic pastoral way of life,” she explains. “I am grateful for this one mighty piece of jewelry that takes me back to Africa, to a world that makes the most of the little things in life.”

A special souvenir helped Sarah Netter, a New Orleans-based freelance writer, mark a pivotal moment—her decision to adopt. She was traveling with her mother in Hawaii when she found a small wood Tiki carving. “[It] was meant to bring fertility if you put it in your entry way,” she says. “My son was born four months later.” She adds, “I have it saved for when I'm ready to adopt another baby and then I will put it back in my entry way!”

It's not always the souvenirs that you buy that are the most significant, says Katie Dillon, who writes about luxury and family travel. “My family took a day trip from Mexico City to Teotihuacan and my daughter picked up an interesting Y-shaped stick to play with while my husband climbed the Pyramid of the Sun (she was too little). We assumed that she had left it in the hotel but laughed when we realized that she had in fact put it in her backpack and brought it all the way home. It is probably her favorite souvenir, and proudly displayed in her bookshelf."

“When I ask people about their most precious memories or look at their holiday cards, trips are remembered, not car purchases or redecorating projects,” says Kristin Zibell, founder of TakeYourBigTrip.com. It's a philosophy shared by travelers: experiences are more valuable than things. “My life is richer because of this connection outside my home. I become a better human. Plus, I have seen the Pyramids at sunrise, lived in Paris, and ridden a camel in the desert. Travel is the greatest gift I have given to myself.”

Traveling with family might be daunting to some, but others tout the rewards. “With family, travel is always a great way to really and truly be together without everyday life getting in the way,” says Celeste Brash. “When you travel as a family your unit becomes very solid because it's most of what you have to hang onto.” For Tim Leffel, travel is a key part of his daughter's education. “I learned more while traveling than I ever did during my expensive college education, so we're trying to give our daughter glimpses of how the rest of the world lives so she can have a deeper understanding as she grows up.”

Whether you love golf, food, music or otherwise, travelers often go away to spend time focusing on their hobbies and interests. A classically trained dancer, Mickela Mallozi approaches travel through her love for dance, learning dances from locals everywhere she goes. “Dance and music are the most basic means of expressing joy, sadness, and all other emotions across the spectrum, and it is quite overwhelming to experience first–hand the differences and similarities that we have across cultures. And it's a whole lot of fun too!”

Why people travel can change through time, but travelers never truly lose their wanderlust. When Celeste Brash lived abroad in Tahiti, she would get island fever and traveled as an escape. “Now that I live in Portland, I want to travel less,” she admits. “But I feel that when I do go, I come back invigorated with a fresh take on my life and how to tackle things.”

If there's one big “why,” one overarching motivation that links all travelers, it's memories. Possessions are fleeting, experiences end, but travel memories last a lifetime. So perhaps it may not matter why you go, as long as you go at all.