Road Scholar offers multiple paths to travel and learning

Travel

The nonprofit Road Scholar celebrates 50 years with new tours, as well as free armchair travel.Offering a wide selection of destinations for avid travelers, it also keeps in mind those who can no longer travel or cannot afford to.”For 50 years, Road Scholar has empowered older adults to explore, learn and connect with the world around them,” said James Moses, CEO of Road Scholar. “Beginning with our first program at the University of New Hampshire in 1975, we have partnered with thousands of colleges, universities, museums, and cultural centers around the world, and with exceptional teachers, professors and expert instructors to provide educational experiences to more than six million older adults across generations.”We are proud of the work we’ve done changing perceptions of aging, and of the educational community we’ve built united by curiosity, adventure and a passion for discovery.” From the comfort of homeUpcoming online free lectures take you to the world, wellness and history.April 3 at 10 a.m., Alaska Time2025 Keynote Event: “Leadership in Turbulent Times” – a free virtual by presidential historian and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Doris Kearns Goodwin. The Q&A session will explore leadership during challenging periods in U.S. history. Goodwin has written biographies of numerous U.S. presidents including “No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt: The Home Front in World War II,” which won the Pulitzer Prize for History in 1995.April 22 at at 9 a.m. Alaska Time “Into the Icy Deep – Marine Life, Sea Ice & Conservation,” a one-hour lecture and Q&A to learn about the vibrant marine ecosystems of the Arctic and Antarctic.Join Amanda Hunter, marine biologist and polar expedition guide, on a journey across the polar oceans in celebration of Earth Day. Dive into the vibrant marine ecosystems of the Arctic and Antarctic, from tiny phytoplankton to majestic seals and whales, while uncovering the vital role of sea ice in Earth’s climate. Hunter will also discuss the fascinating physical and chemical properties of polar waters and how they shape marine life. Examine the effects of human activities – from early exploration to the pressing challenges of climate change, pollution and overfishing – to better understand why conserving these remote regions is vital to the health of our planet.May 1 at 10 a.m. Alaska Time “Age Well: Aging in Place – Key Considerations for a Fulfilling Future.” Gerontologist and caregiver advocate Lakelyn Hogan Eichenberger will help you explore considerations for aging in place. Learn how to make informed choices, discover useful tools and resources, and gain insights to help aging adults and family caregivers start the conversation and plan for a safe, comfortable future at home.May 5 at 9 a.m. Alaska Time “Exploring Easter Island – Moai Mysteries & More,” a one-hour lecture and Q&A to learn about the history and mysteries of Rapa Nui (Easter Island).Experienced guide Nicole Flores will unravel the island’s ancient riddles, reveal the moai legacy and explore Tangata Mana, the captivating birdman ceremony. With firsthand experience, she answers the most popular questions from travelers to the region, illustrated by photos from her journeys. Experience the mysteries and traditions of the Rapa Nui people and the wonders of Easter Island – for free!May 8 at 10 a.m. Alaska Time “Age Well: Move for Life – Strength, Balance & Curiosity at Any Age.” Find out about movement for well-being and flexibility.David Wilson is a movement coach and educator specializing in lifelong physical confidence. The founder of oldscoolmoves and anti-ageism advocate, he has a unique approach integrating rhythm, spatial awareness and adaptability to help individuals move with greater ease, power and control.May 9 at 7 a.m. Alaska Time”Age Well: Coping with Challenging Situations in Dementia Care.”Important information about brain changes that typically occur during dementia, and how those changes may contribute to these challenges, along with practical strategies and methods of providing support to individuals living with dementia. May 21 at 9 a.m. Alaska Time”Age Well: The AgeTech Revolution – Shaping the Future of Aging.”Gerontologist Keren Etkin, Age Tech expert will explore why Age Tech matters, how it’s shaping the future of aging and why older adults’ voices are essential in tech development. May 22 at 10 a.m. Alaska Time Age Well: Psychology of Kindness – Strategies for Prosocial Behavior”How can small acts of kindness and positive thinking shape a happier, more fulfilling life? Author Catherine Sanderson, a leading expert in positive psychology, will explore research-backed strategies for fostering positivity and gain practical tools to strengthen happiness in everyday life.June 10 at 9 a.m. Alaska Time “Honoring D-Day – Echoes of Valor & Victory”On June 6, 1944, the Allies undertook one of the most bold and significant operations of World War II – a massive amphibious and airborne assault in Normandy, marking the beginning of the end for Nazi oppression in Europe. The first 24 hours of Operation Overlord, codenamed “D-Day,” saw a united effort of American, British and Canadian forces overcome Hitler’s formidable “Atlantic Wall” and secure critical beachheads.Honor this monumental day with a lecture by Spencer Jones, a senior lecturer in Armed Forces and War Studies at the University of Wolverhampton in England, who also serves as the regimental historian for the Royal Regiment of Artillery. Jones will unveil the strategic brilliance and steadfast bravery that clinched the Allied victory. It’s easy to sign up for these lectures, just go to https://www.roadscholar.org/collections/online-lectures/free/

Cruise passenger attacks another traveler for dancing barefoot in ship cocktail lounge, F.B.I. says

Travel

The C.E.O. of a California-based insurance company was arrested by the F.B.I. after attacking another passenger while onboard a Virgin Voyages cruise to the Caribbean. According to a criminal complaint, Kenneth D. DeGiorgio allegedly tried to choke another guest on March 31 while sailing aboard Resilient Lady. The cruise ship was about 70 nautical miles west of Fort-de-France, Martinique.The altercation began when DeGiorgio’s wife requested that the other passenger put on shoes while dancing at On the Rocks, one of the cruise ship’s bars. “Look, we are all grown-ups here. Can you put your shoes on?” she asked. In response, the man made a crude remark and gave her the middle finger. Security footage corroborated the incident, showing DeGiorgio with his hands wrapped around the unidentified passenger’s neck, as well as the victim flipping off his wife. The victim also claimed DeGiorgio threatened to kill him. “While on the dancefloor, VICTIM stumbles under the physical control of DeGiorgio…VICTIM stated that the unknown male used a lot of force and felt as if his throat was going to be ripped out,” the complaint reads.Consequently, the ship’s captain ordered DeGiorgio confined to his stateroom until the ship reached San Juan, Puerto Rico, the following day. Once in Puerto Rico, he refused to answer the F.B.I. agents’ questions and requested a lawyer. Read more: I’ve been on 15 cruises, but my first Virgin Voyage was different from any other. Here are 12 things that surprised me
DeGiorgio is the CEO of First American Financial Corporation, a U.S. title insurance company that reported more than $6 billion in revenue in 2024. He’s been with the company since 2010, serving as Executive Vice President for 11 years before becoming President in 2021 and C.E.O. in Feb. 2022. He and his wife were traveling on a 10-night cruise to the Eastern and Southern Caribbean, calling at Tortola, BVI; St Johns, Antigua; Basseterre, St Kitts; Fort-de-France, Martinique; Castries, St Lucia;  Bridgetown, Barbados, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The complaint reveals the couple was staying in cabin 15339A, a Massive Suite part of the ship’s exclusive Mega Rockstar Quarters. Measuring over 2,100 square feet, it’s the largest stateroom onboard Resilient Lady and features a private hot tub, personal music room, and curated in-room bar. According to Virgin’s website, a Massive Suite on a 7-night cruise in March 2026 costs over $20,000.
“Violent crimes committed aboard cruise ships fall under federal jurisdiction, and we take them very seriously…If you break the law at sea, expect to face consequences on land,” Devin J. Kowalski said in a statement, reported The New York Times. Kowalski is the acting special agent of the F.B.I.’s field office in San Juan.Mr. DeGiorgio’s legal team provided a brief statement to The New York Times on Thursday, pushing back on allegations that he had been the aggressor:”Mr. DeGiorgio responded to the actions of an individual who harassed his wife, making her feel threatened and intimidated. Although charged with a simple misdemeanor, Mr. DeGiorgio looks forward to being absolved of any wrongdoing.”
He’s been released by the authorities but faces up to one year in prison if convicted of Assault Within Maritime and Territorial Jurisdiction of the United States. Read more: 10 things I loved and hated about my first Virgin Voyages cruise

Foreign allies warn travelers: U.S. no longer a safe bet

Travel

Traveling to the United States now comes with more fine print.

Amid the Trump administration’s recent wave of deportations targeting criminal illegal immigrants and pro-Hamas protesters, a slew of updated travel advisories from U.S. allies now warn of new risks to visitors.

Germany’s foreign office cautions that “neither a valid [Electronic System for Travel] authorization nor a valid U.S. visa constitutes a right to entry into the USA” and that “even a slight overstay of their visa … can lead to arrest, detention and deportation.”

Three German nationals were recently detained, according to several reports, including a legal U.S. resident now held at Wyatt Detention Center in Rhode Island.

The United Kingdom, too, updated its guidance to say: “You may be liable to arrest or detention if you break the rules.” The shift followed the detention of 28-year-old Welsh tourist Becky Burke, who was detained after a visa mix-up at the Canadian border.

Canada also revised its guidance, warning: “Foreign nationals visiting the United States for periods longer than 30 days must be registered with the United States government” or face “penalties, fines and misdemeanor prosecution.”

And New Zealand’s travel site now urges citizens to “exercise increased caution” in the U.S. because of “the threat of terrorism” and it notes elevated levels of violent crime.

The Trump administration’s January executive order on biological sex also has spurred travel advisory changes. Under the new rule, anyone applying for a visa or Electronic System for Travel Authorization must mark the box for the sex they were assigned at birth — with no exceptions.

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In response, Denmark, Finland, Ireland and Portugal are urging LGBT citizens to consult their local U.S. embassies for more information on how to approach travel in the U.S.

The Trump administration has defended the travel policy as a return to biological clarity in federal documentation. Officials argue the move ensures consistency across agencies and prevents ideologically driven confusion within immigration and identification systems.

“There are only two sexes — male and female,” Homeland Security Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement. “President Trump promised the American people a revolution of common sense, and that includes making sure that the policy of the U.S. government agrees with simple biological reality.”

International Travel Tips for Dealing With U.S. Immigration Officers

Travel

In recent weeks, international travel has become more complicated for many U.S.-based travelers. A series of executive orders and policy shifts in 2025 seem to have altered the landscape of immigration enforcement and border procedures. News reports of delays, secondary inspection, and additional questioning for lawful permanent residents (green card holders), visa holders, and even United States citizens, have caused concerns for those traveling abroad and re-entering the United States.

While the administration has not yet issued a formal, country-specific travel ban as seen in prior years, a new travel ban has been proposed and is under active review. This proposed policy, along with recently issued executive action and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) guidance have heightened vetting procedures at ports of entry. These developments have arisen just weeks after related immigration enforcement priorities, such as proposals to expand the use of administrative warrants, increased scrutiny of visa issuance and renewals, and expedited removals of noncitizens deemed inadmissible at the border or deportable while already in the country.

Understandably, international travelers have many questions about traveling internationally right now. Below is practical guidance for individuals planning international travel and intending to return to the U.S. in the coming weeks or months.

General International Travel Advice

Carry Complete Documentation: Ensure you travel with your original passport, valid visa (if applicable), approval notices, employment verification letters, and any other relevant travel documents. Keep digital and paper copies in separate, accessible locations.
Be Prepared for Secondary Inspection: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers may refer travelers to secondary inspection for additional questioning, even if they have traveled without issue in the past. This is not necessarily cause for concern. Travelers should remain calm, answer questions truthfully, and contact counsel if detained during the secondary inspection process.
Avoid Traveling on Expired Documents: Renew your passport, visa, or green card before travel if they will expire within six months of the date you plan to re-enter the U.S. Many countries and/or airlines have minimum validity date requirements.
Monitor Policy Updates: Policies can shift quickly. Check with DHS, CBP, or the U.S. embassy/consulate in your destination country before traveling.

For U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens have an absolute right to re-enter the United States, but some have reported heightened questioning based on dual nationality, prior travel history, or other factors.
Ensure your U.S. passport is valid for at least six months and that any foreign passport you carry does not conflict with your U.S. entry.
U.S. citizens should not be denied re-entry but can be delayed—sometimes significantly—especially if flagged in a government database or selected for advanced screening.
Immigration officers may request to view your cell phone or other devices. Consider deleting social media applications such as TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, or X (formerly Twitter) from your devices before you are inspected by an immigration officer.

For U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders)

Carry your unexpired green card and any supporting evidence of ties to the U.S., such as proof of residence, employment, or family relationships.
Avoid very lengthy trips abroad without first seeking legal advice. Absences of over 180 days may trigger additional scrutiny or raise “abandonment of residence” concerns.
If your green card is expired or will expire soon, obtain proof of renewal (e.g., I-797 receipt notice) before returning.

For Nonimmigrant Visa Holders (e.g., H-1B, L-1, F-1, J-1, O-1, TN, H-1B1, E-2, R-1, B-1/B-2)

Ensure your visa is valid and that you carry all required documentation, including recent pay stubs, I-797 approval notices, and support letters from your employer or school.
Dual Intent Visa Holders (H-1B and L-1): These visa categories allow for the possibility of pursuing permanent residency while maintaining nonimmigrant status. However, travelers may still face questioning about their intent to return to their home country if their green card process is pending.
Strict Nonimmigrant Intent Visa Holders (e.g., TN, F-1, B-1/B-2, J-1, and more): These travelers must demonstrate an intent to return abroad after their authorized stay in the United States. Carry evidence of ties to your home country, such as property ownership, enrollment in a program, or an employment contract abroad.
Be aware that consular processing delays and visa appointment backlogs can be significant obstacles at the U.S. embassies and consulates in many countries.

Final Thoughts

International travel from the U.S. (without headache) is still routine for most individuals, no matter your status. However, travelers should prepare documentation and explanations with care, stay informed, and consult legal counsel when serious questions arise. Policies and practices at the border are evolving, and what may have been routine in the past may now require additional planning.

With thoughtful preparation and up-to-date information, travelers can minimize risk and navigate re-entry successfully.

[View source.]

International Travel Tips for Dealing With U.S. Immigration Officers

Travel

In recent weeks, international travel has become more complicated for many U.S.-based travelers. A series of executive orders and policy shifts in 2025 seem to have altered the landscape of immigration enforcement and border procedures. News reports of delays, secondary inspection, and additional questioning for lawful permanent residents (green card holders), visa holders, and even United States citizens, have caused concerns for those traveling abroad and re-entering the United States.

While the administration has not yet issued a formal, country-specific travel ban as seen in prior years, a new travel ban has been proposed and is under active review. This proposed policy, along with recently issued executive action and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) guidance have heightened vetting procedures at ports of entry. These developments have arisen just weeks after related immigration enforcement priorities, such as proposals to expand the use of administrative warrants, increased scrutiny of visa issuance and renewals, and expedited removals of noncitizens deemed inadmissible at the border or deportable while already in the country.

Understandably, international travelers have many questions about traveling internationally right now. Below is practical guidance for individuals planning international travel and intending to return to the U.S. in the coming weeks or months.

General International Travel Advice

Carry Complete Documentation: Ensure you travel with your original passport, valid visa (if applicable), approval notices, employment verification letters, and any other relevant travel documents. Keep digital and paper copies in separate, accessible locations.
Be Prepared for Secondary Inspection: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers may refer travelers to secondary inspection for additional questioning, even if they have traveled without issue in the past. This is not necessarily cause for concern. Travelers should remain calm, answer questions truthfully, and contact counsel if detained during the secondary inspection process.
Avoid Traveling on Expired Documents: Renew your passport, visa, or green card before travel if they will expire within six months of the date you plan to re-enter the U.S. Many countries and/or airlines have minimum validity date requirements.
Monitor Policy Updates: Policies can shift quickly. Check with DHS, CBP, or the U.S. embassy/consulate in your destination country before traveling.

For U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens have an absolute right to re-enter the United States, but some have reported heightened questioning based on dual nationality, prior travel history, or other factors.
Ensure your U.S. passport is valid for at least six months and that any foreign passport you carry does not conflict with your U.S. entry.
U.S. citizens should not be denied re-entry but can be delayed—sometimes significantly—especially if flagged in a government database or selected for advanced screening.
Immigration officers may request to view your cell phone or other devices. Consider deleting social media applications such as TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, or X (formerly Twitter) from your devices before you are inspected by an immigration officer.

For U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders)

Carry your unexpired green card and any supporting evidence of ties to the U.S., such as proof of residence, employment, or family relationships.
Avoid very lengthy trips abroad without first seeking legal advice. Absences of over 180 days may trigger additional scrutiny or raise “abandonment of residence” concerns.
If your green card is expired or will expire soon, obtain proof of renewal (e.g., I-797 receipt notice) before returning.

For Nonimmigrant Visa Holders (e.g., H-1B, L-1, F-1, J-1, O-1, TN, H-1B1, E-2, R-1, B-1/B-2)

Ensure your visa is valid and that you carry all required documentation, including recent pay stubs, I-797 approval notices, and support letters from your employer or school.
Dual Intent Visa Holders (H-1B and L-1): These visa categories allow for the possibility of pursuing permanent residency while maintaining nonimmigrant status. However, travelers may still face questioning about their intent to return to their home country if their green card process is pending.
Strict Nonimmigrant Intent Visa Holders (e.g., TN, F-1, B-1/B-2, J-1, and more): These travelers must demonstrate an intent to return abroad after their authorized stay in the United States. Carry evidence of ties to your home country, such as property ownership, enrollment in a program, or an employment contract abroad.
Be aware that consular processing delays and visa appointment backlogs can be significant obstacles at the U.S. embassies and consulates in many countries.

Final Thoughts

International travel from the U.S. (without headache) is still routine for most individuals, no matter your status. However, travelers should prepare documentation and explanations with care, stay informed, and consult legal counsel when serious questions arise. Policies and practices at the border are evolving, and what may have been routine in the past may now require additional planning.

With thoughtful preparation and up-to-date information, travelers can minimize risk and navigate re-entry successfully.

[View source.]

With initial approvals in place, town forming new tourism org.

Travel

Collingwood’s municipal accommodation tax (MAT) has been in effect for about a month, and work is underway to launch a new non-profit tourism entity to funnel some of the revenue into.

At their meeting on March 31, council’s committee of the whole heard a report from the town’s economic development manager Johanna Griggs with an update on plans the town has to have Collingwood seen globally as a key tourism destination.

“It’s awesome to see our tourism industry getting organized,” said Mayor Yvonne Hamlin. “It’s going to be a whole new thing for our community and all the businesses in our town.”

Collingwood’s MAT started on March 1, charging four per cent tax on all short-term rentals, hotel/motel or bed-and-breakfast accommodation.

The move is expected to bring in between $1.1 million and $1.9 million per year to the town coffers, which would then be split between the municipality (40 per cent of the revenue to be used to implement the town’s tourism plans) and a new Collingwood-based not-for-profit third-party tourism entity (60 per cent).

On Monday, the town announced that the new entity would be called Collingwood Tourism, and would be tasked with a Collingwood tourism brand refresh, coming up with a destination marketing plan and developing a website in its first year.

Once initiated formally as a municipal service corporation, the new not-for-profit tourism entity would establish an interim board of directors, which would include a council representative, the town’s chief administrative officer, up to two additional town staff and up to three representatives from the Collingwood tourism industry.

According to the report, tourism represents 35 per cent of jobs in Collingwood and has seen growth of approximately 764 jobs between 2020 and 2023. The industry represents approximately 500 businesses in Collingwood and the town welcomes an average of four million visitors each year.

Collingwood’s tourism master plan was first adopted by council in December 2024 and completed by consultant Bannikin Travel & Tourism Ltd., and includes 32 initiatives to help support the local industry.

On Monday, Griggs presented which items could be implemented by the town in 2025 with existing staff resources, which includes confirming who is responsible for tourism management, development and marketing, develop a mechanism for the town to gather feedback on the plan’s implementation, create a sustainable revenue model, stay on top of tourism research, collaborate with others on tourism-specific training and host an annual industry networking event.

According to the motion passed by councillors on Monday in committee of the whole, $70,000 would be pulled from the town’s portion of this year’s MAT revenue to retain a consultant to help implement other parts of the tourism plan.

Since council voted in favour of hiring the consultant, more items from the plan can be enacted this year, including creating a database of tourism stakeholders, developing a communications plan, identifying gaps in market intelligence and piloting a pedestrian street program.

As part of the 2026 budget process, councillors will consider whether to continue with an outside consultant for the work, or bring the role in-house through a staff hire, and will finalize exactly how they want to allocate the town’s portion of the revenue collected in 2025 at that time.

Other parts of the plan could be implemented in future years.

During discussion, Coun. Christopher Baines raised concerns about the potential for double dipping on the revenue from the MAT.

“Will there be any co-ordination between those who control the 40 per cent, and those who control the 60 per cent, because it seems to me there’s potential we could be replicating expenditures,” said Baines. “How do you prevent getting in the glue between the two?”

Griggs said the tourism master plan clearly delineates the difference in responsibilities between the town and Collingwood Tourism.

“I can see the two years are going to be a learning experience for both,” Baines responded.

Also as part of the motion, council will be presented with the outcome of the work two years in, to determine if Collingwood Tourism is working the way it was intended or needs to be tweaked.

At that time, council will also decide if it makes sense to have the new non-profit incorporated as a fully independent entity.

“This is really great work and exciting for our town,” said Coun. Kathy Jeffery.

Any decisions made during council’s committee of the whole need a second vote at council before going into effect. Council will consider final approval of the plans at their meeting on April 14.

Halkidiki Expands Its Reach in the Italian Tourism Market Through B2B Contacts

Travel

.essb_links.essb_size_m .essb_link_svg_icon svg{height:18px;width:auto}.essb_links.essb_size_m .essb_icon{width:36px !important;height:36px !important}.essb_links.essb_size_m .essb_icon:before{font-size:18px !important;top:9px !important;left:9px !important}.essb_links.essb_size_m li a .essb_network_name{font-size:13px !important;font-weight:400 !important;line-height:12px !important}Photo source: HTOIn a strategic move to enhance its visibility in the Italian tourism market, the Halkidiki Tourism Organization (HTO), in collaboration with the Region of Central Macedonia, participated in a high-level B2B workshop held in Milan.
The event forms part of a series of international promotional activities in which the Halkidiki Tourism Organization (HTO) actively engages—initiatives that are proving crucial to the region’s tourism development.
This B2B workshop was designed to raise awareness of Halkidiki as a prime travel destination among Italian tourism professionals. The targeted efforts of HTO in recent years are starting to yield positive results, with increasing interest from both the travel trade and independent travelers in Italy.
Photo source: HTO
Adding momentum to this growth is the launch of direct flights from Milan’s Malpensa Airport to Thessaloniki’s Macedonia Airport by Aegean Airlines and EasyJet. These new air connections enhance accessibility and represent a tangible outcome of the region’s strategic tourism outreach.
During the Milan workshop, the Halkidiki Tourism Organization (HTO) representatives engaged with a range of stakeholders, including Italian tour operators, travel agencies, airlines, and travel media professionals, reaping multiple benefits:

Creation of New Partnerships: One-on-one meetings enable the formation of new agreements and tailor-made travel packages that highlight Halkidiki as a holiday option.
Increased Tourist Flow: These collaborations are contributing to the steady rise of Italian visitors, delivering significant returns to Halkidiki’s local economy.
Promotion of Alternative Tourism: The workshop also served as a platform to present specialized tourism offerings—from cultural heritage and gastronomy to nature-based experiences—which are increasingly popular among Italian travelers.

Photo source: HTO
With Italian travelers showing a strong affinity for Greek culture and a growing appetite for less commercial, authentic destinations, Halkidiki is well-positioned to meet these expectations.
The HTO’s consistent participation in such B2B events, combined with well-coordinated destination marketing strategies, underscores its long-term commitment to sustainable tourism development. These efforts not only support Halkidiki’s positioning in competitive European markets but also reflect a broader vision to diversify tourism offerings and extend the travel season.

I’ve Covered Luxury Travel For 30 Years—These 6 Items Are My Non-Negotiables

Travel

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Through trial and error, I’ve figured out the best travel gear that actually holds up. The travel hacks that help. The things that make flying, packing, sleeping, and staying safe a little easier.

I promise, this isn’t a list of trendy TikTok finds or sponsored fluff. These are products I’ve personally used across thousands of miles and dozens of time zones—things that still make it into my bag after all these years.

1. Trtl Neck Pillow: A Magical Neck Gaiter That Turns Coach Into Business Class
You know what I love about those bulky U-shaped pillow you see at airport gift shops? Nothing. They don’t help you sleep and I always end up leaving them at hotels since they take up so much room in my luggage. There is a better option: The Trtl (pronounced “turtle”) is a soft, lightweight scarf-looking neck pillow with hidden internal support that actually keeps your head upright and your neck aligned so you can sleep on planes. I think of it as neck brace in disguise—but in the best, coziest way.

To use it, you place the brace part where your head naturally falls—usually against one side of your neck—then wrap the fleece scarf around it. That’s it. No bobbing, no jerking awake 40 times mid-flight with your mouth open and your neck tweaked.

My wife and I both love the original Trtl. But on a recent nine-hour overnight flight, I upgraded to Trtl Pillow Plus, which adds high-density foam and moisture-wicking fabric to keep you cooler and more comfortable. I didn’t overthink it—I just slept. For seven hours. In coach.

Unlike other travel pillows, like the BCOZZY or FLYHUGZ popular on Amazon (apparently, funky spelling is a thing in the neck-pillow world), the Trtl compresses down to nearly nothing and slides easily into a carry-on or personal item. It’s also machine washable, which is more than I can say for some airplane blankets.
2. SCOTTeVEST Shorts & Pants: Clothing That Replaced My Day BagSCOTTeVEST’s Action Adventure Shorts have so many pockets, it’s like wearing your luggage around your waist.SCOTTeVEST
I will not lie—I’m a sucker for pockets. The SCOTTeVEST Action Adventure Shorts have 17 of them, and I’ve used just every single one. These things are a labyrinth: zippered compartments hidden behind other pockets, stash spots I forget about until I find a passport or melted chocolate bar. They’re water-resistant, built with rugged zippers, and tough enough for trails, beach days, or navigating the most hectic street market. I’ve worn them in downpours and in 98-degree heat—they hold up and I don’t worry about pickpockets.
When I need something less “Indiana Jones on vacay,” I go for the Hidden Pockets Cargo Pants. They’ve got a cleaner, sleeker silhouette but still manage to hide eight thoughtfully placed pockets. Perfect when I want to carry everything (phone, passport, earbuds, reporter’s notebook, battery pack, snacks, receipts and cash) without looking like I’m wearing my luggage.
Scott Jordan, the founder of SCOTTeVEST, famously told the Shark Tank investors they were “out”—and honestly, he didn’t need them. His gear has made millions because it solves a real travel problem: how to carry all your essentials safely, and without schlepping another bag. These pieces have saved me more than once when I didn’t want to deal with a backpack. Just don’t forget where you stashed your stuff.
3. Loop Quiet Earplugs: Because I Like Calm But Don’t Want to Look Like I’m Wearing a Traffic Cone in My EarLoop Quiet earplugs look like jewelry (not traffic cones) and won’t make you feel like you’ve got packing peanuts in your ears.Loop Quiet
I’ve used the cheap day-glo foam earplugs from drugstores for years—Mack’s, CVS specials, whatever was in the travel-size bin. And they’re fine. Until you try to roll over and it sounds like someone’s crumpling packing peanuts inside your head.
Then last year, my wife bought me a pair of Loop Quiet Earplugs, and I’ve been a convert ever since. They’re elegant as jewelry, reusable, and somehow manage to block out noise without creating that weird internal echo chamber effect. The design is clever: soft silicone ear tips and a small loop that makes them easy to pop in and out. They come with multiple tip sizes, they don’t stick out like you’re wearing traffic cones in your ears, and they actually look kind of cool. (Never thought I’d say that about earplugs.)
I’ve worn them on red-eyes, in hotel rooms with mystery HVAC systems, and once during a solo breakfast next to a pair of ten-year-olds watching a WAR MOVIE! at full blast with no headphones. These things saved me from confrontation—and from chaos. Highly recommend.
4. Birkenstocks: From Skeptic to Devotee, These Are Now My Travel Everywhere ShoesOnce a skeptic, I became a Birkenstock convert after several big trips.Birkenstock
For years, I dismissed Birkenstocks. To me, they were the uniform of Deadheads, bodywork therapists, and Dusseldorf exchange students named Lukas. But before back-to-back trips to South America and Europe last year, I needed something different than the Australian Blundstones I’d been traveling with for too long (they made my feet sweaty). I neeeded shoes that could handle cobblestone streets, museum afternoons, dinners out, airport security, and maybe even a beach. And just like that, Birkenstock became my ride-or-die travel footwear.
I started with the Pasadena, a low-profile, laced-up classic that somehow walks the line between sneaker and casual dress shoe. I wore it to galleries in Rio and to dinner in Bologna and never once felt underdressed—or under-supported. Then I picked up the Oswego Midnight, which is like if a Chelsea boot and an ankle sock got together and made something more stylish. It’s slip-on, city-appropriate, and absurdly comfortable. It became my go-to for airport days, walking-heavy afternoons, and any scenario where I wanted to look pulled together without actually trying.The Florida Exquisite is a new arrival and excellent for both casual and dressier travel moments.Birkenstock
My wife has her own lineup: the Almina Leather Black for when we’re heading somewhere chic, the Florida Exquisite for easy, stylish slide-on days that edge toward elegance, and the Bend Low Leather White, which somehow matches everything and never gives her blisters—even on 25,000-step days. All of them have that magic Birkenstock footbed that molds to your feet and saves you from the post-travel limp, earning a permanent place in our carry-ons.
5. Epicka Universal Travel Adapter: The One Plug to Charge Them AllFor me, Epicka has become the go-to adapter for virtually every travel charging situation.Epicka
In a Brazilian airport recently, my entire family huddled around a single outlet like it was a campfire—and somehow, everyone got a charge. iPhones, iPads, AirPods, a laptop…. All from one Epicka Universal Travel Adapter. It was like watching a magician pull rabbits out of a socket.
This little $20 block handles most global plug types and has enough ports—four USB-As, one USB-C—to charge your entire digital life at once. It’s compact, feels solid, and even comes with a backup fuse (a nice touch, in case you wander into one of those hotels where the power grid sounds like it was built by Dr. Frankenstein).
No travel adapter is truly “universal,” and yes, this one’s a bit bulkier than those tiny plug-only options. But if you’re traveling with family, multiple devices, or any intention of avoiding a charger fight in a shared Airbnb, this thing earns its keep fast. I never thought I’d be emotionally attached to a plug adapter, but here we are.
6. Nature’s Bakery Fig Bars: My Jet Lag Survival SnackJust enough sustenance to get you through those middle-of-the-night jetlag blues.Nature’s Bakery
You think you’ve adjusted. You’re fine. You’ve made it through dinner in Tokyo, walked off the flight, maybe even stayed up till 9 p.m. like a globetrotting pro. Then at 3:07 a.m., jet lag taps you on the shoulder and whispers, You were wrong. Suddenly you’re ravenous and wide awake in a hotel room where the mini bar is stocked with $20 gold-leaf sake jelly.
This is why I always pack Nature’s Bakery Fig Bars. They’re soft-baked, real-fruit-filled, and just sweet enough to feel like comfort without the regret. They’re plant-based, dairy-free, nut-free, and TSA-friendly—which is more than I can say for some of my snacks. Each little twin-pack is perfect: one for right now, one for that next inevitable middle-of-the-night existential crisis.
I’m partial to Raspberry, but I’ve also stashed Apple Cinnamon and Blueberry in backpacks, jacket pockets, and side compartments of my suitcase. As travel gear goes, it’s a lifeline at altitude, on tarmacs, or when the only thing open near your hotel is a vending machine full of squid chips.
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