Why You Should Visit:

1. Masks and costumes like you wouldn't believe. Beautifully dressed men, women, and children take to the streets in works of art that look great on camera, but stun in person.
2. It's this big, amazing celebration and everyone is in on it. There's a palpable buzz and energy radiating through the streets.
3. You can choose to be a spectator, or join in the fun. Oh, and spoiler: everyone wants their photo taken, so don't be too shy to ask the lady with the peacock headdress on if she'll be in one with you.

4. Even during this crazy-busy season, you can get lost, find a quiet street, and escape the crowds for a slice of the 'real' Venice.
5. Perhaps the biggest selling factor, IMO, is that Venice during Carnival feels like this fantasy world, from the age of Casanova that's been dialed back in a time machine, of elaborate galas and star crossed lovers. It's kind of magical.

Why You Should Skip It:

6. The crowds. The people! The lines and hoarding masses that make crossing narrow bridges and visiting top attractions nary impossible are headache inducing.
7. Last minute decisions are out of the question. You'll have to plan ahead and book in advance as rooms fill up fast and prices skyrocket.
8. It's flood season, people. Pack those waders or prepare to duke it out over the last pair of oh-so-stylish, waterproof, neon sock/boots.

9. The city trades in some of its charm for pop up booths in otherwise charming squares,  selling knockoff masquerade attire to junk collecting tourists.
10. Leave the cocktail dress at home and layer up. Cool temps and chilly winds will freeze your knickers off if you're not ready for 'em. It is still winter, after all.

The post 10 Reasons Why You Should Visit (or Skip) The Carnival of Venice appeared first on Camera & Carry On.

1. Skip China. Go to Japan.
2. Plan ahead, but not too much.
3. Whenever someone offers to take your photo, kindly accept, and return the favor.
4. Learn a bit of the language.
5. Sundays are a quiet day in Europe and some cities literally shut down. If you're not ready for it this may catch you off guard, especially when hunger strikes.
6. Pick your favorite booking sites (we like kayak.com, booking.com, and airbnb.com).
7. Try meat on a stick.
8. Plastic bags can save your feet (and socks) when you don't have waterproof shoes.
9. Say yes a few times you might be inclined to say no.
10. Visit fewer places for longer.
11. On a diet? Try to work with it, but don't deprive yourself; that would just miserable.
12. In a busy and unfamiliar place, try not to look clueless.

13. ...But don't be afraid to have fun, act silly, and be yourself.
14. Take lots of pictures, but not 16 of the same, exact shot.
15. A big breakfast and several cups of coffee is a bad idea before a 5 hour hike.
16. Do you really need your computer? If the answer is no, it shouldn't be weighing you down.
17. Map out your hotel before you arrive.
18. Keep the address and phone number for your hotel easily accessible, and in the correct language (e.g. Thai if you're going to Bangkok, so you can hand this over to your cab driver and get there without a hitch).
19. Bottled water is best (or use one of those fancy purifier thingies).
20. Ziplock bags are your friend: perfect for snacks, leaky toiletries, and random junk you just need a tiny bag for.
21. Charge your camera batteries.
22. Backpacking sounds romantic, but let's be realistic. Showing up in a new place without a clue of where to go or stay could mean a full day wasted.
23. Live in the moment.

24. Feeding the monkeys is a big no-no. They bite and steal.
25. The biggest cities are not always the best ones.
26. Check to see if you need a visa for the country you're visiting. Some can take weeks or months to get approval for.
27. Try getting foreign currency from your bank prior to travel (currency exchanges can give poor rates).
28. Sharing an entire lemon Pannetone cake between two of you, on a train, is a good way to make yourself sick.
29. ...Swiss chocolate, on the other hand, is perfect.
30. Bring some basic meds along (tylenol, decongestant, anti-nausea, and cold/flu) as it can be tough to communicate exactly what you need with a pharmacist in a language you don't speak.
31. Like to read? Bring a book. Draw, perhaps? Paper and pencils. Whatever it is, have something to keep you occupied during down time and when you're stuck on a layover.
32. Wear good shoes.
33. If the political climate of a city/country you're visiting has your parents feeling a little uneasy, don't panic and change plans immediately. Do your homework, use your smarts, and then make your decision.
34. Never put items you absolutely need or would be devastated to lose in a checked bag (contacts, glasses, medication, jewelry, cameras, etc.).

35. Order a pint in an Irish pub and strike up a conversation with a stranger.
36. A granola bar could save your life. Have one at arm's reach at all times.
37. If your phone is unlocked, pick up a sim card abroad to use your GPS and make emergency calls, especially if you're renting a car.  Most airports sell them.
38. Less is more. Pack smart and light, leaving a little room to pick things up along the way.
39. Do what you find interesting, not what guide books and websites tell you to do.
40. Bring extra memory cards.
41. Use the restroom before you head out. Public toilets can be hard to find, sometimes pretty sketchy, and not always free.
42. Always carry napkins (and hand sanitizer).
43. Embrace the local cuisine, but don't shame yourself for just wanting a burger for a change.
44. Don't let the windows to your soul get lost in photos. Mascara is the one makeup item I always pack.
45. How many Filipino pesos to the US Dollar? Know the currency conversion.

46. Do not order "spicy" in Malaysia, even if you like heat. You will burst into flames.
47. Walk in favor of public transportation as much as possible. You'll see more that way.
48. Smiles are, generally, universal.
49. Wander.
50. Get (a little) lost. Chances are, you'll find your way back, or you will come across someone happy to help with directions. Either way, it'll be an experience.
51. Have patience.
52. Use zip ties to secure zippers (duh!), when carrying your backpack in a crowded area.
53. TSA-friendly locks and luggage cables keep things buttoned up when you need to leave your things behind.
54. Mind your money.
55. Keep track of expenses and stick to the budget (with a small cushion built in for the unexpected).
56. Over-pack underwear.

57. Do something touristy, just once, even if it's not your style.
58. Make sure you're getting on the right train before you board.
59. ...And don't forget to validate your ticket.
60. After 10+ hours on a plane, you'll be thankful you wore those yoga pants and not your skinny jeans.
61. Load up your music player with good tunes.
62. Heading to Switzerland but are plagued with an intolerance to dairy? Better pop a pill to help digest lactose because trying to resist the milky, cheesy goodness is futile.
63. Being fashionable isn't everything, unless you're in Paris. You'll want to look nice but dressing appropriately is key. You don't need heels in Iceland.
64. It's okay to put the camera down now and again.
65. Sit back and observe.
66. You can't see it all, so stop trying to cram everything in.
67. Enjoy yourself and your adventure; hiccups and all (because some of the lowest moments make the best stories).

The post 67 Random Tips for Better Travel appeared first on Camera & Carry On.

Hi! Can you tell us a little about yourself?

The post Interview with a Local: Theo from Cyprus appeared first on Camera & Carry On.

1. Unparalleled views. Looking out across the glistening, turquoise water, islands dot the horizon as far as the eye can see. There is no other place that looks quite like this, not that I've seen with my own eyes anyway. I'm constantly in awe of the natural splendor.
2. The seclusion. Going to Koh Yao Yai is a real getaway. You won't find any tourist shops, jet ski rentals, or street meat vendors. It's quiet, off the beaten path, and there isn't much "to do" per se, making it highly desirable for a little rest and relaxation. A good book and lounge chair are sometimes all you need.
3. My tan was amazing. I am all about sunblock, but my little melanin producers jumped out of hibernation and had a party. I soaked up that sunshine like it was going out of style, because sometimes, being bad feels so good.
4. Bungalow at the Betterview. Essentially 5 star for 1 star pricing (woo hoo, Thailand!), our hideaway was probably the nicest place I've ever stayed. Little details and creature comforts made it a truly luxurious stay. As soon as I put on that plush robe, I felt like a queen. Oh, and the shower. Wow. Super hot, high pressure, waterfall style, with a skylight. And don't get me started on the bed... I honestly never wanted to leave and considered asking how much it would be to extend the stay for a month, or two, or six...
5. Food, food, food. Amazing tropical fruits - check. Delicious, flavorful curries - check. Creamy, coconut smoothies - double check! The list goes on, and my taste buds savored every morsel. Thai food is one of my favorites and I never tire of it, especially when it's local and fresh.

6. Sleeping under a mosquito net. Why I have never owned a mosquito net is now a wonder to me. I'm making that priority #1 upon return to the States; buy mosquito net, hang above bed, and pretend to be on vacay. At the Thiwson, our bungalow had a rustic bed with this mosquito netting draped around to protect us from the pesky biters. It not only excelled in practicality, but the element of fun! I felt like a kid building a tent in the living room with the furniture and a few bedsheets.
7. Friendly locals and staff. Everyone we encountered was helpful and welcoming. Being off the mainland, the language barrier is a little more of a challenge, but warmth and smiles go a long way.
8. Love is in the air. The ingredients are all there, and with the right person, the experience can be most romantic. Lucky me
9. Private long-tail boat for a day. Snorkling, cruising the open water, island hopping... when you have a private boat, your wish is the captain's command. We spent a full day out on the water, bouncing around little islands, swinging from trees, and claiming a beach in the name of Camera & Carry On.
10. Peace and happiness. Rarely can I say I have not a care in the world. But here… it all melts away. Big stuff, little stuff, it no longer exists. It’s just me, the breezy coast, and a cool drink in my hand.

The post 10 Reasons Why I’m Head Over Heels for Koh Yao Yai appeared first on Camera & Carry On.