my next trip meaning

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Get Ready for Your Next Trip in 5 Simple Steps

• Posted by by Becki Rupp
• June 11, 2020
• 7 minute read

Get ready for your next trip by following this straightforward advice from Becki Rupp of Trailblazer Wellness. Ask yourself the right questions to get the best experience.

Has being at home driven you to dream about your next travel experience? Have you been watching virtual tours and anticipating where you’ll go and what you’ll do when you can travel again?

Our “pre-travel time” allows us to do more than just figure out the next place to go and book it. It offers the opportunity to identify our intention.It lets us proactively prepare mentally and physically so we can make the most of the travel experience.

When we invest the time, thought, and actions into getting our bodies and minds ready for a trip, the payoff is richer and creates more meaningful memories.

Get Ready for Your Next Trip

So if you’re ready to prepare for your next trip — even if you’re not sure when it’ll be — here are 5 elements to explore. This goes beyond where to go, how you’ll get there, and what you’ll do.

These questions will help you prep for the trip and get the best experience possible:

• Why do you want to take this trip?
• Which values are important to you as they relate to the trip?
• What actions do you need to take leading up to the trip to get the most out of it?
• Which strengths can you use to help you prepare?
• How will you stay motivated to keep on track with your action plan?

Grab a journal (or even just a sheet of paper) to jot notes, draw pictures, or combine words and images to keep track of your insights.

Wanderful members only: Watch the trip planning webinar recording here

Ask Yourself: Why this trip?

The first and most important step is to think a bit more deeply about why you want to take this trip. Why is it important to you? What experiences do you want to have? What are you hoping to get out of it?

Your first response may be something like “ because it looks beautiful ” or “ I’ve always wanted to go there .”

Now think a little harder and dig a little deeper. Bring out your inner 3-year-old who keeps asking why.

Consider these questions to prep for your trip:

• Why is it important for you to see the beauty in person?
• What originally inspired you to want to go there?
• What are you hoping to feel or learn from the experience?

Here’s an example to help you apply this process…

One of my dream trips is to hike in the Alps. I remember watching The Sound of Music when I was young and being captivated by the mountain scenes, especially since I lived in relatively flat Michigan.

Now I live in Colorado with the mountains outside my windows. So why do I still want to go to the Alps?

As I think about it more, my deeper why is that I want to be in the midst of the rich history of Switzerland.

I also crave how being surrounded by big mountains gives me perspective on my life. The experience reminds me that the things I’m worrying about will pass, and the mountains will still be there for me and for others.

So, ultimately, I want to get that peace and perspective out of a longer hike in an incredible environment, surrounded by a history and culture that isn’t my own.

Which values align with your trip?

To best prepare for your next trip, you need to think a bit about which values tie in with your dream trip. This may come up naturally as you explore the why behind your trip, or you may think of other values.

There are tons of ways to identify and prioritize your values, so use whatever feels right to you. One of my favorite (and free) tools is the Values in Action (VIA) survey . It aligns values with character strengths using a scientifically validated series of questions developed by psychologists and researchers.

Gratitude and curiosity are values that rank highly for me, and those definitely relate to my travels. I’m always grateful to experience new places, learn about the history and culture, and gain new perspectives.

And curiosity has taken me down many alleys, up staircases, and into restaurants!

By considering which values are aligned with your trip, you may find certain opportunities or experiences rising to the top of your list of things to do while you’re traveling. It may shift your priorities, or provide some insight on why you’re drawn to a specific activity or place.

Actions to take to get ready for your trip

With a solid understanding of why you want to go on your trip and how your values influence your itinerary, it’s time to get practical and tactical!

Unless you’re planning to spend all of your time lying on the beach – not that there’s anything wrong with that! – it’ll probably be helpful to do some pre-trip physical and mental preparation to make the most of your “ why .”

For most of us, traveling involves more physical activity than we do in our everyday life.

Whether you’re exploring city streets or trekking through new territory, you’ll likely be logging more steps and carrying more with you than normal.

Have you ever come home from a trip and said, “I need a vacation to recover from my vacation!”? To minimize or avoid that feeling, start ramping up your activity level before you leave.

Tips to Physically Get Ready:

Look at your itinerary and really think about how much more you’ll be doing than normal. Consider all the different types of activities that you’re not used to doing.

Whether it’s more walking, riding a bike for a few hours or days, getting out on a paddling excursion, or even just more time on your feet, be aware and then take time to prepare

Add more walking into your weekends. Rent a bike to go for a ride around your town. Head out to a nearby lake for a paddling lesson.

If you’re going to be carrying luggage or a day pack frequently, you may also want to do some strength training to make it easier on your muscles.

You don’t need to join a gym or get fancy equipment – you can use your backpack, luggage, books or even bottles of water or wine!

Here are a few exercises you can do with a suitcase:

And don’t forget about stretching – both before your trip and while you’re traveling.

Being more flexible will help with those awkward positions in planes, trains. and automobiles. It will also help you as you make your way around unfamiliar territory.

Getting more active before you go will build your strength and stamina, as well as your confidence!

Read next: Travel fitness starts at home

Which strengths can you use to prepare for travel?

As you consider what you need to do to get ready for your trip, reflect on some past accomplishments in your life that make you proud.

What themes appear across your accomplishments? What strengths did you use to achieve them?

Then think about how you might use these strengths as you prepare for your next trip.

If you’re struggling to identify your strengths, one tool to consider is the Clifton Strengths Finder . It’s been used by millions of people to pinpoint their natural talents and learn how to make the most of them.

Reflecting on our strengths helps us figure out how we might use them in different parts of our lives. This includes preparing for a trip!

Knowing your strengths makes unusual or unknown situations easier to manage.

Love to talk travel? Check out Wanderful membership options

Here’s an example to help you apply this…

One of my strengths is “arranger”. I love pulling together people to do something fun and meaningful. It can be as simple as a day hike with a few friends, or more complex like a bicycle ride for 300+ women to raise money for a nonprofit.

I use my “arranger” strength to get ready for traveling, too. I coordinate who’s going, figure out the transportation, plot the itinerary and route.

Another of my top strengths is adaptability. A few years ago, my husband and I planned a trip to Glacier National Park in Montana, including nights at two of the in-park hotels and a multi-day backpacking stretch in-between.

Sadly, wildfires were raging when we got there, which made backpacking a bad idea and even the hotels smelled like a campfire.

So we headed south to Yellowstone and explored there instead!

What strengths come to mind for you that you can tap into as you prepare for your trip?

How will you stay motivated?

If you look back at past trips and realize you may have enjoyed them more if you’d prepared a bit better before you left, you’re not alone.

But hey, life between trips is busy, and the next thing you know, it’s time to pack!

As you look at your future trips, it can be helpful to have a motivation source (or two) to keep you on track with the mental and physical preparation.

Consider these questions to stay motivated to get ready for your trip:

• Is the trip itself, and knowing what you want to get out of it, enough of a motivator? Or do you need some additional motivational support?
• Do you stay motivated when you’ve told family and friends what you’re planning to do? Would it be helpful for you to have an accountability partner?
• Do you work best when someone gives you a specific plan to follow? Do you prefer to craft your own path for preparation?
• Would it be helpful to take a class or be part of a group that is preparing for something similar?

Pick a strategy or two to support you and keep your motivation going as you get ready for your trip.

Putting your trip preparation all together

Now that you’ve explored your why, your values, the actions you can take, your strengths, and your motivators, how do you feel about your trip?

Did this trip prep create some new insights and ideas about how you’ll plan future travel?

Approaching travel with intention and reflection can bring deeper meaning to your pre-trip and on-the-ground experience.

Feature image by  Porapak Apichodilok  from  Pexels

Have these questions helped you to get ready for your next trip? Tell us the benefits you get from better trip prep in the comments below.

Becki Rupp is a personal trainer and health coach who loves to travel and explore. She helps people get fit for their dream trips through her business, Trailblazer Wellness.

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“Another Trip Around the Sun”– Meaning and Examples of This Common English Phrase

July 14, 2022 By Anthony R. Garcia

The phrase, another trip around the sun , refers to the time period of one year—the length of time it takes for the Earth to travel around our sun. The word trip  means journey , which creates the idea that each of us makes a journey around the sun, each year. Therefore, the phrase is often used on a person’s birthday when a person has made “one more” or “another” trip around the sun:

Let us raise a toast to another trip around the sun !

The phrase was recently made popular as the title of a Jimmy Buffet song (2004) about his birthday, although it is unlikely he was the first person to use it this way. The phrase might also be used on anniversaries, New Year’s Eve, or other occasions celebrating “one more year” of life on planet Earth.

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Definition of trip verb from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

• She tripped and fell.
• trip over/on something Someone will trip over that cable.
• I tripped over my own feet and fell down the stairs.
• (figurative) I was tripping over my words in my excitement to tell them the news.
• (figurative) Lawyers were tripping over each other (= competing with each other in a hurried way) to get a piece of the action.
• trip over/up Be careful you don't trip up on the step.
• She tripped on the loose stones.
• One of the boys tripped over and crashed into a tree.
• accidentally
• trip and fall

Definitions on the go

Look up any word in the dictionary offline, anytime, anywhere with the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary app.

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15 Travel Quotes Perfect for Vacation Planning

• By Sarah Barkley
• Published on November 8, 2021
• Last modified May 21, 2023

It’s easy to forget the importance of getaways, but these travel quotes will help you remember. Whether your trip is long or short, you must have something to look forward to. Plus, you must embrace the time you are off and learn to relax during your trip. Those who are planning to combine their wedding and vacation may want to consider the Cayman Islands. You may click here for more info on what makes this place a great destination wedding spot. Domestic travelers, on the other hand, may want to visit Biloxi, MS and stay at one of their casino resorts like the one at this page https://www.palacecasinoresort.com/ .

These travel quotes will help you plan the trips you’ve always dreamed of. Plus, they’ll inspire you to visit new places you’ve never been to before. The quotes also help you commit to adventures and fully embrace life.

Travel Quotes Perfect for Vacation Planning

Spending time exploring new places will change your life, and these travel quotes will help you with your planning. Use these quotes to get inspired and excited about your future trips.

1. “It isn’t how much time you spend somewhere that makes it memorable: it’s how you spend the time.” – David Brenner

You can’t always take an extended trip, but you can still plan an exciting time. Even when you only have a few days off, plan activities that you’ll never forget. Spend your time in meaningful ways, and you’ll return to your daily life feeling refreshed.

When you plan a trip to a new location, remember this travel quote. Make sure you open yourself up to the influences of each place you visit. When you do this, you can see, hear, and experience life and culture in other areas of the world.

As you plan your trip, remember this quote and make an effort to experience the new environment. As Lerner explains, traveling with an open mind helps in your search for excellence.

3. “People should look for accessible vacation destinations the same way they look for any other vacation destination – based on their own personal tastes and preferences.” – Candy B Harrington

It doesn’t matter where you are going as long as you plan around your personal preferences. Choose places that will help you relax and that will be an enjoyable experience for you.

Don’t base your plans around what other people like because this is your trip. If you can remember this as you plan, you’ll come up with the perfect location for your trip.

4. “Think about it; how do you feel when you are planning a vacation? You feel excited and happy. Your stress level is diminished, and this also affects your work in a positive way.” – John Morgan

Sometimes planning a trip is just as much fun as going on one. As these travel quotes suggest, the planning process decreases stress levels and increases your productivity. When you’re thinking about the good time you’ll have, you’ll be happier in all areas of your life.

5. “I have never believed that vacations are luxuries. They are our necessities–just like shelter, clothes, and food, they make us feel like humans and not like animals that care only for survival.” – Alexander Babinets

As you plan your trip, remember that this is time for you to do the things you enjoy. Don’t think of it as a time of over-indulgence because you need this time to recover from daily tasks. You need this time to relax and let loose just as much as you need anything else in life.

6. “Once a year, go somewhere you have never been before.” – Dalai Lama

While it’s nice to visit your favorite places repeatedly, you must switch it up sometimes. As you plan your next trip, choose somewhere you haven’t been before. It’ll inspire you and help you gain wisdom about the world around you.

Even when you visit a new location, you don’t have to travel far. There are plenty of places around the world that you haven’t seen before. Do a little research during your planning to find somewhere new within your travel boundaries.

7. “No man needs a vacation so much as the man who has just had one.” – Elbert Hubbard

This is one of the best travel quotes for trip planning. Even if you have just returned from a trip, start planning your next one. When your experience is over, and you return to real life, you might feel a little disappointed.

By starting the planning of your next trip, you’ll bring back the feeling of excitement. Use the time you have to plan something new and exciting, and you’ll always have something to look forward to.

Leave time for spontaneous experiences and unexpected schedule disruptions. Even the most perfectly planned trip might not go as planned. Don’t try to micromanage every detail, or you’ll end up stressed out and disappointed.

Instead, make your plan but be open to disruptions and rearranging of your schedule. Your time off is a time for relaxation and fun, so don’t be too strict that it makes the experience terrible.

9. “An upcoming vacation gives us something to eagerly anticipate.” – Jaime Kurtz

No matter where you are going, you’ll look forward to it eagerly. This eager anticipation promotes joy and happiness in your life. You’ll be much happier than when you only have work and daily tasks in your future.

10. “A vacation is having nothing to do and all day to do it in.” – Robert Orben

Sometimes the perfect experience requires planning for nothing but downtime. Choose a location where you can relax so that you don’t feel like you’re missing anything. Everyone needs time to rest and recover from daily life without a time restriction.

11. “A vacation helps to relieve stress and boredom, gives us a change of scenery, provides us with adventure, and helps to bring us closer to the people in our lives.” – E. S. Woods

If you think you don’t need time off, then this is the travel quote for you. It would be best if you had time to destress and embrace the loved ones in your life. Plus, a change of scenery and a sense of adventure will inspire you and improve your productivity.

Remember this quote during your planning so that you remember how important time off is. When you remember that you need this time, the planning becomes more enjoyable and meaningful.

12. “Of journeying the benefits are many: the freshness it bringeth to the heart, the seeing and hearing of marvelous things, the delight of beholding new cities, the meeting of unknown friends, and the learning of high manners.” – Muslih-Uddin Sadi

Traveling improves your life in many ways that you might not realize right away. As this quote details, travel brings freshness to your life and allows you to see and experience many new things to do . You’ll meet people you wouldn’t have otherwise, and you’ll gain wisdom that you can’t find anywhere else.

13. “As you grow older, you learn a few things. One of them is to actually take the time you’ve allotted for vacation.” – John Battelle

It’s easy to say you don’t have time, but you must take a break from your daily life. You won’t enjoy life if you don’t ever make time for relaxation. Plus, you’ll be more productive when you return home than you would have been without a break.

If you’re reluctant to plan a trip, remember this quote about traveling. Please don’t feel bad for taking time off because it’s essential to your well-being.

14. “Each person deserves a day away in which no problems are confronted, no solutions searched for.  Each of us needs to withdraw from the cares which will not withdraw from us.” – Maya Angelou

Everyone needs a chance to rest and recuperate without dealing with any problems. It’s a time for you to ignore the issues and stop searching for solutions. When you take this time, it helps you withdraw from your everyday stressors for a bit.

15. “A vacation should be just long enough that your boss misses you, and not long enough for him to discover how well he can get along without you.” – Jacob Morton Braude

When you plan for a trip, you’ll want to decide on the length of your trip. Don’t make the adventure so short that your boss doesn’t even notice that you’re gone.

However, it’s no longer temporary time off if your boss learns how to get the job done without you. Use this quote in your planning to help choose your trip length.

Final Thoughts on Remembering These Words to Inspire Your Next Vacation

Whether you’re in the final planning stages or haven’t started yet, these travel quotes will help you. These quotes will inspire you to plan trips that make you happy and help you relax.

Plus, travel quotes remind you of why you should plan a trip. Remember your favorite quotes as you start planning your next trip, and you’re sure to have the best time.

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About the Author

Sarah Barkley

Sarah Barkley is a lifestyle blogger and freelance writer with a Bachelor’s Degree in Literature from Baker College.

She is experienced in all things related to parenting, marriage, and life as a millennial parent, but loves to learn new things. She enjoys the research that goes into a strong article, and no topic is off-limits to Sarah.

When she isn’t writing, she is immersed in a book or watching Gilmore Girls. Sarah loves reading classic novels but also enjoys a good thriller.

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How to Successfully Choose Your Next Travel Destination

Need to choose your next travel destination but don’t know where you should go? I’ve been there!

Figuring out where to travel next can actually be quite tough because there are so many factors to consider. So if you’re looking for a little clarity and inspiration to choose a destination for your next trip, you’re in the right place.

This guide takes you through the questions you should ask yourself and shares traveler-tested tips on how to choose a travel destination for your next trip.

Choose Your Travel Destination: Start with the Basics

You want your trip to be a success and that starts with the right destination. But, choosing a travel destination can feel overwhelming. Contrary to the expression it’s a small world, the globe can seem larger than life when asking where should I travel next.

This can happen whether you’re planning your first trip or you’re a seasoned traveler. Luckily, and as with most big decisions, it’s helpful to break the process down into smaller pieces to sort out what’s practical (or not).

The best way to do this is to start with some concrete essential questions that’ll help you hone in on your next destination. They’re basic and practical, but they are really effective, too. These questions are the ones I ask myself when I’m faced with the same dilemma.

How much time do you have? 

Where should you travel has a lot to do with how much time you can be away. The reality is that some trips need more time than others to really make the whole experience worthwhile. I find this to be a helpful first step because I can usually eliminate some possible destinations right away.

If you’re taking a 1-week vacation or less, it’s not worth it to plan that bucket list trip to Thailand or Patagonia . Not only is the time to get there likely long from wherever you are, but you’ll spend a lot for a trip that won’t leave you feeling as if you’ve had a well-rounded experience with a true taste of the destination.

Likewise, in that amount of time, taking that road trip cross country (in the United States) will likely be a lot of driving without enough time to actually stop to enjoy the many sights and places you’ll pass.

That’s not to say that a short trip isn’t worth it! Sometimes what you have is 5-7 days or even a long weekend getaway. It’s not a reason to miss out on traveling altogether.

You can plan a National Parks trip , some beach time in Mexico , or even visit a city like New York or London. With careful planning and a willingness to fill each day, you might even plan 1 week in Spain .

On the other hand, can you get away for a 2-week trip or more? With 2 weeks, you can explore a couple of new places like Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands or pack your bags for Europe and comfortably use the high-speed trains to travel between cities and even countries. You could consider road trips like circling the Emerald Isle or driving the Oregon Coast.

Perhaps you’re at a place in your life where you have a lot of time for extended travel. If this is you, ask yourself if this type of opportunity is likely to present itself again.

You might be taking a sabbatical or be in between jobs. Either way, these are unique chances to make that dream destination a reality because you’ll have enough time to experience it the way you always imagined.

Visiting the Okavango Delta and doing a safari on a trip to Africa, traveling through multiple countries in Southeast Asia, or setting off to explore Australia and New Zealand are all on the table.

Depending on where you live and the amount of time you have to travel, certain destinations will make more sense than others. I find this question about how much time to be a really helpful starting point as I think about places I want to visit for my next adventure.

The bottom line is that regardless of whether you want to relax, sightsee, or have an active adventure, traveling too far or cramming in too much can make for a rushed and ungratifying trip.

Who are you traveling with? 

Another important question to ask yourself is who your travel companions will be, if any. Are you traveling for a family vacation with young kids or on a couple’s trip? Perhaps you’re planning a girls/guys trip or maybe a solo adventure.

The people you travel with or without might make specific places and experiences more practical than others. You have to ask what kind of destination would be enjoyable for everyone traveling. It may also be necessary to make some compromises so that everyone is happy with the destination and itinerary.

Some destinations and experiences like trekking on a glacier , climbing Angels Landing , or visiting the 9/11 Memorial and Museum may not be right for little ones. While a quick jaunt to Portugal might make the perfect girls’ getaway!

If you’re traveling solo, is it your first time or have you been on your own before? Traveling on your own comes with unlimited freedom to make your own choices. First-time solo travelers might be more comfortable in places like Iceland or Paris .

Or you might want to explore an off-the-beaten-path destination like Romania or travel to a new destination with a group by   taking a guided tour .

No matter what your situation is, being clear on who you’ll be traveling with or not can help you choose your next travel destination.

What kind of weather matches your travel style? 

Do you want to sightsee when it’s warm or work on your tan? Or do you prefer cooler temperatures for city travel or hope to see a perfect winter white landscape?

Obviously, your weather preference can help narrow down possible travel destinations based on the time of year you intend to travel. Weather conditions are what they are so if your next vacation falls in February and you don’t want to sightsee in Rome in chillier temperatures then it’s not the right time for you to visit.

On the flip side, if you’re hoping to ski and snowshoe in the Canadian Rockies, you’ll need to visit Banff in winter and not summer.

Keep in mind that if your travel dates fall during a destination’s peak season, it’ll likely come with higher prices compared to visiting at other times of the year. A slight compromise on weather and travel dates could also mean finding the best deals for that destination, like heading to the best places in Puglia in southern Italy in September instead of August.

Another upside to making some sacrifices when it comes to weather is fewer people. Everyone wants to visit a destination during peak season but going during shoulder season means you’ll be less affected by crowds. This and the hot weather are exactly why I prefer visiting Europe in the off-season when sightseeing is so much more enjoyable.

So, although it may seem like a basic question, the question of where to go when can be very informative.

What is your travel budget?

Unfortunately, how to choose the right destination also comes down to money. You certainly don’t need to be rich to travel, but you also want to feel comfortable with the destination you choose and all it has to offer.

All destinations are not created equal when it comes to cost. If you’re on a tight budget, budget-friendly destinations will allow you to stretch your money much more than somewhere pricier.

Another place might come with an extra cost either because of a visa fee or a special permit needed to take part in specific activities. The same goes for the kind of trip to requires special gear. If these costs are too much right now, then perhaps it’s not the perfect travel destination right now either.

For international travel, don’t forget to look at the exchange rates. One that is not in your favor can cost you much more than you realized. Choosing your next travel destination could be as simple as going where your currency is strongest for the best value.

You also need to be honest with yourself about your preferences when it comes to the seat class you fly in and where you like to stay. If you’re someone who absolutely needs more legroom when flying for more than a few hours, this cost has to be factored into your travel plans.

Hostels are a longstanding way to save money while traveling but if you’re not comfortable staying in one, then it could negatively impact your whole trip. On the other hand, paying for a hotel or vacation rental in an expensive destination might require sacrificing on activities and/or returning home stressed because you blew a hole in your travel budget.

The right travel destination allows you to be in your comfort zone when it comes to your travel style while sticking to as much money as you’ve allotted for this next trip.

And remember to think about any travel rewards you may have. A travel rewards credit card allows you to earn miles and points so that when you’re ready to take that next big trip, you can use them to book the trip or at least offset some of the cost.

A  financially savvy traveler  knows the answers to these questions and chooses a vacation destination accordingly.

What kind of journey or travel experience do you want?

With the above questions asked and answered, you’ve finished the practical first steps to choosing your next travel destination. 

Now it’s time to connect what information you got from the questions above with the type of trip you’re imagining. This is when you work to align the practical with all that pent-up travel inspiration in the right side of your brain.

Start by asking yourself the purpose of your trip.

Is the perfect destination one where you can lounge and relax beside a beach? Or are you craving an outdoor adventure? Maybe you’re picturing a new travel destination with historical sites, cultural experiences, and foodie experiences.

If you’re like me, you probably would love all of the above. But the best option when choosing where to travel next depends on what you need at that moment.

If something in your life has left you feeling exhausted and stressed and all you can think of is going somewhere to relax and unwind, a beach destination or mountain retreat will likely be a better option than a sightseeing trip in Europe.

Maybe your norm is to always use your vacation time to go to a beach. So this time you’re looking for new destinations where you can see wildlife, like in Costa Rica , or explore historic ruins like those in Pompeii.

Beyond thinking about the type of trip you need, ask yourself what type of experience you’d like you and your possible travel companions to have.

Is there something you would like to gain from your travels? How do you want to remember this trip? Is there a lasting impact you’re hoping for?

If you want to take an adventure trip as a couple, it might be the right time to finally do that African safari or see the northern lights in Finnish Lapland .

Maybe you’re traveling with children and want the travel to be educational in some way. Consider, then, a place with fun and interesting sights, age-appropriate museums, and cultural experiences.

Understanding the type of journey or experience you want is the essence of choosing the right destination and making your trip a success. Too often, people are heard saying  “I need a vacation from my vacation.”   It doesn’t have to be this way if you focus on the important things you want and choose a travel destination based on this.

Travel can be so fulfilling if you take the time to plan a meaningful getaway that meets the needs, hopes, and wants of you and your travel companions.

But, the opposite is also true. When you choose your travel destination because it’s where you think you  should  take your kids or where  everyone else you know goes , your trip can end up feeling lackluster and, ultimately, not worth your time and money.

10 Tips to Choose Your Next Travel Destination

With the information you’ve focused on by going through the who, what, when, and why questions above, you’re surely closer to answering the biggest question of them all…where?

And while the final decision about where you should travel next is yours, these are some of the best things I’ve used or done to choose my next travel destination.

1. Get Inspiration from Pinterest, Social Media, and Hashtags.

“A picture is worth a thousand words” is so cliche, but also resonates with truth.

We are visual creatures in the same way my dogs relate to the world around them by using their keen sense of smell. Our brains are hardwired to process visuals quickly, which impacts how we feel, what we think, and even what we do.

Sometimes these visuals create a spark that sticks with us. It’s important to pay attention when this happens!

Visual platforms like Pinterest , Instagram , YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok attract 100s of millions of people who use them not only for entertainment and social connection but also to plan everything from home decor to travel destinations.

We’ve all seen photos of places that have grabbed us, causing an emotional, visceral reaction. These feelings can be a huge help when choosing your travel destination.

And if you’re not sure where to start on these platforms, just start typing on the search bar. Inevitably, other words will populate to give you some ideas. For example, you might type in “bucket list travel destinations” and the search bar might suggest you add “in Europe” to refine your search even further.

Hashtags can also be a great way to find inspiration. By searching #tropicalisland, you’ll find countless photos and videos to spark your wanderlust. You might even discover a new place that wasn’t on your radar.

ProTip: A word about popular destinations…Just because it’s popular doesn’t mean you have to go, too. If the destination doesn’t speak to you, it’s not your jam, at least right now. It doesn’t matter what social media says. And with so much attention focused on a handful of places, you can share your tourism dollars with a destination better suited to you and just equally as deserving as the latest must-go hotspot.

2. Read Travel Blogs.

Ok, you had to know this was coming! 😉

But, in all seriousness, there are a ton of travel blogs out there with a lot of inspiring, incredible content.

Find a few travel bloggers you like on social media? Take some time to explore their blog. The hidden gem blog posts are often discovered by those who take a few minutes and dig beyond just the most recent posts.

You just might discover a place like Husavik in Iceland or fall in love with Sibiu in Romania. Or you just might see a few photos of Cordoba in Spain and be instantly bit by the travel bug!

3. Go Old School with “Coffee Table” Travel Books

With everything digitalized or online these days, don’t underestimate the power of travel books.

I’m not necessarily talking about travel guides, but the ones with oversized, smooth pages and glossy colorful photos that fill your eyes and heart with wanderlust. They’re perfect for perusing whether you want to choose your travel destination or just float away into your travel dreams.

I love opening these books to random pages and seeing what I find. Sometimes I take a photo of a photo or keep the book open to a specific page for a couple of days just to see if a place feels like the right one for my next trip.

Here are a few of my favorite travel picture books.

These books can excite a passion for traveling the world in just about anyone! The photos carry you into the scene, while the text about each place transports you to lush rainforests and medieval architecture.

These books are perfect for choosing experiences that match the journeys you imagine for yourself and others. You’ll go from Patagonia to the Canadian Rockies to the world’s best dive spots and the best National Parks in the U.S. If you’re like me, you’ll be packing your  backpack  as you stare wide-eyed at the list of places awaiting!

4. Follow the Deals.

This tip for choosing a travel destination should not be overlooked! Not only might you discover amazing places, but it can also help you save (potentially) a lot of money.

Know you want to go to Japan someday and you just found a super cheap airfare to make it happen? Guess what? Someday has arrived. You may never have the chance again to book such a cheap ticket to Japan.

It’s also a great way to add flexibility (which always helps save money when traveling) when you can’t be flexible on your dates. Say, for example, if you’re a teacher or a family with kids who have to travel around the school calendar.

Maybe you’re just an open-minded, flexible person who’s just happy to travel anywhere. Perhaps you’re looking to get away for the least possible money!

To find these deals, use tools like:

• Google Flights Explore
• Momondo Explore
• Secret Flying

Aside from Google Flights Explore, Momondo  is a great airfare website for choosing your travel destination and finding the best airfare. They have an explore anywhere feature that lets you choose destinations by continent, month, budget, and theme (beaches, cities, etc.)

Skyscanner  is another tool to search for the best prices on flights even when you don’t where you want to go. Type your home airport as the departure and “everywhere” as the destination. Skyscanner will show you the lowest-priced flights to a range of destinations.

The Hopper App can help you know whether or not to book a flight or wait for a better price.

You could also use airfare deal email newsletters like Matt’s Flights to get alerted to mistake fares and low fares in real-time without spending hours searching. The deals are timely, though, so you’ll need to book quickly before the price changes. For more tips about  how to find cheap flights , check out everything I do to find cheap flights.

5. Where Can Your Travel Rewards Points Take You?

I am a confessed points and miles nerd. But, my studies have paid off because I’ve been to many great places that I never dreamed would be possible. If you’re interested in getting started with travel rewards, check out my free course.

Once you sign up for hotel and airline loyalty programs, you’ll get emails to learn about destinations with low airfares or hotel rates. Look for loyalty program award discounts to specific places or for particular hotels.

For instance,  hotel brands like  IHG and Hilton  offer promotions throughout the year discounting award night stays in specific destinations.

If you earn travel rewards points through a bank like Chase or American Express , watch for transfer bonuses that give you a percentage bonus (i.e. 30%) on the points you transfer to a specific airline or hotel.

You can also apply the same principles for finding deals as above. Go where the deals are.

Need to get to Paris but the award flight space is too expensive or nonexistent to Paris?

Look at surrounding airports and Voila…there’s plenty of affordable space to Brussels which is only an 80-minute train ride from Paris. Maybe you’ll even have a few extra days to spare to visit places like Bruges and Antwerp before heading to France.

6. Trust Your Gut.

Saw an incredible photo or movie about a place you never knew much about and now you can’t get it out of your head?

Book it as your next trip!

Sometimes you just get a hunch or a feeling about a place. If you act on it, you might just end up on one of the most incredible and unforgettable trips ever.

I did exactly this when I decided to go to Romania and Malaysia because I saw a few photos and was instantly struck. Both trips were amazing and I learned a valuable lesson. Sometimes it really pays to not overthink things and just go. It may be cliche but the world really is an endlessly fascinating place!

7. Calibrate Current Events.

No one wants to feel unsafe when they travel. And unfortunately, sometimes, world events make it unsafe to visit certain places at certain times.

It’s a good practice to check travel warnings issued by not only the United States but also by the governments in Canada, the U.K., and Australia. I find this gives a fuller picture of the actual scope of the alerts.

You should also remember what you see on TV and watch and read online isn’t always the reality in all places in that destination or region. Can you imagine visitors canceling their trips to New York City because New Orleans had a hurricane? Or forgoing a trip to Rome because Paris was having protests?

Use common sense. Invest in travel insurance . And, always do what makes you comfortable when deciding whether or not you should travel to a particular place.

8. Respect Your Capacity for Logistics.

Planning a trip takes time and effort. You have to research, book transportation and accommodation options, as well as map out your day-to-day at least partially. The destination you choose dictates how intensive this process will be. So what can you manage right now?

It’s a lot easier to plan a beach getaway or a camping trip than it is a multi-city sightseeing trip. Both are equally worth it but one requires more research and planning.

Dreaming of an extended road trip through South America but don’t have the time right now to plan it the way it needs to be planned? Perhaps it’s better to go with something else right now. The same could be said for country-hopping through Europe.

Travel is supposed to be fun, exciting, and enjoyable and that includes the planning process. If you’re dreading the time needed to plan a trip to a particular place, go somewhere else instead for now.

9. Go on a Guided Tour.

Or opt for a guided tour . It’s easy because all of the logistics are handled for you. Plus, oftentimes, you meet interesting people and visit places you might not have considered on your own.

I’ve taken tours with both Intrepid Travel and G Adventures and had a great time on each one. I’ve even made some long-lasting travel friends along the way!

So, if you’re not sure about traveling solo or just don’t want the hassle of planning, pick a tour and go!

10. Revisit Your Bucket List…and Just Go!

If you still aren’t sure about what to pick for your next trip, go back to your bucket list. You put places and experiences on there for a reason. At one point or another, taking that trip someday resonated. Trust that and go.

Frame it like this. It’s not analysis paralysis but rather a desire to visit so many places that it’s hard to choose one destination over another. I always take this as a sure sign that I can’t go wrong no matter where I choose.

So, How Do You Choose the Right Travel Destination?

Break down the process into smaller steps by using the questions, tips, and tools in this guide. They’ll help you choose your next travel destination by pointing you in the direction of where and what makes sense for you right now.

And remember, no one ever regrets traveling, but rather the trips they didn’t take. So, go ahead and plan your next trip!

So, how do you choose the right destination? 

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36 thoughts on “how to successfully choose your next travel destination”.

Great tips! I also love Kayak Explore ( https://www.kayak.com/explore/ ). You choose your home airport, the time of year you want to travel, and (optionally) your budget/flight length, and it returns a map with flight options for you. It’s one of my favorite tools!

Thanks, Kelly! How could I forget Kayak’s explore, tool!? Thanks for the reminder and for adding to this guide with such a great tip!

Haha, I am definitely guilty of saying ‘I need a vacation from my vacation’. These are great pieces of advice, especially deciding what type of adventure you want, and who you’ll be with so that your expectations matches the reality!

Lol, Annie. I don’t think you’re alone on that one! It’s such a disappointment when you have one idea in mind and then the trip turns out not like you wanted.

I really use pinterest for visual searches. I love that you included that. My friends and I already peg the places we want and the moment there is a sale— we just go for it.

I love how you said, “we just go for it.” So awesome, Karla. You can plan forever, but in the end, you just have to take action! 🙂

Really nice I like that you added tools to go along with how to choose your travel destination! Pinterest is a great place to get information and what I like about it is getting a picture preview before you get to the website to peak interest instead of print list on google search 🙂

Thanks for reading. I so agree! The Pinterest visual is really great and so much more helpful than just a text link.

Great resources on deciding where to go! 80% of my travels are booked after I see special offers on airlines as the cost of the ticket is a major factor.

Flexibility is key to being a successful traveler, right Chrysoula?! So, following the deals is smart.

I love the follow the deal method. I tend to pick wherever has a cheap flight for my three day weekend adventures. I just book the trip and figure out the rest later.

Thanks for sharing, Jennifer. It’s always great to get a good deal! Good for you for being so open and flexible.

Great post! I abide by most of these tips myself! I’d say I usually pick where to go based on three things: length of visit (I’m not going to plan a trip to Australia with only 3 days) who I’m going with (is my boyfriend coming along? Maybe I’ll go somewhere that is more iffy for solo travelers) and the weather (I don’t want to go anywhere during monsoon season)!.

And of course, blogs, Pinterest and Instagram are where I get much of my inspiration!

Thanks for reading, Erika. I do the same and I always have to think differently when I travel solo versus with my husband. (Shh..I can be more adventurous without him! lol)

These are all very practical things to think of and helpful advices! Some things didn’t work out as planned but it happens, least we could do is try and prevent them 🙂 I’ll check against this list the next time I plan to go!

Exactly, Mar. We can’t prevent everything but thoughtful planning means you tried your best. 🙂 Thanks for reading.

Great tips. It is a struggle every time I have some time of but I think I basically ask all those questions myself – and I am very strongly influenced by social media of course 🙂

Absolutely, Arzo! Isn’t is perfect when a photo or a post on social media just speaks to you? 😉 Thanks for reading.

What a great guide. I love your tips. As someone who wants to go everywhere, sometimes picking one place can be daunting.

Lol, Mags. I can totally relate!

Recognizing “what kind of journey and travel experience” you want is key! Great tips, thanks for sharing. Happy travels 🙂

Thanks for reading, Carmen! 🙂

Great tips and amazing write up Jackie! I love how you made it look simple yet contains lots of important informations. Totally loving your tips and will absolutely use some of your tips in choosing where to go next in the future! Thanks!

Thanks for reading. 🙂 Happy travels!

It’s good to know more about finding a vacation destination and hotel. I like how you said that it depends on if we’re traveling with our kids. This summer we plan on taking our two kids with us, so we’ll have to find a destination and a hotel that will work for two rowdy children!

Thanks for reading, Ridley. I edited out your link as they’re not allowed in comments. Thanks!

Thank you for your tip to consider what type of lodgings you will be staying at. My brother wants me to visit the sea with him and his family. I’ll be sure to talk to him about whether we’ll be staying in a motel or hotel and what type of accommodations they offer.

Thanks for reading, Skylar. Hope your family travel is fantastic! 🙂

I loved the tip that you gave to consider following deals while you are looking for a place to visit. Me and some of my classmates are wanting to find a tour to go on for a project for our photography project, and it will be important for us to know that we could find the right tour. I will be sure to follow the deals, so we could stick to our tight budgets.

Thanks for reading, Gus. That flexibility makes all the difference.

Thanks for these tips! I like that you mentioned we should think about what sort of experiences we want to gain from the trip so that it helps us in determining the perfect holiday destination. My wife and I are planning to go on a couple’s vacation next month and I’ll be sure to speak with her on her preference.

Thanks for reading, Kristofer. Also so important to think about the types of experiences. Hope you have a great trip.

I like your tip about reading travel blogs to help decide where to vacation since they may have some hidden gems you didn’t know about. My husband and I have been looking for somewhere to go to celebrate our one year anniversary. I think we should find a vacation rental somewhere that is less well known so that we can spend quality time together.

Thanks for reading, Charlotte. Hope you have a great anniversary trip.

Hi, interesting article and useful tips. I especially like that you recommended tools that help to choose a destination. When I travel I always spend a lot of time searching for the ideal place for my trip.

Thanks for reading, Mark. 🙂

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Definition of trip

 (Entry 1 of 2)

intransitive verb

transitive verb

Definition of trip  (Entry 2 of 2)

• peregrination

Examples of trip in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'trip.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Middle English trippen , from Anglo-French treper, triper , of Germanic origin; akin to Old English treppan to tread — more at trap

14th century, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 3a

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 5

Phrases Containing trip

• business trip
• lay / put a guilt trip on
• on a power trip
• roll / trip off the tongue
• round - trip ticket
• trip - hammer
• trip the light fantastic

Dictionary Entries Near trip

trioxymethylene

Cite this Entry

“Trip.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trip. Accessed 19 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of trip.

Kids Definition of trip  (Entry 2 of 2)

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Nglish: Translation of trip for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of trip for Arabic Speakers

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Definition of 'trip'

TRIP in American English

Trip in american english, trip in american english 1, trip in american english 2, trip in british english, examples of 'trip' in a sentence trip, related word partners trip, trends of trip.

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• trioxoboric acid
• trioxoboric(III) acid
• trip a switch
• trip computer
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trip noun 1

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What does the noun trip mean?

There are 25 meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun trip , three of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

trip has developed meanings and uses in subjects including

Entry status

OED is undergoing a continuous programme of revision to modernize and improve definitions. This entry has not yet been fully revised.

How common is the noun trip ?

How is the noun trip pronounced, british english, u.s. english, where does the noun trip come from.

Earliest known use

Middle English

The earliest known use of the noun trip is in the Middle English period (1150—1500).

OED's earliest evidence for trip is from around 1412–20, in a translation by John Lydgate, poet and prior of Hatfield Regis.

It is also recorded as a verb from the Middle English period (1150—1500).

trip is formed within English, by conversion.

Etymons: trip v.

Nearby entries

• Trionyx, n. 1835–
• trioperculate, adj. 1900–
• triorchis, n. 1650–
• triose, n. 1894–
• triose phosphate, n. 1934–
• trio-sonata, n. 1884–
• triovulate, adj. 1891–
• trioxan, n. 1915–
• trioxide, n. 1868–
• trioxy-, comb. form
• trip, n.¹ 1412–
• trip, n.² 1305–
• trip, n.³ c1386–1849
• trip, n.⁴ 1600
• Trip, n.⁵ 1909–
• trip, v. c1380–
• tripack, n. 1911–
• tripair, n. 1878–
• tripal | trypal, adj. & n. 1709–
• tripaleolate, adj. 1866–
• tripalmitin, n. 1855–

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Meaning & use

Pronunciation, compounds & derived words, entry history for trip, n.¹.

trip, n.¹ was first published in 1915; not yet revised.

trip, n.¹ was last modified in December 2023.

Revision of the OED is a long-term project. Entries in oed.com which have not been revised may include:

• corrections and revisions to definitions, pronunciation, etymology, headwords, variant spellings, quotations, and dates;
• new senses, phrases, and quotations which have been added in subsequent print and online updates.

Revisions and additions of this kind were last incorporated into trip, n.¹ in December 2023.

Earlier versions of this entry were published in:

OED First Edition (1915)

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OED Second Edition (1989)

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Factsheet for trip, n.¹, browse entry.

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Definition of trip – Learner’s Dictionary

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• Details of the president's trip remain shrouded in secrecy .
• They suffered a series of mishaps during the trip.
• I've just been on a trip to France.
• We will have a car at our disposal for the whole trip.
• Talking of holidays , did you hear about Lesley's skiing trip?

trip verb ( FALL )

Trip verb ( make fall ), phrasal verbs.

(Definition of trip from the Cambridge Learner's Dictionary © Cambridge University Press)

Translations of trip

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Word of the Day

hit the road

to leave a place or begin a journey

Searching out and tracking down: talking about finding or discovering things

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11 simple ways to save money for your next vacation

Some of the links contained in this post are affiliate links, meaning that at no cost to you, I will earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

You’ve decided to plan a vacation, but you’re having a hard time finding a way to afford it. We’ve all been there!

But finding ways to save money for a vacation is easier than you may think. When looking for ways to save money it can be hard to find ideas that won’t take a lot of active work on your part.

I’ve got you covered! These ideas will not only help for your next trip but can also be part of a long-term money-saving strategy. If you implement even a few of these simple ways to save money, you’ll be on a plane, cruise, or whatever your ideal vacation is in no time!

And check out this post to learn what it means to be a budget traveler and travel on a budget !

Advance Planning and Flexibility

Advanced planning and flexibility are first up on the list. When you plan ahead, you give yourself time to set a budget that you can stick to.

Probably one of the most important and easiest ways to save money on travel is to plan ahead.

This doesn’t mean that you need to book everything a year in advance (although sometimes that is needed), it means giving yourself enough time to save up and find the right deal.

Depending on the type of trip, I like to start planning around 10-12 months in advance. This gives me time to do my research and monitor for pricing.

This works well when I have a destination in mind but am not locked into travel dates.

Before you think about booking the trip, do your research on how much it will cost. It’s easier to plan if you know exactly how much you want to spend. Now, knowing how much you want to spend is not the same as how much you’ll actually end up spending.

It’s important that you anticipate and plan for unexpected expenses, so give yourself some wiggle room in the budget.

You can calculate your expenses by considering the amount of money you’ll need for airfare, rental car, meals, souvenirs, special excursions, or tickets to attractions. By doing research, you’ll be less likely to spend more than you can afford.

Decide what is most important to you and plan for it . For instance, if you’re traveling to a destination where you know that you want to splurge on excursions, research how much they will cost when you’re setting a budget.

Be flexible

The next part when thinking of ways to save money on vacation planning is to be flexible with your travel dates and destination. Many airlines and hotels offer discounts for travelers who are willing to be flexible with their plans.

For example, you may be able to get a discount on airfare if you’re willing to fly on a Tuesday or Wednesday instead of a Friday or Saturday (more on this later).

Or, you may be able to get a cheaper hotel room if you’re willing to stay off the beaten path.

Being flexible with your travel plans can also make it easier to find deals on activities and attractions.

For example, many museums offer discounts for visitors who come during off-peak hours. And, many theme parks offer discounts for visitors who are willing to come on weekdays instead of weekends.

And if you’re like me and enjoy using credit card points and miles to pay for travel (I’ll be covering this in more detail later in this post), planning ahead and being flexible can save you a lot of money .

I’ve been able to book destinations with the least amount of points possible by giving myself some time and flexibility.

Your Budget Travel Cheat Sheet is on its way!

In order to receive it, please head straight over to your inbox and confirm your subscription.

Sometimes tech happens. But that shouldn’t keep you from traveling more for less! Go to your inbox and look for an email with the subject line “Confirmation Email (FREEBIE)”. If you check your promotions tab and spam folder and still don’t see it, please reach out to me at [email protected] so I can help you find it!

Create a budget with YNAB and track your credit with Credit Karma

Ynab (you need a budget).

We’ve talked about creating a budget, but I know for some this can be easier said than done. It doesn’t have to be! I use an app like YNAB to help me create a budget for all of my expenses. How much do you think you spend on streaming services every month? I bet you have no idea!

When you know what you’re spending your money on, it’s easier to figure out how much you can afford for a vacation. I think it’s important to note that although YNAB may use the same level of security as your bank, it is not your bank, so keep in mind that it may mislabel purchases. So, it’s a good idea to check your purchases manually to allocate your budget properly. 

One of the main reasons that people may not track their budget is likely because it can be time-consuming. A budget app can be a convenient option because it does all the heavy lifting.

In the end, an app like YNAB will keep you on top of your financial situation and help you save money! 

Credit Karma

Credit Karma is a free online service and mobile app. It gives you access to your credit score and credit reports along with personalized recommendations to help manage your finances. I think it’s a great buddy to pair with YNAB.

If you’re planning or have several credit cards or lines of credit open, Credit Karma will help keep you on track without having to lift a finger! I’ve been using Credit Karma since I opened my first credit card (back in college, so a long time ago!) and I love how it will prompt me to consider shopping for lower car insurance or tell me to check a site to see if the state owes me money.

If you’re looking to buy a house or car, Credit Karma can help. If you find something incorrect on your credit report, Credit Karma can help. If you are not sure which is the next credit card that you can get approved for, Credit Karma can help. Need life insurance, Credit Karma can help!

With Credit Karma, you’ll have access to a wealth of possibilities and opportunities specifically tailored to you which can help you stay on top of changes and better understand how your credit score affects your financial life.

Both YNAB and Credit Karma are great apps to help you keep your finances on track. I’ve got a more comprehensive list of apps and sites in my Free Travel Hacking Cheat Sheet .

Limit your impulse purchases

Now, this one is definitely not easy, but it is simple and important.

You probably don’t want to think about it, but limiting your impulse purchases can really help you save money. I suggest giving yourself a limit of one impulse purchase per month or something really nice once a quarter.

When I find something I want as my “treat yourself” purchase, I try to make sure it’s on sale. If it’s not on sale, I either wait and watch or use one of my points or cash-back strategies (keep reading).

Never pay full price and if you do, make it count.

Get a side hustle

When I talk about side hustles, I’m not really talking about an active one like Instacart or Doordash. My ideal side hustles take as little effort as possible.

Check out what I mean below! If you like this, check out my post on 7 Easy Travel Hacking Strategies that don’t require credit cards .

Use Rakuten or BeFrugal to get cash back on purchases

Now that you have your budget established, make sure that when you are spending that money you’re also making money. A great way to do this is to use cash-back sites like Rakuten or BeFrugal.

My current favorite is BeFrugal. I use their Chrome extension and have their app downloaded on my phone.

Whenever I’m shopping online, the Chrome extension will let me know if I can get cash back and then will automatically apply it with the click of a button. Once the purchase is made, BeFrugal will send an email letting you know that you’ve earned cash back.

My advice would be to check the BeFrugal site or app before making a purchase because it will let you know which retailers are giving the most cash back.

When cashback is available to redeem, BeFrugal gives you plenty of options including direct deposit into your bank account. You can also choose a gift card payout which can come with even more cashback as a payout bonus. When I redeemed my cashback for a Sephora Gift card, I was given 6% more than if I had done a direct deposit into my bank.

So, if you’re ready to start getting paid to shop, sign up for BeFrugal and automatically get $10 cashback.

Rakuten is also great because you can earn American Express Membership rewards when you link your accounts. So if you have an American Express card, you should definitely join Rakuten now and earn $30 when you spend $30 !

But you don’t have to choose, join both programs and see which one works best for you!

Download Upside to get paid for shopping

Previously known as GetUpside – Upside is a free app that gives you cash back on gas and other everyday purchases.

I’ve used Upside for gas, restaurants, and grocery shopping. It can also be combined with a points credit card!

It’s easy, just go to the Upside app and claim a cash-back offer that is available in your area. Once you claim the offer, you will have a few hours to upload the receipt. After you’ve purchased gas, dined at the restaurant, or purchased groceries, you go to the app and upload the receipt. That’s it!

It will take a few days to get processed, but then you will see cashback within the app.

Cashback can be redeemed for gift cards or cashed out to your bank account or PayPal account. You will need a minimum of $10 in cash back before you can redeem.

You can earn even more by paying for your purchase with a points credit card!

Cha-ching! Sign up for Upside and get an extra $15/gallon in free gas when you use the app for the first time.

Get paid to answer surveys

Another idea is to answer online surveys. Yes, it may seem tedious, but trust me it’s worth it.

There are many companies that will pay you for your opinions, and this is a great way to make some extra money in your spare time.

There are a ton of survey companies out there and I’ve tried many of them. If you’re new to answering online surveys, I think you should start with Survey Junkie . Survey Junkie, is easy to join, not spammy, and has a wide variety of surveys and ways to earn points.

Whether you spend 2 mins or 2 hours answering surveys, you’ll earn points that can be redeemed later. You can go at your own pace. Some days I answer 10 surveys and other days I don’t answer any. It really is a great way to maximize your time.

Survey Junkie also has an app! So you can answer surveys from home while drinking your morning coffee, waiting at the doctor’s office, or boarding a plane. Super convenient.

Redeeming your points is easy! Payout options include Visa gift card, PayPal, Cash out with bank transfer, or redeemed for other gift cards. You only need $5 available to redeem which makes it even more convenient.

One of the best things about passive income streams is that they can provide you with money even when you’re not actively working. That’s why answering surveys can be such a great way to earn passive income.

Let’s get you making money with Survey Junkie !

Open a High Yield savings account

Investing in a high-yield savings account is a great way to save money and it’s easy!

Plus, if you need to access your money in a pinch, you can always withdraw it without penalty.

In addition, high-yield savings can earn you 20 to 25 times more than a standard savings account – per this article from Investopedia . Also, many do not require a high minimum balance or monthly maintenance fees.

With a high-yield savings account, you can earn interest on your deposited funds, which can help you reach your financial goals faster.

If you want some help deciding on which bank to open up a High-Yield Savings Account with, check out this article on the Best High-Yield Online Savings Accounts from Nerdwallet .

I have had an account with American Express for a few years now and I have been very happy with our return. I also have an American Express credit card and can access both accounts from the same app, which I love.

I know that there are many of us that do not have a lot of savings, but if you can afford a Starbucks coffee every day you can put a little bit away in a savings account.

And with no minimum balance or monthly maintenance fees, it’s a no brainer !

Automate your savings and invest at the same time

It can be hard to put money away to save. The best way I’ve learned how to save money without even thinking about it is to automate a small amount each week, month or quarter.

You can automate this with your bank into a savings account or you can use an app like Stash which will not only save your money but invest it too!

Stash will let you invest your money with as little as $5. Stash offers advice on how to grow your personal finances and open up a retirement account.

I’ve been using Stash for years and have always taken advantage of their auto stash option which will automate your savings and investments at the same time. Stash pricing plans are reasonable and their goal is to help you grow financially.

If you’re not sure how much you can afford, just think again about how much you spend on Starbucks each week and have one less coffee. 🙂 All jokes aside, you can start with just a few bucks each week, the key is to be consistent .

You likely won’t notice the amount leaving your bank account and then the next thing you know, you have enough for the vacation of a lifetime!

Shop around for Cheap flights

Airfares change daily, hourly, and sometimes even minute by minute, so you definitely want to shop around as a way to save money.

A great way is to use a travel aggregator website, such as Google Flights , Skyscanner or Kayak . These websites allow you to enter your travel dates and destination, and then they search multiple airlines to find the best price for you.

I set alerts through these sites so that I can monitor pricing and be ready to pounce when I find the right deal!

Nowadays, airlines are a lot more flexible with cancellations. Many will let you cancel for any reason within 24 hours of booking the flight. Most will even let you cancel later for credit towards future travel with no penalties. These credits may expire at some point, but the airlines are getting more flexible with this too!

So don’t feel bad about booking a great deal as soon as you see it. You don’t have anything to lose!

I need to clarify that, while it’s a good idea to use these websites to get the best deal, you should always book directly with the airline. This way, you can be sure that you’re getting the most accurate flight information. If you need to make changes or a flight gets canceled, you’ll be able to deal with the airline directly.

Trust me, you don’t want to deal with a 3rd party when your flight gets canceled.

Additionally, many airlines offer loyalty programs and other perks when you book directly with them. So, next time you’re looking to book a flight, remember to go straight to the source!

If you’re looking for more guidance on destinations and which ones have the best deals from your home airport, I recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now Going). Scott’s Cheap Flights sends you deal alerts for flights and tips for the best way to book them. You can sign up for their free program or their premium program .

Also, look at one-way flights when possible, so you can compare prices easier. You’d be surprised at how booking one-way flights can really help with the price tag. When it comes to ways to save money on travel plans, being flexible and setting flight alerts are super important!

Also, check out my post on 5 big mistakes to avoid when booking flights . But first, keep reading.

Apply for a points credit card

This one is hands down my favorite because it’s probably the most passive way to save money on the list. By using a points credit card, you’re earning points on purchases that you are already making. What’s not t0 love about that?

You can use these points to pay for travel by transferring points to travel partners like airlines or hotels. Other ways include booking travel through their portal, redeeming gift cards, or applying for a statement credit.

A welcome offer or sign-up bonus can make it very easy to earn enough points to cover travel expenses. We’ve been able to earn enough to cover a week-long hotel stay or roundtrip flights to Europe.

A credit card will award you a signup bonus if you make the minimum spend required for that particular offer. This can easily be done if you have a big purchase coming up or by using the credit card for all of your bills (when you can) and everyday shopping like groceries and gas.

There are a ton of awesome credit cards that will give you points when making a variety of purchases. I personally have several credit cards that I use depending on the type of purchases that I am making. Some credit cards will give you more points for dining, travel, groceries, or even gas.

There’s definitely a big element of strategy when it comes to the credit card points game. For an in depth analysis of which credit cards are best for you, I highly recommend subscribing to The Points Guy , they have a great article for beginners . They have a large team located around the world conducting all the research and do an amazing job of breaking it all down.

But don’t get discouraged.

Even if you don’t understand all of the valuations or don’t have a complex strategy, you can still take advantage and earn enough points to pay for travel.

If you don’t have a lot of credit cards and are nervous about applying for one, that’s ok. I started off small by applying for a cash-back credit card that did not require an annual fee.

Once I realized how much I could do with points earned on purchases that I was already making, I was hooked. I have since been able to expand to other cards with annual fees, but more perks.

My biggest advice would be to not bite off more than you can chew. You must always pay off your monthly statement balance . The only exception is if your card offers an introductory 0% APR, but even then it’s best practice to pay off the balance every month.

It does not make sense to pay high-interest rates. If you can’t afford it, don’t buy it with a credit card. And if you’re applying for a credit card that has an annual fee, make sure to do your research and take advantage of all the perks that come with the card. That is the only way to realize the full value of this strategy.

If you’re afraid that applying for new cards will negatively affect your credit score, this is a myth. Opening up a new credit card is only one small factor when calculating your credit score. So what are you waiting for?! The world of credit card travel hacking awaits you!

If you’re interested in Travel Hacking and points credit cards check out these posts:

• 7 Free Travel Hacking apps you should download today
• 8 Travel Hacking Myths Debunked
• 7 Incredible Resorts that you can book with Points
• 5 Do’s and Dont’s of using your new Travel Rewards Credit Card
• Don’t forget to grab my Free Travel Hacking Cheat Sheet

I’ve also got a list of current credit card offers for when you’re ready!

Ready to Plan?

However you choose to plan, vacations are a great way to reset from the stress of work and life. It can open your eyes to new cultures and experiences. Luckily, finding ways to save money when planning a vacation doesn’t have to be painful.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to have an unforgettable trip on a budget. Traveling costs money, but it’s the best investment because it’s an investment in yourself .

Want to Travel More for Less?

Become a Budget Traveler! Head over to my  start here page  and grab my free budget travel cheat sheet  – it’s packed with valuable tips to help you create your own winning budget travel strategy.

Genni is a travel blogger based in South Florida, founder of Traveling Franklins and Lazy Budget Travel Academy.

Genni has been focusing on Budget Travel and earning Travel Points and Miles since 2015. She has a background in hospitality, working for companies like Hilton and Marriott. She has also worked in hospitality marketing software with clients like Hilton, Hyatt, and IHG.

But her true passion is teaching others how to travel more for less because everyone deserves to take their PTO and explore the world on their own budget!

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Biden delivers Morehouse commencement speech as some on campus express pro-Palestinian messages

ATLANTA — President Joe Biden delivered the commencement address at Morehouse College on Sunday morning, his most direct engagement with college students since the start of the Israel-Hamas war and a key opportunity for him to engage with a group of voters that data suggests is softening on him: young, Black men.

In his remarks, Biden ticked through his administration's policies that he said have aided Black Americans, including a record $16 billion in new aid for historically Black colleges and universities.

And, in a nod to the pro-Palestinian sentiment among Morehouse students and faculty, Biden reiterated his calls for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza, more humanitarian aid in the region and support for a two-state solution that would lead to the creation of a Palestinian state.

“We’ve been working on a deal as we speak. Working around the clock to lead an international effort to get more aid into Gaza, rebuild Gaza. I’m also working around the clock for more than just one cease-fire. I’m working to bring the region together. Working to build a lasting, durable peace,” he said.

As Biden spoke, roughly six students in the crowd sat turned away from him. Though Biden did not reference the action directly, his remarks touched on the “anger and frustration” felt by many Americans over the war, including by members of his own family.

“I know it breaks your heart. It breaks mine as well,” Biden said. “Leadership is about fighting through the most intractable problems. It’s about challenging anger, frustration and heartbreak. To find a solution. It’s about doing what you believe is right, even when it’s hard and lonely.”

Following the speech, Morehouse President David Thomas praised Biden for a “thought-provoking speech” he said was reflective of the president “listening.”

“You spoke to the hard issues confronting our nation and the world at this moment,” Thomas said before conferring an honorary doctorate degree onto Biden.

No significant, disruptive protests materialized, but some students and faculty members still expressed their support for Gaza during the ceremony.

Pro-Palestinian demonstrations began even before Biden took the stage Sunday morning. As graduates and faculty entered the ceremony, at least eight students and three staff members wore pro-Palestinian garb, some adorned in Palestinian flags and others wearing keffiyeh scarves.

An opening prayer by the Rev. Claybon Lea Jr. urged those in power to be “accountable for valuing human life” across the globe.

“Whether they live in Israel or Palestine, Ukraine or Russia, the Congo or Haiti, God give us men that will value life and call us to accountability. Give us men who require all of us to live the golden rule and even follow the edicts of that Palestinian Jew named Jesus,” Lea said as Biden sat inches behind him.

In the most direct call to action of the ceremony, valedictorian DeAngelo Jeremiah Fletcher concluded his remarks by calling for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza, framing his decision to speak on the conflict as a moral duty in line with the legacy of fellow Morehouse alumnus Martin Luther King Jr.

“It is important to recognize that both sides have suffered heavy casualties in the wake of Oct. 7,” Fletcher said. “From the comfort of our homes, we watch an unprecedented number of civilians mourn the loss of men, women and children while calling for a release of all hostages. For the first time in our lives, we’ve heard the global community sing one harmonious song that transcends language and culture. It is my stance as a Morehouse man named as a human being to call for an immediate and a permanent cease-fire in the Gaza Strip.”

As Biden took the stage, graduating students remained seated and silent, even as older alumni nearby cheered.

And during his remarks, faculty member Samuel Livingston held up the flag of the Democratic Republic of Congo, in an effort to bring attention to ongoing conflict in the region.

Sebastian Gordon, a graduating senior from Washington, D.C., was satisfied with Biden's remarks. “I know one concern that my class had was actions and words didn’t line up,” Gordon told NBC News. “I’m happy with his words that he said. I’m just going to continue to watch to make sure his actions line up with that.”

The protests during the commencement were largely peaceful, following instructions Thomas, the school president, gave to faculty and students across at least three meetings: The right to protest would be honored as long as they’re not disruptive.

Ahead of the commencement, Thomas told CNN that though he would not ask police to intervene should protests occur during Biden’s remarks, he would immediately bring the commencement to a halt.

“I have also made a decision that we will also not ask police to take individuals out of commencement in zip ties. If faced with the choice, I will cease the ceremonies on the spot if we were to reach that position,” Thomas said.

Even the most vocal student protesters at Morehouse predicted that protests during the commencement ceremony would likely not be disruptive, partially due to the volatility a police response would likely incite.

“I think that whatever happens on Sunday on the part of the people and the people who want to see some change is going to be peaceful,” sophomore Anwar Karim said. “I don’t see it erupting like it has at some of the other campuses, because we at HBCUs here are also just mindful of the fact of how interactions with police often go.”

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Friday that Biden spent several days working on the speech, tapping into a brain trust of senior advisers, including some Morehouse alums, to craft his message to the 415 Black men graduating from the school.

Biden previewed the tone of his remarks during a speech Thursday to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Supreme Court’s Brown v. Board of Education decision.

“Morehouse was founded after our nation’s Civil War to help prepare Black Americans who were formerly enslaved to enter the ministry, earn an education and usher them from slavery to freedom,” Biden said before announcing $16 billion in new investments for historically Black colleges and universities. “The founders of Morehouse understood something fundamental. Education is linked to freedom. Because to be free means to have something that no one can ever take away from you.”

Biden’s speech at Morehouse came against the backdrop of protests on college campuses nationwide over his handling over the war in Gaza, with many students and faculty members voicing opposition to the White House’s continued financial and military support for Israel. Some at Morehouse hoped Biden would speak directly to those concerns during his commencement remarks.

“I hope that we don’t get boilerplate language. I hope that we get something we haven’t heard before. I hope that his ethical, moral conscience trump any politics,” Morehouse professor Stephane Dunn said at a protest Friday.

Morehouse has also had pro-Palestinian protests on campus, though the HBCU did not see the same scale or escalation of demonstrations as some larger universities.

The school’s decision to host Biden as commencement speaker and award him an honorary doctorate degree almost immediately sparked protests among faculty and students, some continuing into the days leading up to the commencement ceremony.

“This is one big distraction on a day to celebrate the class of 2024 following Covid-19, but this is also an opportunity for students to make their voices heard during a time of increasing war and genocide in the Middle East,” Morehouse senior Calvin Bell said in reaction to Biden’s visit.

“We as students, faculty and alums who are standing on the right side of history do not stand with Biden,” Karim said. “We do not align ourselves with all of the clear and avid support that he’s had for a genocidal campaign on the part of the Israelis for the last over 200-plus days.”

Most recently, Morehouse faculty were split over the decision to award Biden an honorary doctorate degree at the ceremony. A letter circulated among staff members in protest of the decision got more that two dozen signatures in support, and the vote to award the degree passed 50-38, with roughly 12 faculty members abstaining.

The White House deployed its allies to Morehouse, both formally and informally, to assuage concerns and lower tensions over Biden’s visit.

Steve Benjamin, who heads the White House Office of Public Engagement, met with a small group of Morehouse students and faculty this month following a push from the school’s leadership for “direct engagement” from the White House.

During the meeting, some students expressed concerns about Biden overshadowing their graduation, while others implored Benjamin to ensure Biden’s speech doesn’t double as a campaign stump speech — frustrated with the idea of the commencement address being a vehicle for Biden to bolster support among Black voters.

That sentiment was shared by other Morehouse students critical of Biden’s visit.

“I don’t think it’s a coincidence that he only accepted the invitation after Trump was already in [Atlanta’s] West End, trying to make gains and failing to make gains with our students here,” Morehouse student Malik Poole said at a campus protest ahead of Biden’s visit. “And this is coming at a time where voters of color are fleeing from Biden at record pace.”

But still, Biden’s Morehouse visit came amid a concerted effort by his administration and campaign in the past week to sharpen his message to Black voters .

On Thursday, Biden met with plaintiffs and their family members from the historic Brown v. Board of Education case. The following day, he met with leaders of the Divine Nine, a group of historically Black sororities and fraternities, alongside Vice President Kamala Harris, a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority herself. During his trip to Georgia, Biden attended an event Saturday focused on engaging Black voters. And following his commencement address, Biden will close out the weekend by delivering the keynote address at the NAACP Freedom Fund dinner in Detroit, where he plans to tout his administration’s accomplishments for Black Americans.

As data suggests that Black voters — particularly young Black voters — are souring on Biden, some at Morehouse recognized the “opportunity” Biden had to make his case to members of that voting bloc during his address.

“If you want ... these students to vote in the fall for you, you have to give them something that shows that you are hearing them,” Dunn said. “That you are trying to do something we haven’t heard about. This is the opportunity.”

Nnamdi Egwuonwu is a 2024 NBC News campaign embed.

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The huge solar storm is keeping power grid and satellite operators on edge

Geoff Brumfiel

Willem Marx

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of solar flares early Saturday afternoon. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm. Solar Dynamics Observatory hide caption

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of solar flares early Saturday afternoon. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm.

Planet Earth is getting rocked by the biggest solar storm in decades – and the potential effects have those people in charge of power grids, communications systems and satellites on edge.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm that has been visible as aurora across vast swathes of the Northern Hemisphere. So far though, NOAA has seen no reports of major damage.

The Picture Show

Photos: see the northern lights from rare, solar storm.

There has been some degradation and loss to communication systems that rely on high-frequency radio waves, NOAA told NPR, as well as some preliminary indications of irregularities in power systems.

"Simply put, the power grid operators have been busy since yesterday working to keep proper, regulated current flowing without disruption," said Shawn Dahl, service coordinator for the Boulder, Co.-based Space Weather Prediction Center at NOAA.

NOAA Issues First Severe Geomagnetic Storm Watch Since 2005

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"Satellite operators are also busy monitoring spacecraft health due to the S1-S2 storm taking place along with the severe-extreme geomagnetic storm that continues even now," Dahl added, saying some GPS systems have struggled to lock locations and offered incorrect positions.

NOAA's GOES-16 satellite captured a flare erupting occurred around 2 p.m. EDT on May 9, 2024.

As NOAA had warned late Friday, the Earth has been experiencing a G5, or "Extreme," geomagnetic storm . It's the first G5 storm to hit the planet since 2003, when a similar event temporarily knocked out power in part of Sweden and damaged electrical transformers in South Africa.

The NOAA center predicted that this current storm could induce auroras visible as far south as Northern California and Alabama.

Extreme (G5) geomagnetic conditions have been observed! pic.twitter.com/qLsC8GbWus — NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (@NWSSWPC) May 10, 2024

Around the world on social media, posters put up photos of bright auroras visible in Russia , Scandinavia , the United Kingdom and continental Europe . Some reported seeing the aurora as far south as Mallorca, Spain .

The source of the solar storm is a cluster of sunspots on the sun's surface that is 17 times the diameter of the Earth. The spots are filled with tangled magnetic fields that can act as slingshots, throwing huge quantities of charged particles towards our planet. These events, known as coronal mass ejections, become more common during the peak of the Sun's 11-year solar cycle.

A powerful solar storm is bringing northern lights to unusual places

Usually, they miss the Earth, but this time, NOAA says several have headed directly toward our planet, and the agency predicted that several waves of flares will continue to slam into the Earth over the next few days.

While the storm has proven to be large, predicting the effects from such incidents can be difficult, Dahl said.

Shocking problems

The most disruptive solar storm ever recorded came in 1859. Known as the "Carrington Event," it generated shimmering auroras that were visible as far south as Mexico and Hawaii. It also fried telegraph systems throughout Europe and North America.

Stronger activity on the sun could bring more displays of the northern lights in 2024

While this geomagnetic storm will not be as strong, the world has grown more reliant on electronics and electrical systems. Depending on the orientation of the storm's magnetic field, it could induce unexpected electrical currents in long-distance power lines — those currents could cause safety systems to flip, triggering temporary power outages in some areas.

my cat just experienced the aurora borealis, one of the world's most radiant natural phenomena... and she doesn't care pic.twitter.com/Ee74FpWHFm — PJ (@kickthepj) May 10, 2024

The storm is also likely to disrupt the ionosphere, a section of Earth's atmosphere filled with charged particles. Some long-distance radio transmissions use the ionosphere to "bounce" signals around the globe, and those signals will likely be disrupted. The particles may also refract and otherwise scramble signals from the global positioning system, according to Rob Steenburgh, a space scientist with NOAA. Those effects can linger for a few days after the storm.

Like Dahl, Steenburgh said it's unclear just how bad the disruptions will be. While we are more dependent than ever on GPS, there are also more satellites in orbit. Moreover, the anomalies from the storm are constantly shifting through the ionosphere like ripples in a pool. "Outages, with any luck, should not be prolonged," Steenburgh said.

What Causes The Northern Lights? Scientists Finally Know For Sure

The radiation from the storm could have other undesirable effects. At high altitudes, it could damage satellites, while at low altitudes, it's likely to increase atmospheric drag, causing some satellites to sink toward the Earth.

The changes to orbits wreak havoc, warns Tuija Pulkkinen, chair of the department of climate and space sciences at the University of Michigan. Since the last solar maximum, companies such as SpaceX have launched thousands of satellites into low Earth orbit. Those satellites will now see their orbits unexpectedly changed.

"There's a lot of companies that haven't seen these kind of space weather effects before," she says.

The International Space Station lies within Earth's magnetosphere, so its astronauts should be mostly protected, Steenburgh says.

In a statement, NASA said that astronauts would not take additional measures to protect themselves. "NASA completed a thorough analysis of recent space weather activity and determined it posed no risk to the crew aboard the International Space Station and no additional precautionary measures are needed," the agency said late Friday.

People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis on Friday in Whitley Bay, England. Ian Forsyth/Getty Images hide caption

People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis on Friday in Whitley Bay, England.

While this storm will undoubtedly keep satellite operators and utilities busy over the next few days, individuals don't really need to do much to get ready.

"As far as what the general public should be doing, hopefully they're not having to do anything," Dahl said. "Weather permitting, they may be visible again tonight." He advised that the largest problem could be a brief blackout, so keeping some flashlights and a radio handy might prove helpful.

I took these photos near Ranfurly in Central Otago, New Zealand. Anyone can use them please spread far and wide. :-) https://t.co/NUWpLiqY2S — Dr Andrew Dickson reform/ACC (@AndrewDickson13) May 10, 2024

And don't forget to go outside and look up, adds Steenburgh. This event's aurora is visible much further south than usual.

A faint aurora can be detected by a modern cell phone camera, he adds, so even if you can't see it with your eyes, try taking a photo of the sky.

The aurora "is really the gift from space weather," he says.

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Trump Plans a Campaign Event in the Deep Blue Bronx

The former president, who has sought to make some political appearances around New York as he stands criminal trial, is set to speak at an event next Thursday at Crotona Park.

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By Katie Glueck and Maggie Haberman

• May 17, 2024

Former President Donald J. Trump, who has been spending much of his time recently as a criminal defendant in a Manhattan courtroom , will be in a different New York borough next Thursday, when he will hold a campaign event in the Bronx.

The gathering is scheduled to take place at Crotona Park, his campaign announced in a statement on Friday evening, declaring that Mr. Trump would “ease the financial pressures placed on households and re-establish law and order in New York!”

It is an unusual location for a Republican presidential campaign event: The area went for President Biden by about 77 percentage points in the 2020 election. And despite a shift to the right in some of New York State’s congressional districts and neighborhoods , including in the Bronx, in recent years, the state as a whole is not considered a general-election battleground.

But Mr. Trump’s aides have been discussing an event in the South Bronx for weeks. The gathering, they said, would not be a traditional rally.

The idea has been to make appearances around New York City during Mr. Trump’s required attendance at his criminal trial in Manhattan, on charges he falsified business records to cover up a hush-money payment to a porn star during the 2016 presidential election.

Last month, in his first campaign stop since the start of the trial, Mr. Trump visited a bodega in Harlem , attacking the district attorney prosecuting him and casting himself as tough on crime.

The former president told donors at a Manhattan fund-raiser this week that he was planning something in the South Bronx, making a joke that he might get hurt in the neighborhood.

“We’re going to have a tremendous rally. You may never see me again,” he said, prompting laughter, according to an attendee who spoke on the condition of anonymity to describe the private event. “That could be a tricky one.”

Representative Ritchie Torres, a New York Democrat who represents the South Bronx, wrote on social media that the area had “no greater enemy than Donald Trump,” casting him as a threat to the social safety net “on which Bronx families depend for their survival.”

“The South Bronx — the most Democratic area in the nation — will not buy the snake oil that he is selling,” Mr. Torres wrote.

Katie Glueck covers American politics with a focus on the Democratic Party. More about Katie Glueck

Maggie Haberman is a senior political correspondent reporting on the 2024 presidential campaign, down ballot races across the country and the investigations into former President Donald J. Trump. More about Maggie Haberman

Our Coverage of the 2024 Election

Presidential Race: News and Analysis

President Biden railed against “extremist forces” and drew contrasts with Donald Trump in a commencement address  to hundreds of young Black men at Morehouse College.

Biden’s narrow win in Georgia in 2020 was seen as a sign of the state’s emergence as a battleground. But in 2024, he faces a changed landscape there .

Trump, accepting the endorsement of the N.R.A., cast himself as a powerful ally for gun owners  and promised to roll back the Biden administration’s gun-control measures if elected.

Political Violence:  Public officials from Congress to City Hall are now regularly subjected to threats of violence. It’s changing how they do their jobs .

Trump’s Running Mate:  Trump’s V.P. search is still in its early stages, but he is said to be leaning toward more experienced options  who can help the ticket without seizing his precious spotlight.

Biden-Trump Debates:  How might the candidates try to win their two planned debates? Veteran Republican and Democratic strategists offered their advice .

Burning Cash:  It is a time-honored tradition in U.S. politics: wealthy people burning through their fortunes to ultimately lose an election. Here are some of the biggest money-pit campaigns .

Saudi crown prince postpones Japan trip citing king's health, Tokyo says

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Reporting by Kaori Kaneko; Writing by John Geddie Editing by Chang-Ran Kim

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Iranian president raisi feared dead as helicopter wreckage found.

Hopes are fading that Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and his foreign minister have survived a helicopter crash in mountainous terrain and icy weather, an Iranian official said on Monday after search teams located the wreckage.