Infographic: Cell Phone Etiquette Around the World

Did you know that there are places with special cell phone laws? Obviously, smartphones and their owners who are glued to them aren't going anywhere soon, so it's important to know how to use them correctly and what to expect from other users around the world. I like to use apps and the internet as much as anyone else (well, maybe a little less, because I like to actually see where I'm going and not run into a bunch of strangers), but there's a time and place for texting and talking. Here's a handy infographic of cell phone etiquette around the world. 

What have been your experiences with foreigners and cell phone usage?

Awesome Free Activities in Norway’s Capital

Though Oslo has been said to have some of the most expensive public transportation anywhere, I can’t say that I would declare it too expensive to get away with taking taxis to points of interest, since taxis are, inescapably, still easily sky-high in comparison. So, you have three choices:

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     1. Stay home or travel elsewhere

     2. Rent a car instead
     3. Walk as much as possible, take public transportation when needed and save elsewhere on your trip.

I happen to find #3 works well on trips like this, because I am not one to back down from a challenge. It’s lucky that Oslo is full of cheap and free things to do to offset the cost of getting to them. That just means you can do a lot more than expected, plus still get in a few activities that cost and you must do while you’re there. I’ve compiled a list of cool, free stuff that I would do if I were to travel to Oslo, which is now on my travel wish list.

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Akershus Slott

I’m never going to turn down a trip to a castle. This one is located right along the Oslo Fjord and used to be a prison. The medieval castle is protected by a fort and is full of some very interesting historical artifacts that will be interesting to both adults and to kids.

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Birkelund Fleamarket 

Browsing is always free, but maybe you’ll find a little something for yourself that fits into your budget here. If not, it’s always fun to look…and people watch.

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Det Kongelige Slott (The Royal Palace)

Everyone loves a palace. While you can’t get in, you can see the changing of the guard every day at 1:30pm. You can also take a stroll through Slottsparken, the public park right there that is full of trees and a perfect place to have a picnic.

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Munch Museum

Oslo has a lot of museums, but only one has the famous Scream painting and other works by Edvard Munch.

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Norwegian Centre for Design and Architecture

You’ll find me frequenting many museums on my trips, but I like one that is a little bit different. Housed in an old transformer station, the NCDA has free guided tours every Sunday afternoon and features ever-changing exhibits on design and architecture of the Christmas markets, Fashion Week and more.

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Norwegian Museum of Magic

Magic isn’t just for kids, though they adore this museum too. You’ll be treated to a collection of Norwegian magical history that ranges from magicians to wizards. Visitors can expect a mini magic show on Sunday afternoons.

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Oslo Theatre Museum

I love theater and the sets and costumes. You can view such things at the Oslo Theatre Museum that is also housed in an amazing place: the old Town Hall, built in 1641 and the site of the first theater performance in Oslo in some 25 years later.

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Radhus (City Hall)

Does this sound boring to you? Well, maybe that would be true if there weren’t amazing fountains and sculptures out on the grounds to check out or galleries with fantastic murals to wander or the fact that you’re in the place where the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded each year.

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Vestkanttorvet (antique market)

Again, “window shopping” is free, but it’s always nice to see the difference between antiques in your own country and another. It’s even possible you’ll find a little trinket or a gift for someone else as you browse the stalls.

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Vigelandsparken Sculpture Park

I think it’s always nice to get out and enjoy the fresh air when I travel. Parks are a perfect way to see what a city is all about and it’s even better when there are works of art to check out as you walk around and take in the quiet atmosphere.

You can definitely get the feel of Oslo by exploring the city and museums, even the free things. It gives you a chance to interact with the Norwegians and really immerse yourself in the culture, all while not emptying your wallet. Let Hipmunk help you find an affordable place to stay and then figure out where you want to eat in order to fortify yourself for your many days of sightseeing.

Stay tuned for ideas on how to take a romantic Oslo getaway.

If you’ve been to Oslo, what are your favorite affordable or free activities?

Disclaimer: This post was inspired by my partnership with Hipmunk - a great site to find low hotel rates wherever you travel. #hipmunkcitylove

Your Cheap(ish) Valentine's Getaway

With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, many people are racking their brains for what to get for their sweetheart. You want to show them how much they mean to you, but coming right off of the Christmas holidays, money can sometimes be tight this time of year. Maybe you’ve even socked some money away, but still haven’t come up with any great ideas with what to do with it. A romantic getaway is always an appreciated gesture and enjoyable for both of you. It doesn’t have to bust your budget to be luxurious, though. With just a bit of planning, your trip can feel like a million dollars without even coming close. 

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Pick an affordable destination. Winter is an excellent time to plan a trip, because it’s the off-season for most touristy spots and is a great time to snag a bargain. They’re practically giving away rooms and incentives. Some of the best locations to choose from right now are: 

• Mexico, where all-inclusive resorts are really trying to lure vacationers to idyllic spots like Punta Cana, Cabo and similar beachfront locations.
• The Caribbean has more all-inclusives fighting for your dollar by dropping rates and adding big bonuses, like room upgrades, kids stay, play and eat free and resort credits. There are also huge cruise deals for the Caribbean right now. Sail from under $200 per person!
• South America is a non-traditional romantic getaway for those that love nature, but also the conveniences of a modern city, like Quito, Ecuador.
• Las Vegas is high on the list of budget destinations, since you can usually get a solid deal on a package or even purchase airfare and hotel separately for amazing prices. There are so many things to do in Vegas that are cheap or free, which can be paired with a candle-lit dinner and a fantastic show to cap off a fun holiday. It’s also perfect for those that can only slip away for 2-3 days.
• Europe is ideal for the romantic at heart and right now airfare and hotel rates are at some of the lowest of the whole year. If you can find a bargain, you can spend your days walking along the Seine and eating baguettes in Paris with your valentine. Choose some affordable activities – like visiting Notre Dame and Musee D’Orsay – so you can splurge on a ride to the top of the Eiffel Tower.

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Walk more. Walking gives you a chance to spend more time with your significant other, get some fresh air and see more of the city. Tell them you want to take a stroll and hold their hand…and also save money over taxis and public transportation.

Use daily deal sites. No matter where you are in the world, there is a daily deal site that services a major city near you. Groupon, Living Social and others offer 50-90% off activities, dining, tours and more things you’ll want to do, but maybe can’t find money in your budget for. Now you can! Signing up is free and easy. Choose your preferred destination and check your email each day for discounted deals.

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Purchase a city pass. Almost every big city that attracts tourists has a pass that gets you into all their best attractions (and some fun and obscure ones) at a considerable discount. Your honey will love you even more for being budget-conscious and not having to wait in ticket lines for anything. That means more time to enjoy your destination with each other. Some even include transportation or dining. For a start, check out CityPass, SmartDestinations and VisiTicket.

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Find discount codes on Broadway Box. If you’re looking to take in any shows or tourist attractions, but maybe won’t do enough to make a city pass worth the money, check out Broadway Box and get promo codes for discount prices on everything from Blue Man Group to visiting the Statue of Liberty to staying near Disney World. Visiting Orlando, Vegas, London or New York? Broadway Box should be your first stop on the web.

With so many ways to save your dollars, you’ll be able to stretch the budget you have even further. The love of your life will surely wonder how you managed it all. Of course, then you have to figure out how to top yourself next year, but by then you’ll have had a whole year to plan.