May 6, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team
If there’s one positive change to come for travellers after the pandemic, it’s that customers will have more power when it comes to choosing service providers. Hotels, airlines and more are all vying for attention. The latest company to do right by the consumer? Chicago-based United Airlines, who is permanently [...]
May 2, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team
An Instagram travel couple (Another Beautiful Day) are facing backlash from people around the world after they posted a GoFundMe to ask their followers – and strangers – to pay for their next trip. [...]
May 2, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team
You might think when staying in a hotel that it’s sparkling clean. And while most hotels do prioritise strict cleaning (more so now than ever), it turns out that even a fancy hotel might not be much cleaner than your own home. In fact, it’s probably dirtier. UpgradedPoints recently did [...]
May 2, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team
More than 29 million phones disappear each year according to a company that insures smartphones, tablets and other electronics. And, seeing as 50% of people don’t back up their phones, a loss or theft while travelling is particularly devastating. [...]
May 2, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team
Spanish is such a beautiful language. Warm and flowing, fast and interesting, there are many ways to describe what it sounds like to a native English speaker. Because of the difference in culture, there are plenty of words that lack an English translation and vice versa. That’s why we’ve compiled [...]
February 29, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team
When traveling, you’re probably on the lookout for ways to maximize the rewards and benefits you can receive through certain travel cards– if these aren’t an incentive to book a flight overseas, we don’t know what is. With certain credit cards, you can earn travel miles, rewards, benefits and points [...]
March 16, 2023 - Big 7 Travel Team
Dull, grey and unexciting. Car parks generally have a bad reputation and don’t get the credit they deserve when it comes to inspiring design. However, there are some parking garages around the world breaking this mould and breaking barriers with incredible architecture and features. Come along for the ride as [...]
November 25, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Located on the Yucatan Peninsula, Chichén Itzá with its ancient temple pyramid of El Castillo is one of Mexico’s most famous monuments and one of the most important Mayan cities in Latin America. With a fascinating history and a design with unique astronomical significance connected to the equinoxes and solstices, [...]
November 25, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
One of the most photographed landmarks, in Yosemite National Park, Half Dome inspires awe from every angle. If you are a hardcore hiker or rock climber, you can make your way to its summit (if you have a permit), and everybody else can admire it from afar. For the best [...]
November 25, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Palestine, officially the State of Palestine, is located in the Mediterranean Middle East. It consists of two non-contiguous territories: the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. Israel illegally occupies both of these areas. From its heritage sites to Israeli occupation, here are some of the most interesting facts about Palestine [...]
November 4, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Located in the horn of Africa between Djibouti, Eritrea, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, and Somaliland; Ethiopia is the heart of East Africa. Famous for its incredible coffee, unique Orthodox Christian traditions and breathtaking natural landscapes, there is certainly a lot to love. Whether you’re planning to visit Ethiopia or [...]
November 4, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
If you find yourself in Memphis, whether you’re a fan or not visiting the home of Elvis is a must! In 1957, Elvis Presley purchased Graceland for $100,000. While career took him all over the world, it was this mansion in Memphis that he always called home. [...]
October 13, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
The second-largest archipelago in the world, the Philippines is made up of 7,641 islands. It’s beloved for over 36,000 km of pristine white beaches, but it has more to offer visitors than sandy stretches. From its chaotic capital Manila and crumbling colonial towns to island-hopping and volcanic vistas, the Philippines [...]
October 13, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Cairo is the capital city of Egypt and the largest city in the Arab world. The megacity is an incredible place to visit for those who love culture and cuisine. It is home to the only world wonder that remains standing from the original list of seven and is also [...]
October 13, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Lascaux Cave in the Dordogne region of France is one of the most famous caves in the world. Inside the cave, paintings and engravings adorn the walls. This artwork dates back to over 17,000 years ago, to the late Stone Age. Discovered by accident in 1940, the cave has fascinated [...]
October 13, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Seoul is the capital and largest city in South Korea. It’s considered a megacity because it has a population of over ten million people. Having been settled for over 2,000 years, the city has a remarkable history and plenty of sights of historical and cultural importance. From its dancing fountains [...]
October 13, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Mecca in Saudi Arabia is the holiest city of the Islamic religion. It is home to the largest mosque in the world, the highest prayer room in the world and is the site of the world’s largest human gathering. With so many amazing things to know about this fascinating city, [...]
October 13, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Argentina is a fascinating country with a rich cultural history. Its blend of Latin American and European influences is reflected in its music, literature and lifestyle. It is an intoxicating mix which makes this an exciting South American country to explore. Want to know more? Here are some incredibly interesting [...]
October 13, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
The small Arabian country of Kuwait packs a lot in when it comes to fascinating facts and history, for instance, did you know that over 70 per cent of the population is made up of foreign nationals? Or that the country has one of the largest oil reserves in the [...]
October 13, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Squeezed between Togo and Nigeria, Benin measures 112,622 sq km (43,483 sq miles) making it around the same size as Pennsylvania. Historically overlooked as a holiday destination, this key-shaped nation is coming into its own, thanks to excellent transport links, a range of cheap and cheerful accommodations and a thriving [...]
October 13, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Over 1.5 million people flock to Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, making it Turkey’s second-most visited landmark. It’s one of the greatest examples of Byzantine architecture in the world too, with its abundant mosaics, bronze doors, marbled floors and impressive stone inlays. It’s stood for over 1,500 years, so you’d be [...]
October 13, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Kazakhstan is the holiest city of the Islamic religion. It is home to the largest mosque in the world, the highest prayer room in the world and is the site of the world’s largest human gathering. With so many amazing things to know about this fascinating city, here are some [...]
October 13, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
This tiny sovereign state along the French Riviera has long fascinated visitors. Famed for Grace Kelly and the Monaco Grand Prix, it’s a billionaires playground and tax haven for the super-rich. But it’s also a place of pretty palaces, fascinating museums and exotic gardens. If you’re interested in [...]
October 12, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Angel Falls is the highest, uninterrupted waterfall in the world and is also part of one of the longest rivers in South America. Located deep in the rainforest, The Falls are only accessible by plane and then boat. It is this remoteness that attracts adventurous tourists from around the world [...]
October 12, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Iraq in the Middle East has a long and rich history. The region is home to the oldest civilisation in the world and produced the first writing system in the world. Two rivers keep the land fertile, but long along, according to the Quran, a great flood washed through the [...]
October 12, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
The Syrian Arab Republic is home to one of the oldest civilisations in the world. The country’s history dates back 700,000 years and is rich in beauty and culture, but, unfortunately, a lot of this history involves conflicts and destruction due to an ongoing Civil War. Curious to learn more? [...]
October 12, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Often referred to as ‘the giant of Africa’, The Federal Republic of Nigeria is actually only the tenth-largest country in the continent. Located in the southeast of West Africa, it’s bordered by Benin, Cameroon, Chad and Niger. It’s around four times the size of the UK and twice the size [...]
October 12, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Bordered by the Central African Republic, South Sudan, Chad, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia and Libya, Sudan is one of Africa’s largest countries. It was also home to one of the world’s earliest ancient kingdoms and has been inhabited since around 30,000 BC. It’s been off-limits for travellers for years due to [...]
October 12, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
The third-smallest country in the Middle East, Lebanon boasts over 7,000 years of history. It’s a fascinating mix of Middle East meets West, tradition and modernity and Christianity and Islam. This duality is making it a popular holiday destination too, along with its glamorous beach resorts, fabulous cuisine and hedonistic [...]
October 12, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Ephesus was one of the most famous cities of the ancient Mediterranean. It was the second biggest city of the Roman Empire and today it is one of the largest Roman archaeological sites in the eastern Mediterranean. Each year, thousands of visitors descend on the region to roam the ancient [...]
October 12, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Algeria is easily one of North Africa’s friendliest and fascinating countries. From the vast and wild Sahara and gorgeous coastline; to the incredible array of cultural and historical sites; to the bustling cities filled to the brim with culture, there’s certainly a lot to love. Whether you’re planning to visit [...]
October 12, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
This enormous statue is the most famous monument in Brazil and one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Located in Rio de Janeiro, Christ the Redeemer, or Cristo Redentor in its native Portuguese, looks down over the city from the top of a mountain deep in a national [...]
October 12, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
The Republic of Haiti packs a punch for such a small nation. It has a fascinating and tumultuous history as well as rich culture, which is an intriguing mix of African, Taino and European. So, whether you are planning a visit or just curious to know more about this Caribbean [...]
September 27, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Zimbabwe is home to some of the world’s most incredible natural wonders and wildlife. Located in southern Africa, the country is famous for its diverse landscapes and for being an epic safari destination. With a long, rich history and human settlement of present-day Zimbabwe dated to least 100,000 years ago, [...]
September 27, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Estimated to be as old as 4,500 years, The Great Sphinx is one of the only surviving Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It’s located in the Giza plateau, on the west bank of the River Nile, around a half-hour drive west of Cairo. At 240 ft (73 m) high [...]
September 27, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Famous for its mountains as well as for being the birthplace of the Mayan civilisation, Guatemala is a stunning country with a rich history. With coasts along two different oceans as well as active volcanos and swathes of vast protected areas, Guatemala is a country rich in flora and fauna. [...]
September 27, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Think you’ve heard all there is to know about Japan’s colourful capital? From the robot hotels to the world’s busiest intersection, we’ll bet you haven’t heard some of these interesting facts about Tokyo before. [...]
September 27, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Frequently overlooked by travellers en-route to the rest of South America, Paraguay is South America’s least-visited country. It’s landlocked between Argentina, Brazil and Bolivia– and there are no direct flights from its colourful capital, Asunción. But while it might be trickier to get to than most places on the continent, [...]
September 27, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
El Salvador is the smallest and most densely populated Central American country. Despite being the only country in this region without a Caribbean coastline, one of its big draws is its beaches. Surfers flock here to ride some of the longest and most perfect waves in all of Central America. [...]
September 27, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Squeezed between El Salvador, Guatemala and Belize, Honduras is the second-largest country in South America but it’s also the least-visited. Decades of gang violence, drug wars, and political corruption mean most people skip over the country en-route to the palm-fringed beaches of Belize but, slowly, the country is undergoing a [...]
September 12, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela in South America is a haven for wildlife and has 43 national parks which make up 15 per cent of the country’s landmass. Apart from wildlife, it is home to impressive waterfalls and some of the world’s most beautiful women. With cheap gas prices, it [...]
May 31, 2022 - Aleyna Yilmaz
American culture is famous around the world. Hollywood, 50s diners, more National Holidays than you can shake a stick at. America has a colourful culture full of traditions, many of which have seeped into other countries’ customs, thanks to mass media. But still, they are undoubtedly American. Here are 7 [...]
April 12, 2022 - Allie D'Almo
The Quinceañera dates back centuries. It has cultural roots in Mexico and is now celebrated across Latin America, and the Caribbean, as well as Latino communities throughout the United States and across the globe. Also known as ‘Quince Anos’ or ‘Quinces’, this tradition celebrates an important milestone in a girl’s [...]
November 15, 2021 - Allie D'Almo
It’s New York’s most iconic green space and one of the most filmed locations in the world, capturing the imagination of New Yorkers and tourists for centuries. But how long did it take to build Central Park? We’ve answered your questions and more below. [...]
November 12, 2021 - Melanie May
Disneyland in Anaheim, California is the original Disney theme park. Opened in the 1950s, it is the only park that Walt Disney saw to completion. Dubbed ‘the happiest place on Earth’, Disneyland is where you’ll find iconic and legendary attractions like Sleeping Beauty’s Castle, the Partners statue, Pirates of the [...]
November 6, 2021 - Melanie May
The George Washington Bridge with its distinctive crisscrossed bracing is one of the most recognisable bridges in America. Connecting the state of New York with the state of New Jersey, this beautiful steel bridge is one of the busiest bridges in the world. It is also home to the world’s [...]
October 28, 2021 - Melanie May
The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most recognisable structures in America and one of the most iconic landmarks of the New York skyline. Connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn, this incredible feat of engineering has been designated a National Historic Landmark by the U.S. National Park Service. Curious to learn more [...]
October 28, 2021 - Melanie May
The Empire State Building is one of the most recognisable skyscrapers in America and one of the most iconic in the world. Located in New York, the Art-deco building was at one time the tallest building in the world. On a clear day, you are so high up that, from [...]
August 14, 2021 - Melanie May
Pack your warmest clothes and grab some blankets because we are about to experience some extreme weather. From the Arctic to Antarctica, these are the places that hold the records for the coldest places in the world. Prepare for thermometers to plummet. [...]
June 18, 2021 - Melanie May
Dull, grey and unexciting. Car parks generally have a bad reputation and don’t get the credit they deserve when it comes to inspiring design. However, there are some parking garages around the world breaking this mould and breaking barriers with incredible architecture and features. Come along for the ride as [...]
October 26, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton
It’s no secret that New York City has been one of the biggest victims of this year’s pandemic. The small Northeastern state has dealt with over half a million cases and more than 33,000 deaths thus far, most of which in the capital NYC. Despite managing to get a grasp [...]
October 19, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton
October 15, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton
October 14, 2020 - Siobhan McKenny
If you are taking a vacation and want to bring your furry friend, then these pet-friendly hotels in California are the perfect place to start. With more people focusing on staycations it’s an ideal time to bring along your pet. [...]
September 28, 2020 - Alana Laverty
A new study has revealed the happiest state in the United States in 2020. It’s been a tough year for all. So if you’re looking for a change of scenery – it’s worth finding out which are the happiest, and least happy states in the US. [...]
September 11, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea
We’re sure you probably have endless places on your bucket list, some of which might be famous tourist attractions. But actually, consumers are 21% more likely to leave a review after a negative experience than a positive one. When it came to the world’s most popular tourist attractions this was [...]
September 7, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea
Does the idea of driving around New York finding the best fall foliage spots sound like your dream activity? Then you need to apply for this job. If you could even call leaf peeping a ‘job’, that is! The New York tourism board is looking for an Official I LOVE [...]
September 7, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea
As the summer tourism season comes to an end, travellers are looking at the next big thing: ski season 2020. But with no sign of the impacts from COVID19 slowing down, ski season will have a few changes this year. [...]
September 4, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea
With the pandemic sparking a host of safety concerns and economic challenges, nearly three-fourths of Americans decided against taking a vacation this summer. That’s according to a new study from Value Penguin, which shows the stark difference between summer vacations 2020 and those in previous years. [...]
September 1, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea
If there’s one positive change to come for travellers after the pandemic, it’s that customers will have more power when it comes to choosing service providers. Hotels, airlines and more are all vying for attention. The latest company to do right by the consumer? Chicago-based United Airlines, who is permanently [...]
August 31, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea
Winter in Chicago is notoriously cold, so outdoor dining isn’t usually the most popular option. But with social distancing measures still in place, indoor dining isn’t bouncing back any time soon. So, how to ensure that Chicago restaurants can make it through the winter? The city of Chicago is offering [...]
August 31, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea
Airbnb and the National Park Foundation, the official nonprofit partner of the National Park Service, kicked off a national marketing campaign to engage Airbnb guests with unique, nearby parks, helping them to discover America’s wonder and book nearby listings for their own trip. The campaign is focusing on three lesser-known [...]
August 20, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea
Whether the voice of Pauly D does it for you or you’re more of a Mark Wahlberg fan, it’s true to say that some accents are saucier than others. [...]
July 27, 2020 - Big 7 Travel Team
If you’re spending some time in the state, you will want to know these Nevada Slang words to help you speak like a local. From great road trips to tasty burgers, as well as enjoyable cities like Las Vegas, this is a state you will want to get to know [...]
June 26, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea
Planning a staycation? Forget about spending your weekend in just any old home – indulge in a night or two in a magical treehouse on Airbnb instead. With twinkling fairylights, rope bridges, lush green foliage and only the sound of nature all around you, these treehouses are perfect for a [...]
April 23, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton
The Empire State Building is one of New York City‘s most iconic buildings. Featured in countless films and known for its gorgeous lighting, it is a national landmark. Whether you are visiting the Big Apple or just curious about one of the world’s most famous skyscrapers, here are some interesting [...]
March 27, 2020 - Staff Writer
While we are still very much in the middle of a global crisis, there are millions of businesses around the world wondering when people will start travelling after coronavirus? To say the pandemic is crippling the global travel industry – and even local hospitality industries – would be an understatement. [...]
March 23, 2020 - Big 7 Travel Team
With New York being the latest US state to enter lockdown mode since March 21st, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo is urging all New Yorkers to stay at home. Cuomo asked workers in nonessential businesses across New York state to stay in, and has closed all restaurants and bars. What [...]
March 20, 2020 - Big 7 Travel Team
As the San Francisco lockdown enters Day 3, the city’s streets are startlingly empty. The city’s 900,000 residents were forced to shelter in place until April 7th. It could be extended or shortened. People must stay home except for essential needs. [...]
March 16, 2020 - Elizabeth Thorn
Self-care during self-isolation is important. As the world struggles to come to terms with the “new normal,” millions of people all over the globe are adjusting to life under quarantine, whether self-imposed or not. And, it’s going to take some time to adjust to that new routine, to a daily [...]
March 14, 2020 - Elizabeth Thorn
As thousands of travellers contact airlines to see if their flights are cancelled, if they should be, or if they should cancel their air travel altogether, I found myself amongst the troves of travellers just trying to get back home to loved ones amidst an international health scare. [...]
February 19, 2020 - Elizabeth Thorn
We’ve covered slang in nearly all of the major regions of the country. From to and even the ever-classic , we’ve racked up quite the list of some of the United States’ most unique forms of speech. [...]
February 17, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton
Every year, over a million people, flock to New Orleans to partake in Mardi Gras festivities. During this time, enormous floats, marching bands, jazz quartets, and drunk partiers from all corners of the world take over the streets of the French Quarter. If you are planning to check a big [...]
February 7, 2020 - Big 7 Travel Team
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, couples all over the world are beginning to make plans for the special day. And, in the United States, it’s a very special day. Recent studies show that Valentine’s Day sales in the United States alone are expected to reach nearly $27.4 billion [...]
February 6, 2020 - Elizabeth Thorn
Spending the 4th of July in the United States is one of the most culturally enriching experiences you can have in the country. On July 4th, 1776, the country declared its independence and has been celebrating the special day with gusto ever since. [...]
January 27, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton
Updated 13/02/20: As travel plans are put on hold and flights get cancelled, the virus is going to sweep the tourism industry in 2020. Here’s what you need to know about the affect of coronavirus on global tourism, from travel bans to mandatory quarantines. Flights in and out of China [...]
July 26, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea
If you’re from California, and are insisting you “don’t have accent”, then we’re sorry. You do. Everyone has an accent. With three California accents making it into a recent vote of the sexiest accents in America, we delved a little deeper into our survey results. [...]
July 23, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea
We all have different ideas of what a ‘fun’ vacation is, right? But if you count nightlife, entertainment facilities and and outdoor activities as a good time, then we’re with you. As for which US state you’re basically guaranteed to have a good time in? Here’s looking at you, California. [...]
June 22, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea
A new shimmering light display in California‘s Wine Country is the latest hotspot for Instagrammers all over the country. Forget about the actual Super Bloom fields – that’s so last spring. This vivid art piece is now all the rage. [...]
June 22, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea
We repeat this is not a drill, the dream job does exist and you can apply for it right now. This summer, Hotels.com is hiring its first-ever “Poolhop”. [...]
March 14, 2019 - Big 7 Travel Team
Big 7 Travel’s final results of the Most Instagrammable USA States 2019 are based on a combined score of Instagram data and travel expert and user opinions. This methodology provides a more accurate result than an editorial-only approach. [...]
January 9, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea
Thrill-seekers have an exciting new way to experience the glitzy Las Vegas strip – by flying through the air 12 stories above the ground in a Las Vegas Zipline. [...]