Vacationing like a Yinzer

What does it actually mean to vacation like a Yinzer? Here's a few things you need to know about us.

1. We want the biggest bang for our buck.

2. We measure distances in time.

3. We hate complications.

4. Don't touch the thermostat!

So, being honest, direct, and forthright with planning a vacation is a must! I've taken my Yinzer ways every time I travelled, so I've picked up a few things that are applied every time I help someone plan a vacation. These tips will save you money (Rule 1 of Yinzer), normally be close to accommodations and attractions (Rule 2), and answer a lot of questions that arise during a vacation that lead to trip-ruining arguments (Rule 3).

EAT LOCALLY

I've been to both coasts and several places in the middle. Some places are built to attract those tourists that didn't plan ahead. The typical chains like you have back home will be there, but the prices from back home will not. Did you really go on vacation to eat the same old fast food?

It's different if a chain restaurant is NOT in your area, and you want to try it. That's perfectly fine because it is a new experience. Vacations should be about new experiences. I would love to try an In-N-Out burger and fries simply because they don't have any restaurants in my neck of the woods.

The best places to go are where the locals eat. Ask the staff at the hotel, especially the porters, valets, and gift shop staff, where THEY go for whatever it is you're looking for. If you ask the front desk or concierge, you will most likely get the places the hotel directs them to say. I've had the best food from places that are NOT in the hotel guides but were recommendations from staff at the hotels. One huge shoutout goes to the small coffee shop in Sacramento that was two blocks from the hotel and convention center. I was there every morning for the duration of my stay.

THINK EXTENDED STAY

The average vacation is 5-7 days which is eligible for extended stay rates and accommodations. You don't just get a sleeping room but also get a sitting area, and a lot of extended stay places have a kitchenette complete with dishes, flatware, and a few pots and pans. Get yourself some drinks, cereal, milk, pop-tarts, even sammich fixins at the local grocery store once you get settled in. Wake up, stay in for the first part of the morning, and start the day without the hassle of getting in the car and spending money first thing. Extended stay accommodations have a lot of the same amenities as a regular hotel but at a lower price. This works when travelling with a family or even by yourself.

PUBLIC TRANSIT

Wherever you go, there are people who actually live and work there. I know, shocking! Sometimes, these people need to get around without the expense of parking at high rates and low availability. There is some sort of public transit or shuttle service available at low or no cost to you, the vacationer! Here in the Yinzer area, there are day passes for $7 that will take you pretty much anywhere the buses and light rail go. A simple Google search will let you know ahead of time what kinds of public transit are available. A lot of hotels will also have a shuttle service if where you want to go is outside transit areas or times. Just ensure you ask what the shuttle hours are. It will come in handy if you plan to be out late (or intoxicated).

USE A TRAVEL AGENT

Using a travel agent will get you a person who will do everything in their power to get you the best rates, suggest the best attractions, and be there to help if anything goes wrong. They will help walk you through those flight delays or cancellations, hotel mishaps, or any other pitfalls along the way (Remember rule 3?). A good agent does not charge you for anything directly. They get paid from the suppliers they use, so using a travel agent does not add to your trip budget. It gives you less stress in getting everything together without poring over a zillion websites trying to find a best price. We will find those things for you that will make your vacation perfect.

Thanks again for taking a glimpse into a Yinzer vacation. Send me an email and let me know how I can help you!

Until we meet again...