Preparing for travel and becoming a local via the radio

I haven't posted for sometime. One of the reasons is that I have been in Mandarin class. I came across this article..it talks about how radio can help with language.. Here is the article about learning Chinese (Mandarin) and how the radio helps.mandarin-chinese-radio-online/

It reminded me of another tool my husband and I use when preparing to travel,even within the USA or other local travels. Listen to local radio, before you go. With the invention of the Internet.. the world is at your fingertips. This includes radio online. Either English stations abroad or those in the native languages. 
When we go to Hawaii or Australia, we research and listen to local music and news before we arrive. 
This way we are up to date with local activities and issues. This allows you to chat with locals and blend.. Others also appreciate your willingness to learn about their city or culture. 

One other perk, if you have children, play children's radio or get children's music in the local language, not only will they pick it up, they will be less thrown upon their arrival.. 

If you want to travel like a local, listen like a local. 
幸福之旅 (Happy Trip)

Xìngfú zhī lǚ

AirBnB final vote... You are safe!

This is a follow up to my post last week about my first try at an AirBnB .. Since my return, my husband has also used this great room finder while going to Los Angeles for a concert...
The savings in parking fees and low cost rooms is well worth the loss of 100% privacy that you would have with a hotel..
I know this type of travel is not for everyone.. But Fair Dinkum (true or original) Travel happens when you blend with the locals...

Here are my tips to make it successful..
1. Read the reviews and check out the pics...
2. Make contact with the host a few times before arrival..you will get a better idea of their personality and how laid back or structured they are.
3. Remember this is not a hotel, this is someones Home.. treat it as such...

There will be areas and events that call for a more traditional BnB or if all else fails a hotel.. (yuck)... but for most occasions, this is the perfect option...

For a Fair Dinkum Travel experience.. I recommend using AirBnB...

Good Day Mate!

Bed and Breakfasts... the best way to really get to know a city or town...

When writing.. I always research what else has been written,  opposing ideas and other peoples perspectives .. While doing this about the reasons for staying in a bed and breakfast.. I did not find much... so here we go...

Many people think of BnBs (Bed and Breakfasts) as romantic get aways or for special occasions... that is true and they can be very romantic.. but there are so many other reasons to stay in a BnB...

I think that they are the number one way to really appreciate and immerse yourself in another culture or country.

We have stayed in BnBs in California, Hawaii, London, Greece, Belize Australia , Turkey and more...

Each time, we have had the pleasure of getting to know a town from the locals, eating well prepared local foods and feeling like we belong...

This may be offensive.. but I have never understood a person that travels around the world and chooses to stay in a 5 star resort... They have nice perks.. obviously.. but.. you can get those perks closer to home...

For the more adventurous there are home stays and home exchanges.. we can talk about those at another time.

Going to a well researched BnB guarantees a clean, safe hospitable lodging that is excited to see you and knows how to provide you with local insights, directions and suggestions...

Food wise, you have a personal chef that knows easy simple dishes and the best locals places to dine.

Concierge: The Innkeeper of a BnB will help you make reservations, provide maps and directions and give you a heads up regarding local etiquette and safety.

As we travel to Akumal.. we are following our own advice...

In some areas, specialty accommodations will be more plentiful... these are usually small family run properties... in our upcoming adventure, this is the option we have chosen...
Playa Caribe, Here we come!