Lisa Niver's Blog: We Said Go Travel, page 7

From Stormy Speeches to Seven Continents: Feb News 2025

From Stormy Speeches to Seven Continents: Feb News 2025 Niver’s Newsletter 182

Thank you to everyone who joined me for an unforgettable Galentine���s Day event at the Adventurers’ Club, where I spoke in the pouring rain���so much rain, we nearly needed an ark to get there! Despite the storm, it was a full-circle moment as two dear friends from my cruise ship days flew in to join me, bringing back memories of past adventures on the high seas. I sold and signed books and we had an amazing discussion! In case you missed it, see the livestream video below!

This month, I���m celebrating my journey across all seven continents, with more videos coming from my epic Quark Expeditions trip to Antarctica. I���m also excited to share new articles on my trip to Puerto Vallarta where I stayed at Grand Velas and Casa Velas Resorts as well as Secrets Bahia Mita by Hyatt. More adventures include homecoming in Philadelphia at Penn and Halloween on the Ruby Princess. On my podcast, watch as I hit the road for a Genesis road trip to Death Valley, and my Spectrum TV News segment dives into my 7th continent adventure and BRAVE-ish.

The heartbreak surrounding the Bibas family���murdered in cold blood���and the hostages who have endured more than 500 days in hell is almost impossible to put into words. As a Jewish author, it���s deeply painful to witness such unimaginable suffering, especially as the world���s attention shifts while families remain trapped in terror, grief, and uncertainty.

In these challenging times, being Jewish means carrying both resilience and sorrow, standing firm in our history while advocating for humanity and justice. The pain is raw, but so is the urgency to speak, to remember, and to push for the safe return of every hostage.

While I���m grateful for these milestones and the incredible experiences I���ve been able to share, my heart is also heavy. This moment is a painful reminder of the fragility of joy and the brutal reality we cannot ignore. Storytelling matters���not just to capture the beauty of the world, but to bear witness to its pain, ensuring that no story, no family, and no truth is forgotten.

Galentine���s Gathering at the Adventurers��� ClubANTARCTICA with Quark Expeditions: 45 videos and more comingRECENT ARTICLES:Velas Vibes: Two Resorts, Endless Experiences in MexicoSecrets Bahia Mita: A Blissful Escape in Riviera Nayarit, MexicoRuby Princess: California Coastal Cruise San Francisco and Santa BarbaraA California Coastal Celebration Aboard the Ruby Princess ��� Part TwoCelebrating Penn, Philly, and The Logan Hotel: A Perfect Blend of History and LuxuryBRAVE-ish wins Gold at North American Book Awards, my 9th award!Breaking Boundaries: Celebrating My NAEJ Win and the Journey of Award-Winning Workon Reader’s Digest and Booking.com Learn more about my events: click here and my articles here

I have events nearly every month–hope to see you at a live event soon–and you can invite me to speak at your conference, library, bookstore, book club live or on ZOOM!

Want to travel more? I have a Travel Writer 101 class on Udemy. CLICK here for a coupon to take my class for FREE!

I have students in 9 countries so far:
Australia, Canada, India, Italy, New Zealand, Philippines, Portugal, Thailand, USA!
Join us on the adventure of travel writing!

THANK YOU for watching my award-winning podcast, Make Your Own Map: Are YOU ready to be BRAVE? It has now been seen and heard in 56 countries on 7 continents.

Have you heard my recent podcast episode? Spectrum News interviewed ME! Thank you to Catalina Villegas for interviewing me about my award-winning book, BRAVE-ish, and my recent adventures in Antarctica with Quark Expeditions! Segment called: “Transforming Life for THE BETTER!”

WATCH my podcast, “MAKE YOUR OWN MAP: ” on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube Podcast,  Google Podcasts, Audacy, Audible, Anchor, Pandora & iHeart Radio

WHERE CAN YOU FIND MY TRAVEL VIDEOS?

Here is the link to my video channel on YouTube where I have over 2.25 Million views on YouTube! (now at: 2,310,000).

Thank you for your support! Are you one of my 4,500 subscribers? I hope you will join me and subscribe! For more We Said Go Travel articles, TV segments, videos and social media: CLICK HERE

Find me on social media with over 150,000 followers. Please follow me on social @LisaNiver TikTok, X  Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube, LinkedIn, BlueSky and at LisaNiver.com.

EPIC JOURNEY Crossing the Antarctic Circle with Quark Expeditions. Click here to see all of my videos so far!

Do you LOVE my book BRAVE-ish? PLEASE WRITE A REVIEW!! Click here to go directly to rate or review BRAVE-ish on Amazon (now at 61 reviews. Help me get to 75) You can find my book on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Simon & Schuster, Post Hill Press, Target, Walmart, BookShop, BAM! and wherever you get your audiobooks!

People always ask me where is it best to buy my book. I recommend you go into or call your favorite local book store and ask them to order it for you and pick it up IN THE STORE! You never know what other treasures you will find. Any bookstore can order my book because my publisher is Post Hill Press and it is distributed by Simon and Schuster. My book is now in the library on Quark Ultramarine and in the store at Dubray bookstore on Grafton in Dublin, Ireland! Brave-ish is available all over the globe!

You can also find me now on SUBSTACK!

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BOOKING.com: How to Sleep on a Plane

Thank you Booking.com for publishing my article, “How to Sleep on a Plane: Expert Tips from Frequent Flyers“

Discover essential tips for sleeping on a plane with expert advice on:

Choosing the best seat for maximum restMust-pack essentials for comfortRelaxation techniques to make sleep easier

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or gearing up for your first long-haul��flight, the excitement of travel often comes with a challenge: how can I sleep on a plane and get proper rest? While sleeping on a plane may not always be easy, it���s entirely possible with a little preparation and the right techniques.

Before you board: laying the groundwork for restful sleepSeat selection matters

Before you even step foot on the plane, your journey to restful sleep begins with��choosing the right seat.��While many frequent flyers swear by the window seat for its control over light and uninterrupted sleep (no passengers needing you to move), others prefer the aisle seat for the freedom to stretch your legs without disturbing anyone. But did you know that different airlines have different seating configurations?

Researching your airline���s seat maps can help you pick seats with extra legroom, which might be a worthwhile upgrade if you���re flying long haul. Exit rows, bulkhead seats, and certain sections like the upper deck on larger planes may offer more space and quiet. Websites like SeatGuru allow you to compare seat layouts and find the best options for comfort.

For those in economy class, window seats near the middle of the plane are often the quietest, as they���re away from both the engines and high-traffic areas like bathrooms and galley kitchens. If you���re willing to pay a little more, some airlines offer premium economy, where you���ll get wider seats and more recline.

Packing smart for sleep

While a seat can only offer so much comfort, your in-flight essentials make all the difference. Seasoned travelers recommend a compact yet effective kit to maximize rest:

A neck pillow: ergonomically designed neck pillows like the Trtl Pillow or Cabeau Evolution Pillow offer excellent support while being easy to stow away.Noise-canceling headphones: these headphones drown out the plane’s constant hum and potential noisy neighbors. Bose QuietComfort and Sony WH-1000XM5 are popular choices.A good sleep mask: cabin lighting can be disruptive, so investing in a quality sleep mask like the Slip Silk Mask can be a game-changer.Compression socks: on long flights, your body might swell due to inactivity and cabin pressure. Compression socks, such as those from Physix Gear, might make you more comfortable.

Other items include a large scarf or blanket for extra warmth, particularly on cold flights and a water bottle to stay hydrated ��� you can bring an empty bottle and fill it after security.

Your pre-flight routine

Once your packing is done, think about your pre-flight routine. A little planning can go a long way. Avoiding caffeine and heavy meals in the hours before your flight will help you be ready for sleep. Think about a balanced meal with lean proteins and complex carbs, which provide lasting energy without feeling too full.

Hydration is another key to feeling good on a flight. Airplane cabins tend to be very dry, so starting your journey well-hydrated will help you avoid the side effects of dehydration like headaches and discomfort. Some travelers take it a step further by starting sleep adjustments a day or two in advance, gradually shifting their sleep and wake times to align with their destination���s time zone.

Travelers also swear by pre-flight stretching or light yoga to loosen muscles, reduce stiffness, and promote circulation, making it easier to relax during the flight.

In-flight sleep strategies

Once you’re in the air, it���s all about creating the most sleep-friendly environment possible.

Optimize your sleep space

One of the easiest ways to create an optimal sleep environment is by maximizing your seat���s potential. If you���re in a window seat, use the wall as extra support. Leaning against it can give you more stability and reduce head bobbing, which is a common issue while dozing off in upright positions.

Consider using the tray table for extra support. With a soft blanket or a pillow, you can turn it into a makeshift headrest, especially for shorter naps. Some travelers bring a travel footrest, a lightweight sling that hangs off the seat in front of you, allowing your legs to stay elevated and relaxed.

Relaxation techniques for better rest

Even with the perfect setup, falling asleep mid-flight can be challenging. This is where relaxation techniques come in handy:

Progressive muscle relaxation: starting from your toes, slowly tense and then relax each muscle group, working your way up your body. This technique calms your mind and reduces tension.Deep breathing exercises: a few minutes of deep, mindful breathing can help you settle into a more relaxed state.Use aromatherapy oils: scents like lavender or chamomile can help cue your brain to relax. Just rub a small amount on your wrists or behind your ears.Overcoming common disruptions

Travel is unpredictable and even the best preparations can���t prevent every disruption. Noise, turbulence and other passengers can throw off your sleep rhythm.

To deal with these disruptions, listen to music or try earplugs to drown out loud passengers. If you feel anxious during turbulence, distract yourself by watching a calming movie or listening to an audiobook.

Jet lag and sleep

Managing jet lag is a major concern for long-haul travelers. While there���s no perfect solution, you can minimize its effects by syncing your sleep with your destination���s time zone. Adjust your watch as soon as you board the plane and try to eat, sleep, and stay awake according to the destination���s local time.

Product recommendations

To boost your in-flight comfort, consider bringing along a few essentials in your travel kit:

Ergonomic travel pillow: look for a supportive, contoured design that cradles your neck comfortably, even in cramped spaces.Noise-canceling earbuds or headphones: these can effectively block out engine hum and cabin noise, making it easier to fall asleep and stay rested.Soft, comfortable earplugs: for a lightweight noise solution, earplugs are a simple way to reduce disturbances without the bulk of headphones.Light-blocking sleep mask: choose a mask that���s soft on the skin and fully blocks light to help you drift off, especially during overnight flights.Compression socks: these help improve circulation and reduce swelling, keeping you more comfortable on long-haul flights.

These items add an extra layer of comfort to your journey, helping you arrive at your destination rested and ready to explore.

Arrival: refreshed and ready for adventure

After a successful flight, there���s nothing like the feeling of stepping off the plane and into the vibrancy of your destination. Whether it’s the bright lights of a bustling city, the serene beauty of nature or the excitement of a new culture to explore, your trip begins the moment you land. Hopefully, with these tips, you���ll arrive energized and ready to make the most of every moment. Travel may have its discomforts, but the thrill of arriving somewhere new far outweighs them.

READ all my articles on BOOKING.com

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BRAVE-ish

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Travel Writer 101

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Lisa’s Travels

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Celebrating Penn, Philly, and The Logan Hotel: A Perfect Blend of History and Luxury

Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love, has always been a place of deep connections, history, and personal milestones for me. As a proud Penn alum, returning for Homecoming was both a celebration and a reconnection���with the city, lifelong friends, and a community that continues to inspire. Staying at The Logan Hotel, part of Hilton���s Curio Collection, made the experience even more special. Once the Four Seasons and now a reimagined tribute to Philly���s rich heritage, The Logan reflects the city���s artistic and cultural soul with its curated art collection and modern yet timeless design.

Lately, I���ve been choosing hotels with pools because I love to swim���it���s my favorite way to start (and reset) my day. The Logan���s fantastic saltwater pool was pure bliss, and I made sure to swim every single day!

This trip was filled with unforgettable moments. My Penn Class of 1989 won several Alumni Awards (so proud!), I had a creative and inspiring art date with my friend Joanne Fink, and I attended the Living Beyond Breast Cancer Butterfly Ball���an incredible evening dedicated to supporting and uplifting those affected by breast cancer. But one of the biggest highlights? Going back to the Penn Bookstore to visit my memoir! I loved my book event there, speaking about Brave-ish, and to see my book on the shelves alongside other alumni authors���truly a full-circle moment that I���ll always treasure.

From cherished memories on campus to new experiences in the heart of the city, this visit was a beautiful reminder of the connections that endure and the power of community���made even more special by a hotel that honors Philadelphia���s past while celebrating its future.

I love The Logan Hotel, part of Hilton���s Curio Collection Philadelphia

Philadelphia holds a special place in my heart, and this trip was unforgettable���thanks in large part to my incredible stay at The Logan Hotel, part of Hilton���s Curio Collection. This hotel is a love letter to Philly���s history and culture, with its curated art collection showcasing the city���s creative spirit and a design that perfectly blends modern luxury with local charm.
My King 1-Bedroom Suite with a balcony was amazing, offering stunning city views and a peaceful retreat in the heart of Philly. And the saltwater pool? Pure bliss���I swam every single day!
Hilton���s Curio Collection specializes in unique, locally inspired stays, and The Logan stands out in every way. From its ideal location near Philly���s iconic landmarks to its warm and welcoming service, it���s the perfect place to experience the city.
This trip was filled with highlights: an art date with Joannie Fink, celebrating at the Penn Alumni Awards, spotting my memoir Brave-ish at the Penn Bookstore, and enjoying the LBBC Butterfly Ball.
Philadelphia, Penn, and Hilton made this visit unforgettable���especially The Logan Hotel. It���s a true treasure where history and heart come together. #CurioCollection #HiltonHonors #PhillyLove #Homecoming

Loved being back on campus at the University of Pennsylvania this weekend!

Loved being back on campus at the University of Pennsylvania this weekend! It was an absolute thrill to visit the Penn Bookstore and see Brave-ish on their shelves! I loved my book event on campus. Homecoming weekend was packed with unforgettable experiences. Huge congratulations to my amazing Class of 1989 on our three awards! From attending the inspiring LBBC Butterfly Ball to an art lesson with the extraordinary Joanne Fink, lunch with Ellie, and a campus stroll with Alison and Geoffrey, every moment was meaningful. As a travel journalist, I���ve explored the world, but there���s something so grounding and special about returning to the places that shaped you. Philly, with its rich history and vibrant energy, holds a special place in my heart.

Class of ���89: Shining Bright at the 89th Alumni Awards Celebration

Homecoming Weekend 2024 began as the Class of 1989 took center stage during the 89th annual Alumni Awards celebration���a perfect match for our incredible class!
**A highlight of the evening? A photo with President Jameson during the Cocktail Reception, just before the awards were presented by David Blatte, President of the Alumni Class Leadership Council.
**The Gala was expertly hosted by Michael Barrett ENG���89, President of Penn Alumni, adding even more 1989 pride to the event.
Here���s why we���re beaming with pride:

We brought home THREE major class awards:For the third time, we earned the Class Award of Merit, solidifying our legacy as one of Penn���s most outstanding classes.We received the Class of 1917 Award for philanthropy, a first for us���a true testament to the spirit of giving in the Class of ���89.The ACLC President���s Cup for breaking the 35th Reunion attendance record with an incredible 392 classmates and guests���a record-breaking 11% increase!Ramanan Raghavendran ENG���89, W���89, Chair of the Penn Board of Trustees, was also part of the celebration. A triple Quaker, Ramanan graduated from Engineering and Wharton in 1989 and earned another degree from LPS in 2015. He���s been a leader at Penn for years, serving as the School of Arts and Sciences Board of Advisors Chair since 2012.
The laughs didn���t stop here: During his speech, the Young Alumni Award of Merit recipient jokingly declared himself part of our class, saying, ���I was born in 1989!���
Endless gratitude to our phenomenal 35th Reunion Committee, led by Julia Pirkey Stone, and to class presidents Mike Karz and Lolita Jackson. Your dedication made these achievements possible and brought our class together in such a meaningful way!
What made this moment even sweeter? It was the 89th year of the awards celebration���proof that the Class of ���89 was destined to shine.
The Class of ���89 continues to lead, inspire, and make history. Here���s to us and the incredible legacy we���re building together! Closing the Awards Gala on a High Note!

As the evening came to a close at the 89th Annual Alumni Awards Gala, the Penn Glee Club took the stage, singing a spirited rendition of “Hurrah, Hurrah, Pennsylvania!” Their performance wasn���t just music���it was history in harmony.
Founded in 1862, the Glee Club has been an iconic part of Penn tradition for over 160 years, and today, it proudly stands as a co-ed ensemble, representing the vibrant and inclusive spirit of our university.
Hearing this timeless song performed by such talented students was the perfect way to celebrate the incredible achievements of our alumni community. It reminded us all how special it is to come together, honor our shared legacy, and be recognized for our contributions to Penn and beyond.
Hurrah, hurrah, Pennsylvania! Here’s to the joy of being part of this extraordinary alumni family. #HomecomingWeekend #AlumniAwards #QuakerPride #penn #pennalumni #PennGleeClub

Honoring Connection at the 2024 Living Beyond Breast Cancer Butterfly Ball https://youtube.com/shorts/MEbFyS3w00o

Honoring Connection at the 2024 Living Beyond Breast Cancer Butterfly Ball
Living Beyond Breast Cancer continues to empower individuals���especially young women���by offering resources, respect-centered care, and a vibrant community of support.
Last night, the 2024 Butterfly Ball we proudly honored:
Gregory D. Garber, MSW, LCSW, with the Founders Award
Anna Crollman and Jamie LaScala, with the Donna Noce Colaco Going Beyond Award
The life and legacy of Nancy Herard-Marshall, LCAT, BC-DMT

The evening was a beautiful reminder of the power of connection, compassion, and togetherness, as we raised critical funds to support this meaningful mission. Thank you to everyone who made the night so special!

Had the absolute honor of spending time with the extraordinary artist Joanne Fink!

I was fortunate enough to visit her studio in Philly and have an inspiring art lesson that was all about LIGHT, love, and creativity. Joanne���s art and career span decades, and her work has touched countless lives through its ability to heal, inspire, and transform. Had the absolute honor of spending time with the extraordinary artist Joanne Fink!
Her coloring books are a testament to her mission to bring joy and comfort to people of all ages, and her career is a shining example of how art can truly make the world a better place. Joanne and I discovered we���re both Penn alums���what a small world! We connected through our books���Brave-ish and her beautiful creations���and bonded over our shared passion for storytelling, art, and finding meaning through creativity.
It was such a gift to learn from Joanne, hear about her journey, and spend time with someone whose heart and talent are as vibrant as her art. Truly one of the highlights of my time in Philly.

My BRAVE-ish book event at the Penn Bookstore

More of my PENN and PHILLY stories:

BRAVE-ish at Penn Bookstore Nov 10, 2023

Meet me in PHILLY for LOVE and HISTORY Dec 2022

PENN TRAVEL TALK: Join us Nov 7, 2022

PennClubLA Summer Events in Los Angeles 2022

Penn Homecoming 2021 at AKA Rittenhouse Square

Taking Flat Ben, the Penn Quaker, out on the town! 2020

Power of Penn Women Podcast: ���Try, try again��� June 2020

Frankly Penn: Penn Quaker filming in Puerto Rico with #RBQuests 2014

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Shabbat Can Help Heal Us

���Shabbat, Friday February 21, 2025
By Jodi BermanWith our minds and our hearts on Israel, we are still reeling from yesterday���s events. Our hearts break for the Bibas and Lifshitz families, whose beloved were returned in coffins, first paraded around in Gaza. Our hearts break further for Yarden Bibas and his family, who continue to endure the unimaginable as they wait for news about Shiri; in an act of further cruelty, the fourth body was not that of Shiri Bibas. This fierce mother of Israel was not returned with her babies. The world should collectively raise its voice and demand that all remaining hostages, alive and dead, be returned ACHSHAV (now). We will continue to raise our voices, in demand and in prayer.And, as if this pain was not enough, we hold gratitude for the mistiming���and discovery���of bombs planted on buses in Central Israel. At the end of this devastating week, we pray that our brothers and sisters in Israel find some measure of shalom as Shabbat descends tonight. On Tuesday, January 7, I was sitting in our clergy meeting when Rabbi Sari elbowed me and said, ���You need to call your parents. There���s a big fire in the Palisades, and there���s an evacuation order.��� I jumped up, left the room, and called them immediately. My parents were already gathering their belongings, preparing to leave. Thankfully, a thoughtful neighbor had warned them even before the official order, urging them to evacuate.

I���ve never felt so helpless. Should I remind my mom to grab my Bat Mitzvah album? Or should I tell her to leave everything behind and just get in the car? She was overwhelmed, so she grabbed what she could and left���leaving behind essentials like hearing aid chargers and my dad���s walking cane, as well as sentimental treasures like photo albums and keepsakes. From this, I learned an important lesson: never say, ���It���s just stuff, as long as you���re safe.��� Of course, safety is the most important thing, but the thought of losing a lifetime of memories is incredibly painful.

It was weeks before we could return in person to see what had happened to my childhood home���the house we moved into when I was three years old. In the meantime, I witnessed heartbreaking losses among childhood friends and Temple members, but I also saw the most profound acts of kindness. I joined Marc Entous and our spouses in evacuating Torahs in the middle of the night. I sat on 6 a.m. calls, scrambling to reopen our schools. Amid the devastation, I walked away with three powerful lessons, which I want to share with you.

���Look to the helpers.���
Mr. Rogers��� famous words resonated with me in a way I had never experienced before. Those who sent meals and checked in on us made an enormous difference. I saw members of our Temple step up���donating gift cards, money, Judaica, and beautiful new clothing for those impacted by the fires. We distributed these to the people who needed them most (thankfully, my family was not in need in that way). People gave  asher n���sao libo ������������ ���������������� ���������������as their hearts moved them���a passage from this week���s Torah portion that remains as relevant today as it was in Biblical times.

Tomorrow you may be the recipient of the organization you support today.
While waiting in line to get our permit to return home for the first time, a food organization my mother has supported for years came up to our car and offered us lunch. We were overwhelmed. My mother, through tears, blurted out, ���I give you guys money!��� In that moment, we realized the true cycle of generosity. Later, FEMA representatives approached our car, offering guidance on available resources. I have had many conversations about the vital role FEMA plays in supporting Americans in times of disaster, but I had always associated their work with hurricanes and tornadoes. I never imagined they would be helping my own family.

Shabbat is the balm that heals the soul.
Amid the chaos���the calls, the fire monitoring, the worry���I insisted that, on that first Friday night, we stop. Just for a moment. We quieted the noise, lit the Shabbat candles, took a sip of wine, and had a bite of challah.“U���vayom hashvi���ee yihiyeh lachem kodesh Shabbat” (Exodus 35:2) �������������������� �������������������������� ���������������� ������������ �������������� ����������������And on the seventh day, you will have the holiness, the rest, the comfort, the healing of Shabbat.“

This verse from this week���s Torah portion had never felt more real to me. Even in crisis, this sacred ritual gave me the space to stop, breathe, and taste the sweetness of our beautiful tradition.The Punchline: We Are the Lucky Ones.
Though my parents will need to have their home tested and thoroughly cleaned (if you know a great and affordable remediator, let me know!), the day we arrived, we found it intact and unharmed���along with most of the houses on the street. We spontaneously said a��Shehechiyanu��and stepped inside to gather a few things to bring back to my house where my parents are still living. Among them, of course, was the photo album from my Bat Mitzvah.

Shabbat Shalom,
���Jodi Berman, Executive Director, Stephen Wise Temple

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BOOKING.com: Guide to Red Eye Flights

Thank you Booking.com for publishing my article, ���Your Complete Guide to Red Eye Flights: How to Survive Flying Overnight.”

Red eye flights are an excellent choice for various reasons, including maximizing time, reducing accommodation costs and avoiding airport crowds.

Red eye flights: Your guide to overnight travel

Red eye flights are a staple of long-haul travel, offering both convenience and challenges for travelers. These late-night journeys typically take off between 21:00 and 01:00 and land at their destinations in the early morning hours. Popular routes include flights from Los Angeles to cities like Paris, Sydney, Dublin or Buenos Aires. Understanding the benefits, drawbacks and logistics of red eye flights can make them a smart choice for anyone looking to optimize time, save money or explore international destinations.

Why are red eye flights called that?

The term red eye refers to the effects of sleep deprivation, as passengers often arrive with tired, bloodshot eyes after attempting to catch rest in a plane���s dry, confined cabin. Sleeping upright, combined with minimal space and cabin conditions, leads many to feel groggy upon arrival despite their best efforts.

However, their popularity stems from their practicality: flying overnight allows travelers to cross time zones while sleeping, making it easier to adjust to new destinations upon landing.

When to book a red eye flight

Red eye flights are an excellent choice for various reasons, including maximizing time, reducing accommodation costs and avoiding airport crowds. Common reasons travelers choose red eye flights include:

Maximizing Time:��For international trips or time zone crossings, red eye flights enable travelers to arrive in the morning, ready to explore or work without sacrificing an entire day.Saving Money:��Red eye flights can cost less than daytime flights and also eliminate the need to pay for one night at a hotel.Convenience:��Long-haul routes connecting major hubs can reduce the hassle of multiple layovers. For instance, direct flights from Los Angeles to Istanbul or Dublin can save time and stress compared to multiple stops.Reduced Airport Stress:��Late-night departures often mean shorter lines and less crowded security checkpoints.How to make the most of a red eye flight

Though these flights can be convenient, they can also lead to discomfort and disrupted sleep if not managed properly. Here are some tips to make red eye flights a smoother experience:

1. Dress comfortably

Dress in soft, breathable clothing suitable for sleep. Bring a sweater or wrap for warmth, especially if flying in economy class or in cooler cabin conditions.

2. Pack a sleep kit

To create a restful environment, pack essentials like:

An eye maskNoise-canceling headphonesA neck pillow

These items can block out light and noise and provide much-needed support for sleeping upright.

3. Eat light before you fly

Heavy meals can cause discomfort and make it harder to sleep. Opt for lighter foods such as fruit, soup or a light salad to avoid feeling too full during the flight.

4. Stay hydrated

Airplane cabins are notoriously dry, so drink water regularly before and during your flight to counteract dehydration.

5. Plan your arrival

Build time into your schedule to allow for rest after arriving. Exposure to natural light upon landing can help reset your internal clock and combat the effects of jet lag.

Tips for traveling on red eye flights with children

Red eye flights can be especially challenging for families, but a little preparation goes a long way. Here���s how families can make these flights less stressful:

Stick to the Routine:��Maintaining a familiar pre-bedtime routine, such as reading a story or changing into pajamas, can signal bedtime to young children.Bring Comfort Items:��A child���s favorite blanket, stuffed animal or pillow can provide a sense of security.Pack Entertainment & Snacks:��Keep healthy snacks, toys or tablet games on hand to keep children occupied.Be Flexible:��Recognize that the unfamiliar setting may impact a child���s ability to sleep. Plan flexibility into your itinerary to accommodate extra naps if necessary.Pros and cons of red eye flights

Like all modes of travel, red eye flights come with their own mix of benefits and drawbacks.

ProsMaximized Time:��Arrive in the morning and have the entire day to explore, conduct business or prepare for upcoming meetings.Cost Savings:��Avoid paying for a hotel for one night by sleeping during the flight.Less Crowded Airports:��Flying late often translates to shorter security lines and a calmer travel experience.ConsDisrupted Sleep:��Sleeping upright on an airplane can be uncomfortable and lead to feeling groggy upon arrival.Jet Lag:��Long-haul red eye flights crossing multiple time zones can intensify jet lag.Physical Discomfort:��Factors such as cabin noise, limited recline options or dry air can disrupt restful sleep.FAQs about red eye flightsAre red eye flights cheaper?

Yes, they are frequently less expensive than daytime options, making them ideal for budget-conscious travelers. They also reduce accommodation costs by allowing passengers to rest on the plane instead of staying at a hotel.

Can red eye flights make jet lag worse?

Yes, jet lag can feel more intense on red eye flights because of the time changes and disrupted sleep patterns. However, arriving in the morning and spending time outdoors can help reset your body���s internal clock.

How can I sleep better on a red eye flight?

Bring essentials like an eye mask, neck pillow, noise-canceling headphones and a light blanket. Eating lightly and staying hydrated can also improve the odds of a restful journey.

What are some major red eye routes?

Common red eye routes include cross-country flights in the US, such as Los Angeles to New York and international flights like Los Angeles to London, Paris, Sydney, Auckland, Buenos Aires or from Europe to Africa.

Is it better to take a red eye flight for business trips?

Red eye flights can be beneficial for business travelers who want to maximize their productivity by arriving early in the morning and heading straight to meetings. However, this depends on your ability to function well after limited sleep.

Should I take a red eye flight with young children?

It depends on your child���s ability to sleep in new environments and how comfortable you are managing potential disruptions during the flight. Preparing can help make the journey smoother.

Final thoughts

Red eye flights aren���t just about crossing time zones overnight ��� they’re about strategy, convenience and a little bit of planning. Whether it���s arriving in Istanbul in time to board a cruise ship, landing in Dublin for business or stepping off a plane into the Sydney morning sun, red eye flights can offer practical solutions for travelers who plan their journeys wisely. With preparation, they can make a long-haul journey much smoother and allow travelers to hit the ground running upon arrival.

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