Free Stuff at Airports

Believe it or not, you can get some free stuff at some airports.

Here are two that I tried out this year:

Munich Airport has free coffee/tea/hot chocolate machines at the gates. You even get a selection of teas in a box by the machines. The hot chocolate was a welcome treat on the cold February day I was there, especially since my flight had a 3 hour delay.

Geneva Airport gives out a free train/bus ticket to anywhere in Geneva, valid for about 80 mins, which is more than enough since the city is very close to the airport. You can use the ticket to get to the train station and then to get a bus to your lodging. The dispensing machine is right next to the exit from the luggage retrieval area.

Rimini Rimini

The Arch of Augustus (photo credits: Joseph Parker)

Rimini, one of Italy's most popular seaside resorts, has much to offer in the way of sight-seeing apart from its 40 km stretch of beach.

Here are some attractions that you shouldn't miss visiting:

1. Castel Sismondo, the Malatesta Castle. This medieval castle was built by the powerful and ruthless family of that name which ruled Rimini from the 14^th to the 16^th century. On Wednesdays and Saturdays the area around the castle hosts a lively market. The castle is behind Piazza Cavour and the Teatro Galli.
2. Rimini Cathedral, the Malatesta Temple. The 13^th century cathedral also has strong connections to the Malatesta family. The church on this site houses the tombs of Sigismondo Malatesta and his third wife Isotta degli Atti whose love became the stuff of legends. The Cathedral houses unique art treasures, including a crucifix by Giotto and a fresco by Piero della Francesca.
3. Roman remains. Rimini saw its fair share of activity during ancient times since its location was considered strategic to keep enemies out and ideal to launch an attack from. Archaeological attractions of the Roman era include: the Arch of Augustus, situated at the meeting point of Via Flaminia and Via Emilia, which dates back to 27 BC; the Tiberius Bridge on the canal – built from 14 to 21 AD; the Amphitheater on Via Roma; and the Surgeon's House situated in Piazza Ferrari. Entry to the Surgeon's Domus or Domus del Chriurgo is free on Sundays.
4. The Borgo San Giuliano. Historically a poor medieval area inhabited by fishermen, the borough is today one of the most expensive areas of Rimini. The houses are beautifully restored and the whole neighborhood boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage. The Borgo is situated on the northern side of the Marecchia river, across the Tiberius Bridge from the historic center.

Other must-do's in Rimini

• Must-Eat: Piadina - a flat bread which is sold in stalls as a local snack. It can be filled with a variety of savory ingredients, such as cheese, cold cuts and vegetables, or sweet fillings such as jam or Nutella.
• Must-Drink: Prosecco – an Italian bubbly
• Must-Buy: Fabric – locally produced and decorated with rustic designs

To book a trip to Rimini click here

Tips for Your First Time in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is one of the most beautiful countries you can ever visit, full of fun things to do and interesting places to see. However, if it's your first time there, here are some tips to have a smooth and great vacation.

Travelers to Costa Rica need a travel visa, a passport that isn't nearing expiry and proof of a return ticket. Airlines restrict what can and cannot be taken in and out of the country. Different airlines have different rules, so check with your airport before embarking.

Knowing the Costa Rican laws and regulations also helps. All types of drugs are illegal, so make sure that, if you're on prescription drugs, you carry your prescription with you all the time.

Also, beware of pickpockets. Tourists are favorite targets, so keep your money safe and as close to your body as possible. Don't carry more money than you need and carry smaller denominations.

As for clothes, though Costa Rica is known for its beaches and hot summers, the weather is cooler on the higher planes and at night. Nudity on beaches is illegal, but there are a few secluded nudist beaches like Manuel Antonio.

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