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As traveling picks back up, flights have gotten popular again. While economy class is manageable for a couple of hours, if you’re anything like me, you might appreciate a little bit of extra leg room for an overseas flight. Upgrading to business can make your overseas flight much more comfortable, but getting a cheap flight and getting a business upgrade is a multistep process. However, getting cheap flights for young adults isn't impossible; that's for sure. Read on to find a few quick tips for increasing your chances! Stay Flexible On Your Dates If you are interested in traveling overseas and have some wiggle room on your dates, choose the flight first, then structure your travel adventure around it. If you need to travel for business, consider getting there a bit early so you can capitalize on the better price and do a bit of sightseeing. The days of the week can also make a huge difference. If you have a Friday meeting, fly on Tuesday or Wednesday, play tourist for a couple of days and fly back on Saturday to get the best deal on your flight price. Additionally, flying on Saturday may mean a smaller crowd. Pack for Mobility If you have to check a bag anyway, go ahead and make it a big one. Depending on where you go overseas, you may be dealing with cobblestones, so try to get something with decent sized wheels to avoid breaking anything. A bag with four wheels may work great in the airport, but many cities overseas have challenging terrain, so try to also get a bag that offers durability as well. For those skilled at light packing or well versed in camping gear, load what you can in a soft backpack you can strap down tightly to avoid getting anything caught in the carousel. Once you get to your hotel, you can unload your gear and use your soft pack, strapped even tighter, as your day pack. If you choose to use a soft backpack as your personal item on the flight, grab something in a subdued color to increase your chances of getting an upgrade to business class. Wait for airline Sales If you have saved up... loyalty points credit card points bonus miles ...and are in need of some travel, get in the habit of checking for short term discount offers. These are the sales that flash up fast and disappear quickly and often times they're the best bet for cheap overseas flights. If you have any flexibility in your schedule, you can quickly reserve your ticket, confirm the vacation time and cancel if you must without losing any money. You can also use tools like Skyscanner to set up flight alerts for destinations you are considering. When signing up for travel points, make sure that you monitor your expiration dates. Additionally, if you have spent the past year avoiding credit card usage, make sure your cards points don't expire in the meantime. Consider setting up expenses like utilities and your gym membership or your music and book subscriptions on your cards for miles until you can travel again. Just make sure you pay those off each month. ;) Dress the part Just like they say you should show up to an interview dressed for the job you want, dress for the flight you want. Getting cheap flights for young adults can be a bit of a game. If you show up in an oversized sweatshirt and yoga pants, you might not be the first pick for an upgrade. However, if you can dial up your look a bit, such as... slacks or nice jeans a button up shirt instead of a ripped tee a sweater or lightweight jacket ...your chances of getting into business class in the event of a cancellation will go up. Instead of looking as if you just rolled out of your bed, try to look more tidy and organized. Men can trim their beards to look more decent, while women can put on a bit of makeup to look classy. Opt for subtle colored outfits that make you look elegant. Travel Alone or Be Willing to Sit Alone It's very rare that business class seats will open up in pairs, but finding a single seat for upgrade is entirely possible. If you need a bit more legroom and can't get a bulkhead or escape row seat, being willing to sit alone can improve your odds of getting an upgrade. Even a center seat in business class offers more space than an aisle seat in economy. Be prepared to self isolate when you ask about an upgrade. Carry an eye shade, e-reader or a laptop so you can "work" in your new chair and enjoy the comfort and isolation. Even if you are traveling with a friend or partner, splitting up can have benefits for the person remaining in the economy. Consider repacking your carry-ons to add bulk to the bag of the person getting the upgrade, as there is more room up there than in economy. As long as the person in economy has the tools they need to stay entertained during the flight, not having all their carry-on gear will not be a burden and they will have more room in bag storage or in front of their feet. Check the Calendar Avoid travel on major holidays for both your departure and arrival destination. For instance, you wouldn’t expect to find cheap airfare within the United States at the end of November or around July 4th. If you need a trip to Europe, check flights to nearby destinations and find a route that might be cheaper and leave time to take the train or domestic flight. You don't have to be a business traveler to enjoy a spot in business class. With a bit of planning ahead, your overseas flight can be much more comfortable than you expected and still be cheap. Be ready to dress up a bit and be sure to ask politely and be patient. You may not get an upgrade immediately, but you can get on the list with the right attitude.

Countries are slowly reopening their borders and international travel is possible again for U.S. citizens. Though the requirements for entry are changing every day, we’ve put together a list of the current requirements for countries that we’re running trips to, with details on vaccinations, PCR tests and more. Keep in mind that these rules are changing constantly, so it’s best to cross reference multiple sources before planning your trip. Below we've included some resources that are updated on a regular basis to help you keep track of these changes. Note: Though some countries are not requiring a negative covid test for entry, you must provide one to fly back into the U.S. Here is the official note from the CDC: "On January 12, 2021, CDC announced an Order requiring all air passengers arriving to the US from a foreign country to get tested no more than 3 days before their flight departs and to present the negative result or documentation of having recovered from COVID-19 to the airline before boarding the flight. Air passengers will also be required to confirm that the information they present is true in the form of an attestation. This Order is effective as of 12:01am EST (5:01am GMT) on January 26, 2021." Which countries can I travel to this summer as a U.S. citizen? COSTA RICA The beautiful country of Costa Rica has been welcoming back international travelers since November 2020. Aside from recommending that travelers take regular health precautions, travelers are only required to provide proof of health insurance and will also need to fill out a health form upon arrival. Thanks to these minimal requirements, Costa Rica has been a popular destination for travelers - it’s no wonder our Costa Rica trips have sold out EVERY. SINGLE. TIME. Travelers get to spend time in nature, out on the waves, and safely experience the pura vida! Overview: Travel is allowed with some restrictions. Covid-19 Vaccine: No proof of a covid-19 vaccination is required. Covid Test: No negative covid test results are required. Quarantine: Not required. Masks: Masks are required to be worn in public spaces. Resource: US Embassy in Costa Rica Explore Costa Rica trips → CROATIA Croatia was one of the first countries to lift restrictions, welcoming back international tourists as its resorts, beaches and bars along the sparkling Adriatic began to reopen. Right now, Croatia is requiring that tourists provide proof of a negative covid-19 vaccine or a vaccination card, in addition to providing evidence of accommodation paid in advance. This perfect summer destination is opening again just in time for summer, with the majority of its main attractions available to tourists. Overview: Travel is allowed with some restrictions. Covid-19 Vaccine: No proof of a covid-19 vaccination is required. Covid Test: Negative covid test results are required (unless you can provide proof of a covid-19 vaccination). Quarantine: Not required. Masks: Masks are required to be worn in public spaces. Resource: US Embassy in Croatia Explore Croatia trips → Greece All across the islands you can expect that attractions, hotels, restaurants and many guided activities have opened and will be in full swing for the summertime. Greece opened its borders to American travelers in May, and will only be requiring a negative covid-19 test or proof of vaccination. You will also need to fill out a passenger locator form the day before you arrive. Overview: Travel is allowed with some restrictions. Covid-19 Vaccine: Proof of a covid-19 vaccination is not required. Covid Test: Negative covid test results are required, unless you can provide proof of vaccination. Quarantine: Not required. Masks: Masks are required to be worn in public spaces. Resource: US Embassy in Greece Explore Greece trips → Spain Spain is once again welcoming American travelers with open arms, as long as they provide proof of full vaccination. As summer rolls around, Spain is looking forward to an increase in international travelers to come enjoy the perfect weather, bask along beautiful beaches and savor some of the world's best tapas and wine! Attractions have largely reopened, and though capacity changes have been implemented, visitors are still able to enjoy all that the country has to offer. Overview: Restrictions in place- you cannot travel to Spain unless you have been fully vaccinated. Covid-19 Vaccine: Proof of a covid-19 vaccination is required; vaccine certificates, such as those provided by the CDC, are being accepted to allow entry for U.S. citizens into Spain. Covid Test: Negative covid test results are required. Quarantine: Not required. Masks: Masks are required to be worn in public spaces. Resource: US Embassy in Spain Explore Spain trips → France France has reopened to fully vaccinated travellers and is expected to have the majority of its curfew restrictions lifted just in time for the summer! Major attractions and museums are open again with some capacity limits. France is ready to reopen with locals (like many of us) being extremely ready to once again dine in restaurants and go out to bars. Overview: Restrictions in place- you cannot travel to France unless you have been fully vaccinated and can provide a negative covid test result upon arrival. France has not announced which form of proof is acceptable for entry. Covid-19 Vaccine: Proof of a covid-19 vaccination is required. Covid Test: Negative covid test results are required. Quarantine: Not required. Masks: Masks are required to be worn in public spaces. Resource: US Embassy in France Explore France trips → Mexico Mexico is fully embracing international travelers, with hotels, restaurants, bars and nightlife back in full swing. Mask mandates and general health precautions are in place in most public areas, but that hasn’t stunted experiencing Mexico’s amazing attractions, including endless restaurants and bars for the foodies! Overview: Travel is allowed by air. Covid-19 Vaccine: Not required, but recommended. Covid Test: Negative covid test results are not required to enter Mexico, but recommended. Quarantine: Not required. Masks: Masks are required to be worn in public spaces. Resource: US Embassy in Mexico Explore Mexico trips → Italy Italy is open to tourists again, as long as you’ve flown on a covid-test flight (or you must quarantine upon arrival otherwise). This unique mandate is well worth it to visit this amazing country that has the best of everything: views, history, museums and art, food and wine, and much, much more! Overview: American travelers are allowed by covid-19 safe flight. Covid-19 Vaccine: Required. Covid Test: Proof of negative covid-19 test required. Quarantine: Not required if on a covid-tested flight. Masks: Masks are required to be worn in public spaces. Resource: US Embassy in Italy Explore Amalfi & Puglia trips → Explore Tuscany & Rome trips → FTLO Summer Trips and Travel Regulations Since travel restrictions are constantly changing as conditions improve and vaccines become available to more people, we encourage you to cross-check multiple resources for updates on tourism restrictions and mandates. It’s also good to check each country’s travel and tourism website for regular updates. Here are some resources to bookmark and check daily for updates on restrictions: US embassy and consulates Travel restrictions Map navigator CDC: travel notices US Department of State At FTLO, we’re safely running trips again to countries that are allowing US travelers and we’re updating our itineraries to provide you with an amazing post-pandemic travel experience! Please note that FTLO Travel requires all travelers to provide a negative covid test 72 hours before joining a trip and some trips require vaccination - so please check the trip notes for any trip you’re interested in joining. Still not sure where to start? Connect with us! Grab a date on our Community Manager's calendar and get the scoop on all of our summer trips. Looking for a one week vacation this summer? Browse our trips!→ ftlotravel.com Want a longer getaway? Come travel abroad for a month!→sojrn.travel

**A note from team FTLO** The airline industry is still feeling the effects of the Covid pandemic. As flights continue to be delayed, the risk of losing a checked bag increases dramatically. We HIGHLY RECOMMEND CARRYING ON all your luggage if you can. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a novice adventurer, the task of packing for any trip can seem daunting. But once you understand the basics of packing, everything else is a total breeze! That's why we're here with the ultimate packing guide for a 7 day trip. So, if you've been asking yourself what to pack for a 7 day trip, read on for tips and lists of what to bring and what to leave behind (including a packing list from FTLO Founder, Tara Cappel!). TIps for a 7 day packing list Consider the weather + activities Do some research on the weather and find out what activities you'll be doing before you ask yourself "how much clothing should I pack for seven days?" If it’s cold: You don’t necessarily need to pack much “more”, but your luggage could get bulky very quickly, so selecting a few key basics (versatile jacket, great pair of jeans, day-to-night shoes, a few long sleeves, all neutral colors) could make a big difference in minimizing your luggage, while still maintaining a chic wardrobe. If it’s hot: If you’re going somewhere where you’ll be sweating profusely, you might need a variety of basics to stay fresh. Packing mix-and-match items, like light tank-tops, blouses, shorts, t’s, or dresses, will not take up too much space and will ensure that you stay clean and trendy every day. Activities: If you know what activities you’ll be doing, this will help you plan your clothing + gear. If you’re hiking a lot, then prioritize those socks, tanks, and hats, and consider sunblocks + bug repellents. If you’re swimming a lot, then focus on the swimmies + trunks, and beachwear, etc. Packing for a 7 day trip At the end of the day you could get away with packing very few items...just as long as you have your staple, versatile pieces. Clothing basics: Focus on nailing down the things you will definitely need at your destination. Rain jacket and rain boots? Bathing suit? Formal wear? Hiking clothes? For everything else, focus on versatility. A dark pair of jeans, for example, will take you from a day full of adventure, to an evening out on the town. Also, stick to neutral colors to facilitate mixing and matching. Finally, just remember, you can always reuse, mix-and-match, layer, wash, or even purchase clothes. Toiletries: In most cases, 3 ounces of your basics (toothpaste, shampoo, face lotion, body wash, etc.) will probably be enough. After all, it’s only 7 days and it’s likely you can purchase those items locally if you need. Do, however, consider if there are certain items you might need for your destination that you don't normally use, like bug repellent, sunscreen, ear plugs or face wipes. What to pack for a 7 day vacation Essentials Packing List ID (driver’s license for local trips, passport for international) Airline tickets / e-ticket flight confirmation COVID-19 vaccine certificate or digital equivalent Itinerary / accommodation / transportation confirmations Medical insurance coverage (copies) Prescriptions or medications Phone or laptop First aid kit (mini ones available at your local pharmacy) A pen (will always come in handy!) Useful Carry-on Items Electronics (phone, computer, camera) Chargers + adapters Portable charger Reusable water bottle (empty before TSA!) Reusable tote Snacks (dried fruit, granola, popcorn, crackers) Sunglasses + prescription glasses Earphones Ear plugs + neck pillow Notebook + pen Toiletries (under 3oz: toothbrush + paste, deodorant, hairbrush, face wipes, tissues, birth control + condoms, makeup, razors, nail clippers, shampoos and soaps, lotions, perfumes or colognes, chapstick, hair ties) Change of clothes (so you can feel refreshed after a long flight) Things to leave behind Too many books and magazines Big bottles of toiletries (you won't get past TSA) That weird shirt you’ve never worn (if you've never worn it, you're not going to wear it now) Lots of the same thing (you don't need 50 underwear; rule of thumb: one set per day) Other things you never use (leave that board game behind!) Clothing that doesn’t match the weather (if there's snow, you won't need shorts) Need more help? Here's a list of everything FTLO Founder, Tara Cappel, would bring on our eight day trip to Tuscany + Rome. Weather (in June) Tuscany High: 81 °F Tuscany Low: 59 °F Rome High: 83° F Rome Low: 62° F Outfit Essentials In a nutshell, when you're putting together your 7 day vacation packing list, bring enough so that you have something to wear every day given that you might sweat most days but not so much that you don't have room for new acquisitions. 4 tank tops or t-shirts 1-2 long sleeve shirts 3 summer dresses 2 pairs of shorts 1 maxi skirt 1 pair flowy pants or boyfriend jeans 1 linen onesie 2 evening outfits 1 sweater or shawl 1 summer scarf 1 leather jacket (that you may or may not want to purchase in Florence :) 1 pair of day-to-night sandals (2-inch wedge or chunky heel) 1 pair cute sneakers 1 bathing suit (you never know) 3 bras, 10 pairs of underwear, 3 pairs of socks (more if you want to work out Carry-on 'must-haves' The key here is to have everything you need to survive in case your bag is delayed! Passport / ID Phone + charger + adapter + *headphones* Airline tickets / e-ticket confirmation COVID-19 vaccine certificate or digital equivalent Itinerary / accommodation / transportation confirmations Medical prescriptions Camera + charger Portable charger Reusable water bottle Sunglasses + contact lenses/solution if you need it (always carry this on!) Ear plugs + neck pillow Key toiletries (under 3oz) Jacket + cozy socks for the flight Change of clothes Snackssss Pen! Tara's Luggage Picks Caraa Sport Studio Bag The Medium by Away See more staff picks for luggage + carry-ons. For more information on a 7 day packing list, check out this guide. Now that you've nailed down all of your travel essentials and you know what to pack for a 7 day trip, check out our trip calendar – it's time for a vacation!

From vibing on the turquoise beaches of Greece, to putting a ring on it! Here's the love story of two amazing humans who met by chance during an FTLO trip to the Greek Islands. Niko and Lizzie in Monemvasia, Greece (Photos: Courtesy of Lizzie, #FTLOALUM) How it all began... Lizzie was living in a small town in Alabama, where she had been practicing law for several years. Though she loved her job, she was missing the sense of adventure and freedom that her naturally vibrant personality and spirit longed for; she was missing the very thing that made her tick. She was also entering her 30's and had gone through some major heartbreak in her life that left her feeling as if she might never find love - which is something she really wanted in her life. So she took a leap of faith. "I wanted to specifically go to Greece. I had tried to force several people to go with me and no one had the time, the money or the want to go. So I googled travel group to Greece for young people and FTLO popped up. I was on a hunting trip in Nebraska sitting in a cabin watching Harry Potter. It took me less than ten minutes on the site to make the down payment." #FTLOGreece *Fast-forward to the actual trip!* While hanging by the cabanas on a beautiful beach at Paros island, Lizzie spotted a local hottie in yellow swim trunks just across the way ;) "We started just sort of staring at each other for about an hour before he got up to go down to the water. I devised a plan to see if he was interested. As he walked back up to the seating area after his swim, I snuck down to the beach to gain a vantage point. I wanted to see if he noticed that I had left. As hoped, he took a look around before heading back down to the water. I knew that he was interested! I waded out in the water waiting for him to approach me, when another guy yelled, 'Hey, aren’t you that girl from Alabama?' Niko swam past as I belabored myself in conversation with another guy. Niko exited the water and returned to the our seats. Finally, I went back to the seating area, where Niko offered me his chair and struck up a conversation. We had instant chemistry and he met us out for drinks that night. We ended the night with a walk on the beach and watched the sun come up on the lounge chairs at the hotel pool. We have talked every day since." Niko is from the city of Heraklion in Greece. Despite being from vastly different parts of the world, the two quickly found that they had a ton in common and after visiting Greece again twice, Lizzie decide to move to there permanently and now they're getting married! "It was really just a gut feeling that led me here permanently. I felt it was a now or never thing to take our relationship to the next level. My life in Alabama was stagnant, and I felt that Niko and I were compatible enough that a life together was worth taking a leap of faith for." For the Love of Travel Thanks to Lizzie's courage in taking the first steps to infuse her life with more adventure and more travel, she was able to open herself up to new friends, new experiences, and ultimately she met the man of her dreams (and Niko met the woman of his dreams!). "When I met Niko, we all called him Turtle because he had a turtle tattoo. We took a boat out in Paros on our free day and saw a sea turtle that waved its fin to us. My friend Marissa said it was a sign that we would get married…and here we are having conversations about those very plans," says Lizzie. "I could not be more thankful to FTLO for creating an environment where I felt alive and open to allowing love to come knock on my door!" says Lizzie. Though we're not calling ourselves match-makers...we don't mind the side effect! ;) Congrats to Lizzie and Nico on a life of adventure and fun! Don't miss us too much while you're enjoying the beautiful beaches of Greece! Interested in learning more about the Greek Islands trip? Browse the itinerary!

Dear FTLO Community, Travel is all about encountering different realities that make us rethink our ingrained beliefs. We get to see the world from a different perspective and it can be a catalyst for deep self-reflection and personal growth. It is that aspect of travel that drew me to start FTLO in the first place and our mission is very much rooted in a desire to increase understanding and empathy in the world. Over the past couple of weeks, we’ve been asked to collectively reflect on the horrific fact that in 2020, in one of the most advanced countries in the world, people are being killed by police because of their skin color. It is just one of many grim examples of how our society is failing Black Americans and the protests in the name of George Floyd have forced us to recognize that. Now, it’s time to do the work. We must reject the status quo, revise our ingrained beliefs, and evolve individually and as a country. At FTLO, we are committed to doing the work. We remain steadfastly in support of the Black Lives Matter movement and of dismantling the structural racism that enabled the murders of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, and many others. We believe our country is capable of becoming a place that includes, protects, and advances all people and we want to take an active role in that change. Our team has been having open conversations about how racism shows up in travel and we’ve spent time looking at ways to become better allies both at home and abroad. Below, you can read about some of the specific, measurable anti-racism actions we’re taking, with particular focus on supporting the Black community in ways that will have a lasting structural impact. As a small company, our reach right now is admittedly limited. We don’t have the resources to donate significantly and hiring is on hold until travel recovers from the pandemic. But we won’t be small forever and we promise to continue to grow with inclusivity and anti-racism at our core. OUR ACTION: We will continue to elevate Black voices by sharing stories on our Instagram from Black travelers who can describe how different the experience can be. Economic empowerment is crucial. We are putting together a curated list of Black-owned businesses in popular destinations that our community can refer to when deciding how to spend their tourism dollars. We will immediately move all of our FTLO merchandise production over to a Black-owned print shop. We will begin intentionally sourcing Black-owned businesses and vendors for our trips, particularly those in countries with a history of slavery and oppression. We will be adding anti-racism training for our trip leaders. We are proud to have a diverse team and this will continue to be a priority for us, including hiring more diverse trip leaders. The team will have Election Day off to vote. Lastly, this has always been our policy but is worth repeating here: words or acts of racism (or any discrimination of any kind) will not be tolerated in the slightest on any FTLO trip and will result in immediate dismissal from a trip. We encourage our community to send us suggestions on ways to make improvements that we may not have thought of. We also invite all of you to join us in making lifestyle decisions that reflect an ongoing commitment to the values of justice, equality, and inclusion. The last thing I'd like to say is this: I wasn’t going to send out this email. I was going to make these changes in the background, trying to push humanity forward in my own little way like I’ve been doing for the past four years. I believe actions speak louder than words and I also know there are much more relevant leaders deserving of your mental real estate. But the BIPOC members of my team encouraged me to say something. They reminded me that part of white privilege is that as a white person, my message might be more readily received by certain people. And if what I say here provokes even one conversation, one reevaluation, it was worth the effort. To any non-POC person reading this, if you’re wondering whether or not you should say something publicly, you should. It’s okay that you’re not an expert on race relations. Everyone plays a part in this and anyone can be a catalyst for reflection, growth, and change. For the love, Tara Cappel CEO & Founder Do the work. Educate yourself. Stand in unity with the black community and fight to end systemic racism. Educate "So You Want to Talk About Race" – Ijeoma Oluo "How to be an Antiracist" – Ibram X. Kendi "The New Jim Crow" – Michelle Alexander Watch When They See Us (Netflix) 13th (Netflix) The Hate U Give (Amazon) Listen @rachel.cargle @laylafsaad @mspackyetti Donate Colors of Change The NAACP Campaign Zero Black Visions Collective If you are unable to donate... Stream the "Black Lives Matter donate playlist" on YouTube. All ads will be donated to Black Lives Matter. Team FTLO

Since we can't yet take you to some of our favorite destinations around the world, we thought we'd bring the world to you. Here are 5 easy, delicious international breakfast recipes to bring the flavors of the world into your kitchen — and to make your mornings a little more interesting. Let's use this time to get creative and have some fun from home! Who knows, you might just be the next top chef in the house. ;) Hit the kitchen and let us know what you think. And, don't forget to tag us or send us a photo of your creation for a chance to be featured on our IG stories (@FTLOtravel)! ITALY (Download this recipe!) SPAIN (Download this recipe!) MEXICO (Download this recipe!) GREECE (Download this recipe!) MOROCCO (Download this recipe!) Release the chefs! Don't forget to send us a photo of your culinary creation for a chance to be featured on our IG stories! #quarantine #traveltheworld #traveldestinations #internationalfoodrecipes #internationalfood #cookingrecipes #easybreakfastrecipes #breakfast #internationalgrouptravel

Now more than ever, we are connected as a global community under the common goal of health, safety and recovery during this pandemic. As we move forward, it will be crucial that we band together to help those whose livelihoods are being severely and dangerously impacted by Covid-19. That’s why at FTLO, we want to draw attention to communities around the world that are currently facing severe impacts COVID-19’s impact on tourism and who may not have access to government assistance. Did you know? Tourism employs more people worldwide than any other industry, which means there are millions of people relying on this sector for their survival - especially women, youth and individuals from marginalized communities. Women make up 60% of the labor force in the hotel sector, for example, while half of all employees in hospitality are under the age of 25. Because many jobs require little to no formal education, the industry also creates opportunities for those without a diploma or degree. Revenue from tourism also helps to improve local neighborhoods by generating funds for roads, water supplies, internet access and waste disposal to attract more tourism and lift their communities out of poverty. In Rwanda, for example, communities surrounding the country’s national parks receive 10% of the revenue from tourism, which to-date, has already helped to establish 700+ projects to improve local education, sanitation and housing. The industry is ever-evolving and new partnerships and initiatives are being put in place to ensure that your tourism dollars will reach these communities in the most effective ways. That’s also why at FTLO, sustainable travel is one of our main core values. We partner with local businesses and support mom-and-pop shops whenever we can to provide our travelers with the most authentic experiences, while making sure your dollars stay local - and not in the hands of big corporations. How can you help? To start, instead of entirely canceling future travel plans, consider postponing them. Look for opportunities to receive credits instead of refunds. If possible, plan a more elaborate trip or extend your future trips to visit more destinations. If you don’t have any current travel plans, consider making some! A lot of airlines, hotels and travel companies have created flexible programs that come with additional perks or that increase in amount over time. According to a recent survey, once restrictions are lifted and we’re safe to travel again, most people intend on traveling just as much, if not more, than they had planned for 2020. Since launching 2021 trip dates, we are seeing many are actively planning new trips for the future. Maintaining or creating future travel plans will largely assist in helping the travel and tourism industry get back on its feet once this pandemic is behind us. So consider pushing those trip dates a few months back, to give yourself, others, and the world some time to heal. Our Mission Our community of local suppliers, vendors, and trip leaders are what make FTLO trips incredible. So, in an effort to help our guides, cooking class instructors, catamaran operators, salsa dance teachers, and all of the other amazing individuals we work with around the world, we have created a "One World" hoodie, where 50% of all proceeds will go to support tourism workers around the world, whose ability to feed their families and pay their rent has been jeopardized by the impact coronavirus has had on tourism. Order "One World" Hoodie here → Order "One World" Hoodie here→ At FTLO, we have been blessed with such an amazing, vibrant and caring community of travelers, and we know that you are itching to find ways to help your global community. Now, you can pre-order a comfy FTLO sweatshirt for yourself and loved ones and know that you're helping to keep mom-and-pop shops around the world afloat while you’re self-isolating. #stayathome As we move forward, we continue to encourage you to stay involved in your community - your global community - to help ensure that we all remain safe, have food on our tables, roofs over our heads, and the ability to travel and connect in person again soon.

We know our FTLO alum are pretty cool, but we wanted to share how cool. That's why we put together the FTLO Alum Series: Travel + Tell, where our alumni dish out the deets of their travel experiences with FTLO – the good, the wild and the amazing! Read on to see what these millennial movers and shakers are doing as they explore the world with a new group of friends. #FTLOALUMNI: Amanda Miller Photo Cred: Courtesy of Amanda Miller FTLO Trips: South Africa, 2019 Vietnam, 2020 Current City: Indianapolis, IN Age: 35 Profession: Digital Marketing Consultant Horoscope sign: Gemini ♊ FTLO, Travel + Tell ✨ Travel changed my life because... "Traveling—especially internationally—has changed my understanding of what I’m capable of. Staying home and visiting the same, safe places within the U.S. is easy. Stepping into a country where I don’t speak the language, I’m not familiar with the brands on the grocery shelves, and where I have no choice but to be adventurous and try new foods pushes me in small and large ways out of my comfort zone. I’ve learned I’m more adventurous and can be more flexible than I would have ever known otherwise. And it’s given me a sense of perspective, whether it’s to help me realize what I take for granted at home (like clean tap water) or to humble me when I see a better way of life elsewhere." ✨ Memorable Moments... "Being on safari in South Africa, staying in cabins and tented camps, was both comfortable and unlike anything I’d done in my life. I loved lying in bed at night and falling asleep to the sounds of night insects and (not too close) hyenas and leopards. One night, as my roommate and I were getting ready for bed, we heard a large rustling noise in the brush outside our door. An elephant who’d been digging for water nearby earlier in the day was less than 20 feet from our doorstep. He’d returned, and we could hear him snapping branches and spraying water. I loved feeling safe but a little on the edge, as it was incredibly clear that WE were the visitors in HIS space." 🍜 Best Food Experiences... "In both South Africa and Vietnam, my favorite meals were the home-cooked ones that were simple and gave me a real taste of ordinary life. In South Africa, it was a meal cooked on the braai. In Vietnam, a cooking class where we made spring rolls and bánh xèo." 📍 My advice for traveling with a group... Come ready to make friends Make an effort to get to know every member of your group Sit next to a different person at every meal Resolve to take a break from all social media and work email/notifications while you’re traveling Be present for a few days, not focused on the world back at home, and you’ll be more rejuvenated when you return 🌎 What you can look forward to while traveling with FTLO... "Expect to fill your phone with photos, but don’t expect to catch up on all the sleep you’ve been needing. Know that you’ll be on the move every few days and will see a wide variety of places, but you’ll feel relaxed because FTLO has handled the details, and all you have to do is be ready in the lobby. Expect to try new activities and food, but you won’t be pressured to do anything that makes you uncomfortable. Know that sometimes it’s good to do the uncomfortable, though, and those moments often make for the best memories when you get home." 💙 What made you decide to book a trip with FTLO? "I make it a point to travel to somewhere warm and sunny in February to get a break from the gloomy, gray winter of the Midwest. I explored New Zealand with some friends in 2018, and I wanted to make my 2019 trip an international one, as well. The challenge was I’d be doing it solo this time. After a convincing and candid phone call with Makayla, I was invested in the idea of going to South Africa. Traveling with FTLO gave me the flexibility to travel to a far-away place on my own with the security of a guide and group." Check out FTLO trips Amanda has been on (and is booked for!) to South Africa, Vietnam, and more!

We know planning a trip can seem like a drag, and planning a last minute trip can be even tougher. We're here to help. Fortunately, FTLO will always have you covered if you’ve got a week or two to spare in your PTO and it needs to be used like, ASAP. You can always check out our master calendar for upcoming trips to some of the most beautiful and adventurous places in the world and let us know if you’re interested in joining! We're here to help with everything from last minute Italy trips to ideas on how to pack. On the other hand, if you need to plan something short and sweet (especially for the holidays and summer 2022, which is coming up fast!), then we have some last minute travel tips and resources below that will help you whip somethin’ up in no time! 1. Check out FTLO’s upcoming international travel group trips. Seriously, there is something for every kind of traveler! From nights under starry skies in the vast and beautiful deserts of South Africa, to delicious street foods in the bustling, lively streets of Mexico City, there’s a perfect trip waiting for you. 2. Scan Skyscanner for deals on flights to anywhere in the world. Flights can often be the most expensive part of your whole trip, so using apps like Skyscanner can help. It's great for finding cheap flights during any time of the year, but it's also helpful for finding destinations that are less crowded - and therefore, more likely to have space for you, even last-minute. 3. Pick a destination with activities that interest you, and don’t require booking in advance. If you’re going to a popular destination, consider whether you’ll need to book things in advance. The fewer things you have to book, the better! That way your itinerary is flexible in case you need to make any changes. 4. Pick one climate. Think of the perfect climate for your trip. A perfectly sunny day with clear skies? A cool, crisp day? A snowy wonderland? Selecting your perfect climate will quickly narrow down your options for a last-minute trip and will help you pack for just one climate or environment. 5. Take trains and buses. Instead of flying or renting cars, consider taking the “long road home.” Trains and buses offer great opportunities to see more of a new region you’re visiting and you’re also more likely to find better prices than flying. 6. Travel locally! If you’re not quite ready for an international trip or think it might require more planning than you want to handle yourself, then consider traveling locally. National parks, camping grounds, small towns, big cities…these are all good getaway options and they can even be done in just a short weekend without much planning. If you don’t want to plan anything last minute, then consider taking a well-planned vaca with FTLO! We’ll take care of all the logistics so you can kick back and think about more interesting stuff (like your outfits!).

Here at FTLO, we are in full support of #stayathome so we can beat Covid-19. While we're hunkered down, we thought we'd put together some worldly ways to pass the time. Because even if we can't go anywhere right now, looking forward to our next adventure can help ease the pain. So, on that note, we decided to crowd sourced our social followers favorite travel-inspired past times so we could share with the rest of our FTLO Community. Internationally-inspired movies and TV shows: ROMA Hassan Kadam is an extraordinarily talented and largely self-taught culinary novice. When he and his family are displaced from their native India and settle in a quaint French village, they decide to open an Indian eatery. However, Madame Mallory (Helen Mirren), the proprietress of an acclaimed restaurant just 100 feet away, strongly objects. War erupts between the two establishments, until Mallory recognizes Kadam's impressive epicurean gifts and takes him under her wing. Available to watch on Netflix, Amazon Prime, and more! Eat Pray Love Liz Gilbert thought she had everything she wanted in life: a home, a husband and a successful career. Now newly divorced and facing a turning point, she finds that she is confused about what is important to her. Daring to step out of her comfort zone, Liz embarks on a quest of self-discovery that takes her to Italy, India and Bali. Available to watch on Amazon Prime, Vudu, and more! The Hundred-Foot Journey Hassan Kadam is an extraordinarily talented and largely self-taught culinary novice. When he and his family are displaced from their native India and settle in a quaint French village, they decide to open an Indian eatery. However, Madame Mallory (Helen Mirren), the proprietress of an acclaimed restaurant just 100 feet away, strongly objects. War erupts between the two establishments, until Mallory recognizes Kadam's impressive epicurean gifts and takes him under her wing. Available to watch on Netflix, Amazon Prime, and more! Whale Rider Only males are allowed to ascend to chiefdom in a Maori tribe in New Zealand. This ancient custom is upset when the child selected to be the next chief dies at birth. However his twin sister, Pai, survives. At age 12, she enlists the help of her grandmother and the training of her uncle (Grant Roa) to claim her birthright. But to break with convention, she'll have to do the impossible: win over her ultra-traditional grandfather. Available to watch on Netflix, Amazon Prime, and more! Other wanderlust-inducing movies:​ The Tourist- Not award winning cinema - but it a mindless watch and will make you miss Italy like woah. Midnight in Paris - Funny, charming, and might make you book a flight to Paris. Sisterhood of Traveling Pants - The nostalgia is real. Into the Wild - Inspiring with a killer soundtrack. On the Road - A classic favorite following the journey of friends out on the open road. Wild - Because sometimes ya just need to walk it out. The Beach - One of our team's favorite throwbacks. Lost in Translation - Because you never know who'll you meet traveling. The Motorcycle Diaries - Based on a true story, entertaining, and sheds light on the importance of travel. Call Me By Your Name - A beautiful coming-of-age meets coming-of-true-self story. Series that will have you on the edge of your seat: Travel Man: 48 hours in... Richard Ayoade attempts to visit all the top tourist attractions in various cities in a 48-hour period. Each episode sees Richard travelling with a different companion (often time celebrities) to places such as Iceland, Barcelona, Istanbul and Marrakech. Available for streaming on Hulu and iTunes. No Reservations In the Emmy Award winning series, No Reservations is a series that followed the late Anthony Bourdain while he traveled the globe to explore new cities, villages and countries that offer life’s truest surprises. Our take: Anthony Bourdain is the original foodie and travel GOAT. Available for streaming on Hulu. NorseMen The residents of an 8th-century Viking village experience political rivalry, social change and innovations that upend their culture and way of life. Our take: It's HILARIOUS. And has no subtitles. Available for streaming on Hulu and iTunes. Other Shows We'll be Binging: Chefs Table Outlander Ugly Delicious Gran Hotel Grand Tour Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat Don't Feed Phil Travels With my Father's ​ ​To Shake the Sleeping Self By Jedidiah Jenkins On the eve of turning thirty, terrified of being funneled into a life he didn’t choose, Jedidiah Jenkins quit his dream job and spent sixteen months cycling from Oregon to Patagonia. He chronicled the trip on Instagram, where his photos and reflections drew hundreds of thousands of followers, all gathered around the question: What makes a life worth living? Check it out here → West With the Night: A Memoir By Beryl Markahm "Born Beryl Clutterbuck in the middle of England, she and her father moved to Kenya when she was a girl, and she grew up with a zebra for a pet; horses for friends; baboons, lions, and gazelles for neighbors. She made money by scouting elephants from a tiny plane. And she would spend most of the rest of her life in East Africa as an adventurer, a racehorse trainer, and an aviatrix―she became the first person to fly nonstop from Europe to America, the first woman to fly solo east to west across the Atlantic. Hers was indisputably a life full of adventure and beauty." Check it out here → Infidel By Ayaan Hirsi Ali "One of today’s most admired and controversial political figures, Ayaan Hirsi Ali burst into international headlines following the murder of Theo van Gogh by an Islamist who threatened that she would be next. She made headlines again when she was stripped of her citizenship and resigned from the Dutch Parliament." Check it out here → Other Top Reading Suggestions: (Spoiler alert! Most can be enjoyed as major motion films as well.) "Shantaram" - Gregory David Roberts "Zorro" – Isalbel Allende "Life of Pi" – Yann Martel "Alone Time" – Stephanie Rosennloom "In a Sunburned Country" – Bill Bryson "On The Road" – Jack Kerouac "Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail" – Cheryl Strayed "A Walk in the Woods" – Bill Bryson "What I was Doing While You Were Breeding: A Memoir" – Kristin Newman "At Home in the World: Reflections on Belonging While Wandering the Globe" – Tsh Oxenreider "The Lord of The Rings" – J. R. R. Tolkien "Barbarian Days: A Surfing Life" – William Finnegan Introducing: FTLO Travel Spotify We are building out travel-inspired playlists for you to groove to and move to during this time of social distancing and self isolation. Check out the "Keep Calm, Quarantine on" playlist for major vibes. Dance with us here!→ FTLO TRAVEL PLAYLIST Spotify Top 50 Lists by Destination Colombia Mexico Italy Spain France and the list goes on...

We know our FTLO alum are pretty cool, but we wanted to share how cool. That's why we put together the FTLO Alum Series: Travel + Tell, where our alumni dish out the deets of their travel experiences with FTLO – the good, the wild and the amazing! Read on to see what these millennial movers and shakers are doing as they explore the world with a new group of friends. #FTLOALUM: Evan Creswell Photo Cred: Courtesy of Evan Creswell (far right) FTLO Trips: 2018 - South Africa 2019 - Vietnam 2020 - Colombia Current City: Grand Haven, MI Age: 30 Profession: Director of Biz Development Horoscope sign: Pisces ♓ Photo Cred: Courtesy of Evan Creswell FTLO, Travel + Tell ✨ About me... "I’m an introverted, reserved, quiet and shy individual...who loves to travel and meet new people! That may seem contradictory, but it’s my reality. Traveling is an escape for me, as much as it is for everyone on these trips, but it’s also a challenge for me. Not the actual traveling part, but the people part. And it’s a challenge I gladly take on, because traveling is actually where I feel the most myself. Besides there are far too many places to see, things to do, and people to meet for me to stay home!" ✨ Memorable Moments... South Africa - first night at Shindzela. We sat around a campfire and a bull elephant walked across the horizon as the sun set behind him about 100 meters from where we sat. Then we sat there with the clearest sky to see an incredible amount of stars. Vietnam - riding mopeds through Hanoi to different, local restaurants. Amazing food and such a fun way to experience the city. And sailing through Ha Long Bay - such a beautiful place. 🍜 Best Food Experiences... Vietnam - rolled pho South Africa - ostrich 📍 Recommendations South Africa - Always hang on to your phones on the safari, or else they might end up in the savannah. Don’t worry though, they can always be picked up on the game drive the following morning. Vietnam - A nice rain coat might be required! Plus shoes that can get wet. 🌎 This travel experience was different for me because... "FTLO does a fantastic job with curating activities. I never feel as if I miss anything in the cities/places we visit. I also feel that we got a cultural perspective that is a large part of why I choose FTLO." 💙 Next FTLO Trip I have my eyes on... Colombia is booked but hopefully Jordan in 2021! 💡 Want to travel with FTLO? My advice... "For all my introvert, reserved, and shy friends out there - I would say don’t hesitate. It may seem daunting to think of spending a week or more with total strangers, but it’s so worth it. You’ll get the chance to travel with people that you’ll always share something with. Experience things that you’ll never forget. And come home completely and totally exhausted...and ready to book your next FTLO trip." "For everyone else, just do it. I promise you won’t regret it." "And always pack granola bars, comfy clothes and shoes....and a portable charger." Check out FTLO trips Evan has been on (and is booked for!) to South Africa, Vietnam, and more!

If you feel like your vacations come and go too quickly, then you might be among the many travelers who are not yet taking full advantage of their time off. The effect of travel should be that you come out of a trip feeling replenished, grateful, changed, inspired or simply pumped about life. But if your vacations aren’t quite resulting in those positive changes, it’s probably for a number of reasons that can easily be addressed. So how can you take full advantage of your travels and feel fulfilled and transformed after a trip? How can you feel like you've taken a true mental health vacation? 1. Set yourself up to unplug. It’s easy to recommend to someone to simply “unplug” while traveling. Turn off your devices. Don’t check your phone. Don’t check your emails. While it’s all good advice, it should come with an important precursor: set yourself up to unplug fully while you’re traveling. You've got to put in some prep to be ready for a vacation for mental health. That means putting a bow on all projects you’re working on, coordinate with your co-workers to take over for you while you’re gone, set up away emails with dates that you’ll be out, and make sure anything that might require your attention can be taken care of by someone else. 2. Do one thing that is unplanned. While many aspects of your trip might feel unplanned (delays!), do at least one thing that is intentionally unplanned. While you’re at your destination, keep your eyes open for opportunities to try something you hadn’t already heard of or read about online. An open mic at the local pub? A tour of an ancient site? Keep your eyes open for opportunities to embrace your spontaneity. 3. Make room for down time. You don’t constantly have to be doing things when you’re traveling. Being in a new environment is actually enough to stimulate your senses and help you unwind from your routine days. So kick back and relax; this is vacation after all. 4. If you can’t control it, don’t stress; and if you can control it, don’t stress. As any experienced traveler will tell you, unexpected things will always happen on any trip. So don’t feel stressed, and if anything, look forward to it. Sometimes the least expected things turn out to be the best part of your trip - or at least they become great stories to share when you get back! 5. Punctuate each part of your trip with a special somethin’. More than taking photos or selfies in front of everything, try to punctuate milestones with something local and unique. Take a shot, say a prayer, toss a coin and make a wish. Whatever works (and is allowed). 6. Go beyond the Internet. You're more likely to feel satisfied by your travels if you discover something on your own. Skip Trip Advisor and Yelp and just go out in the world and explore. There are always new places waiting to be discovered and your trip could easily become more personal and memorable. Overall, it's important to make the most of your next vacation by reminding yourself to stay present, focus on the positive, and go with the flow. No matter what, things will turn out fine and you'll have lots of new memories and stories to share with friends and family down the line! Ready to start traveling the world? Check out FTLO's upcoming group trips to beautiful destinations around the world!