Booking Accommodation
Booking – Booking.com is usually the first place I check when I’m looking for accommodation. It’s easy to compare hotels, apartments, and budget-friendly stays in one place, and the reviews come from people who have stayed there. I can also check the location on the map. I find this really helpful when I want a realistic idea of what to expect before booking.
Expedia – Expedia is another place I check when searching for accommodation. Sometimes you’ll find different hotel options than on other platforms, and I like that it’s easy to see the location on the map and read reviews from people who’ve actually stayed there.
You can also book flights and, in some destinations, combine your hotel and flight into a vacation package, which can make planning simpler and save time.
Things to do, excursions, and tours
GetYourGuide & Viator – When I travel, I always plan a few experiences in advance. It saves time and helps me avoid wasting a day figuring things out on the spot. GetYourGuide and Viator are the two platforms I use most often for tours, attractions, and day trips.
Both allow you to book ahead or even at the last minute, which is helpful if your plans are flexible. Many experiences come with free cancellation up to 24 hours before, so you’re not locked in if plans change.
You’ll find guided tours, self-guided options, and experiences with audio guides. For some activities, hotel pick-up and drop-off are included, which makes getting around much easier, especially in big cities.
Each tour includes a clear description, what’s included, and who it’s best suited for. I always check the reviews before booking. Seeing feedback from people who’ve already done the experience makes it much easier to decide if it’s actually worth your time and money.
GetYourGuide often has discounts on popular activities, while Viator offers a “reserve now, pay later” option, which is useful if you’re still finalizing your plans.
Big-Bus – Big Bus is a sightseeing bus service I like to use when I want a good overview of a city without rushing. They run open-top buses in many major cities around the world and include recorded commentary in several languages. In many places, there’s also a live guide on board.
What I like most about Big Bus is the flexibility. Even though it’s an organized tour, you’re not tied to a strict schedule. Sitting on the top deck gives you a great view of the city and helps you understand how everything is laid out.
You can get off at the sights you want to explore, take your time, and then hop back on the next bus when you’re ready. It works well if you want to mix sightseeing with walking, cafes, or attractions without planning every detail.
In some destinations, the ticket also includes a boat ride. In Dubai, for example, you can add a traditional dhow cruise, which is a nice way to see the city from the water.
Transportation
Welcome Pickups – Welcome Pickups is a service I recommend if you want a smooth airport transfer without stress. It’s especially helpful after a long flight when you just want to get to your hotel without figuring things out on the spot.
They work with local drivers who know the area well, and the focus is on comfort and reliability. One thing I really appreciate is that they track your flight, so if it’s delayed, the driver waits for you and stays in touch until you meet. It makes arriving in a new place feel much easier.
Booking.com Flights – Booking.com is also a place where you can book flight tickets, not just accommodation. If you like keeping things simple, it’s convenient to search for flights and places to stay in one account, all in one place.
Localrent – Localrent is a car rental platform that works only with local and national car rental companies. Because of this, they often offer better prices and more flexible conditions than big international brands.
The coverage is smaller compared to global rental companies, but where they operate, you usually get good-quality cars and a more local, straightforward experience.
AirHelp – AirHelp helps passengers understand their flight rights and claim compensation for delayed or canceled flights. In many cases, compensation can be up to €600. All you need to do is submit your flight details, and if your case is eligible, AirHelp handles the entire claim process for you.
I haven’t personally used AirHelp yet, but I’ve heard good feedback from people who have. They charge a fee only if your claim is successful: 35%, or 50% if legal action is required.
Communication
Yesim – If you like the idea of one eSIM that works almost everywhere, Yesim is a great option. One international eSIM covers 200+ countries, so you just top up once and travel without buying a new eSIM.
A discount on the first purchase: FALLY20
Saily – Saily is another eSIM provider, with a focus on security and privacy. Backed by the same company behind NordVPN, Saily offers destination-specific plans and extra features like ad blocking and web protection. It’s a good choice if you’re security-conscious and don’t mind managing a few eSIM profiles while you travel.
Luggage Storage
Radical Storage – Check-in and check-out times don’t always line up with your plans. If you arrive early or have a late flight, carrying a suitcase around the city is the last thing you want to do. Radical Storage lets you store your luggage safely with local partners in cities around the world. You book online, drop off your bag, and continue exploring without the extra weight.
Health Insurance
SafetyWing – Travel without insurance? I wouldn’t risk it. SafetyWing is a popular choice among travelers and digital nomads. You can pick Nomad Insurance if you’re traveling around the world, or Remote Health if you’re working abroad. Both give you coverage for medical issues and emergencies while you’re away from home.