6 Reasons Parents Should Explore The World With Their Kids

BY  Sibashree Sep 2, 2025

Discounts! Deals! Special Rewards! Membership Rewards! All these are music to our ears when we plan a trip. However, as not all that glitters is gold, these offers on random platforms can make you a victim of the biggest scam.  You click on a discount link, and your system or online data is hacked. You lose your banking credentials, credit card data, and whatnot! This is where platforms such as Travelzoo step in with: Outstanding Club Offers Weekly Vacation Giveaways Early Access to Our Famous Top 20 Lounge Access for Delayed Flights And all this for just $40/year. But is Travelzoo legit? Does it really offer what it promises? We will figure out in this Tour and Travel Blog.  The key areas covered in this blog are:What Is Travelzoo?How To Join Travelzoo? 1. Assistance From A Global Expert Team2. It Caters To A Select Group3. Exclusive Club offersWhat Kind Of Trips Can I Plan With Travelzoo?1. Discounted Vacations 2. Bucket-List Destinations What Are The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Using Travelzoo?Who Should Use Travelzoo?Is Travelzoo Legit?Hear It From The Real PeopleWhat Are The Alternatives To Travelzoo?Is Travelzoo Legit? Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What Is Travelzoo? When you visit a Kayak or Expedia, you see deals and discounts like the messiest grocery bills. Travelzoo, on the other hand, is a platform that only enlists deals and discounts that are carefully curated, tested, and hand-picked.  It works closely with the leading hotel chains, cruise lines, airlines, and more to enlist the best deals. Furthermore, it offers deals and discounts for shows, restaurants, spa dates, etc.  The deals here are available for a limited span. Furthermore, they have a dedicated “Early Access to Our Famous Top 20” section.  This section has everything from concert tickets at over 80 places to the most adventurous Jamaica trips. Also, as the “This Week’s Top 20® Deals” section mentions,  “Since 1999, our weekly Top 20 list presents the very best deals and ideas, rigorously vetted and negotiated for us travel enthusiasts.”  How To Join Travelzoo?  Here is the step-by-step guide for signing in to Travelzoo.  1. Click on the “Join Today” Link on the Right Side of the Home Page.  2. Then, enter your email ID.  3. Click on the Get Started button, and you will be redirected to the page featuring a 30-day Trial Offer. The currency will be automatically selected based on your country. Then, you will have to make the payment through the “Pay with link” option or through your card.  What Types Of Deals Will I Get On Travelzoo? Travelzoo offers diverse deals and discounts for you. Have a look at the table below. Types of Vacation Packages on TravelzooWhat is Included?Hotel Deals• Free Breakfast• Free Parking• Welcome DrinksVacation Packages• Excursions• Meals• Hotels• FlightsLocal Deals• Show Tickets• Spa Discounts• Restaurant Offers• All Under $50 OffersCruises• On-Board Credits• Discounts• Free UpdatesFlight Tickets• Flight Deals• Clubbed Offers with Restaurants and Hotels• Specially Designed Vacation Deals  1. Assistance From A Global Expert Team The expert team of Travelzoo has the best travel enthusiasts. So, here, you will find tailored experiences at the best price.  2. It Caters To A Select Group It functions as a select group with passionate travelers as members. So, every deal here is kept secret from any external entity.  3. Exclusive Club offers Travelzoo is a closed platform for members. So, the deals and discounts offered by Travelzoo are exclusive and only for members.  You will not find these deals and discounts anywhere on the internet.  What Kind Of Trips Can I Plan With Travelzoo? From all-inclusive vacation packages to finding an accommodation in a faraway country, Travel Zoo offers the best assistance to travelers.  1. Discounted Vacations  Suppose you are visiting Cancun. Now, you want a plan for your entire vacation, including airfare, other transportation, food, accommodation, etc.  Travel Zoo will tailor a package for you so that you don’t need to pay for hotels, food, or cars separately.  2. Bucket-List Destinations  Suppose you are traveling to the Maldives. Now. Travelzoo will customize your vacation, including your stay at a luxury villa and its combo meal offer.  It will even provide the special offers so that you can adjust your meal expenses and bar expenditures even when the hotel is not directly offering these benefits.  What Are The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Using Travelzoo? Here are the pros and cons of using Travelzoo. Pros of Using TravelzooCons of Using Travelzoo• Special Perks for Upgrades and Meals• Hand-Picked Deals• Some Deals are Refundable• Deals Sell Out First• Not a Free Platform• You cannot Earn Rewards or Points Here.  Who Should Use Travelzoo? If you have flexible travel dates and you want to save money, Travelzoo is the ideal platform for you. Furthermore, it is ideal for all-inclusive bundle deals and budget-friendly local experiences.  However, if you have a fixed schedule for traveling or you want to earn reward or loyalty points, Travelzoo is not an ideal platform. It is also not meant for those who have very specific demands about each booking.  Is Travelzoo Legit? Yes, Travelzoo is a legit company with more than 25 years of operation. It was founded in 1998 and helps subscribers achieve significant savings on travel expenses by providing exclusive deals and discounts.  The Consumer Affairs has many positive reviews about the platform. Rhyder, a subscriber, wrote on 21st July, 2025, “Have been a member of Travelzoo for years. Always get spectacular deals no one else offer. The money you save on one trip pays for years of subscription rates. This is a no Brainer. Other travel websites give discounted rates. Travelzoo gives discounted trips.” However, all the reviews about Travelzoo on the Consumer Affairs platform are not that great. It is more like a mixed bag.  Still, it is great that Travelzoo responds to all the reviews and tries to fix the issues when needed.  Moreover, Travelzoo follows a well-defined privacy policy with a detailed declaration about the use of cookies, Travelzoo Affiliates, and Ad Networks.  Hear It From The Real People When you check out the Home Page of Travelzoo, you will find reviews from many happy customers. Here, I am quoting some of them.  “I got access to their Cyber Monday deals – and got a screaming deal! I have already covered the cost of membership easily, ten-fold!” - Gary.  “I have had at least 10 trips through Travelzoo and have no problem paying the fee. Especially now that they are trying to add more exclusive deals.” - Kay. “They sent me a notice that my flight was delayed today, and I got the lounge pass. Well worth the fee I paid today to renew my membership.” - Jenna. What Are The Alternatives To Travelzoo? Luxury Escapes, Expedia, and Groupon are some popular alternatives to Travelzoo.  Comparing Travelzoo with Its CompetitorsWhat’s the Difference? Travelzoo vs. ExpediaThough Expendia allows you to book a specific hotel or flight, it requires you to do more planning. With all-inclusive deals, Travelzoo hand-picks the offers and curates your entire experience. Travelzoo vs. GrouponGroupon has diverse local offers. Still, the local deals offered by Travelzoo are more premium and exclusive. Travelzoo vs Luxury Escapes Luxury Escapes and Travelzoo are quite similar in the way they offer the best discounts and deals. However, as the name suggests, Luxury Escapes focuses more on high-end properties, and that might not be exactly what you were looking for.  Is Travelzoo Legit? Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about Travelzoo.  1. Is Travelzoo Free To Use? No, Travelzoo is not free to use. You will have to pay a subscription fee of $40 every year. Furthermore, right now, it has a limited-time offer. Now, you can get a 30-day trial by paying $1. After that, the subscription will get renewed automatically with a subscription charge of $40 every year. 2. How Can I Cancel My Travelzoo Membership? You can visit the My Account section and cancel the auto-renewal option of your membership. You can also contact the customer service team by calling 1-877-665-0000. Member services are available from 9 AM to 6 PM ET from Monday to Friday. On Saturdays and Sundays, these same services are available from 12-5 PM.  3. How Can I Renew My Subscription? Your subscription will get automatically renewed at the end of every year. If you want to stop it, you will have to go to the My Account settings or contact customer service.  4. Does Travelzoo Offer Family Or Household Membership? No, Travelzoo does not offer a family or household membership. The membership benefits here are for individuals. To purchase club offers, you will need an individual membership account and an individual email ID.  5. What Will Happen If I Am Not Happy With Travelzoo Subscription?  Travelzoo has a transparent 14-day refund policy. So, if you are not satisfied with its service, you can reach out to the customer service team to address your concern within 14 days of purchasing the subscription. They will help you through the subscription cancellation and refund process.  Read Also: HopTraveler.com Review: About HopTraveler.Com, The Best Features, How To Use, And More Traveltweaks Com: Why Is It A Trustworthy Resource For Travel Planning? Hopper Flights Review- Login, Services, And Travel Experiences

BY  Ankita Jun 7, 2024

You should purchase the visit to most of the countries in the world except for a few. Saudi Arabia is encouraging international travelers to visit their country and explore the beauty of their cities and Islamic landmarks in their country with the purpose of Umrah or booking an adventurous trip because there are a lot of places where you can enjoy the most.  In fact, tourism contributes a significant portion of the Saudi economy nowadays. People from different parts of the globe plan to visit Saudi Arabia to have a good time. That's why, Saudi Arabia is focusing on providing facilities to visitors so that they can enjoy at best.  The same goes with pilgrims as well. Pilgrimage also contributes to the Saudi economy and helps the government to maintain the spirituality of the land. This is a reason the Saudi government ensures that pilgrims have a fulfilling experience during their stay. Umrah packages also help pilgrims in this regard. The purpose is to make pilgrims free from tackling management and focus on Ibadah.  However, the question is whether visitors can enter Saudi Arabia without a visa. If not, what type of visa should they consider before proceeding with their plan? Well, read ahead.  Why Do I Need a VISA When Visiting Saudi Arabia? KSA is a hub for Islamic landmarks. Because the kingdom is significant both in terms of spirituality and modernity, it has become a top priority of visitors nowadays. Some of them want to explore Saudi heritage, while others seek closeness to Allah and his house, the Kabbah.  But it requires you to have a relevant VISA anyway. A VISA document is a legal issuance certificate that outsiders need to enter a foreign country. Just like other countries, Saudi Arabia also requires you to have a VISA.  For pilgrims, it's easier to get VISA approval through Umrah packages. Providing VISA application assistance and ensuring VISA approval is part of these Umrah and Hajj deals.  The same happens with cheap plans like the 12 Nights 4 star Umrah package. You just have to arrange the required documents and enter personal details on the VISA application. Then, the travel agencies take care of application submission and approval.  Though visitors don't have to apply for VISAs through Umrah package deals, they require a VISA to enter Saudi Arabia. However, these VISA requirements and details are different under different conditions. So, let's see what type of visa you should consider according to your plans. Who Needs a VISA? Just like in other countries, entering Saudi Arabia also requires a VISA. A VISA refers to a travel document or a legal statement.  The main purpose of requiring a VISA is to define your purpose for visiting the country of Saudi Arabia. If you are a business traveller, tourist, or pilgrim, you need to apply for a specific type, for instance.  In addition, visa documents are also necessary for countries to keep checks and balances on the entry and take-off of tourists. Through a VISA, tourists can claim their rights to their respective country's government. Similarly, it also guarantees the safety and integrity of the country.  The same policy is for Saudi Arabia. You should apply for a specific type of VISA to enter the KSA. However, Saudi Arabia also has exceptions.  Our honourable customers who are living in some of the Gulf countries like Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar can enter the boundary of Saudi Arabia without a VISA. Similarly, the VISA Waiver Agreement allows some travelers to apply for a VISA on arrival in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.  In general, visitors must need a VISA to enter Saudi Arabia. However, it is better to research whether you need a VISA or not. And if so, what type of visa do you need? Types of VISA for Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia earns a lot of money from tourism. It includes pilgrims and tourists alike. Therefore, Saudi Arabia focuses on enhancing the experience of visitors. The VISA process and requirements also reflect the simplification of visiting Saudi Arabia.  For instance, Saudi Arabia issues different types of VISA documents to travellers according to their needs. This way, the process of entry into the kingdom works. In general terms, the price of all these VISA types varies depending on the purpose of the visit. For example, travellers apply for tourist VISAs and can stay in the country for up to 90 days. Tourist visas, Umrah visas, Hajj visas, business visas, and work visas are the most common types of VISAs that are availed from Saudi Embassies by global travellers. This VISA type comes with a validity of one year with multiple visits in a year.  Umrah VISA and Hajj VISA An Umrah VISA tells everything. Pilgrims apply for an Umrah VISA to perform the Umrah pilgrimage. Umrah packages also help them engage with Ziarat tours. This VISA type offers a short validity period, usually equal to the duration of the Umrah pilgrimage only.  Similarly, pilgrims get a Hajj VISA to perform Hajj. Hajj VISA also comes up with short validity, often for the duration of Hajj.  Business VISA Business VISA allows people to visit Saudi Arabia for work activities. For instance, with a business VISA, you can attend meetings or conferences in Saudi Arabia.  However, it's a dynamic type of VISA that comes up with multiple entries as well as a single entry, depending on your work requirements and duration.  Employee or Work VISA Another type of Saudi VISA is a work VISA. It's for individuals who have a job offer from Saudi Arabia and want to live there as an employee. Work VISAs remain valid up to the job contract or need renewal frequently.  In short, Saudi Arabia streamlines the process of entry into the kingdom. So, define the purpose of your visit and apply for a relevant visa. VISA Requirements Now, you will find out what type of VISA you have to get. After all, it's easier to spot until the purpose of your visit is clear to you. Here, a question hits your mind: how to you apply for a Saudi VISA?  You should collect all the necessary documents. These include:  a valid passport passport size photographs VISA application form proof of hotel accommodations in KSA non-refundable tickets. In some of cases, it is also important to avail yourself of travel insurance, health insurance, and relevant additional documents.  After making sure you have the necessary documents on hand, proceed with the application process. Note that pilgrims have to apply for an Umrah VISA through Umrah packages. The same goes for affordable deals like the 12 Nights 4-star Umrah.  However, travellers, visitors, and working employees can apply for Saudi VISAs through the eVISA portal.  To proceed, follow these steps: Go to the eVISA official page and fill out the application form with personal and travel details. Upload the necessary documents and pay the VISA fee. Submit the form and look for approval. Visitors can also apply for a VISA in person through the embassy. Take an application form and the necessary documents. Fill out the application form, attach the documents, and visit the Saudi embassy to submit the documents in person. Also, pay the fee there as they will guide you and wait for the approval. Tips to Ensure VISA Approval Applying for a Saudi VISA document is straightforward. This is because Saudi Arabia streamlines the whole process to promote tourism. However, some people still find the whole process challenging, and it has some reasons.  For instance, leaving the application form incomplete is a common mistake that ends up with a VISA rejection. To avoid it, read every section of the application form carefully and fill in all the required fields. Also, double-check the form before submitting it.  On the other hand, some people add inaccurate information to the application form, which can also cause visa rejection.  For instance, avoid spelling mistakes, wrong passport numbers, and incorrect travel dates in the application form. The best solution to avoid these mistakes is to cross-check all the information with your official documents and details.  Conclusion Following this, make sure to avoid missing documents while submitting the application form. So, be careful with your documents and make a list of required documents in the first place. After that, as you upload the document, mark that one on your list, and that's it.  Similarly, providing poor-quality photos and submitting late application forms also lead to VISA rejection. So, follow the photo guidelines beforehand and also submit the application form in advance. It will save you from approval delays all the way. Additional Reading: From Sunrise To Sunset: A Day’s Itinerary For Exploring Benidorm Viva Las Vegas: Your Ultimate Travel Itinerary For An Unforgettable Trip! Ensuring Approval: The Power Of A Well-Crafted Two-Way Itinerary For Visas

BY  Nabamita Mar 13, 2024

Oktoberfest, celebrated in Munich, is Germany's largest festival and one of the most spirited parties in the world. This annual tradition dates back to 1810 when Bavarians celebrated Prince Ludwig's marriage with massive festivities.   Attracting crowds of over 6 million annually, this 16-day event is a major drawcard for international visitors.   Oktoberfest runs for 16-18 days, starting in late September and ending on the first weekend of October. To prepare for this incredible experience, keep these tips in mind.  However, it is important to note that the festival management establishes certain rules to maintain decorum during these festivities. These rules range from backpacks, bicycles, and prams to entrances, entrances, closing times, etc.   This article will help you learn more about the history, festivities, and joy of attending Oktoberfest. Also, we will help you find some of the best deals for the best Oktoberfest packages to make your experience smoother.  The Origins Of Oktoberfest  Oktoberfest, also known as "Oktoberfest München," is a historical festival with its roots in Munich, Germany.   It first took place on October 12, 1810. This started as a wedding celebration for Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen.   Initially, the celebration lasted only five days, where people indulged in drinking, feasting, and horse races.   Today, Oktoberfest is a grand two-week-long event that starts on the first Sunday of October and has earned recognition as the world's largest beer festival.   The festival features a variety of activities, such as horse racing, tree climbing, carnival booths, and agricultural shows.   Moreover, it showcases traditional costumes, parades, and food, immersing visitors in the authentic Bavarian culture.   If the 16th day falls before October 3, the festivity typically lasts 16 days. However, it can extend to 17 or 18 days.   The Beer Culture Of Oktoberfest The beer served at Oktoberfest in Munich is subject to strict beer purification laws, including the Reinheitsgebot, which prohibits beers from breweries outside the city limits. Even smaller breweries are excluded from the event.   The European Union regulates that only certain larger breweries in Munich can call their beers "Oktoberfest."   However, this does not apply to American craft beer, which Boston Beer Co. brews.   Interestingly, the beer of Oktoberfest in Munich was not always copper-colored or malty.   When served for the first time, it was a darker lager, similar to Munich Dunkel. In 1872, a brewery ran out of dark lager during a hot summer and introduced a stronger Vienna-style lager as an alternative.   This alternative was a hit. Thus, its popularity increased until World War I.   The "standard" Oktoberfest beer changed in strength and color after World War I, becoming more marzen-like in color and with a reddish-brown hue.   A malt-forward lager with a gorgeous golden to copper color and session strength has become the standard for the Oktoberfest style.   However, the future of the Oktoberfest beer style remains to be determined, with the potential for changes in taste and appearance over time.  The Festivities  If you're considering attending the annual Oktoberfest celebration in Munich, Germany, you must be fully prepared for everything this incredible event offers.   From the lively music to the mouth-watering food and the endless flow of delicious beer, Oktoberfest is an unforgettable experience!  Here are some insights to get you excited about the festivities at Oktoberfest—  It Is More Than Beer  Oktoberfest is a significant cultural event in Germany beyond just beer drinking.   Men wear lederhosen while women wear dirndls, creating a lively atmosphere outside the beer tents with carnival-like games, rides, and haunted houses.   Even though the festival revolves around drinking, family-friendly attractions are available.  No Ticket Entry  If you're wondering about Oktoberfest tickets, you'll be pleased to know that entry to the Oktoberfest grounds is completely free of charge. There are no entry or cover fees to worry about.  Bring Cash  Attending Oktoberfest is a well-known event. However, this grand festivity only accepts cards due to long lines and high fees. The expense of participating varies depending on the quantity of drinks you intend to have.   For those on a budget, allocating around 50 euros daily for food, drinks, and rides would suffice. In addition, coins are essential for smooth tipping, as a liter of beer costs 12-13 euros, depending on the tipping level.   Also, a few ten euro bills and 1 & 2 euro coins won’t hurt you at the Oktoberfest.  Explore The Tents  Oktoberfest tents have unique vibes, decor, and character, making exploring as many as possible essential.   The most well-known Hofbrau tent is notorious for being full of tourists, and locals often avoid it.   To fully experience the Oktoberfest experience, research beforehand and speak with locals to find the best tent for your needs.   Visiting as many tents as possible is also advisable, as each has its character and vibe.  Put Your Social Caps On  This text highlights the importance of socializing and enjoying music at a party. It encourages individuals to be polite and ask if space is available or to share it with others.   After a few drinks, it presents a great opportunity to connect with new people while singing classic hits.  Finding Your Accommodation  During Oktoberfest, finding affordable accommodation can be challenging, with prices ranging from 400 euros per night to over €500.   Book accommodation near a U-Bahn station on the U4 or U5 line to save money.   One good option is Stoketoberfest, provided by Stoke Travel, which offers budget-friendly private tents. It is Munich's only true budget accommodation option and is within city limits.   Moreover, Stoketoberfest offers an exciting party atmosphere with a stage show featuring live bands and DJs. Therefore, discover these packages at the most affordable rates and book early for hassle-free accommodation!  You can enjoy unlimited beer and sangria at your open bar and participate in games like flip cup beer pong or the Wheel of Misfortune.   The dance floor never stops, making it the wildest party in Munich. Oktoberfest is well-connected to public transportation, so you can easily explore the city.   Traditional Oktoberfest outfits are also available for purchase on-site.  Bask In Traditions  As discussed above, Munich's beloved fall festival features more than just beer.   Oktoberfest, at the end of the day, is all about traditions. You will see the Bavarians dressed in Dirndls and lederhosen wearing 20-euro fabric; lederhosen indicates a foreigner's presence.   This event is steeped in tradition, from chicken dances and sing-alongs to giant pretzels and gingerbread necklaces. It typically kicks off on a Saturday in late September and lasts for 16-18 days.  So book your Oktoberfest packages and plan ahead for a fun-filled experience at Munich’s Oktoberfest. Read Also: The Hippest Craft Beer Pubs In Europe: Been There Yet? Albuquerque Ambiance: Top Hotel Picks For Every Traveler Exploring The World Through Taste: Essential Traveling Tips For Foodies