Best Of
Re: Can't decide between excursions.
I never pass up a wine tasting opportunity, especially in France. This was one of our favorite tours. Enjoy.
kfnknfzk
Re: Can't decide between excursions.
I'd definitely do the chocolate truffle class. I'm not much on alcohol but I love chocolate.
Euros and Pounds
Since we will only be in London a few days (we are flying to London a day early), is there a need to purchase British Pounds, or will credit cards suffice?
I am wondering about the need for Euros in France.
I know that credit cards are not often accepted at various little souvenir places.
I was thinking of bringing a small amount of both Euros and Pounds.
Is it better to get that money here in the states or in Europe? I hear conflicting things.
Chase Sapphire Reserve changes
tldr; The annual fee is going up
Chase is making a number of changes, with some additional benefits (most of which are useless to me) and charging a higher annual fee. Seems I'm reevaluating this card's cost-effectiveness once or twice a year...
https://thepointsguy.com/news/chase-sapphire-reserve-refresh-2025/
Re: Chase Sapphire Reserve changes
The reason I went with Chase was the $10,000 per person travel insurance. That's $20,000 of travel insurance when my wife and I travel.
Re: Chase Sapphire Reserve changes
My Citi Visa no annual fee - rewards: 3% travel and restaurants, 4% gas & EV charging and no foreign transaction fees. I use various airlines, depending on the route, (direct or length of a connection), time of departure and arrival, and cost of the ticket... so in 2024 & so far 2025 I've used Swiss Air, Delta, United, British Air, ITA, Air France and American. I periodically search other cards but have not found the perks to outweigh the annual fee and restrictions. My Global Entry will expire May 2026. I searched for a card that will reimburse the GE fee, but the annual fees are high. Any suggestions for travel cards are appreciated. I am willing to pay an annual fee if the perks are those I will actually use.
Re: yellow fever vaccination
You are not required to have any vaccine, but it is recommended and you may be asked to show your yellow fever certificate especially if there is an outbreak. Consult with your doctor who knows your health history.
Tongue in cheek…mosquitoes don’t usually ask your age before they bite you.
British
Re: Question about the slip on shoes...
I have traveled all over including Africa ;In the last several trips I traveled with Jungle Moc Merrell slip on sturdy but comfortable shoes.I still have the same pair ready to travel with me. Highly recommend trying a pair and you won’t be sorry!
Re: Question about the slip on shoes...
Twice a day, two safaris most days. Never seen anyone in something like crocs. I always wash shoes we have taken to Africa. Best to avoid pale colors as the red dirt can stain
British
Re: Question about the slip on shoes...
The ugly Crocs can work rather well for an easy slip in, slip out option. Plus, you can wash them. I would wear them with socks in Africa. Your shoes will get very dirty. For me, it’s a pain to constantly tie shoes multiple times a day. My husband loves the Sketchers slip ins.

