Why we love Europe in winter (and you probably will too)!You’ve probably seen posts from beautiful Instagrammers blissfully sipping afternoon beverages on a warm June day in an outdoor cafe somewhere in Spain.Looks amazing, right?It is!But…some of our favorite memories of Europe are about six months later when the crowds are smaller, lines are shorter, hotels are half the price, and the flight deals are hot!Here’s why you should pack a jacket, some cozy gloves, and book your flight from CVG right now.Flights cost less… sometimes WAY less!A round-trip flight to Barcelona in June or July averages between $1,037 and $1,137. However, that same flight in November, December, January, February, March, or even late April is about half the price! Round-trip flights to Lisbon, Barcelona, Paris, Rome, and Dublin have been available for $600 or less in that timeframe on the Jay’s Deals page.So… what’s up with that?Mostly cooler temperatures, shorter days, and kids are in school. But just like everywhere else, including Cincinnati, there’s plenty of stuff to see, do, and eat! Since winter means a little less daylight, it’s not a bad idea to plan out your activities for each day using an app like TripAdvisor to ensure you see all the sights.One huge benefit is that you’ll most likely see smaller crowds than in the busy summer tourist season. This makes visiting museums, tours, and attractions a lot more fun because you’ll have more room to enjoy.Experience the magic of Christmas marketsThere are also incredible events in the cooler months. Christmas markets are amazing. These events, often held in town squares, are a perfect way to spend an evening sipping hot cider or spiced wine while you shop and enjoy some music. Markets that had to pause the party during the pandemic are roaring back to life and ready to celebrate!We’ve visited markets in Bratislava, Budapest, Prague, Vienna, Rome, and Barcelona. and each one has a unique flavor. Come hungry as most have a variety of meals and desserts to sample; be sure to leave a little extra room in your luggage to bring home a few gifts.Check the website of the market you’d like to visit for hours of operation and special events, including free concerts and information on vendors.Spend a cozy afternoon in a store, museum, or thrift shopOn any trip, you’re bound to encounter a day or two that’s a little rainy or windy. It’s a great time to take in a museum, some of which are free. Keep an eye on the forecast, and book your ticket for the next day as many people may have the same idea, and tickets could go quickly.Another great rainy-day activity is thrifting. I’ve been able to score some awesome clothing while abroad because there tend to be some unique items that we don’t have in the US. For example, a vintage sportscoat I got from a cool thrift store in Lithuania reminds me of the trip every time I wear it!There are also big brands and unique shops you’ll encounter on your trip, so I like to pack my suitcase about ¾ full to leave room for cool stuff I want to bring home!Your US dollar gets you more right nowFor the first time in 20 years, the US dollar and the euro are at an even exchange rate. If you traveled to Europe 10 years ago, you were getting about .75 euro for every dollar. This means your money will go a little further on your vacation, and you’ll be able to score a good price on pretty much everything from hotel rooms to attraction tickets.Some of our favorite spots in cooler months (and warmer ones too)__The British MuseumLondon, England__Boasting “two million years of history,” this museum has a little bit of everything from around the world. It’s easy to spend more than a day browsing this vast collection. The best part? It’s free! It’s best to claim a free ticket on their [website](https://www.britishmuseum.org/) to ensure you’ll be able to visit on the day and time you’d prefer.__Park GuellBarcelona, Spain__You’ll hear the name Antoni Gaudi a lot during your visit to Barcelona, and one of his most famous creations is Park Guell. One of the most iconic views of the city can be enjoyed here. You can use a book or website like [this](https://www.frommers.com/slideshows/819148-barcelona-walking-tour-gaudi-s-parc-guell) to know what you’re seeing, or do what we do and book a “free” walking tour with a guide. You pay whatever you think the tour was worth as a tip at the end. Well worth it!__Palais des PapesAvignon, France__Just a short train ride from Lyon, France (check [Air Canada](https://www.aircanada.com/us/en/aco/home.html) for good flights), the town of Avignon in southern France is charming and full of history and amazing views. This palace is one of the biggest gothic buildings in Europe and is absolutely jaw dropping. We’ve visited in lateNovember, and the fall colors are amazing with very few crowds. Avignon is also a great starting point for [guided tours](http://www.time4provence.com/home) of Provence.What to packYou’ll need a few more layers for this trip. But it doesn’t mean you need to bring three suitcases along for the journey! A few essentials we like to take along:A “squishable” coat (that doubles as a travel pillow)You’ll want to keep warm but not have a coat so bulky it requires its own piece of luggage. My favorite is a lightweight, down filled, “puffy coat” that packs into a small bag and attaches to my backpack. The best part is that when it’s in the included bag, it makes a really nice pillow for planes and train rides and saves me from having to carry one of those giant donut pillows. Make sure it has zippered pockets to help keep your stuff from sliding out. Bonus points if it’s also waterproof.Travel power adapterMost of your electronics, including your phone, will work across Europe. However, you’ll need to bring along an adapter since the wall plug will be different than the ones we use here. [Here’s a handy guide](https://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/guidance/advice-for-you/when-travelling/travel-adaptors/) for which ones you’ll need depending on the country you’re visiting. I like to use an adapter that’s small with interchangeable plugs, which is helpful if you have multiple countries on your itinerary.Comfortable shoesYou’ll likely be doing more walking than you would in a typical day at home. Forgo the fashionable kicks and opt for comfy shoes that have been worn and broken in well ahead of your trip. If you’re able, bring an extra pair of shoes in case you encounter rain; you’ll avoid having to slip your feet into soaked soles for your next day of adventures.Google Translate appMost people in major tourist cities speak English. There may be some instances where you see an interesting sign or a menu item, and an English translation isn’t available. Make sure you download the free [Google Translate](https://translate.google.com/) app. It’s pretty powerful and can even translate words that appear in pictures in real-time. It provides instant translations across nearly every language, including an offline option to avoid using data.International data/voice phone planSpeaking of phone data, you’ll probably want to use some while you’re on your trip. Be sure to get with your wireless company either online or on the phone before your trip to add on an international phone plan while you’re away. For a daily or monthly additional fee, you’ll have the ability to send and receive photos, texts, and calls just like you would if you were at home.For the best flights at the lowest price, keep an eye on my Deals page. I’m always searching for low fares to my favorite European cities!Don’t forget, [Delta’s](https://www.delta.com/) non-stop flight to Paris from CVG leaves on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. It’s a great value, especially when you book in advance, and you can connect to many destinations across Europe through CDG. My favorite part: you can relax and fall asleep on board after leaving Cincinnati and wake up in Paris in the morning!Got a favorite European destination I should check out? I’d love to hear all about it. You can reach me at @JayKruzOfficial on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.I’ll see you on a museum bench in Barcelona this winter!-Jay

Three big reasons you should book your next vacation… yesterday!My wife, bosses, and every teacher I’ve ever had have all politely pointed out one personality trait I possess: If a task is not interesting to me at that very moment, I’m definitely going to put it off.Fellow procrastinators unite! In this edition of Jet with Jay, I want to provide the motivation you need to book your next vacation tonight. (Spoiler alert: it’s going to save you a bunch of money too!)This is especially important since the holidays are coming up fast, and flight prices generally rise around heavier travel times like Thanksgiving, Chanukah, Christmas, Boxing Day, Kwanzaa, and New Year’s Eve.So why should you book early?Reason #1: It’s less stressful.For some people (like us), we have no problem being on vacation in a city in Europe and not having hotel reservations booked in the next city we’re going to until the night before.For others, especially those traveling with families or larger groups, it can cause headaches, arguments, and time wasted when everyone can’t agree on the next place to visit.Planning ahead also allows you to potentially get better seats to events, concerts, and shows. You may be able to tour a castle or ride a zip line that is sold out on the day you decided to make last-minute plans. Advance reservations are often required at high-end or very popular restaurants. It also prevents you from sleeping in your car at a grocery store parking lot for the night because every hotel you called when you arrived in town at the last minute was booked up for an off-road rally. (True story.)Pure and simple, planning ahead is usually a stress-saver.Reason #2: It can save you cash… sometimes a lot of cash!We’ve booked plane tickets nine months ahead of a trip and also locked in a last-minute deal the night before. Is there a right or wrong way? Nope!The reason we booked the tickets nine months out was that we found excellent flight deals for both a Thanksgiving and Christmas trip while searching for flights for a late spring trip. While it’s a little hard to get in the holiday spirit in the hot summer we’ve had, booking November and December travel now can sometimes save your family hundreds or even thousands of dollars.If you’re considering visiting a popular holiday tourist spot like New York City or Florida, you should book sooner than later. Those flights can fill up fast and end up costing you more.Pure and simple, planning ahead is usually a stress-saver.Reason #3: You get 24 hours to change your mindA fellow travel enthusiast named Cameron offered a suggestion a decade ago as I was debating if I should book a trip: “when you see a low fare that you know is a great deal, buy it now!”It’s good advice and so true. It’s easy to spend a lot of time figuring out how to save the most money on flights—or debating if the fare might drop later—or if you can get time off work for that vacation.But here’s something many people don’t know. If you change your mind and don’t want to keep that reservation, [Federal law](https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/notice-24hour-reservation) allows you to get a 100% refund as long as you cancel within 24 hours.So how do you find those really great deals?Here are some of the best ways I’ve found low fares.- Some people like to manually check airline websites daily. This is the most basic but can also be the most time consuming method. You may also miss out on hearing about a new deal if you forget to check back often.- Use a booking site that compares multiple airlines on the dates and times you want to travel. Or pick a month or time frame you’d like to travel and find the best price available. [Google Flights](https://www.google.com/travel/flights) is my personal favorite.- Get alerts on your favorite booking site so you know when fares drop. If you have a Google or Gmail account already, [Google Flights](https://www.google.com/travel/flights) has a great fare notification tool.Subscribe to promotional emails from every airline and travel company that departs from CVG. If you find your inbox is getting a bit overwhelmed, create a separate folder in your email box and direct all of the messages to it.- [Alaska Air](https://www.alaskaair.com/) Yes, they fly to Alaska, but their non-stop service to Seattle often goes on sale.- [Air Canada](https://www.aircanada.com/us/en/aco/home.html) Not just for trips to Canada, we’ve also scored great deals for European flights as well.- [Allegiant](https://www.allegiantair.com/) It’s the trusty friend who gets you where you need to go without all the frills.- [American](https://www.aa.com/homePage.do) Their emails will give you heads up about non-airline reward partners as well.- [Delta](https://www.delta.com/) Keep an eye out for flight deals and extra benefits when you join their SkyMiles program.- [Frontier](https://www.flyfrontier.com/) They often have some of the best prices and most fun names for their flash sales.- [Southwest](https://www.southwest.com/) Southwest doesn’t appear in Google Flight searches, so it’s a good way to learn about their deals.- [Sun Country](https://www.suncountry.com/) If you need to get to Minneapolis or surrounding states, keep an eye on them.- [United](https://www.united.com/) It’s great for both domestic and international travel. They also codeshare with many airlines. (We’ve booked with United and had a wonderful codeshare flight on Lufthansa.)- [Viva Aerobus](https://www.vivaaerobus.com/en-us/) Viva is offering awesome deals to Mexico with or without a vacation package!- Don’t forget to keep an eye on [Vacation Express](https://www.vacationexpress.com/) and [Apple Vacations](https://www.applevacations.com/) for really good all-inclusive options.By the way, my absolute favorite flight from CVG is back!Non-stop Delta Air Lines service to Paris lets you depart CVG around 6pm, have a nice dinner on-board, watch a movie, have a quick snooze, and wake up in Paris the next morning! It is currently running three times per week with flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.How do you find great deals on flights? Share your tips! I’m at @JayKruzOfficial on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.I’ll see you in flip-flops… in December!-Jay

My wife and I are pretty seasoned travelers. We could probably pack for a trip in our sleep. But when player three entered the game, packing for us plus a ten-month old has become an adventure in itself!So in this installment of Jet with Jay, I’m looking to parents who have survived (and thrived) while on vacation. These high-flying families have helped us put together the stuff that’ll help save your sanity when traveling with kids.I reached out to travel pro Nedra McDaniel, aka Adventure Mom, who has been traveling with her family for nearly two decades.Jay: As a pretty seasoned traveler, I thought I knew everything I needed for a trip and could pack in my sleep. But as a new dad, it feels a bit stressful to make sure I have everything for a trip with our son. Any advice to make packing easier?Nedra: I would make a list of the essentials that you use everyday. What’s “essential” will change and evolve as your child grows.Use a backpack to keep your hands free. Try to group similar items in smaller bags within the backpack to find them quicker. Baby wipes and hand sanitizer are a must for any age. Snacks and special treats, including lollipops, can help as a reward or to help keep them quiet.Don’t forget your child’s favorite soothing/comfort items. Have backups just in case—multiple pacifiers, stuffed animals, etc.Noise-canceling headphones and a device that already has movies, shows, and games downloaded are also helpful. If your toddler is a wanderer, an anti-lost wrist link is essential.What is the one item every parent should take with them on a trip?Flexibility and realistic expectations.Be prepared to have to adapt when traveling with kids. Some situations with travel are out of your control. (Delayed flight, weather disruptions, someone gets sick, etc.) Also be mentally prepared for meltdowns, sibling bickering, and drama if you are traveling with kids. Sometimes parents need a time out more than their kids.Just remember a vacation is with a spouse; a trip is with your kids. You might not get to do or see everything you originally wanted to during your trip if your itinerary is packed without any wiggle room.Each kid is very different in personality and temperament, which can throw a curveball when one kid wants to do one thing and the other one wants to do something else.Ultimately you are in charge of your attitude and your effort. Your kids will pick up how you respond to disappointments so be flexible and have realistic expectations.That’s great advice! When you’re planning a trip, how do you find the best family-friendly things to do on a vacation?I search on social media and read articles about destinations, then I make notes on my phone to keep it all together.I also look to travel writers and local CVB’s (Convention and Visitors Bureau) as a wealth of information.What’s your favorite destination for families?Our favorite place to visit is one we haven’t been to yet because we like to experience new destinations. We enjoy the outdoors but also love to experience different cities.For example, on one of our trips, we flew to Las Vegas during spring break and enjoyed the city for a few days at the beginning and end of the trip. During the week, we visited three National Parks along with several other outdoor attractions.If you don’t want to rent a car, choose cities with a good public transit system from the airport or a hotel with shuttle service.Your favorite place to vacation may change over the years depending on your vacation style and age of your kids.How do you make plane rides hassle-free when flying with kids?Preparation is key. The more prepared you are with a variety of distractions, the easier it is to pivot when something comes up.The more you travel with your child(ren), the more you’ll learn what works and what doesn’t. Self-awareness is also important. People understand that babies cry and that toddlers wiggle, but be mindful of how they can impact the travelers around you.Don’t let your kid continue to kick the seat in front of them if you see it happening. A smile and apology goes a long way, and most people are empathetic and want to help when they see a parent struggling.Regardless of whether or not everything goes as planned or lives up to your expectations, spending time with the people you love and making memories together at any age is priceless.Well said, Nedra. Thanks so much! We’ll be sure to keep an eye on your Instagram and your website for more travel inspiration!Inspired by Nedra’s pro packing tips and thanks to Jet with Jay readers, we’ve compiled a list of 14 items you might want to consider when packing for your next trip.1. Snacks and GumMuch like adults, there’s no greater way to help ensure a smooth (and silent) flight for your kids like a tasty treat. While it’s always fun to try new things, be sure to pick some familiar snacks that are guaranteed hits with your family. Jenny S. and Carrie M. both suggest lollipops as a way to keep everyone smiling. Multiple moms have stressed the importance of having gum to help little ears adjust during takeoff and landing. When offering your child gum, chew a piece as well, and explain to your child why their ears might have a funny feeling and that it’ll go away pretty quickly. Don’t forget to have a napkin or wrapper on hand when the gum-chewing has finished!2. First Aid KitMom-of-two, Deana S., suggested this, and the experts agree. Having a small kit that includes basics like band-aids, alcohol pads, tweezers, ibuprofen, and Tylenol can help soothe unexpected boo-boos and keep a trip on-track.3. Layered Clothes (and a change of clothes)Kimberly T. says a sweatshirt is a must for any plane ride to make sure your little one is comfortable when the air conditioning kicks in. It’s also great to dress them in layers in case they become too warm during the flight. Mom-of-two, Angie H., suggests a change of clothes for your child and you as well to combat any spills that might happen along the way.4. WipesA number of parents, including Andrea F., say you can never have too many wipes. Sanitizing wipes will help disinfect tray tables and arm rests but shouldn’t be used on skin. Baby wipes will likely be in your carry-on if you have a small child but can be great to have on hand for older kids and even adults to help with in-flight messes.5. In-Flight EntertainmentOn some flights, you may have seat-back entertainment, which will likely include shows tailored for children. Don’t forget to bring along headphones with a ⅛” mini adapter. On flights that do not offer in-flight choices, Sari Z. uses age-appropriate activities to keep her daughter occupied. Coloring books, games, mess-free markers, and small toys are great choices. Dad-of-two, Michael A., suggests downloading plenty of cartoons and games onto a tablet.6. Noise-Canceling HeadphonesMultiple parents shout about the benefits of noise-canceling headphones for kids. These special headphones use tiny microphones to listen to the actual noises around you and pump in frequencies to drown out unwanted sound. They can be a great way to calm down fussy flyers and reduce anxiety in both children and adults. Be sure to look for active noise canceling, or “ANC,” when purchasing headphones.7. Power StripWant to make friends in the terminal? Stacy L. suggests bringing along a small power strip that will allow you to share a plug while waiting for your flight at the gate. This can be useful in airports with limited outlets, as well as ensuring that your own battery-powered devices have enough juice for the entire flight. For international travel, be sure to use a voltage converter that allows you to swap different plug types at the wall.8. Sound MachineSleeping in an unfamiliar surrounding like a hotel or Airbnb can sometimes be a challenge for little travelers. Aubree D. suggests packing the sound machine. We use a small, inexpensive, rechargeable one for our baby, and it really helps keep him relaxed when it’s nap time. If you forget to pack yours, use your phone to play soothing sounds or noise from a free app or music streaming service. (Just watch out if you have a free version; nothing interrupts a peaceful rest like a loud advertisement!)9. Consider NOT Packing the Pack and Play!Pack-and-plays, strollers, and wagons are great for vacations. But they’re bulky and yet another thing to haul along. Check with your hotel to see if they provide cribs and pack-and-plays. Some places, including Disney resorts, offer multi-day stroller rentals. There are also rental services like Babies Getaway and BabyQuip that will deliver items to your rental property.10. Anti-Lost Wrist LinkAdventure Mom Nedra says, “if your toddler is a wanderer, an anti-lost wrist link is essential.” This simple device is under $15 and consists of two bracelets—one for you and one for your child—that are connected via a coiled tether. For a more high-tech version, GPS-enabled clothing tags are another way to keep tabs while on vacation in unfamiliar or crowded environments.11. Digital CameraOffer your child a digital treasure hunt and provide a list of items they have to snap a photo of on the trip. Looking through the photos together can be a great activity for the plane ride home. Try using a quality, inexpensive waterproof camera with a strap instead of worrying about your kid using a $1,000 phone. Consider using an online photo printing service when you return to turn some of their photos into a blanket or wall art for their room.12. Baby MonitorHow accustomed have we become to knowing our baby’s every move? We discovered it quickly on one of our first trips with our newborn when we forgot to pack a baby monitor. Whether a simple audio monitor or a compact video monitor, the peace of mind from being able to watch your child while enjoying some quiet time on the patio outside is priceless. Some video monitors also utilize apps that will alert you when your child wakes up.13. Ear Plugs and Goodie Bags for NeighborsNo matter how much you plan and how well-behaved your child normally is, there’s always the possibility that the experience of flying might become a bit overwhelming for them. Crying happens. So to help make friends with the people around you, consider bringing along some small goodie bags for your seat mates with a note explaining this is their first flight. Include earplugs and some candy as a peace offering.14. PatienceDad-of-one, Kevin G., says that patience is the most important thing you can pack, especially for first-time little flyers. Make sure to arrive at the airport earlier than normal to allow plenty of time for bathroom breaks, unexpected meltdowns, and time to get to the gate. To help alleviate the fears of nervous new travelers, explain what’s happening around them. Talk about where the luggage goes after you drop it off at check-in. Ask them questions about what a pilot does, or, for older kids, use it as an opportunity to teach them about how planes work.So you’ve arrived at the airport early, you’ve checked your bags, and you’ve got plenty of time to relax before boarding. Nice work! Here are a few places to explore with your family at CVG while you wait:Check out the kid’s play area in concourse B. It’s conveniently located right next to the food court, so you can grab a bite while the kids work out some of that excess energy before your flight.Have food and drinks delivered by a robot! Really! Order and pay online using the website orderatcvg.com. Then your four-wheeled robot friend will show up in just a bit right to your gate! It’s a great way to get food without having to round up the whole family to head to the food court.Sometimes mom and dad need a moment to relax before a flight. If someone in your party is able to keep an eye on the kids, slide on over to Cork and Bottle for a bourbon tasting. https://www.cvgairport.com/detail/cork-n-bottle/concourse-b-14Older kids and adults will appreciate the colorful work of Cincinnati artist Charley Harper in a print gallery near the food court in concourse B.Got a travel tip you’d like to share? I’d love to hear it! Find me at @JayKruzOfficial on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.I’ll see you (while balancing a car seat and a carry-on) at the gate!-Jay

I’ve been tracking flight prices from CVG for about a decade, and in that time, I’ve discovered some consistently great places to visit that won’t break the bank.As I put together this list, here’s what I took into consideration.1. How much does it cost to get there?2. Is there cool stuff to do when I get there?3. Can I get there with one stop, or ideally, non-stop?So welcome to Jay’s 2022 Best of the Best Low-Cost Flight Options from CVG!#4 Denver, COAverage Round Trip Sale Price (2020 – 2022 on the Jay’s Deals page)$114, non-stop including one carry-on bagWho flies there:Allegiant, American, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, UnitedWhy I love it:There’s a reason Denver has shown up more than any other city on the Jay’s Deals page…an astonishing 29 times! Prices stay low thanks to competition from six different airlines. It’s a fun trip any time of the year whether you’re into skiing, snowboarding, or just sipping beverages on a mountain. Ski season tends to see slightly higher prices, but good deals are still available. One of the best times to visit if you aren’t into skiing is in May. The temperature is comfortable, there are fewer crowds, and you can score insanely cheap hotel rooms.One Cool Thing to Do:Horseback Riding in the MountainsI’ve mentioned before that one of my favorite Colorado experiences isn’t skiing or brewery related…it’s riding a horse up the side of a mountain! You won’t gallop; instead, you’ll be treated to abundant wildlife, an abandoned mill, and old cemeteries. I’ve had the chance to ride horses on beaches, farms, and fields, and this experience is unlike any other.#3 PeruAverage Round Trip Sale Price (2020 – 2022 on the Jay’s Deals page)$426, one-stop including one carry-on bagWho flies there:American, Delta, UnitedWhy I love it:Exotic food, breathtaking views, and friendly people—what more could you ask for? Anyone who has visited Peru can tell you it’s worth the trip. CVG offers some convenient flight options that help break up the journey into two shorter flights: about 2.5 hours to Miami and then another 5.5 hours to Peru. Spend a few days in Lima and experience the charming neighborhoods and sweeping cliffside views of the ocean. From there, hop on a flight to Cusco and visit the Sacred Valley. You can visit popular bucket-list destination Machu Picchu by hiking a few days or doing what we did and enjoy a scenic train ride.One Cool Thing to Do:[Hike up Huayna Picchu (next to Machu Picchu)](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g294318-d548890-Reviews-Huayna_Picchu-Machu_Picchu_Sacred_Valley_Cusco_Region.html)It’s hard to get a five-star TripAdvisor review on anything, let alone when over 4,200 people have reviewed it. (So you know this is worth it!) Huayna Picchu is the larger mountain that sits in the background of the famous photos you see of Machu Picchu. It’s a moderately difficult climb, so you’ll want a good pair of shoes, but the history and views are something I’ll cherish forever. You’ll need to book your ticket early, as daily entry is capped at 400 visitors.#2 New York City, NYAverage Round Trip Sale Price (2020 – 2022 on the Jay’s Deals page)$132, non-stop including one carry-on bagWho flies there:Allegiant, American, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, UnitedWhy I love it:There’s nothing like The Big Apple, and you can take a bite out of it with your choice of airlines and departure times from CVG. Some days this summer, CVG offers 20 non-stop flights! You can also plan a spring or fall trip and avoid the summer and holiday crowds. There is so much to see, do, and eat. With hotel options ranging from budget accommodations outside of Manhattan, four- and five-star Times Square splurges, and unique Airbnb stays, you can find the right place to spend the evening.One Cool Thing to Do:[Rice to Riches](https://www.ricetoriches.com/collections/todays-flavors)When I lived in Manhattan, there was a place I used to take everyone to because a shop like this is so unique, it could only happen in NYC. For the last two decades, Rice to Riches has served up an amazing dessert experience. Think ice cream parlor, but instead of ice cream, they serve up dozens of different kinds of rice pudding! Each serving comes in a futuristic bowl, and the flavors are incredible. (My favorite is the Rocky Road!)#1 OrlandoAverage Round Trip Sale Price (2020 – 2022 on the Jay’s Deals page)$116, non-stop including one carry-on bagWho flies there:Allegiant, American, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, UnitedWhy I love it:Making over 16 appearances in the past two years on the Jay’s Deals page, Orlando continues to offer consistently low, non-stop airfare from CVG. With six airlines, many offering non-stop flight options, competition for your business is fierce. Orlando is one of America’s most family-friendly destinations, and this flight is also great for first-time flyers at just around two hours. Hotel options are plentiful as well; check out how to save big when booking an Orlando stay.One Cool Thing to Do:[Disney Springs](https://www.disneysprings.com/)This is a must-visit; it’s a terrific way to experience the Disney vibe with $0 admission fee. Eat at one of 65 restaurants, enjoy free live music, and check out over 100 different shops. Parking is easy in the large garage, and there’s plenty of sights to see. Have a beverage at The Boathouse, and enjoy gorgeous views while you watch amphibious cars take a plunge in the lake. Be sure to make reservations for some of the more popular eateries.Do you have a favorite, low-cost destination you’d like to share? I’d love to hear about it. Find me at @JayKruzOfficial on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.-Jay

Three reasons Canada should be your summer vacation destination (and how to pay less to get there!)Depending on which study you read, it’s estimated that around half of Americans have never traveled outside of the U.S. It could be for a number of reasons – fear of not knowing another language, a lack of vacation days, or simply not enough funds (although, keep an eye on my Jay’s Deals page and I’ll show you how to start a European vacation that could be cheaper than a trip to Disney!).Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or still need to get a passport, I want to share a few of my favorite reasons to visit America’s neighbor to the north that, after one visit, will have you coming back again year after year.#1) Toronto is amazing anytime of the year, but summer is perfect!On May 15, Canada’s largest airline and flag carrier, Air Canada, will resume nonstop flights between CVG and Toronto. Flights will operate daily with two flights a day Monday through Saturday and one flight on Sundays. I’ve flown with Air Canada multiple times on this route and always think it’s so cool that you’re in another country in just 90 minutes!Once you land in Toronto, you can use Lyft or Uber just like in the U.S. to get around.Be sure to visit the famous CN Tower which was the tallest structure in the world until 2007 (it’s still the ninth tallest!). Check out some amazing views of the city and Lake Ontario. If you’re feeling brave, you can even hop into a harness and walk around the edge of the Tower in the appropriately-named “Edge Walk.”Spend some time at the St. Lawrence Market, a 150-year-old market with over 200 vendors selling everything from caviar and Portuguese style chicken to exotic honey and natural clothing. I like just wandering around and taking in the sights, sounds, and smells!If the Toronto Blue Jays are in town, take in a baseball game. On my last trip to Toronto, I got to see a game and enjoyed the unique design of the stadium just as much as the game itself. It’s a great rainy-day activity too since the stadium has a giant dome. For a unique hotel stay, book a room at the Marriott City Centre Hotel that has one-of-a-kind rooms inside the stadium that overlook the field!The Hockey Hall of Fame is also a must-visit. I’ve been a couple of times and even if you’re not a massive hockey fan, you’ll appreciate the well-curated exhibits highlighting the history of the sport.Pro Tip: Canada uses the Canadian dollar, and you’ll need to exchange your American currency. Check to see if your credit card company offers a good exchange rate and if they zero out foreign transaction fees. Using a card for purchases can often be the best way to get the best rate and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.#2) Halifax will steal your heart!A few years ago, my wife and I had an opportunity to spend a week visiting friends in Halifax, Nova Scotia. I have to be honest; I didn’t know what to expect and after visiting, the Google search results and tourist website images don’t do it justice! With Air Canada and American Airlines both offering one-stop service, you can be in Halifax in a little over five hours of travel time.For 20 years, Theodore the Tugboat has welcomed visitors to the HarbourBe sure to visit the Halifax Boardwalk. It’s a beautiful stroll along this historic stretch of water. Take in the parks and Halifax Citadel National Historic site on the hill and stop into some of the quaint shops throughout the city. If you’re like me and enjoy a little gaming, there’s a waterfront casino waiting for you.In addition to thousands of acres of wilderness to explore, the Halifax area also has some wonderful day trips, including picturesque Lunenburg and wonderful wineries in Wolfville.Pro Tip: Take one of the whale watching cruises from Lunenburg. You won’t regret it. We saw massive whales surfacing and enjoyed a beautiful sunset cruise. #3) Vancouver is more than just Lululemon and Ryan ReynoldsImagine a city where you can visit the beach and surf in the morning and then hit the slopes on your skis in the afternoon.Really. (Check out this [L.A. Times article](https://www.latimes.com/travel/story/2020-02-14/british-columbia-ski-surf-same-day))Vancouver features incredible natural beauty and remote destinations while also being Canada’s third-largest city with amazing nightlife, shopping, and dining.Even though Vancouver is across the country, getting there is easy with daily one-stop flights from CVG thanks to five different carriers all flying there. Choose from dozens of one-stop flight options on Alaska Airlines, American, Air Canada, Delta, or United. All of that competition is great for me and you because it keeps flight prices low!One of my favorite spots to visit is Gastown, Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood. Named after a guy called “Gassy Jack,” this trendy neighborhood has some really unique bars, hip shops, and cool souvenir spots.Take a stroll around the Vancouver Seawall where natural beauty and city views collide. We enjoyed it even when we visited in December! Also check out Stanley Park, which features 1,000 acres of beautiful open space.If you’re feeling adventurous, cross the Lions Gate Bridge and head up to Cypress Provincial Park, home to Cypress Mountain and that year-round skiing I mentioned. How high up is it? Let’s just say if you head there outside of summer, it’s impossible to reach without a four-wheel drive vehicle and snow chains (mandatory October 1 – April 30). Here’s what it looked like when we attempted it in a two-door sedan during a visit in December:We can’t wrap up on a photo that cold now, can we?Ah, that’s better. A few other important things to know as we hit the busy summer travel season (June is projected to be especially busy!):1. Make sure to arrive to the airport at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure time.A lot of people ask why airports tell people to get there so early. And it’s a valid question. I’ll admit, I have pushed my luck in the past and barely made it to my gate before they close the door. But the truth is, you’ll need to allow time for checking in bags, getting your boarding pass, allowing time to get through security, and travel time from security to your gate. And most airlines close the boarding door 15 minutes before the departure time. So, add all of that up (plus time to park if someone isn’t dropping you off), and it’s way less stressful to show up a little early! Two hours prior for domestic flights. Three hours for international.2. Save time and carry-on your bag.I’ve stressed this in previous Jet with Jay articles, but it can really save you time and stress if you can reduce the amount of stuff you take with you on your trip and use a carry-on size piece of luggage. By bringing a bag with you through security and getting your boarding pass on your phone or printing it at home, you can avoid some of the lines, especially during peak travel times. You also get to save time at your destination by skipping the wait at baggage claim.3. For trips to Canada and anywhere else outside the U.S., including most cruises, you’ll need a valid passport.For more information on how to get yours, visit this State Department page to get started. It may seem like a complicated process, but it’s not too bad. Be sure to allow plenty of time before you travel abroad to receive your passport. Expediting processing is available for an additional fee. For last-minute and emergency travel abroad, you’ll need to visit a passport office in person.Enjoy your summer travel! I’d love to see your travel pictures and videos! Tag me @JayKruzOfficial on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter-Jay

Mindy Kershner / CVG Airport / March 16, 2022Cargo development at CVG has increased exponentially over the last several years as DHL and Amazon have grown their hub presence. At the end of 2021, cargo tonnage was up 18% over 2020 and eclipsed 100% growth over the last five years. While most cargo planes and activity including unloading, sorting and reloading takes place on the south end of the airport campus, there’s another side to the cargo business – general cargo activity on the north end with FedEx.The newest entrant is Silk Way West Airlines, operated in conjunction with Crane Worldwide Logistics, who as of today will operate 80 inbound and 80 outbound flights at CVG in 2022, contributing to around 14,400 tons of cargo. Planes arriving from Asia and Europe will land once a week until the summer months, at which time activity will ramp up to two flights a week.CVG’s strong airfield infrastructure, including four runways and apron area to park cargo planes, as well as its proximity to warehouse distribution facilities, made it appealing for the companies to do business. The airport staff worked closely to make connections to secure ground handling arrangements including personnel and equipment. Trego-Dugan Aviation will be providing ground handling support for Silk Way West at CVG.“This has been a great collaboration, and we’ve been happy to assist with coordination, including connecting these companies to local partners,” said Candace McGraw, chief executive officer, CVG Airport. “As we build out this service for additional cargo carriers, we look forward to what’s to come.”