tour trip difference

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English Grammar

TRAVEL - TRIP - JOURNEY - TOUR - VOYAGE

Meaning and use of the words 'trip', 'travel', 'journey', 'tour', and 'voyage'..

The explanation below should help clarify the meaning and use of vocabulary related to travel.

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Difference Between | Descriptive Analysis and Comparisons

Search form, difference between trip and tour.

Key difference : The key difference between the terms ‘trip’ and ‘travel’ is based on their individual definitions wherein the term ‘trip’ is defined as the act of going to another place, for a short period of time, and returning. The term ‘tour’ is defined as the journey from one place to another over a period of days or weeks, generally a holiday.

Often, people find the terms ‘trip’ and ‘tour’ quite confusing because of their similar meanings. Though, the terms are analogous in nature and at times used interchangeably, both ‘trip’ and ‘tour’ are technically different from each other. Thus, this article further signifies the diversity between the two terms.

• A journey or voyage between two points

Thus, from the above definition, the term ‘trip’ can be referred to a short journey from one place to another with intent to return back to the point of origin. Also, trips are considered as short because trip is described as traveling to one place and then returning back to the original place on the same day. For example: the trip to the beach, the trip to the museum, or the trip to the market, etc. Now, in the given examples, the term ‘trip’ used in the sentence indicates the movement of the person and also implies on the visit made by the person. Thus, the term ‘trip’ is also used to define the purpose of the journey made by the person.

On the other hand, according to Dictionary.com, the term ‘tour’ is defined as:

• A traveling around from one place to another
• A long journey including the visiting a number of places in sequence

Based on the above definitions, the differences between the terms ‘trip’ and ‘tour’ are quite easily understandable. And, further differences between the two terms can be read in the table below.

Comparison between Trip and Tour:

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• English Difference Between
• Difference Between Trip and Tour

Difference between Trip and Tour | Trip vs Tour

You might have heard the word ‘trip’ and ‘tour’ used quite frequently but have you ever wondered what these two terms exactly mean? Most students might think that both these terms are the same and can be used interchangeably. But that is not correct. After reading this article, one will understand how or when to use the words ‘trip’ and ‘tour’.

Not only these words, but there are many words in the English Language which students find pretty confusing to comprehend. The main reason for this confusion is most of those words seem like they can be used interchangeably and have the same meanings, but that’s not the case always. This article will highlight the differences between the commonly confused pair of words ‘tour’ and ‘trip’. Let’s have a look at the following points.

Table Summarising the Difference between Trip and Tour

The difference between trip and tour – meanings, examples of trip and tour, trip and tour – conclusion.

This table shows that though ‘trip’ and ‘tour’ are related to travel, they cannot be treated as synonymous, and neither can be used interchangeably. For students who might get confused about how to use these words, this table will help them understand how the words ‘trip’ and ‘tour’ are different from each other. Once they know the difference between these two words, they can use them in the correct contexts.

Most students think the words ‘trip’ and ‘tour’ are the same, but that’s not the case. Both words have entirely different meanings and would be incorrect if used interchangeably. The word ‘trip’ can be used both as a noun and a verb. When the word ‘trip’ is used as a noun, it means a short outing that one takes, especially for pleasure, for example, ‘We went for a trip to the nearby camping site.’ When the word ‘trip’ is used as a verb, it means to slip or stumble upon something, for example, ‘Ram tripped over the carpet and bruised his knees.’ On the other hand, the word ‘tour’ means longer journeys taken to several places/destinations for pleasure or other purposes with certain agendas in mind, for example, ‘Our family takes two tours in a year.’

The following examples will help students understand the words ‘trip’ and ‘tour’ quite clearly:

Trip – i) Seeing the old photos, we took a trip down the memory lane. (noun)

ii) I tripped a lot on the stairs and got hurt when I was younger. (verb)

Tour – i) The teacher asked the students to write about one of their memorable tours . (noun)

ii) The minister toured the play grounds for the basketball team yesterday.

Once students understand the difference between the words ‘trip’ and ‘tour’, they can easily apply them in sentences of their own.

In conclusion, the words ‘trip’ and ‘tour’ can neither be used synonymously nor can be used interchangeably. This article points out the difference between ‘trip’ and ‘tour’ to make it easy for students to put them in sentences. Register with BYJU’S English for more articles on similar topics.

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Understanding the Distinction: Travel, Trip, and Journey Explained

Zackary Hooper

Ever find yourself scratching your head over when to use ‘travel’, ‘trip’, or ‘journey’? Me too. In fact, these terms are commonly misused by even the most well-traveled folks among us.

Table of Contents

As an English language aficionado and travel enthusiast, I dove deep into linguistic resources to clear up this confusion once and for all. This blog will guide you through the nuances of these three words , helping you navigate your way to flawless English usage in any travel context .

Ready for departure?

Key Takeaways

• Travel refers to going to a place, especially far away.
• Trip involves traveling from one place to another, usually for a short period of time.
• Journey implies traveling from one place to another without necessarily returning.
• Proper usage of these terms is essential in effectively conveying our experiences.

Definition and Differences between Travel, Trip, and Journey

Travel is a verb that means going to a place, especially far away, while trip refers to the process of traveling from one place to another, usually for a short time. Journey, on the other hand, implies traveling from one place to another without necessarily returning.

Travel as a verb meaning to go to a place, especially far away

Travel, as a verb, emphasizes the act of moving from one location to another. This movement often involves significant distance between the two points. For instance, you might say you are traveling to Europe or Asia from America – places that are undoubtedly quite far from each other.

Notably, travel doesn’t always require a return trip; it merely notes the action of going somewhere far . Even voyages into space can be considered travel! So next time you utter “I love to travel,” note that this phrase speaks volumes about your passion for exploring distant destinations and embracing new experiences on a broader geographic scale .

Trip as the process of traveling from one place to another, usually for a short time

When we talk about a trip, we’re referring to the act of traveling from one place to another. It’s usually for a short period of time and involves moving between different locations .

Think of it as going on a vacation or taking a quick getaway. A trip can be as short as a day or extend over several days, but it generally doesn’t involve staying in one place for an extended period.

So whether you’re heading out on a road trip with friends or catching a flight to explore new cities, remember that a trip is all about the process of getting from point A to point B , enjoying the journey along the way.

Journey as traveling from one place to another, not necessarily returning

A journey is all about the experience of traveling from one place to another, without the expectation of returning . It can be a long and exciting adventure, with multiple destinations along the way.

Unlike a trip or travel, which often involves going somewhere and then coming back, a journey implies forward movement and exploration . It’s like embarking on a voyage of discovery, where you’re eager to see what lies ahead and open to new experiences.

Whether it’s backpacking through Europe or sailing around the world, a journey offers endless possibilities for exploration and self-discovery .

Common Uses and Examples of Travel, Trip, and Journey

– Travel: “I love traveling to different countries , experiencing new cultures and exploring exotic destinations.

– Trip: “We took a weekend trip to the beach, enjoying sun-kissed days and relaxing by the seaside.”

– Journey: “His journey across the desert was filled with challenges and self-discovery as he embarked on a soul-searching adventure.”

Travel: “I love to travel to different countries.”

I absolutely adore exploring different countries . Experiencing new cultures, trying unique cuisines , and immersing myself in unfamiliar landscapes is what makes travel so thrilling for me.

Whether it’s wandering through ancient ruins in Greece or hiking through the vibrant jungles of Costa Rica, I find immense joy in venturing beyond my comfort zone and discovering all that the world has to offer.

Travel opens my eyes to different perspectives and allows me to create lasting memories that I cherish forever.

Trip: “We went on a business trip to New York.”

Last week, I had the opportunity to go on a business trip to New York . It was an exciting experience that allowed me to explore the bustling city and meet with important clients . During the trip, we visited various companies , attended conferences , and even had some time to enjoy the sights and sounds of New York.

Being able to immerse myself in a different environment for a short period of time was both refreshing and educational. Overall, it was a successful trip that helped us strengthen our professional relationships and achieve our business goals.

Journey: “His journey around the world took him three years.”

I embarked on a three-year journey around the world, exploring new cultures and experiencing incredible adventures along the way. From bustling cities to remote villages, my journey allowed me to immerse myself in different landscapes and meet fascinating people from all walks of life.

It was a transformative experience that broadened my horizons and shaped my perspective on the world.

Clarifying Misuses of Travel, Trip, and Journey

Many people mistakenly use the term “travel” for short distances, but it should be reserved for going to faraway places. To understand the proper usage of these words, read on!

Incorrect uses of travel: “He traveled to the grocery store.”

Using the word “travel” to describe a short trip to the grocery store is incorrect. Travel usually refers to going to a distant place, especially far away. So, it’s important to use this term appropriately and not for everyday local trips like grocery stores.

Proper uses of the terms: “I traveled to Europe.”

I traveled to Europe for my summer vacation. It was an exciting travel experience filled with new cultures, delicious food, and breathtaking sights. The proper use of the term “travel” in this context refers to going somewhere far away , especially to a different country or continent .

In this case, I embarked on an adventure from my home country to Europe, immersing myself in each destination’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere. Traveling to Europe broadened my horizons and created memories that will last a lifetime.

Understanding the Nuances between Travel, Trip, and Journey

Travel, trip, and journey may seem similar, but they each have their own nuances. Read on to delve deeper into the distinctions between these terms and how to use them correctly in your everyday conversations.

Travel focuses on the action of going to a distant place.

Travel allows us to embark on exciting journeys to faraway destinations. It is the act of physically moving from one place to another , often to distant locations . Whether it’s exploring a new country , immersing ourselves in different cultures , or experiencing thrilling adventures , travel is all about the exhilarating action of venturing beyond our comfort zones .

So pack your bags and get ready for an incredible journey filled with unforgettable experiences!

Trip emphasizes the process of traveling and staying in a place.

A trip is all about the journey itself and the experience of being in a specific place . It focuses on the process of traveling from one location to another, while also emphasizing the time spent staying in that particular place.

Whether you’re taking a short weekend trip to a nearby city or embarking on a week-long vacation, a trip is about immersing yourself in new surroundings and enjoying everything that destination has to offer.

Journey implies a longer and more significant travel experience.

When embarking on a journey, you can expect a more extensive and meaningful travel experience . Unlike a simple trip or travel, a journey often involves exploring multiple destinations or pursuing a specific purpose .

It encompasses the idea of venturing into the unknown and embracing new challenges along the way. Whether it’s an epic road trip across several countries or a spiritual pilgrimage to sacred sites, a journey offers an opportunity for personal growth and transformation .

It allows you to immerse yourself in different cultures , navigate unfamiliar terrain, and create lasting memories. So if you’re seeking an adventure that goes beyond mere transportation from point A to point B, set out on a journey that will take you further and leave an indelible mark on your soul.

Conclusion and Importance of Using the Correct Terms

Understanding the distinctions between travel , trip, and journey is crucial in accurately conveying our experiences . By using these terms correctly, we can communicate more effectively and avoid confusion .

So whether we’re embarking on a short trip or a life-changing journey , let’s remember to use the right words to describe our adventures ! Keep exploring and keep traveling!

1. What is the difference between travel, trip, and journey?

Travel refers to the act of going from one place to another, while a trip is a specific instance of traveling for a particular purpose or destination. A journey, on the other hand, implies a longer and more meaningful experience that may involve personal growth or transformation.

2. Can you give examples of each term – travel, trip, and journey?

Sure! Travel can include activities like flying to a different country or taking a road trip across states. A trip could be going on vacation to Disneyland or visiting family over the holidays. And a journey might involve backpacking through Europe for several months or embarking on a spiritual retreat.

3. Is there any overlap between these terms?

Yes, there can be some overlap between these terms depending on context. For example, someone’s “trip” may also be considered their “journey” if it involves self-discovery or exploration. Similarly, long-term travel experiences may encompass both the notions of “travel” and “journey.”

4. How does understanding the distinction between these terms help in communication?

Understanding the distinction between travel, trip, and journey helps in effective communication as it allows us to accurately describe our experiences and intentions when discussing our travels with others. It provides clarity and avoids confusion by using appropriate terminology when sharing stories or making plans involving different types of travel experiences.

About the author

I’ve been fortunate to visit over fifty countries, each journey leaving a unique footprint on my life’s map. From bustling cities to serene nature trails, I’ve immersed myself in different cultures and experiences, constantly broadening my understanding of the world. On this site, I share my travel stories, tips, and insights, hoping to inspire others to embark on their own journeys. Join me as we uncover the beauty of our planet, one adventure at a time. Please reach out here if you need to get in touch.

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Vocabulary: Differences between travel, journey, trip, voyage and tour

Published 29/07/2015 In Blog

The Summer holidays are around the corner so it is definitely a good time to post an article on my blog explaining the difference between all these words. 

Travel, journey, trip, voyage and tour can be easily confused by all those students learning English, so below are clear explanations of how to use the 5 terms: 

*Verbs: Louise travels a lot for work *Nouns: Travel the way you wish to go

learn english online voyage journey travel trip tour online english course learn english on skype differences between voyage journey travel trip and tour English grammar

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Home » Language » English Language » Words and Meanings » Difference Between Trip and Tour

Difference Between Trip and Tour

Main difference – trip vs tour.

Trip – Meaning and Usage

In simple words, trip is a journey in which you go somewhere, usually for a short time, and come back again. It is a short journey taken for a particular purpose such as business or pleasure. A trip can also be a journey of one day. The word trip is often used as a noun. The following model sentences will help you to understand the usage of this word better.

Have a safe trip!

He went to China on a business trip.

Her eldest daughter Tammy went on a school trip.

Our trip to Las Vegas had to be postponed due to her accident.

My father promised us a trip to the zoo.

When did you get back from your trip?

Mr. McCarthy is away on a business trip and won’t be back until next Monday.

We are planning a trip to Nevada next summer.

Tour – Meaning and Usage

A tour is a journey for pleasure in which several different places are visited. It can also refer to a visit to a place or area where you look around the place or area and learn about it.

Tour can also refer to a planned visit to several places in a country or area made for a special purpose, such as one made by a sports team, or group of performers. 

The word tour can be used as a noun and verb. The following sentences will help you to understand the usage of this word more clearly.

The students were given a tour of the White House.

They went on a guided tour of the museum.

Thirteen Indian folk singers are touring Australia to promote Indian culture.

The highlights of the president’s tour of Pakistan will be telecasted at 8.30 pm.

The Indian cricket team is on tour in Australia.

The defense minister toured the military bases yesterday.

Trip is a short journey taken for a particular purpose such as business or pleasure.

Tour is a journey for pleasure in which several different places are visited.

Grammatical Category

Trip is used as a noun.

Tour can be used as a noun and verb.

Places Visited

Trip does not imply that different places are visited.

Tour implies that several places have been visited.

About the Author: Hasa

Hasanthi is a seasoned content writer and editor with over 8 years of experience. Armed with a BA degree in English and a knack for digital marketing, she explores her passions for literature, history, culture, and food through her engaging and informative writing.

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Trip vs Tour: Understanding Travel Experiences

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The Difference Between a Trip and a Tour: Unlocking Unique Travel Experiences

When it comes to exploring new destinations, there are countless ways to embark on an unforgettable journey. Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or planning your very first adventure, you might have come across the terms “trip” and “tour” interchangeably. While they both involve travel, the difference between a trip and a tour lies in the unique experiences they offer . To truly make the most of your upcoming escapades, it’s important to understand the distinction between these two options. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of travel experiences and explore how you can curate your own remarkable adventures.

Understanding the Essence of a Trip

A trip is often synonymous with an individual or personal journey. It’s a chance for you to break free from the ordinary routines of life and immerse yourself in new surroundings. With a trip, you have the freedom to chart your own path, set your own pace, and follow your own interests. Whether you’re backpacking through ancient ruins, indulging in culinary delights, or simply relaxing on a picturesque beach, a trip is all about personal exploration and discovery.

Unlike a tour, which tends to have a more structured itinerary, a trip allows you to embrace spontaneity and serendipity. It’s an opportunity to surrender to the unknown, opening yourself up to unexpected encounters and unforgettable moments. The beauty of a trip lies in the freedom to choose your activities, explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, and create your own unique narrative as you traverse the globe.

The Unique Elements of a Tour

A tour , on the other hand, offers a curated experience designed by travel professionals. It provides a guided journey where the logistics and arrangements are taken care of, allowing you to focus on immersing yourself in the destination. While a trip offers flexibility, a tour provides structure and convenience.

With a tour, you can join like-minded individuals and embark on a carefully crafted itinerary that highlights the best a destination has to offer. Expert guides lead the way, sharing their knowledge and insights to enhance your understanding of the culture, history, and attractions you encounter. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, a tour ensures that you don’t miss out on any must-see sights.

Moreover, tours often include transportation, accommodations, and meals, providing a seamless and hassle-free experience. This can be especially beneficial if you’re exploring unfamiliar territory or if you prefer a more organized approach to travel. It allows you to sit back, relax, and let the experts handle the logistics while you soak in the wonders of your destination.

Choosing the Right Option for You

Now that we’ve explored the essence of a trip and the unique elements of a tour, you might be wondering which option is best suited for your next adventure. The decision ultimately depends on your personal preferences, travel style, and the type of experience you seek.

If you’re someone who values autonomy, thrives on spontaneity, and enjoys forging your own path, a trip might be the perfect choice. This allows you to have complete control over your itinerary and immerse yourself in the local culture on your terms. You can take detours, embrace unexpected opportunities, and truly make your travel experience a reflection of your own unique personality.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more structured and hassle-free approach, a tour can offer you peace of mind and convenience. With a tour, you can relax and let the experts handle the logistics while you focus on fully enjoying the destination. The guidance of knowledgeable guides and the camaraderie of fellow travelers can also enhance your overall experience and provide valuable insights you might not discover on your own.

Blurring the Lines: Hybrid Experiences

As travel continues to evolve, the lines between trips and tours become increasingly blurred. Today, there are numerous options that combine the freedom of a trip with the convenience of a tour, offering the best of both worlds. These hybrid experiences provide an opportunity to curate a unique travel adventure while still enjoying the benefits of expert guidance and planning.

For instance, you can opt for a small-group tour that allows for flexibility and customization within a structured framework. This allows you to enjoy the camaraderie and guidance of fellow travelers while still having the freedom to shape your own experiences on the journey.

There are also tour operators that offer themed tours, focusing on specific interests such as photography, gastronomy, or adventure sports. These specialized tours provide a curated experience tailored to your passions while connecting you with like-minded individuals who share your enthusiasm.

Ultimately, the choice between a trip and a tour, or even a hybrid experience, depends on your individual preferences and the type of adventure you seek. Whether you’re an independent explorer or a traveler who appreciates the convenience of a guided journey, there are endless possibilities to ensure your travel experience is truly remarkable.

In Conclusion

The world of travel is teeming with exhilarating possibilities, and understanding the difference between a trip and a tour is the first step towards unlocking unique adventures. While a trip offers freedom and personal exploration, a tour provides structure and convenience . By considering your own travel style, preferences, and desired experiences, you can choose the option that best suits your needs. Whether you embark on an independent journey, join a guided tour, or opt for a hybrid experience, the wonders of the world are waiting to be discovered. So pack your bags, embrace the unknown, and let your travel adventure unfold.

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Trip vs. Tour — What's the Difference?

Difference Between Trip and Tour

Table of contents, key differences, compare with definitions, common curiosities, what are common types of trips, is a trip limited to traveling between cities or countries, what is a trip, how is a trip different from a vacation, what is a tour, can a trip be spontaneous and unplanned, are tours always for tourists, can a tour be customized to personal preferences, what are common types of tours, do all tours require a guide, share your discovery.

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Travel vs. Trip vs. Journey

The act of going to another place (often for a short period of time) and returning.

• We took a five-day trip to the Amazon.
• You’re back from vacation! How was your trip ?
• I went on business trips to Switzerland and Germany last month.

Use the verbs “take” and “go on” with trip .

• A round-trip ticket is a ticket for going and coming back.
• A one-way ticket is only for going.

Travel (v.)

Going to another place (in general).

• I really like to travel.
• He travels frequently for work.
• My sister is currently  traveling through South America.

Travel (n.) can be used to describe the act of traveling in general:

• Travel in that region of the country is dangerous.
• World travel gives you a new perspective.

Incorrect uses of travel :

• I bought this shirt on my  travel  to Thailand. I bought this shirt on my  trip  to Thailand.
• I’m planning a travel to the U.S. next year. I’m planning to travel to the U.S. next year. I’m planning a trip to the U.S. next year.

Journey (n.)

One piece of travel (going from one place to another) – usually a long distance.

• The journey takes 3 hours by plane or 28 hours by bus.
• He made the 200-mile journey by bike.
• “A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step” – Lao-tze,  Tao Te Ching

We can also use journey in a more “metaphorical” way to talk about progress in life:

• He has overcome a lot of problems on his spiritual journey.
• My uncle is an alcoholic, but he’s beginning the journey of recovery.

Quiz: Travel, Trip, or Journey

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Clear up your doubts about confusing words… and use English more confidently!

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Travel vs Trip – Difference

What is the difference between Travel and Trip?

These two words frequently confuse learners of English.

A quick explanation that is valid for most situations is the following:

Travel – a verb (the action) Trip – a noun

Susan’s husband isn’t in town at the moment; he is on a business trip . He travels to many different countries. Susan met her husband on a trip to the Bahamas.

Travel – to go from one place to another Trip – a journey that is often for a short period of time.

NOTE: There are some exceptions to the general rule above.

Travel can also be a noun when it refers to the act of traveling.

• Travel is difficult in that part of the country since there are no paved roads.
• Travel broadens your mind.

Sometimes Travel appears in plural form and in that case is normally preceded by a possessive adjective (my travels, his travels etc.)

• She has had many adventures in her travels .
• I have never seen any as strange as that in all of my travels .

Trip can also be a verb though it has a completely different meaning. To Trip – to accidentally stumble and almost fall while walking or running, usually after catching your foot on something.

• He didn’t see the cat and he tripped up.

Trip vs. Journey

A trip usually refers to traveling to a place and returning back to where you started. A journey usually implies traveling from one place to another (not necessarily returning to where you started). It sometimes refers to the length of time taken to go from one place to another.

• They went on a journey through South America that lasted 6 months.
• It is a three-day journey by train.

Some more uses of the word Trip

A day trip usually refers to a tourist activity that occupies your entire day. A business trip is when you travel for business reasons. A round trip means to travel somewhere and return to place of original, there and back (= a return trip)

Summary Chart

What is the best trip you have ever had?

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What is the difference between journey , trip , voyage and excursion ?

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Travel vs. Tourism: What's the Difference?

Key Differences

Comparison chart, economic implication, duration & distance, associated activities, travel and tourism definitions, what is travel, how does tourism differ, what industries support travel, can all travel be considered tourism, how important are travel reviews for tourism, how does tourism benefit a region, is traveling overseas always considered tourism, what factors affect travel choices, why is sustainable tourism important, what's the significance of world tourism day, why do some people prefer solo travel, what's the difference between a tourist and a traveler, is adventure tourism a subset of travel or tourism, can a business trip be considered tourism, how do travel advisories impact tourism, can tourism be local, how has digital technology impacted travel, how does climate impact travel and tourism, are there different types of tourism, how has the covid-19 pandemic affected travel and tourism.

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Difference Between Travel and Tourism

While travel is a transition, tourism is possible when one reaches the ultimate destination. We all love going on trips with our families, friends and close ones. In this context, we use the words travel and tourism quite commonly. Tourism is an industry where businesses provide accommodation, transport and other facilities.

In the fundamental sense, a tourist is a person who sees places, but a traveller is someone who goes to places.

The main objective of travelling is movement, whereas the objective of tourism is for leisure.

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• What are Travellers?
• Who are Travel Agents?

What is Travel?

When you travel, you go for a long trip or journey either solo or with a group of family or friends. One can use different modes of transportation like aeroplanes, trains, cars, buses and ships. It covers both domestic as well as international journeys. Travel increases your knowledge about the world, you experience the culture and traditions of that place, and also you learn what place is about.

Travelling can be for long distance, short distance, domestic, abroad, etc. It may include travelling by different ways like air, road, rail and water.

Who is a Traveller?

A traveller is someone who likes to travel light without any tour package that has a fixed schedule. Travellers believe in packing less and exploring more concepts. On travelling, people try to explore the place themselves. For that, they learn more and more about their culture and history. They also eat local cuisine, find out new places and visit their famous destinations. In other words, travellers blend with the locals. Travellers visit multiple destinations during their journey.

Who is a Travel Agent?

Travel Agent has complete information and knowledge of tourism products and services.

Also Read : Difference Between Economy Class and Business Class

What is Tourism?

In simplest terms, tourism means a travel business which covers all facilities of the service industries that cater to tourists. Tourism companies are responsible for ticket booking, visa clearance, organizing tours, accommodation facilities, transport facilities, etc.

Tourism is an industry that deals with preparing packages for tourists. Now you must be thinking – what is included in tourism? So, friends, tourism covers visiting tourist attractions, having cultural experiences, exploring natural wonders and going to new destinations. Shopping, sightseeing, entertainment, dining out at restaurants, attending cultural events, participating in adventure sports, and experiencing local culture, traditions and cuisines all form part of tourism.

Tourism is for pleasure purposes. It involves a to-and-fro trip. Tourism is a general concept in the sense that a large number of people visit places (near or distant).

Impact of Tourism in the Economy

Tourism is one of the important sectors for many economies that generate income from domestic and foreign tourists. Tourists shop a lot, so it is a source of income for the locals. It also contributes to creating jobs in hospitality industries like hotels, entertainment, transportation and restaurants. Not just this, it also increases employment opportunities for locals.

It also boosts economic growth in the country by bringing foreign money to the country, as foreign tourists spend on goods and services. However, the money is mainly utilized for the upgradation of infrastructure. Also, it takes care of the needs and wishes of the tourists.

Who are Tourists?

Any person who is away from their usual place of residence for a certain period but will return home. They participate in leisure activities. Their visit is temporary, i.e. for a short period only.

Types of Tourism

• Domestic Tourism : When people go for holidays, short trips and day trips within their domestic country. For example , a Supporter of a cricket team going to watch cricket held in another city or a family outing.
• Inbound Tourism : It is a form of international tourism wherein people go abroad from their home country. For Example , A group from the USA is visiting the UK for a trip.
• Outbound Tourism : When people travel to visit international countries for leisure or business from their domestic country. For Example , A family from India is going to UAE on holiday.

Also Read : Difference Between Passport and Visa

Key Differences Between Travel and Tourism

• While ‘travel’ means moving from one place to another, there will be a change in the location, weather and overall environment.
• The term ‘travel’ is a very generic one which is used in our day-to-day lives. As against, ‘tourism’ is used by tour companies, and holiday operators often use the word ‘tourism’.
• A traveller spends time with the local population and ethnic groups. He tries to understand their culture, eats local food, learns the local language, etc. In contrast, a tourist generally spends time with tourist groups. He comes to see their culture, eats different cuisines and prefers speaking English.
• Travelling takes place solo or in small groups. At the same time, the tour takes place in large groups.
• Tourism lays emphasis on having a lifetime experience of exploring new places and destinations. Also, in tourism, a person engages in a diverse culture.
• In tourism, a planned itinerary and specific activity is present in a tour package. However, no planned itinerary and specific activity is present in travel.
• When it comes to food, tourists always go to the restaurants where other tourists eat. But travellers are different; they eat where locals eat.
• Tourists walk slowly, spend time in cafes, and click pictures of the places they visit or the things that attract them. As against, a traveller generally do a research on the places they visit and also checks the routes to get there. When they reach their destination, they like to know the history of that place.
• Travelling takes place suddenly without any plan. But in the case of a tour, there are plans for every day, hour and in fact, moment. Furthermore, travellers can make changes to their plans depending on their needs and moods. But in tourism, people have to stick to their schedules, otherwise they miss the same.
• A traveller seeks to learn the regional language so that he can communicate well with the locals to understand their lifestyle, culture, regional history and many more. Conversely, a tourist uses English as a medium of communication.

What is Ecotourism?

Ecotourism is a responsible and sustainable form of tourism. It focuses on the preservation of the environment and, at the same time, allows the visitors to have an immersive experience.

Tourism is a part of travel. However, all the travel is not tourism. Further, while a traveller is engrossed in the culture, a tourist loves to visit tourist spots at any location.

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Trips vs. Vacations: What’s The Difference Between Trip and Vacation?

Trips vs. vacations is an ongoing debate amongst travelers, however, if you’re wondering if there’s a difference between trips and vacations, I’d say absolutely. Although most of us end up using these terms interchangeably, I differentiate the two as much as possible.

I realized the difference a few years ago when my family and friends would rave (and sometimes complain) about how many “vacations” I was going on a year. I politely clarified that although I travel often for leisure, not every “trip” is a “vacation” and vice versa. Actually, now that I think about it, I don’t take many vacations a year.

Trips vs. Vacations

Table of Contents

What’s the difference between trip and vacation?

My “trip” to ireland, my “vacation” to barbados, final thoughts: vacation vs trip.

So what’s the fundamental difference between a trip and vacation?

The difference is your expectation.

Trips are something that you do and it often has a purpose. On the other hand, vacations are about the experience. What do I mean by this? Well, let’s dive in!

What is a trip?

What do you consider a trip?

My trips are intentional.

On trips, I have an agenda.

I want to see and do something in particular. It usually has a cultural or educational component and I return changed in some way.

During a trip, I put a lot of focus on the outside world and I’m usually out at museums, visiting attractions, chatting with locals and taking guided tours. There’s so much to see and do on a trip.

In other words, on a trip I am extremely active. With that being said, because of this, I usually have very little downtime.

I consider most of my weekend travels to cities like Chicago and Stockholm , “short trips”. These short trips can be anywhere from 2-4 days.

When I drove up to Quebec City to attend a travel blogging conference, that was certainly a trip. I drove 8 hours to the summit, attended the summit and turned back home (I had work the next day). Phew!

Read This Next: 7 Solo Road Trip Tips To Follow

During my first trip to Dublin, Ireland I wanted to experience and embrace as much of the Irish culture as I could.

I booked bus tours to see the Cliffs of Moher, Glendalough and Wicklow County.

I joined a free walking tour of Dublin, visited the Guinness Storehouse and the Irish Whiskey Museum .

Not to mention visiting cultural sites like the Kilmainham Gaol where I learned about the Irish fight for independence – I highly recommend checking out Kilmainham Gaol.

I also partied hard – I joined pub crawls almost every night.

Although I took time off of work to travel to Ireland, this was no vacation. This was a trip.

The most relaxing parts of this trip was when I was having dinner and napping on the bus.

You know the saying, “I need a vacation, from my vacation”, it’s a real thing when you go on trips.

The most important thing to remember when you travel is to know the kind of experience you want.

In Ireland, I wanted to see everything (or as much as I could), so I set my expectations on doing exactly that.

Trips vs. Vacations – would you consider my trip to Ireland a trip or a vacation?

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What is a vacation?

What is considered a vacation?

Vacations are different from trips because vacations are about the experience.

My vacations focus primarily on self-care and wellness. My main concern on a vacation is to relax, recover from the day-to-day grind and be merry.

On a vacation, I have no agenda and generally, I haven’t put a lot of thought into planning things to do.

Since I’m on my own time, I may wake up late or I may wake up early to go on a morning run. It really depends on how I’m feeling.

With that being said, on a vacation, I usually have no set agenda and I’m not stressing out about anything or anyone. When I set my intentions on going on a vacation I don’t even bring my laptop. I leave work at home.

After a vacation I come home with a nice glow, more meat on my bones and no bags underneath my eyes.

My recent trip to Curaçao was certainly a vacation. I decided that I wasn’t going to do any work on my vacation so I didn’t bring my laptop. I put up an out-of-office away message and I booked a hotel that offered free breakfast so I wouldn’t have to search for food in the mornings.

Last year I spent a week vacationing in Barbados and this was one of my first vacations in a long time.

Aside from booking flights and an Airbnb, I did not plan much ahead of time. I only arranged a Barbados snorkeling tour and I left my schedule open so I could go with the flow.

I ate plenty of Bajan fish cakes and yes, I was living my best life.

Vacationing in Barbados was the self-centering experience I needed after a hectic quarter at work.

If I went to Barbados with the same expectation to do as many things as I did in Dublin, I would have had a terrible time.

Trips vs. Vacations – would you consider my vacation to Barbados a trip or vacation?

So what’s the final verdict – trips vs. vacations? Are they the same or are they indeed different?

Everything considered, trips and vacations will mean different things to different people, so I urge you to discover the purpose of your travels.

Why do you want to explore a new destination?

Are you going for the food, the local culture or the attractions. Or are you going to relax, connect with nature or catch up on sleep. No judgment.

This doesn’t mean that trips can’t have a vacation component or vice versa, but the underlying difference when picking one or the other is your expectation and purpose.

To help you figure out if you want to go on a trip or vacation, ask yourself the following questions:

• What do I really want to do during my time off?
• How do I want to feel during and after my trip?
• What makes me happy? How can I do more of that while traveling?
• What do I want to bring home with me, be it cultural understanding, a nice tan or a souvenir from an event?

You might find some overlap between what you define as your perfect trip or vacation and that’s perfectly fine. We all travel differently, however if you want a little bit of both, consider mixing things up by spending some days lounging on the beach and other days exploring attractions.

Remember, it’s your time off, you’ve earned it.

Go out there and spend your free time doing whatever you want. Just decide what kind of experience you want to have before you go – do you want to go on a trip or would you rather go on a vacation?

When you travel do you usually go on a trip or vacation?

Danielle Desir Corbett paid off $63,000 of student loan debt in 4 years, bought a house at 27, and has traveled to 27 countries, including her favorites, Iceland, China, and Bermuda. Go here to learn Danielle’s incredible story, from struggling financially and in debt to finding creative ways to earn more and live on her terms. Listen to The Thought Card Podcast , where Danielle shares how you can creatively travel more and build wealth regardless of your current financial situation. Reach out to Danielle by contacting: thethoughtcard (at) gmail (dot) com.

Vacations vs. trips: it all comes down to perspective. Vacations are for rest and renewal, but trips can be full of discovery, action, and novel experiences. Whichever you choose, they both offer priceless memories and chances for development. Accept every travel for what it has to offer, whether it’s an exciting excursion or a relaxing holiday.

I appreciate the personal touch you bring to your travel experiences, offering insights that go beyond the typical tourist spots.

It’s great that you mentioned that you should spend your free time doing whatever you want whenever you go on a trip or vacation. If you want to take it easy and not participate in too many activities, it could be a good idea to make sure that you are staying in a nice hotel. If you are going to be staying in your hotel a lot, you will want to make sure that it has a relaxing environment.

Your travel tips are great. Enjoying the ride requires keeping them in mind. This year, we plan to travel a lot. thank you for website information

Horse CR$P! The difference between a trip and vacation is kids. When you bring kids it is a trip, no kids is a vacation.

Great post! I love the idea of going on a trip with the goal of being changed in some way.

Great article i have understood the difference between trip and vacation, have you visited Africa before, trekking gorillas in Uganda etc, we will be happy to host you Dimitra

Hi there, I have never been to Uganda. Please feel free to reach out via [email protected] , I would love to explore this possibility.

This was such a wonderful post! Thank you :) I love to travel as well and try to fit it in as much with work!

Hi Danielle, I enjoyed reading your post on trips vs. vacations. Your life sounds like the life I want to live, just can’t figure out how. Congratulations to you!!!

Hi Dimitra is there anything in particular that you’re struggling with? You can absolutely make travel a bigger part of your lifestyle. Feel free to reach out.

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36 Hours in Toronto

By Ingrid K. Williams April 11, 2024

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By Ingrid K. Williams Photographs by Eugen Sakhnenko

Locals may insist (politely, of course) that Toronto doesn’t belong atop any traveler’s wish list, but don’t fall for that Canadian modesty. Proudly multicultural with an outstanding art scene, fantastic food and a patchwork of diverse neighborhoods to explore, this sprawling city — Canada’s most populous — has more to offer than one could possibly digest in a single weekend. But that’s enough time to sample the local smorgasbord, from the many new restaurants and shops to the latest art exhibitions and a newly revitalized landmark theater. Anyone in town for Hot Docs , North America’s biggest documentary festival, which begins on April 25, will find plenty of reasons to roam beyond the downtown core, from the beaches in the east to drinking and dining hotspots that have sprouted in some unexpected places in the west.

Recommendations

• Trillium Park , west of Toronto’s inner harbor, is relatively crowd-free despite having an outstanding view of the downtown skyline.
• Sunny’s Chinese , a popular restaurant hidden inside a mini-mall in the Kensington Market neighborhood, serves fun plates like Hong Kong-style French toast with black-sesame jam.
• The Museum of Contemporary Art Toronto is currently hosting “Greater Toronto Art 2024,” the second installment of its triennial.
• Cry Baby Gallery is an art space with a cocktail bar hidden behind a curtain in the back.
• Massey Hall , a landmark theater, reopened in 2021 after a three-year renovation and modernization project.
• Evergreen Brick Works is a cultural community center with a popular year-round farmers’ market.
• The Gardiner Museum is dedicated to the artistry and craft of ceramics.
• The Philosopher’s Walk winds through the leafy St. George campus of the University of Toronto.
• The Bata Shoe Museum has an unexpectedly fascinating exhibit exploring the history of what we put on our feet.
• The Beach (also called the Beaches), on the eastern edge of the city, is a neighborhood abutting Lake Ontario with sandy shorelines and a wood-plank boardwalk.
• The McMichael Canadian Art Collection is a sprawling gallery surrounded by acres of pristine woodland.
• Zaal Art Gallery has paintings, sculptures and fashion from contemporary Iranian artists.
• Patois is a festive restaurant serving Caribbean-Asian dishes like jerk chicken chow mein.
• Bad Attitude Bread is a plant-based bakery with specialties like vegan Cheddar biscuits with Old Bay seasoning.
• Milky’s , a cool cafe, brews up specialty drinks like a spiced maple syrup latte.
• Taverne Bernhardt’s is a cozy neighborhood bistro featuring local produce and rotisserie-style chicken.
• Bowie , a vibey bar beneath a laundromat, offers great people-watching behind an unmarked entrance.
• Bathurst Local is a laid-back bar with a maze of private karaoke rooms.
• White Lily Diner is an all-day restaurant serving comfort food, with produce supplied by its own Ontario farm.
• Easy Tiger Goods is a sunny boutique that sells cute made-in-Toronto ceramics.
• Issues Magazine Shop stocks rare print titles.
• Etc Home , a home décor shop, sells hand-crocheted coasters, embroidered tote bags and more.
• A solid option downtown, the Ace Hotel opened in 2022 in a newly constructed building designed by the Toronto firm Shim-Sutcliffe Architects. Beyond the lobby framed by soaring concrete arches, the hotel features 123 cozy guest rooms as well as a restaurant and a rooftop lounge. Rooms start at around 499 Canadian dollars, or around $367.
• In the trendy West Queen West area, the Drake Hotel is a longtime favorite for its cultural events, concerts and art-filled interiors. With the addition of a new five-story wing, which opened in 2021, the property now has 51 rooms in addition to a popular lounge, cafe and rooftop terrace. Rooms start at around 360 dollars.
• On vibrant Dundas Street West in Little Portugal is the family-run Ode , which opened in 2021 with eight private guest rooms, each designed in collaboration with a different local artist. Rooms start at 260 dollars.
• Look for a short-term rental in the Trinity-Bellwoods neighborhood, which is surrounded by great restaurants, shops, bars, bakeries, breweries and the popular Trinity Bellwoods Park .
• It's easy to get around Toronto by public transportation — there are subways , buses and streetcars — and on foot . You can also find taxis and use ride-hailing apps , including Lyft and Uber, and there are bike-share stations throughout the city (a day pass is 15 dollars). From Toronto Pearson International Airport, the UP Express train takes 25 minutes to arrive at Union Station downtown. Even closer is Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, a regional hub on the Toronto Islands that is connected to downtown by ferry and a pedestrian tunnel.

Trillium Park

Trillium Park , which opened in 2017 just west of Toronto’s inner harbor, remains relatively uncrowded despite having an outstanding view of the skyline. From Queens Quay West, it’s an easy half-hour walk to the park along the popular Martin Goodman Trail. Or rent a bicycle from one of the many bike-share stations and pedal along the lakeshore. After admiring the view of the iconic CN Tower across the water, head back toward downtown, stopping at nearby Inukshuk Park , with its 30-foot-high Inuit stone formation, and at the Toronto Music Garden, a grassy waterfront park where live performances take place during the summer.

Down the hallway of a nondescript mini-mall, a small handwritten sign on a door indicates you’ve found Sunny’s Chinese . Since opening in the eclectic Kensington Market neighborhood in 2022, this buzzy spot has packed its mint green booths with crowds hankering for a spicy, family-style feast. On a recent visit, highlights included the spinach-and-chrysanthemum-stem salad (12 Canadian dollars, or about $9), fiery dan dan noodles (19 dollars), and what a server said “pays our rent”: the sublime Hong Kong-style French toast layered with black-sesame jam and oolong-infused condensed milk (14 dollars). Couldn’t nab a reservation? Try for a last-minute table at nearby Patois , a festive Caribbean-Asian restaurant with a flaky Jamaican-patty sandwich (12 dollars) and jerk chicken chow mein (27 dollars).

Massey Hall

In 2021, Torontonians applauded the reopening of Massey Hall , a landmark theater, after a three-year renovation and modernization project. For over a century, this downtown concert hall has hosted top international performers, including Charlie Parker, Aretha Franklin, Gordon Lightfoot and Jon Batiste. The revitalized theater is now part of a larger performing arts complex, the Allied Music Centre , with a new music venue and recording studios in an adjacent building. But one thing that hasn’t changed: the famously excellent acoustics. To hear for yourself, check the calendar for upcoming events, which include concerts by the Black Crowes, the indie-rock group Waxahatchee and the Canadian singer-songwriter Bruce Cockburn.

Grange Park, just south of the Art Gallery of Ontario.

Saturday farmers’ market at Evergreen Brick Works

A former quarry and brick factory have been repurposed as Evergreen Brick Works , a cultural community center northeast of downtown. People flock here on Saturdays for the year-round farmers’ market, which reflects the diversity of the city itself. In addition to the usual market stalls — local cheeses, produce, fish, meat and bread — many vendors sell prepared foods that include Persian baklava , Swedish pastries and Tibetan momos (try the beef ones doused with hot sauce; 11.50 dollars for five). Seating is available between the historic brick kilns, but in fair weather, grab your food to go and explore the trails snaking through the surrounding forested ravines.

Many visitors prioritize the best-known museums, but that would mean missing niche standouts like the Gardiner Museum , which specializes in the artistry and craft of ceramics. Inside, explore ancient figures from Mesoamerican cultures and contemporary sculptural vases depicting polar animals by the Inuit ceramicist Roger Aksadjuak (admission, 15 dollars). Afterward, stroll along the Philosopher’s Walk, a nearby path through the leafy St. George campus of the University of Toronto. Then continue to the Bata Shoe Museum , another oft-overlooked institution, where an unexpectedly fascinating, two-floor exhibit traces the history of what we put on our feet (admission, 14 dollars).

Issues Magazine Shop

Little Portugal is packed with quirky independent shops and galleries, many conveniently clustered along Dundas Street West. Start at Easy Tiger Goods , a sunny boutique that sells pastel taper candles and cute made-in-Toronto ceramics. Peruse the rare print titles at Issues Magazine Shop , then shop for hand-crocheted coasters and embroidered tote bags at Etc Home . Consider investing in an artwork at Zaal Art Gallery , a cavernous space that opened last October showcasing paintings, photographs, sculptures and fashion from contemporary Iranian artists. Later, continue farther down the street to Bad Attitude Bread , a vegan bakery, for an Old Bay-seasoned Cheddar-flavored biscuit (5 dollars), and to Milky’s , a cool cafe nearby, for a spiced maple syrup latte (6.50 dollars).

An excellent primer on what’s happening in the city’s art scene is now on display at the Museum of Contemporary Art Toronto , in a former factory building in the Lower Junction Triangle neighborhood. The current exhibition, “Greater Toronto Art 2024,” is the second installment of the museum’s triennial and features a range of artworks, performances and installations, including photographs by the American-born artist June Clark of her adopted home of Toronto in the 1970s and ’80s; a site-specific greenhouse installed by the Brooklyn-based Canadian artist Lotus L. Kang; and a series of sculptural drawings, traced from an heirloom Persian rug, from the Iraqi-born Canadian artist Sukaina Kubba (through July 28; admission, 14 dollars).

Roast chicken and local produce are the winning formula at Taverne Bernhardt’s , a cozy neighborhood bistro on a quiet lane south of Dundas Street West, where date-night couples sip wine at the pewter-topped bar and groups of friends encircle tables along a soft leather banquette. The short seasonal menu recently included tender roasted carrots with herbs and tahini (20 dollars), in addition to the crisp-skinned, rotisserie-style chicken served on a platter with thick-cut fries, coleslaw and pickles, toasted sesame-seed buns, and a side of gravy (37 dollars). And for dessert, there’s a heaping swirl of soft serve in changing flavors, like Earl Grey (14 dollars).

Exploring Toronto’s nightlife could mean ice bathing at Othership , a sociable sauna downtown, or sipping a white stout at Blood Brothers Brewing in the revitalized northwestern warehouse district. But you needn’t venture that far after dinner to find appealing options, if you know where to look. It’s a short walk from Bernhardt’s to Cry Baby Gallery , a white-walled art space where a curtain in the back hides a moody cocktail bar serving spicy mezcal margaritas (the best is the passion-fruit version, 20 dollars). Even closer is Bowie , a vibey, mirrored lounge that opened last year beneath a laundromat. It offers great people-watching and pink Paloma cocktails (16 dollars), and is accessible via an unmarked entrance (down the alley, below the neon bow-tied mouse sign). Later, visit Bathurst Local , where a laid-back bar leads to a maze of private karaoke rooms, each more colorful than the last.

People strolling in the trendy West Queen West area.

The ocean may be hundreds of miles away, but you can still start the day with a walk on the beach. On the east side of the city, an easy streetcar ride from downtown, the neighborhood abutting Lake Ontario is known as the Beaches (or the Beach, depending on whom you ask ) because of its long, sandy shoreline. Head down to the water to join locals walking their dogs through the sand. From the easternmost edge, it’s a leisurely half-hour promenade along the wood-plank boardwalk to Woodbine Beach, the widest stretch of sand lapped by the lake’s calm waves.

When hunger strikes, hop back on the streetcar headed west to the White Lily Diner , an all-day restaurant in the Riverside neighborhood serving its own brand of comfort food. One must-order is the cheesy patty melt, served with poblano relish on house-made bread (23.25 dollars), which comes with a side salad of crisp greens from the restaurant’s own White Lily Farms , northeast of the city. This snug locale has only five counter seats and seven Dijon yellow booths, so there’s often a wait. But I’d happily queue for even a single bite of the fluffy buttermilk griddle cakes with maple syrup (16.25 dollars).

McMichael Canadian Art Collection

Yes, it’s a trek to the McMichael Canadian Art Collection , a sprawling gallery surrounded by acres of pristine woodland, about 17 miles northwest of downtown. But there’s no prettier place to become acquainted with some of Canada’s most influential artists: Tom Thomson and the Group of Seven, a collective of landscape painters who rose to fame in the early 20th century with their romantic depictions of Canadian nature. Admire the rural landscape paintings, including glacial mountains by Lawren Harris and placid lakes by A.J. Casson. Then visit galleries dedicated to contemporary Canadian works, including those by Inuit and First Nations artists, such as the brilliantly colorful paintings of Norval Morrisseau . Not keen on splurging for a car ride? There’s an equally edifying collection of Canadian art — minus the sylvan setting — at the Art Gallery of Ontario downtown (admission to the McMichael, 20 dollars; to the AGO, 30 dollars). (The AGO is temporarily closed because of a workers’ strike.)

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Most Americans have traveled abroad, although differences among demographic groups are large

Americans are gradually returning to international travel, though international travel restrictions remain in place in many countries.

In March 2021 – the most recent month for which data is available – around 3 million American citizens traveled outside of the country. This is shy of the nearly 4 million U.S. citizens who traveled abroad in March 2020 as the coronavirus pandemic unfolded and far below the roughly 8 million who did so in March 2019, according to U.S. Department of Commerce data . But it represents a significant uptick over the low point in the late spring of 2020, when only around 1 million Americans or fewer left the United States. Still, international travel by Americans remains far below pre-pandemic levels.

To provide context for the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on international travel, this post looks at the habits of Americans when it comes to who most frequently goes abroad, as well as those groups in the U.S. who have been less likely to do so. To do this, we analyzed I-92 data from the International Air Travel Statistics Program at the U.S. Department of Commerce. This data includes all flights in and out of the U.S. and reports the total volume of air traffic as well as the number of U.S. citizens traveling. 

The post also uses findings from a Pew Research Center survey conducted June 14-27, 2021. The survey sampled 10,606 adults who are part of the Center’s American Trends Panel (ATP), an online survey panel that is recruited through national, random sampling of residential addresses. This way nearly all U.S. adults have a chance of selection. The survey is weighted to be representative of the U.S. adult population by gender, race, ethnicity, partisan affiliation, education and other categories. Read more about the ATP’s methodology .

Here are the questions used for the report, along with responses, and its methodology .

Whether before or during the pandemic, international travel is something a 71% majority of U.S. adults have done at some point in their lives, according to a June Pew Research Center survey. By contrast, around a quarter (27%) have not traveled abroad.

Still, the degree to which Americans have traveled around the globe varies widely: 19% have been to only one foreign country, 12% to two countries, 15% to three or four countries, and 14% to five to nine countries. Only 11% of Americans have been to 10 or more countries.

Who travels – and how much – also differs substantially across demographic groups. Income plays a decided role: Almost half (48%) of those earning less than $30,000 a year have not left the country, compared with 28% of those who earn between $30,000 and $79,999 a year and 10% of those earning $80,000 or more. These highest earners are also significantly more likely to have visited multiple countries.

Americans with lower levels of education are much less likely to have traveled widely than those with more schooling. For example, 37% of those with just some college education or less have not left the country, compared with only 7% of those who have graduated college. College graduates are also more likely to have been to multiple countries: A quarter have been to 10 or more countries. 

Women (32%) are more likely than men (22%) to have never traveled outside the country. Men, for their part, are much more likely than women to have been to five or more countries (30% vs. 22%). Still, men and women are equally likely to have been to only one country. 

Black Americans are much less likely to have ever traveled abroad (49%) than White (75%) or Hispanic Americans (73%). White adults are also more likely to have been to five or more countries (30%) than Black (13%) or Hispanic (15%) adults.

When it comes to party affiliation, there are no significant differences in the share of Republicans and Democrats who have traveled internationally or in the number of countries they have visited.

The 64% of Americans who say they are at least somewhat interested in keeping up to date on foreign affairs or foreign policy are much more likely to have traveled abroad at some point in their lives than those who say they have limited or no interest. They are also more likely to have been to many countries. For example, 32% of those who are interested in foreign affairs or foreign policy have been to at least five foreign countries, compared with 14% who are less focused on keeping up to date on foreign affairs.

Note: Here are the questions used for the report, along with responses, and its methodology .

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Laura Silver is an associate director focusing on global attitudes at Pew Research Center

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The Key Differences Between A Passport Card & A Passport Book

• Choose a passport card if you frequently travel by land and sea within Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
• Passport cards are cheaper than a passport book.
• Get both a passport book and a card if you travel by air and land equally.

The US passport book, expressly designed for international travel, accommodates air, sea, or land journeys. This compact, easily portable booklet starts with a page dedicated to the traveler's personal details, such as name, date of birth, and photograph.

Pages are allocated for immigration stamps and visas, which serve as official entry and exit records from different countries. Modern versions of the passport book include an electronic chip to enhance security and facilitate quick processing at borders. This chip contains a digital replica of the information displayed on the personal details page.

The US also offers a passport card for individuals who primarily travel by land or sea to nearby countries, such as Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. This wallet-sized card is a convenient, more compact alternative to the traditional passport book. It's important to note that the passport card cannot be used for air travel; it is specifically designed for land and sea travel.

Both the passport book and the passport card have a validity period of ten years for adults, ensuring travelers can use their documents for numerous trips, making international travel smooth and efficient. Additionally, choosing between a passport book and a passport card—or to obtain both—allows travelers to select the document that best suits their travel needs, preferences, and habits.

5 Exotic Destinations Americans Can Fly To Without A Passport

Which passport should you get: book or card.

Consider your travel habits when deciding between a passport book and a passport card . If you frequently travel by air or have plans to visit countries beyond Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda, a passport book is preferable. However, a passport card might be sufficient for your needs if you primarily travel by land or sea to nearby destinations.

Passport books are more expensive than cards. First-time applicants must pay an application fee and an acceptance fee. The acceptance fee goes to the facility that takes your application, and the application fee goes to the US Department of State.

Passport book cost for first-time applicants

• For adults (16 and older): $165
• For children (15 and under): $135

Passport card cost for first-time applicants

• For adults (16 and older): $65
• For children (15 and under): $50

Acceptance fees are dropped for renewal of both the passport book and card. Travelers can expect to pay $130 to renew an adult passport book and just $30 to renew an adult passport card.

When to get both a passport book and passport card

The passport book is the all-encompassing identifier to carry regardless of where you travel. Having both passport types might be convenient, like if you travel equally by air and land. If you’re visiting Canada or Mexico by car, you might prefer a more compact document for traveling across the border. A passport card for regular land-based trips would be helpful.

Validity and renewal

Both documents are valid for ten years for adults and five years for children. If you already have a passport, you may be eligible to renew it . You can also correct incorrect information or report your lost or stolen passport . The routine processing time for a passport is six to eight weeks.

You can expedite the process, which takes two to three weeks and costs an extra $60. It is essential to consider the time to get a passport when booking travel. It may take up to two weeks for applications to arrive at a passport agency or center, and it may take up to two weeks for you to receive a completed passport after printing.

Requirements for renewing your passport

• Your passport is not damaged.
• You have never reported your passport lost or stolen
• It was issued within the last 15 years.
• It was issued when you were 16 years or older.
• It was published under your current name.

Renew by mail

• Confirm you meet the requirements
• Fill out your renewal form online
• Submit your most recent passport
• Provide a photo
• Calculate fees
• Submit application
• Enroll in email updates for tracking details

Using a passport card for domestic travel:

On May 7, 2025, US travelers must have a REAL ID to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. US passport books and cards are valid forms of ID for domestic air travel, but the card is more convenient to carry. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts the passport card as ID for domestic flights in the United States.

Department Of Homeland Security Extends REAL ID Deadline Another Two Years

When deciding on the best option for your travel documentation, consider the nature of your travel. A passport book is likely the most versatile and universally accepted form of identification and travel document. On the other hand, a passport card could be a more convenient and cost-effective choice if your travels mainly involve crossing borders by land or sea, especially to destinations like Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. The passport card is smaller and easier to carry for day trips or frequent land and sea crossings, but it's important to note that it cannot be used for international air travel.

We travel a lot, and our son attends local classrooms along the way. We noticed primary schools in Europe let kids be kids.

• My husband and I homeschool our son, which allows us to travel. 
• In addition to his homeschooling curriculum, he has attended schools in different countries. 
• We've noticed differences — and similarities — between the schools he attended in Europe and the US.

My son has been homeschooled, essentially, his whole academic life. Because of this, we're able to travel multiple times each month without worrying about him missing school. I am a writer and my husband is a film and TV composer as well as an investor, which also makes this possible.

Not only can we take my son's work with us, but he has also been able to experience schooling in various countries by joining classrooms and homeschool groups throughout our travels. His curriculum is based in the United States, but integrating local schools helps him learn different languages, culture, and of course, make friends.

Because we have spent extended periods of time in Portugal, the Netherlands, and Italy, we have been able to experience how a few schools in these places approach education more intimately. While we've experienced some similarities across the schools he's attended, like classroom size and curriculum structure, we also noticed distinct differences in approach.

School was low-stress in the Netherlands

Where we lived in the Netherlands, children as young as four years old often happily walked themselves to school. The school my son attended in the Netherlands was run like a well-oiled machine, yet they still maintained a playful and innocent atmosphere.

The school administrators were strict about timeliness — I often witnessed that if students arrived even one minute late, they were considered late, with no exceptions. However, discipline for kids was simply a stern talking-to from teachers. Teachers told us that if children had issues with each other, they were expected to sort it amongst themselves, while the adults observed from a distance.

Friends who had kids at other schools in the Netherlands confirmed that this focus on independent conflict resolution with minimal adult intervention was common. Play was the central focus of the day for children until they were about seven years old. The primary focus during those early years was on children learning to coexist with one another rather than academics.

Learning to swim was also a significant focus in the early years in the Netherlands and considered more critical than learning to read by many locals we spoke with. Once compulsory, now only some schools integrate swim classes into the curriculum. Given the numerous canals everywhere, this emphasis is understandable.

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Children at my son's school spent a large portion of their day outdoors, regardless of the weather, which parents said was typical. The Dutch often say, "There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing." At school, my son assisted in preparing daily vegan meals, and occasionally brought home crafts to do.

Friends who had older kids in the Netherlands told me that the homework increased once they hit middle school, where there was more of an emphasis on academics. I truly appreciated this low-stress setting we encountered during our son's primary school years.

We saw more emphasis on collaboration than individual performance in Portugal

In Portugal, there was an emphasis on projects that children completed together to enhance their collaboration skills, and praise was often based on the collaboration itself rather than individual performance.

We noticed that children rarely had packed schedules filled with extracurricular activities like in the US, and often stayed up very late at night with their families, based on our own observations and talking to Portuguese parents.

While I adored the genuinely "crunchy" vibe of the schools my son attended and the kindness of the teachers, I believed our son would benefit from more structure and consistency in his routine . So, for a time, we supplemented even more than our usual load of schoolwork at home to provide more academic consistency during his short stint at a Portuguese school and eventually transitioned to only homeschooling again and met with a homeschool group for field trips.

We noticed less encouragement of competition in Italy than in the US

At the school my son goes to in Italy , it was immediately evident that food and dining is treated as an important part of the school day. Students are given a proper dining experience with formal table settings. The primary schools get a full two-hour break in the middle of the day including lunch and free time, known as riposo , lending to a much longer school day overall.

Football (soccer) is also taken seriously, so most schools we visited have specialized schedules specifically for children who play and perhaps want to pursue it as a career. Participation in the arts, football, and music is encouraged, but football is by far the most popular activity at our school and in our region.

As for the emphasis on the curriculum, so far, it seems far less rigid than in the US. Cognitive and social skills appear to be the primary objectives, rather than a heavy focus on testing. There is almost no encouragement of competition that we witnessed, as collaboration seems to be the focus until middle school.

My son is not yet in middle school, but from what I've heard both in preliminary conversations with schools, open days, and from Facebook groups with other expat parents , it sounds like middle school takes a more rigorous academic approach across Europe. For example, some countries, like Italy, expect children to know their primary focus of study by the time they enter high school, and then are placed in a specialized school program geared towards that interest area. Middle school seems to help form this decision by focusing on more specific subjects like robotics, engineering and anatomy, as they are already expected to know how to work together.

The unifying theme we observed throughout the schools in Europe that our son has attended, regardless of the country, was to allow children to be children and let the serious learning come later. At almost all the schools my son attended or toured, more importance was placed on children's ability to coexist together, work on projects and tasks collaboratively, than on core subjects like math, science, and history in those early years.

Each country had something we cherished and something we had to learn to adjust to. Overall, compared to our group homeschooling experience in the US, I would say that the primary schools in the European cities we joined were far less stressful. The academics seemed to get prioritized more as the kids got older. This makes me really appreciate how the lower grades focused on collaboration and coexistence.

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Screen Rant

Disneyland vs disney world: all differences & which to visit.

Disneyland and Disney World are both great vacation spots, but each resort caters to different types of travelers and trips. Which should you choose?

• Disneyland has two theme parks, while Disney World has four. The latter requires a longer stay to see everything.
• Disneyland is walkable, but Disney World requires visitors to travel via car, monorail, boat, and bus.
• Disneyland is typically slightly cheaper than Disney World, making it a good option for shorter trips or budget-conscious travelers.

There are six Disneyland parks worldwide, and two of them reside in the United States — but while Disneyland California and Walt Disney World Resort have notable similarities, they also have some major differences . Disney's California-based location is the first of its theme parks to open worldwide, but Walt Disney World has caught up in terms of popularity. This might be because the Florida resort is larger than the California one, allowing it to offer more accommodations and attractions.

This doesn't necessarily mean Walt Disney World is better than Disneyland; both locations are worth checking out, and each will appeal to different types of travelers. Whether someone chooses Walt Disney World or Disneyland will largely depend on what they're looking for from their vacation. It's worth learning what makes each resort unique before purchasing tickets to Disneyland or its Florida-based counterpart.

All Disney Castles At Every Disneyland Park

Disneyland has 2 parks & disney world has 4 parks (plus 2 water parks), disney world is larger & better for a longer getaway.

Probably the biggest difference between Disneyland California and Walt Disney World is the size of each resort , as the latter is much larger than its California-based counterpart. According to Travel + Leisure , Disneyland clocks in at around 500 acres, while Walt Disney World Resort is around 25,000 acres. That's a massive difference, and it shows in the number of parks at each location. Disneyland only has two theme parks: Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park . Meanwhile, Walt Disney World has four theme parks on its premises: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom.

This distinction can be helpful when planning a trip to Disney, as visitors will want to choose the location that better suits the amount of time they plan to spend there.

With four parks to cover, Disney World could be the better choice for a longer getaway . The parks at Disneyland California are easy enough to cover in a day or two. However, it's impossible to see all of Disney World in that time. This distinction can be helpful when planning a trip to Disney, as visitors will want to choose the location that better suits the amount of time they plan to spend there. Walt Disney World Resort also features two water parks — Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach — which require additional time to visit. They are great for summer trips, though.

Disneyland Is Walkable, But Walt Disney World Isn't

Walt disney world requires more travel planning.

The size difference between Disneyland and Disney World is important to note, as the latter resort also requires more travel planning. Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park are right next to one another, and they aren't far from the Downtown Disney District and Disney's Anaheim-based hotels. This means that Disneyland is a largely walkable trip , though children, elderly visitors, and people with disabilities may require additional accommodation. While walking all over Disneyland will take time and energy, it's often doable — and that's not the case for Walt Disney World .

The separate parks at Walt Disney World Resort are much further from one another, so visitors will need to plan their travels accordingly. Bringing or renting a car can be a smart choice when visiting Disney World. Of course, the resort also has buses, boats, and monorails that carry guests from one place to another. This takes extra time and must be added to any Disney World itinerary.

Disney World Has More Than 20 Disney Hotels Neary (& Disneyland Only Has 3)

The florida resort offers a wider range of options.

Disney World's larger size also allows the Florida resort to have more official Disney hotels than Disneyland California. Disneyland California has three Disney hotels nearby: the Disneyland Hotel, the Pixar Place Hotel, and the Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. These are all within walking distance of the parks, but they do limit one's choices when it comes to finding connected hotels. With Disney often offering perks through its accommodations, it's always good to find a hotel that falls under its umbrella.

Disney World has more than 20 hotels near its theme parks — and while they aren't necessarily within walking distance, they offer a wider range of themes and price points for visitors to choose from. Hotels like Disney's All-Star Movies Resort and Disney's Art of Animation Resort allow visitors to stay in a connected hotel at a lower price point. Meanwhile, lodgings like the Grand Floridian Hotel & Resort and Disney's Riviera Resort offer the opportunity for a more luxurious, pricier stay.

Disneyland Is Slightly Cheaper Than Disney World

Ticket prices are slightly cheaper & disney world warrants a longer stay.

Disneyland and Disney World are both fairly expensive to visit, but the Florida resort will typically cost visitors more money . Ticket prices for both parks vary depending on the time of year and demand, but as of this writing, a standard one-day ticket to Disneyland starts at about $134 per adult. The equivalent ticket starts at around $149 for Disney World (via Disneyland.com / DisneyWorld.com ). This may not seem like a huge difference, but depending on how many people are visiting and how many days they're staying, it can add up.

There's also the fact that Disney World offers more for guests to see, meaning they'll have to stay longer. While visitors can purchase a one-day park hopper ticket or a two-day ticket for Disneyland, they'll likely need to purchase more days if they want to see all the parks at Walt Disney World . This can make Disneyland better for those on a budget, if only slightly.

Should You Visit Disneyland California Or Walt Disney World Resort?

The resort visitors choose depends on their vacation preferences.

The decision to visit Disneyland California or Walt Disney World comes down to each traveler's preferences , as both parks cater to different types of vacations and guests. Those hoping to travel for a shorter period of time or maintain a budget may prefer Disneyland. It offers many of the same experiences and attractions, but it's possible to cover the parks in a couple of days. It can also save travelers some money, even if it's still on the pricier side of vacations overall. It's certainly better for shorter trips than Disney World, which is impossible to cover over a long weekend.

Travelers looking for longer getaways with more variety may be better off at Walt Disney World , as there are numerous parks and hotels to fill up a long trip. The options alone are much greater at Disney World, and there's more to see over a lengthier period of time. Of course, Disney World also requires more planning and traveling, so anyone looking to avoid the more tedious aspects of vacationing may prefer Disneyland . Diehard Marvel fans may also prefer the California parks, as they contain Avengers Campus.

Source: Travel + Leisure , Disneyland.com

Protect Your Trip »

Royal caribbean vs. carnival: quick comparison chart.

Decide which line is best based on costs, food, onboard entertainment and other key factors.

Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International and Carnival Cruise Line have quite a bit in common.

Trying to choose between Royal Caribbean and Carnival for your next cruise? Check out the comparison chart below, then read on for more details.

Winner: Royal Caribbean

When it comes to fleet size as well as the features available on cruise ships, Royal Caribbean has an edge over Carnival Cruise Line. That's because Royal Caribbean already has 28 ships in operation, including its incredible Oasis Class, Quantum Class and Quantum Ultra Class ships. Oasis Class vessels like Allure of the Seas , Symphony of the Seas , Wonder of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas are some of the largest in the world – and Royal Caribbean Group is constantly rolling out new, even bigger cruise ships with better amenities and new features. For example, the new Icon of the Seas (scheduled to debut in 2024) plans to have the largest water park at sea, the largest swimming pool at sea, and a range of over-the-top cabins and suites for families of all sizes.

Meanwhile, Carnival currently operates 25 different vessels with a few more on the way. Newer ships like Carnival Celebration and Carnival Venezia aren't as large and grand as Royal Caribbean ships, nor are the brand-new vessels the company is planning for late 2023 and 2024. For example, the new Carnival Jubilee that is set to begin sailing later in 2023 will have 15 passenger decks and capacity for up to 6,631 guests, compared to 18 guest decks and 7,600 passengers on Icon of the Seas.

Read: The Largest Cruise Ships in the World

SBW-Photo | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Comparing cabins across cruise lines as a whole isn't an easy feat, mostly because companies tend to offer larger suites and cabins with a better layout on their newer ships . You'll therefore likely have a nicer cabin on one of Carnival's newest vessels compared to an older ship from Royal Caribbean, and of course the opposite is also true. Cabin sizes and layouts also vary widely across the vessels of both brands, and that's true even for basic interior, ocean view and balcony cabins.

That said, Royal Caribbean still comes out ahead in this category, since the line boasts more square footage in some of the most basic cabins as well as more over-the-top luxury accommodations, especially for families.

As an example, most inside cabins on Allure of the Seas feature 172 square feet of space, whereas Carnival Celebration's inside cabins are slightly smaller at 158 square feet. Meanwhile, the largest suites on Celebration are the Carnival Excel Presidential Suite, with 1,120 square feet of space including the balcony, and the Carnival Excel Aft Suite, which has 861 square feet of interior and balcony space. Compare those options to the Sky Loft Suites on Allure of the Seas, which feature 1,132 square feet across the room and balcony, and the spacious two-bedroom AquaTheater Suites with 1,595 square feet including the balcony.

Book a cruise on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Winner: Tie

Food options vary widely across vessels within any cruise brand, and this is especially true with Royal Caribbean and Carnival. For example, older ships from both cruise lines offer fewer specialty dining options overall along with the main dining rooms and buffet options cruisers come to expect, whereas newer ships from both lines feature a lot more unique and innovative options.

When you view the cruise dining options from both lines, you'll quickly find that both Carnival and Royal Caribbean pull out all the stops when it comes to food. For example, Carnival ships include a range of eateries from large and expansive buffets to main dining rooms to unique offerings like Big Chicken, Guy's Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina. Meanwhile, specialty dining on Carnival vessels features options like teppanyaki, Emeril's Bistros at Sea and Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse.

Royal Caribbean ships feature convenient buffets and main dining room experiences, as well as included options like pizza kitchens, noodle bars and casual fast food. Specialty dining on Royal Caribbean ranges from the brand's Chef's Table experience to Johnny Rockets' burgers and shakes to innovative fine dining at Wonderland.

Drink packages

Both Carnival and Royal Caribbean offer drink packages that cruisers can purchase as part of their vacation to get a more all-inclusive feel . Then again, the value of these packages depends on how much you drink over the course of your trip. Also note that the cost of drink packages across all cruise lines can vary depending on the ship, itinerary, travel dates, length of trip and more.

Royal Caribbean comes out slightly ahead in this category because the line offers three tiers of drink packages for guests with different needs. Choose from the Classic Soda Package; the Refreshment Package, which includes soda along with coffees, juices and even milkshakes at Johnny Rockets; and the Deluxe Beverage Package, which adds in beer, cocktails and wine by the glass. Meanwhile, Carnival offers just two different drink packages: the Bottomless Bubbles package, which covers soft drinks and juice, and the Cheers! drink package, which adds in spirits and cocktails, beer, wine by the glass, specialty coffee, energy drinks and more.

Read: Cruise Drink Packages: Your Options by Cruise Line

Onboard activities

Analyzing onboard activities across cruise lines isn't always easy – you really have to break down this category by ship for a true comparison. When you do that with Carnival and Royal Caribbean, you'll find that both lines offer fun activities for all ages, from onboard water parks to hosted games, casinos and more.

That said, Royal Caribbean does take things up a notch in this category, especially on the line's newer ships. Some Royal Caribbean vessels offer escape rooms, surf simulators, zip lines, game shows and over-the-top water parks with incredible slides for thrill-seekers. For example, Freedom of the Seas boasts huge onboard waterslides, glow-in-the-dark laser tag, mini-golf and more. Don't forget about Icon of the Seas with its massive water park and pool offerings in the works. Meanwhile, standout activities on Carnival ships include Family Feud Live, onboard water parks and the thrilling SkyRide.

Compare Royal Caribbean cruises on GoToSea .

Live entertainment

The quality of cruise ship entertainment varies widely based on the quality of the talent booked for individual ships. Both Carnival and Royal Caribbean offer their share of live music and entertainment, including performances by bands and singers, karaoke, and piano bars. Meanwhile, both lines also boast their own theaters on every vessel, which often feature Broadway-style shows, singing and dancing, comedy acts, and more.

Royal Caribbean comes out ahead in this category since its vessels feature award-winning musicals like "Hairspray," "Mamma Mia!" and "Cats." The open-air AquaTheater on Oasis Class ships also wows guests with incredible diving feats, stunts and aerial acrobatics. Some Royal Caribbean ships even have onboard ice skating performances and ice games.

Explore cruise deals on  GoToSea .

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Kids programming

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Winner: Carnival

Both cruise lines have kids clubs that cater to younger guests of all ages, with each one offering supervised care so parents can drop the kids off for some alone time or a quiet dinner on the ship. However, Carnival stands out slightly in this category due to the six different clubs offered across the fleet for children and teens between 6 months and 17 years old. Carnival also offers supervised Night Owls services for kids 11 and younger, which lets parents get out and have some late-night fun for an extra charge.

Royal Caribbean offers four kids clubs for children ages six months to 12, along with a separate club for tweens and teens . Supervised child care is available for free during the day, and you can opt for paid care after hours as well.

Read: The Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

Adults-only offerings

Both cruise lines offer their share of adults-only spaces and things to do, from onboard casinos to luxurious spas to bars that offer cocktails and live entertainment at all hours of the day and night. Carnival and Royal Caribbean also offer adults-only areas on some of their ships.

On Carnival, for example, cruisers will find the Serenity Adults-Only Retreat for sailors 21 and older with extra space and comfortable chairs for relaxation, along with its own bar nearby. On many Royal Caribbean vessels, on the other hand, the onboard Solarium for ages 16-plus has its own pool and extra space to find peace and quiet.

Carnival's Serenity relaxation area is included for guests. While Royal Caribbean's Solarium is typically also included, on certain sailings there is restricted access by fare class.

Read: The Top Adults-Only Cruises

Shore excursions

Getty Images

Shore excursions offered by cruise lines are largely operated by third-party companies and are often the same across brands. Both Carnival and Royal Caribbean boast a broad selection of excursions in destinations around the world, from snorkeling and scuba tours in the Caribbean to city tours, horseback riding, cooking classes and more.

Both cruise lines offer private and custom tours you can book through your ship as well.

Compare cruises on GoToSea .

Private island experiences

Royal Caribbean and Carnival each have their own private island in the Bahamas , which is included in most itineraries to this part of the world. These private islands provide a fun beach escape for families to enjoy, whether you want to relax in the sun or take part in some of the available activities.

Royal Caribbean's private island, called Perfect Day at CocoCay, is the more impressive option due to everything it includes: a heart-thumping water park, its own wave pool, a zip line, a hot air balloon experience and overwater bungalows you can book for the day, among other offerings. Meanwhile, Carnival's Half Moon Cay has a unique beached pirate ship to explore – but fewer amenities overall.

Note that both private islands have plenty of beach space for guests to spread out and relax, as well as restaurants and bars. You can also book excursions on both private islands, which include activities like snorkeling and water sports.

Read: The Top Cruise Line Private Islands

Comparing costs across cruise lines can be tricky since fares and available sales vary throughout the year, as well as based on the vessel booked, the cruise itinerary, the number and age of travelers, and more. To get an idea of who wins on price, we looked for two similar cruises on comparable ships from Carnival and Royal Caribbean, then priced out an option for a family of four with two children ages 8 and 10. For the purpose of this comparison, we used seven-night eastern Caribbean cruises on Carnival Celebration and Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas, both of which began sailing in 2022.

The Carnival Celebration itinerary from Miami stops in Amber Cove, Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico ; and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands . By comparison, the Wonder of the Seas sailing leaves from Port Canaveral, Florida, with stops in Philipsburg, St. Maarten ; San Juan; and Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas.

The chart below shows the total cost (including taxes and fees) for a family of four in January 2024 in both an ocean view and a typical balcony cabin across both cruise lines. Note that, for the purpose of this comparison, we selected the least expensive room option in each category.

Read: How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer who has covered cruises and other family travel for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 30 times across most of the major cruise lines and has ventured on itineraries around the world. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate this cruise line comparison.

You might also be interested in:

• Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Cruise
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans
• The Top Cruise Lines for Solo Travelers
• How to Find Last-Minute Cruise Deals
• The Top Kids Sail Free Cruises

Tags: Travel , Cruises

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News & features, winter center, news / winter weather, potentially damaging frosts and freezes moving into northeast midweek.

Those who bought tender plants or own orchards and vineyards in the Upper Midwest and Northeast will face additional rounds of frosts and freezes this week.

By Alex Sosnowski , AccuWeather senior meteorologist

Published Apr 22, 2024 9:53 AM PDT | Updated Apr 24, 2024 2:46 AM PDT

AccuWeather’s Bernie Rayno discusses the differences between a frost advisory and a freeze warning.

Air from northern Canada will drop southward into the Upper Midwest and northeastern United States from the middle to late parts of the week. This will not only set off snow in parts of the northern tier but will also bring the risk of a damaging frost and freeze to many areas, AccuWeather meteorologists warn.

The batch of air, encapsulated by a dome of high pressure , will affect the area from Wednesday to Friday.

The first of two Canadian high-pressure areas delivered temperatures as low as the frigid low 20s F in northern Michigan and northern New York. On Monday morning, temperatures in the frosty mid- to upper 20s were common from interior southern Michigan to northern Ohio, central Pennsylvania, central and southern New York state and central and northern New England.

The cold air and threat of frosts and freezes have sent orchard and vineyard operators scrambling to raise temperatures by a few degrees by using wind machines and bonfires in their fields. Regarding vineyards, the non-native varieties of grapes are most susceptible to damage.

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Temperatures have been much higher than the historical average since the start of the winter. This has forced bud break, blossoming and leaf-out of many forms of vegetation ranging from flowering trees and shrubs to deciduous trees to fruit trees, vines and bushes. Anytime a heavy frost or hard freeze occurs after bud-break and leaf-out occurs, there is the risk of damage.

Garden centers, agricultural interests or anyone who has put out tender plants in areas where a frost or freeze can occur from Wednesday night to Friday morning will be at risk.

"Widespread low temperatures in the 20s to the low 30s are in store from much of the Great Lakes region [away from the immediate shores of the lakes] to the central Appalachians, the interior mid-Atlantic and much of New England on Thursday morning," AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Matt Benz said.

The shores around large, deep lakes tend to be warmer than the surrounding landscape on a clear, calm and chilly night because of the relatively warm water.

Also, the urban "heat island" effect may prevent frost in some large cities but only to a certain point. There is the risk of frost reaching some coastal areas of the Northeast on Thursday and Friday mornings, including in Boston and Philadelphia , as well as New York City and Washington, D.C. Frost is a concern around Chicago , Detroit , Cleveland and Pittsburgh -- at least for Thursday morning.

"Temperatures on Thursday night may be a few degrees higher than Wednesday night, especially from the central Great Lakes on west," Benz said, adding, "However, it is still likely to get cold enough for a frost or freeze from parts of the central Appalachians to much of New England on Friday morning."

As a special note, forecast low temperatures are intended for a location 4-6 feet off the ground, where official temperature readings are taken. During a clear, calm night, the temperatures can dip 5-10 degrees lower at ground level compared to 4-6 feet above the ground. In conditions such as those anticipated in the region from Wednesday night and Thursday night, it may be necessary to subtract at least 5 degrees from the forecast low temperature for a more accurate reading at ground level.

This is why taking measures to guard against a frost or freeze is advised when forecast low temperatures are above the freezing mark -- 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

As the leading edge of the cold air pushes in, temperatures may dip low enough as moisture lingers for a mixture of rain and snow over the mountains of the northern tier of the Northeast from Wednesday to Wednesday night, Benz explained.

"Up to a few inches of snow may fall from parts of the Green and White Mountains to northern Maine," Benz said.

Farther to the south, the same cold front responsible for the snow over the northern tier set off showers and locally heavy thunderstorms over parts of the Midwest into Tuesday night. Thunderstorms brought hail and gusty winds across portions of Wisconsin and Michigan.

On Wednesday, the same cold front may set off thunderstorms in parts of the mid-Atlantic.

After the high-pressure area cycles through late this week, upcoming pushes of Canadian air are likely to be less potent and not quite as cold. While it is a bit premature to say there will not be any more risk of frosts or freezes moving forward in May, it is likely they will not be as intense nor as widespread as that of this past weekend or what lies ahead from Wednesday to Friday.

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