Beyond these security concerns, there are a few additional safety factors to consider when visiting Germany.

Driving

Although Germany is famous for its Autobahn highway system, which has no speed limits in many stretches, it’s still possible to get a ticket while driving in the country. Germany has thousands of speeding cameras positioned throughout the country, and if you’re clocked exceeding the speed limit, you’ll receive a ticket in the mail. Red light cameras are also common.

Germany’s drunk driving laws are also stricter than those in America, and having a blood alcohol level of over 0.05 percent can land you in legal trouble.

Safety

While serious violent incidents are uncommon in Germany, petty theft remains an ongoing concern, particularly in urban areas. The most vulnerable times tend to be late at night and early morning hours, especially around public transit hubs. Train stations, subway systems, and busy tourist spots create perfect opportunities for pickpockets and opportunistic thieves looking for unattended belongings. Large events like festivals, concerts, and Christmas markets can also attract criminals hoping to take advantage of distracted visitors.

Maintain awareness of your surroundings and closely monitor your belongings, especially in crowded spaces. Consider using a money belt or keeping valuables in inside pockets rather than external bags or backpacks that are easier targets.

Hate Speech Laws

Germany takes its historical responsibility seriously through strict laws governing Nazi-related content and hate speech. The nation’s legal code explicitly prohibits Holocaust denial and the spread of Nazi ideology in any form—whether in person or online. This includes displaying Nazi symbols like the swastika, wearing SS uniforms, making pro-Hitler statements, or possessing Third Reich memorabilia.

In recent years, Germany has further strengthened its stance against extremism, particularly in the digital realm. Social media companies operating in Germany must now actively monitor, remove, and report instances of hate speech and threats on their platforms. These enhanced regulations came in response to several far-right attacks that highlighted ongoing concerns about extremist ideologies.

The laws reflect Germany’s commitment to preventing history from repeating itself. Visitors should be aware that actions that might be protected speech in other countries—like giving the Nazi salute or questioning Holocaust facts—are serious criminal offenses in Germany that can result in fines or imprisonment.

Berlin Shell Game Scams

Among Berlin’s street scams, the classic shell game remains a persistent trap for unwary tourists. This age-old con features a seemingly simple setup: three cups, one ball, and what appears to be an easy chance to win money by tracking the ball’s location. However, the scam has a calculated twist—the operator works with an accomplice who poses as a fellow tourist, creating an elaborate performance to draw in real visitors.

The scene typically unfolds like this: The fake tourist plays the game and wins, making it look effortless and enticing to onlookers. When genuine tourists try their luck, they invariably lose their money, as the entire setup is carefully orchestrated by the scammer and their partner. Despite being illegal, these shell game operations continue to operate throughout the city, with teams of con artists constantly seeking their next target. Even if you think you’ve spotted how the trick works, remember—the only way to win this game is not to play.

Note: How to Be a Good Tourist

Many Germans speak English, and many Europeans speak several languages. However, Germans will appreciate it if you learn a few phrases in German. Learning a few basic phrases like “thank you,” “hello,” and “please” will go a long way. 

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about warnings and dangers in Germany.

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Taipei Things to Do

Taipei is well-known for its food, culture, and lively atmosphere. When you visit this beautiful capital, you’ll soon discover there’s almost no end of things to do. Here are the top attractions in Taipei.

Taipei 101 Light Shows

The light shows from the top of the famous skyscraper Taipei 101 are one of the top attractions to see in Taipei. The skyscraper itself offers some of the best views of city, even while the crowds and wait times can be a hassle, the experience of visiting Taipei 101 is well worth it.

Night Markets in Taipei

Shilin night market is northwest of the main train station in Taipei, and this is where you’ll find vendors of all varieties selling their wares. Hitting the Shilin night market is a great way to sample the food and drinks of the nation, or just to browse for unique souvenirs.

There’s another market at Snake Alley, where you’ll find vendors alongside restaurants that serve reptiles in different dishes. Watch out for the smell, though, as sometimes the food sellers have limited options for food waste disposal.

Beitou Hot Springs

The Hot Springs Museum, which is actually in an old Japanese bathhouse, is a unique place to visit in Taipei. Not only will you learn more about how the waters and steam were harnessed for the benefit of the people, you’ll also be able to view the springs with a walking tour. Immerse yourself in the gardens and greenery surrounding this beautiful spot in Beitou as you walk toward the geothermal area that supplied the springs. While it may be a little on the expensive side because it attracts so many tourists, it’s a definitely recommended if you appreciate natural scenery as well as the city.

The Memorial of Chiang Kai-Shek

This memorial commemorates the Chinese leader who was revered for his military and political strategy. The temple is notable for its unique architecture, which incorporates symbolism in numbers and shapes. Understanding who Chiang Kai-Shek was can help you learn more about the people of Taipei and the values they hold.

The National Palace Museum

The National Palace Museum houses roughly 700,000 ancient artifacts from China, as well as internationally renowned artwork. You’ll find, for example, a beautifully crafted cabbage made of jadeite, complete with insects crawling over it. Just be prepared to wait a while for the very best works. The museum offers English tours, making it easier to absorb and remember the information.

More from SmarterTravel:

• Taipei – What to Pack – Clothing and Supplies Tips
• Taipei Shopping – Shops, Stores, Best Buys & Inside Tips
• Taipei Travel Guide

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about Taipei things to do.

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Seoul Things to Do

Seoul is rich with history, but also an extremely modern and urban city. Here are five things you must see while in Seoul.

1. Gyeongbokgung Palace

Among the four main palaces in Seoul, the Gyeongbokgung Palace was the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty, and the most popular palace for tourists to visit today. It was built in 1395, but most of the buildings were destroyed during the Japanese occupation in 1910. It has since been refurbished and stands as a historical landmark for Korean history.

2. Namsan (South Mountain) and Seoul Tower

To get to the Seoul Tower, you can take the cable car up the mountain or hike up a steep path. The top of the Seoul Tower offers a 360-degree view of the city. The tower is situated at the top of Namsan Park, which has miles of hiking trails, memorials, museums, and a library. There are also plenty of cafes and shops at the top of the mountain. The mountain is also surrounded by fortress walls that were built in 1396 to protect the city.

3. Insa-dong

Known as the Arts District, Insa-dong is home to antique shops, calligraphy shops, tea houses, and art galleries. It also boasts a number of souvenir shops where tourists can find fake American goods like Hard Rock T-shirts and Louis Vuitton bags. There are several places in Insa-dong where you can find traditional or classical live music performances. Plan on spending some time walking through the narrow streets and enjoying the traditional goods that you will find in the shops.

4. DMZ – DeMilitarized Zone – Tours

Only an hour and a half away from the cosmopolitan city of Seoul is the DeMilitarization Zone and North Korea’s border just beyond it. Visitors can take a tour inside the United Nations Command Military Armistice Commission buildings at the center of the Joint Security Area and next to the Military Demarcation Line. While in this building, you can step across the line into the North for a few minutes. You can also visit the Third Tunnel of Northern Aggression, one of three tunnels that were dug by the North Korean military during a planned attack on South Korea. The tunnels were discovered and the North’s plan foiled in 1978.

5. Lotte World

You can learn more about Korean culture at Lotte World, which consists of the largest indoor amusement park in the world, an outdoor amusement park, a Folk Museum, ice-skating rink, and mall. While the outside feels more like Disneyland, the inside is 82,650 square meters of rides, restaurants, shops, and more.

More from SmarterTravel:

• Seoul Travel Guide
• Living Like a Local in Seoul, South Korea
• Seoul Shopping – Shops, Stores, Best Buys & Inside Tips

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Seoul.

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Kuala Lumpur Things to Do

As the capital of Malaysia and a cosmopolitan urban center, Kuala Lumpur offers a multitude of experiences for visitors. Here are the top things to do when visiting Kuala Lumpur.

Petronas Twin Towers

Once the tallest buildings in the world, the Petronas Twin Towers still reign as the tallest twin towers on the globe at 452 meters above ground level. Each floor follows Islamic geometric forms by interlocking two squares to create an eight-pointed star. You can buy your tickets online or in-person, but do so as far in advance as possible because only a limited number are distributed each day. At the top, expect spectacular city views from the floor-to-ceiling windows.

Batu Caves

The Batu Caves are found in the northern suburb of Gomak and can be reached with a half-hour ride on the KRM Komuter train. Follow the crowds to the gold statue of Lord Muruga and be prepared to climb the steep 272 steps to the top of the limestone hill. You’ll then encounter several shrines with statues and paintings, such as the 15-meter high statue of Hanuman. Keep a tight hold on your belongings or the roaming macaques may steal them from you.

Genting Highlands

A popular weekend getaway, the Genting Highlands, also known as Resorts World Genting, is a resort complex that includes hotels, restaurants, shopping, and attractions. Snow World brings winter to the tropics with actual ice and snow. Open to non-Muslims who are 21 years old and above, the Casino features slot machines and other gambling diversions. When you want to get back to nature, the Jungle Trek takes you through one of the oldest rainforests in Malaysia.

Merdeka Square

Merdeka means “independence” in Malay, and this open field represents Malaysia’s pride in its history. It’s the site of national events and celebrations. From here, at 95 meters tall, one of the world’s tallest flagpoles flies a large version of The Stripes of Glory, the Malaysian flag. Notable buildings around the square include the Neo-Moorish towers of the Railway Station, the colonial Tudor style of the Royal Selangor Club, and the copper domes of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building.

KL Tower – Menara Telecommunications Tower

One advantage of scaling the 421 meters of the KL Tower is that the views you can get of the Petronas Twin Towers. If you want open-air city vistas unobstructed by glass, the open deck at 300 meters is available, but only after you sign a promise not to jump. This former telecommunications tower also offers views from an observation deck at 276 meters and a revolving restaurant at 282 meters.

Chinatown – Petaling Street

While this street features buyable delights, the reason for strolling the commercial center is to enjoy the intricate architecture of Chinese shophouses. Merchants originally built these structures to contain their stores in the lower floors while living in the quarters above. While the eateries here are convenient, they don’t represent the best that the city has to offer, being offered primarily geared toward tourists.

More from SmarterTravel:

• Malaysia Travel Guide: What to Do in Malaysia
• Kuala Lumpur Travel Guide
• The World’s 6 Most Incredible Luxury Train Trips

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Kuala Lumpur.

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San Juan Things to Do

San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, has a vibrant nightlife, many casinos and bars, and is close to some of the best all-inclusive resorts in Puerto Rico. There many things to do in Puerto Rico, and some of the top attractions are easily accessible right in San Juan.

Old San Juan

The neighborhood of Old San Juan can easily be seen on foot. While Old San Juan could be said to include the far outer edges of El Morro, Fort San Felipe to the west and Castillo San Cristobal to the east, Old San Juan is usually considered to be the seven or eight square blocks that encompass the historic heart of the town.

Old San Juan will delight you with the Spanish Colonial architecture borne out in the details of buildings, churches, shops, restaurants, museums, and military forts. Things to look for are the Spanish-style, lacy wrought-iron balconies overhanging the streets, beautiful jewel-colored painted facades, ornamental lighting, shade-covered plazas, blue ballast stone cobbled streets, music, and the aroma of delicious food. Calle Fortaleza is a street favored by many tourists because of its attractive restaurants, shops, and local life.

Isla Verde Beach Area

The Isla Verde beach is considered one of the best Puerto Rico beaches. It is a peaceful inlet protected by rock formations. The water is warm, the tropical fish are very easy to see, and the public outdoor showers are helpful. In addition, there are restaurants aplenty in the area ranging from the moderately priced to the expensive.

El Yunque National Forest

El Yunque is the only rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. Comprised of some 240 different species of trees, it is actually a series of forests, each one determined by its altitude. And it makes for a great half-day or full-day excursion from San Juan.

High precipitation levels each year create lush foliage, sparkling leaves, shining wet rocks, and shadowy paths occasionally pierced by sunlight. Spectacular waterfalls rush alongside its well-maintained, but slippery, trails.

While there are a few El Yunque warnings and dangers to be aware of, the best way to see the forest is on foot. You can also appreciate it during a slow drive up and down the mountain. You can either explore on your own or take a guided tour. Both are among the best El Yunque things to do.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 10 Best Beaches in Puerto Rico
• 5 Exotic Places to Go Where You Don’t Need a Passport
• Puerto Rico Passport Requirements: Do I Need a Passport to Go to Puerto Rico?

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about Puerto Rico things to do. 

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Key West Things to Do

Key West lies at the bottom of a string of islands that jut out from the bottom of the state of Florida. Known for its laid back, tropical feel, there are many things to see and do in Key West.

Southernmost Point

The large painted buoy was erected in 1983 and marks the Southernmost Point in the United States and is exactly 90 miles away from Cuba. It isn’t technically the geographical southernmost point, which is actually on US Military property, but this point is accessible to the public.  This well-known landmark is free and easy to find and a must-do photo op for any visitor to Key West.

Duval Street

Duval Street is one of the most famous streets in America. Lined with bars, restaurants, and impressive homes, this is a must stroll thoroughfare for visitors going to Key West. Many find Duval Street reminiscent of New Orleans, and one of Ernest Hemingway’s favorite spots, the legendary Sloppy Joe’s, which has been in business since the 1930s. Many visitors insist that doing a “Duval Crawl” along the street by stopping in a series of bars on the street is a great way to get a real Key West experience.

Hemingway’s Home and Museum

One of Key West’s most famous residents was the author Ernest Hemingway. Hemingway’s home is now a museum and guided tours are available daily throughout the year for an admission price around $10. The home is a large two-story home with wrap-around porches on both levels. The house was built of limestone and Hemingway moved there in 1931. The home is filled with furniture, antiques, and other belongings from the Hemingway family and the guides are very knowledgeable and have lots of stories to share. During your visit, you’ll also be able to see the studio where Hemingway would write his famous works and you’ll be able to visit with the descendants of Hemingway’s 6-toed cats. There are approximately 50 – 60 cats on the property as well as a graveyard that was built for them. Each cat has a name and a story, which started with the first cat Hemingway received as a gift from a sea captain.

Dry Tortugas

A great day trip during a trip to Key West is taking a catamaran or other vessel over to the Dry Tortugas national park. These islands are about 70 miles west of Key West. There are coral reefs, fascinating shipwrecks, and sandy beaches, amidst the seven undeveloped coral and sand islands called the Dry Tortugas which were named by Ponce de Leon in 1513. There are scenic lighthouses and Fort Jefferson for those interested in the history of the area. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling to get up close and personal with the many species of tropical fish and marine life in the area.

More from SmarterTravel:

• This Is America’s Favorite Beach: Clearwater Beach, Florida
• The 11 Best Amusement Parks in Florida
• The 9 Best Florida Beach Resorts

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do and attractions to see in Key West.

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Manchester Warnings and Dangers

One of the most visited cities in all of England, Manchester is a major metropolitan area (its population is over 2.6 million) with rich heritage, a thriving music and arts scene, and proximity to some of the U.K.’s most beautiful natural sights. But as with most major cities, Manchester has crime and other safety concerns that travelers should be aware of prior to before arriving. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe and have a great trip to Manchester.

Crime and Culture

Like most major cities, Manchester has high-crime areas. According to the Manchester Evening News, the Greater Manchester Police receives 200,000 reports of crime each year, including a small percentage of violent crimes. That said, most of the neighborhoods that tourists to Manchester will frequent are relatively safe. For current information, check the Manchester crime map.

Car Issues

Manchester can be a challenging city to navigate by car for those who are unfamiliar with the city, and parking can be expensive. If you do rent a car, be sure to rent from a reputable car rental company with good reviews. If you’re getting around by taxi, be aware that they can be difficult to obtain late at night.

Additional Warnings and Dangers

As a major city, Manchester sees some of the same tourist scams found in other large cities.

Editor’s note: This story was updated in August 2019, and replaces an earlier story from 2017. 

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Headed to Vietnam? Congratulations, you’re in for one of the most memorable trips of your life. But if you’re now past the planning portion for your Vietnam trip and have started into the packing portion, you’ve probably begun to wonder what to pack for Vietnam—and then what to wear once you’re there. Below is a useful Vietnam packing list to consult before your trip.

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What to Wear in Vietnam: Clothes and Shoes

Going to a hot and humid place in the tropics calls for light, natural fabrics like cotton and silk. Lightweight tank tops and T-shirts are good things to wear in Vietnam, as are light-colored khakis.

As for shoes, flip-flops or other open sandals work great on Vietnamese beaches, but you’ll want to wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes to protect your feet when sightseeing in cities.

Consider bringing a lightweight, crushable sun hat to protect your face from sun and rain.

What Not to Wear in Vietnam

When traveling to Vietnam, you may want to leave your jeans and denim shorts at home. You’ll sweat in humid Vietnam, and denim doesn’t dry easily. Chafing and heat do not go well together.

Keep in mind, too, that Vietnamese people dress conservatively. Women and men wear long pants and short- or long-sleeved tops, for the most part, and visitors should do the same, despite the heat. When you’re in Vietnam, you’ll fit in better if you avoid wearing shorts in public.

Other clothing no-nos when traveling to Vietnam: Don’t overpack. Instead, bring a small amount of only what you need; if you find you need more apparel after arriving in Vietnam, you can buy it there, since Vietnam is famous for its inexpensive made-to-order clothing.

What to Pack for Vietnam: Gear, Toiletries, and Medical Supplies

After you’ve determined what to wear in Vietnam, you can pack other necessities besides clothing, including all your basic toiletries, extra toilet paper (public restrooms are often fresh out of TP), and, of course, sunscreen, which is an absolute must. Vietnam weather can be rainy, so pack an umbrella or poncho so you’re prepared for the occasional downpour.

Bug spray is another must-pack; mosquitoes in Vietnam carry malaria, so anti-malaria tablets are a smart idea, too (consult with your physician before traveling). Bring diarrhea medication, in case the food in Vietnam doesn’t agree with your stomach, as well as a small travel towel or a few easy-to-pack handkerchiefs; you’ll want to wipe away all that sweat while sightseeing. Packages of wet wipes come in handy at some restaurants that don’t have napkins.

In Vietnam, it’s wise to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the dust and the glaring hot sun. Also smart to bring: a travel-sized first aid kit, a waterproof backpack that can withstand Vietnam’s unpredictable weather, and, of course, your cell phone. Consider downloading WhatsApp (iOS | Android) as an affordable way to keep in touch—and don’t forget to pack a travel adapter for your phone, camera, and any other electrical devices that you’re planning to bring to Vietnam.

Mini See-All Vanity Case

Mini See-All Vanity Case from Paravel

Traveling to Veitnam might mean bringing extra medications and toiletries. Try staying organized with a see-through cosmetic bag to track your belongings.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 9 Reasons Why Vietnam is the New Thailand
• Exploring Southeast Asia Off the Beaten Path on a River Cruise
• Getting Around Vietnam: Transportation Tips

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Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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Montreal Things to Do

Things to Do

Olympic Park houses a stadium, the Biodome, and the Botanic Gardens. The Biodome tour takes you through the Canadian tropical rainforest, the maple forest, up the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and ends at the Sub Polar region. Each habitat is realistic and beautifully presented. The Botanical Garden consists of 10 greenhouses, an Insectarium, a Chinese garden, and a Japanese garden. Each greenhouse has its own theme. The Chinese garden hosts a lantern festival in autumn.

The Casino de Montréal features lavish decor and plenty of entertainment with over 120 gaming tables and 3,200 slot machines. Catch a show at the Cabaret and feast on haute cuisine at Nuances.

La Ronde Amusement Park has something for everyone. One section of the park hosts rides that cater to all thrill levels and boasts of the world’s highest wooden rollercoaster. Another area has about 10 different rides geared for young children. Ribambelle and the Z’s, sing and dance, and perform six shows daily. In late July, La Ronde hosts the L’International des Feux Loto-Québec, the world’s most prestigious fireworks competition.

Neighborhoods

Old Montreal is a small district with cobblestone streets, trendy shops, ultramodern art galleries, great restaurants, and outstanding architecture. Don’t miss City Hall, the Hotel De Ville, or Old Port.

Chinatown has plenty of great places to eat and many cool little shops.

Above ground, downtown Montreal looks similar to most modern big cities. Below ground however, you’ll find over twenty miles of tunnels which connect shopping malls, apartment buildings, hotels, commercial buildings, several train and bus terminals, and the Bell Center amphitheater and arena.

The former working-class district known as Atwater is now a trendy neighborhood with a thriving Sunday market, shops, cafes, and historic churches. There’s also a tour boat that takes visitors up and down the canal.

History

Montreal boasts of a long and rich history with no shortage of must see museums and historical sites. The Basilique Notre-Dame de Montréal dates to 1672 and served as the first cathedral of the Diocese of Montreal from 1821 to 1822. Canada’s largest church, the St Joseph Oratory, stands on the southwest edge of Mount Royal. The exterior of this beautiful basilica is Italian Renaissance and the interior is contemporary.

The Museum of Fine Arts is a comprehensive museum with extensive European and Canadian collections.

Built in the 18^th century, Château Ramezay was home to the 11th governor of Montreal. Benjamin Franklin stayed here for a short time in 1776.

Visit actual archeological digs at the Montreal Museum of Archeology and History. Located in the complex called Place Des Arts, the Contemporary Art Museum has an extensive collection of modern art.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about Montreal things to do.

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Rhodes (Island) Things To Do

Rhodes is an island in Greece. While in town, visit the Valley of the Butterflies, walk through medieval castles, down ancient streets, and sip on an espresso outside a cafe in Old Town.

Valley of the Butterflies

During your stay, set aside a few hours to visit Petaloudes Park. There, you can walk along idyllic natural trails and take refuge from the sun. In the warmer months, the park is home to several species of butterflies and moths. If you want to get a glimpse of Greece’s natural beauty, Petaloudes Park is hard to beat.

Castles and Ancient Streets

Rhodes is an ancient city. Traces of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman rule can be found throughout the island. While in Rhodes, checkout the Monolithos Castle, Ancient Kamiros, Ialysos, Moni Filerimou, Palace of the Grand Master, and Ippoton (The Knight’s Street), just to name a few. You can also visit the site on which The Colossus once stood. While no longer intact, you can stand next to the columns and imagine what the gigantic statue must have looked like. The Colossus was one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world, and is well worth a visit.

Old Town

Old Town is a popular hangout in Rhodes. Divided into three neighborhoods and surrounded by stone walls, Old Town will make you feel like you stepped back in time. While Old Town’s age shouldn’t be ignored, the entertainment options here are far from ancient. Old Town is home to some of the finest bars, restaurants, and cafes on the island.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Rhodes (Island), Greece.

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