If you have an international trip coming up, there’s a good chance you’ve already learned how to say basic phrases such as “hello,” “thank you,” and “my name is…” in a new language. Those are essential, of course, but they’re also just the tip of the iceberg. There are many other, perhaps unexpected phrases you should learn before traveling to another country — not only to make things easier for yourself, but also to impress a few locals along the way. Here are eight highly useful phrases to learn in the local language before your next trip abroad.

Can You Please Repeat That?

To avoid saying “what?” with a blank expression every time you don’t understand what’s just been said (which could be often!), consider a more polite response that might pleasantly surprise the person you’re speaking to. For example, in Spanish you could say, “¿Puede repetirlo, por favor?”

How Do You Say That in English?

Some languages are particularly difficult to learn — often not because of their grammar or sentence structure but because their native speakers are so fluent in English that they instantly switch to it every time you try speaking to them. This is especially common in countries such as Denmark and Sweden, where everyone begins learning English at a young age (and can spot an American traveler from several blocks away). Should you find yourself in such a situation but still want to put in the effort of starting a conversation in the local tongue, simply ask how to say something in English, and the rest of the interaction should be easy to follow.

What Do You Recommend?

If you want to eat like a local, don’t just struggle with the menu in a language you don’t understand — ask your waiter or waitress what they think you should try. It’s a great way to try lesser-known dishes that other travelers might not be lucky (or bold) enough to sample.

How Long Have You Lived Here?

Lifelong residents of Buenos Aires, Tokyo, or Brussels will have a different perspective of their hometown than more recent transplants. In either case, they’ll likely appreciate being asked about their own experience and offer unique insights that can enrich your time in their country.

Can I Drink the Tap Water?

The answer won’t always be what you expect, but it’s always vital knowledge. If your itinerary includes multiple countries and you didn’t look into this in advance, ask the hotel front desk or the host of your accommodation to be sure.

Where Do the Locals Hang Out?

Many travelers pride themselves on going beyond the usual tourist attractions and experiencing new places in a deeper way. Rather than relying on internet research, go straight to the source and ask someone who actually lives there. You’ll likely get a different answer from every person you ask, as everyone has their own favorite spots they think visitors should see for the most authentic experience possible.

Your City (or Country) Is Beautiful

Even if we don’t realize it, most of us can’t help taking a little pride in where we’re from. That’s as true in Geneva as it is in Montevideo, and there’s no reason not to tell people you love their city or country while visiting — there’s a good chance they’ll love hearing it and come away from the conversation with a smile.

A Local Idiom

To really impress the locals, consider picking up a local idiom. For example, while visiting Stockholm, don’t just order the pickled herring with a perfect accent. Go one step further by slipping “det är ingen ko på isen” into the conversation — an idiom that translates to “there’s no cow on the ice.” It essentially means there’s no need to worry. Or, if you’re in Germany, try saying, “tomaten auf den Augen haben.” Its literal translation is “you have tomatoes on your eyes,” which means you can’t see something everyone else can. These phrases might not be as conventionally useful as asking where the restroom is, but they’re sure to get you brownie points with locals.

When planning a trip, you might write off the hotel as simply a place to rest your head after a day of sightseeing. But your hotel stay doesn’t have to be run-of-the-mill — especially if you’re a frequent traveler who has racked up enough points in a hotel loyalty program. Hotel companies reward loyal customers with a slew of perks you might not even know existed, ones that go far beyond late checkout and free breakfast. (Even if you’re not a hotel high roller, you can unlock many of these same benefits just by signing up for the right hotel credit card.) Below, check out five of the coolest perks you can get if you stay at hotels frequently.

Automatic Suite Upgrades

It’s an old adage of travel — dress the part and ask politely at the front desk, and you might score that coveted room upgrade. While that may still happen on occasion, top-tier members of major hotel chains don’t have to worry about that uncertainty. For example, Marriott states it does its best to accommodate Platinum Elite and Titanium Elite members of its Bonvoy loyalty program with an “enhanced” room upgrade upon arrival, including to select suites. Those members can also secure a guaranteed suite upgrade by selecting a nightly upgrade award as part of their benefits package.

Exclusive Club Lounges

Many larger hotels, particularly those that cater to business travelers, offer a dedicated lounge space with amenities such as complimentary food and drinks. This is often available to any guest who pays extra to reserve a room type that includes club access. However, many hotel chains will allow their elite-status members to enter the lounge for free. In the Hilton Honors program, for example, top-tier Diamond members enjoy complimentary executive lounge access wherever available. While the amenities at each lounge differ, you can typically expect complimentary breakfast in the morning, light snacks during the day, and an evening cocktail hour — along with a business center and a larger, more comfortable space to relax.

Waived Resort Fees

It’s safe to say that no traveler likes seeing a resort fee tacked onto the bill at the end of their stay — especially for amenities they didn’t even use. While there are strategies to avoid paying this pesky fee (which can run upwards of $50 per night), members of many hotel loyalty programs don’t have to worry about negotiating with the front desk to remove it. For example, if you’re a Hyatt Globalist member, that fee is automatically waived on eligible rates and award bookings. Granted, you’ll probably have to spend quite a chunk of money to achieve that status, but it’s nice knowing the hotel isn’t going to tack on any bogus fees after you’ve rewarded them with your loyalty year after year.

Guaranteed Availability 

If you’ve ever waited until the last minute to book a hotel room, you know how risky this strategy can be. Many hotels — especially those located in desirable areas near tourist attractions — will sell out weeks beforehand, and you may end up with subpar accommodations for your getaway. 

But if you stay at hotels frequently enough, you might not have to worry. Top members of Marriott’s Bonvoy program (like those in other loyalty programs) enjoy guaranteed room availability — if you book at least 48 hours prior to arrival, they’ll guarantee a room is available for you, even if the hotel is sold out. Marriott also guarantees that if, for any reason, they are unable to accommodate your reservation, they will pay for your room at a nearby hotel and offer additional compensation for the inconvenience. 

Private Concierge Service

The concierge desk at a hotel can be a valuable perk for any guest. A concierge can help secure hard-to-get dinner reservations or recommend off-the-beaten-path activities to do at your destination. But did you know there’s a secret concierge service for top-paying customers? Hyatt offers Globalist members a service called My Concierge, which assigns the member a dedicated point of contact at the hotel chain, who can reach out to a specific hotel before they arrive to communicate any special preferences. Similarly, Marriott’s Ambassador Elite level offers a dedicated ambassador who’s able to seamlessly tackle any concerns or issues. 

Not an Elite Member? There Are Plenty of Other Perks To Know About

If these benefits are any indication, it can certainly pay off to be a frequent hotel traveler. But if you can’t meet those requirements to achieve status, there are plenty of other benefits that are available to all guests — you just need to know what to ask for. Some can be modest but incredibly useful, such as complimentary amenity kits if you forget your toothbrush at home. Others, such as free bike rentals or free happy hours, can make your stay more enjoyable. You might also be surprised by some of the more high-end perks available at five-star hotels, from luxury pet services to a fleet of luxury cars available for guests to drive — for free — to take in the sights in style. 

Preparing for a flight requires careful consideration — especially if your journey is longer than a couple of hours. Staying comfortable on an airplane is a lot easier when you have the essentials, and seasoned travelers know when to splurge for the sake of being cozy. So, keep the heels and leather jacket in your checked bag and instead bring these nine items frequent flyers swear by. 

Allbirds Wool Runners

New Zealand native Tim Brown founded ultra-comfortable footwear brand Allbirds after he noticed a lack of shoes made from sustainable, soft Merino wool — a textile commonly worn in his home country thanks to its large population of sheep. The high-performance fleece is what makes each pair of Allbirds extra-lightweight and perfect for wearing on the plane and around your destination. Allbirds Wool Runners come in soft neutral colors to match any outfit, have water-repellent coating for all-weather wear, and are even machine washable. 

Bombas Knee-High Compression Socks

Keep your feet cozy and support this sock brand’s mission to fight homelessness when you purchase a pair of Bombas socks. The company has donated more than 100 million pairs of its socks and other items to more than 3,500 shelters and community organizations. A pair of knee-high compression socks will keep blood circulating throughout your legs on a long flight and prevent your feet from falling asleep. Plus, they’re extra-soft. 

Cluci Weekender Travel Bag

Made of high-quality, lightweight, and soft canvas material, the Cluci Weekender Travel Bag is the ideal carry-on. It can be used as a handbag or crossbody bag, with a removable and adjustable shoulder strap that won’t leave red shoulder marks. With numerous compartments for your laptop, shoes, and toiletries, this bag will ensure you stay comfortably organized when you take to the skies. 

SCOTTeVEST Glow Hoodie

Airplane cabins can get notoriously cold (there’s a reason for that), but you can stay warm on your flight with the super-soft SCOTTeVEST Glow Hoodie. It features more than 15 concealed pockets for your cellphone, passport, and other items you need within reach. This lightweight utility hoodie also comes with a two-year warranty. 

Anrabess Sweater Lounge Set

Wearing sweatpants on a flight doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your personal style. Anrabess offers a variety of two-piece sweater sets that boast a comfy-chic aesthetic. With a slouchy, relaxed fit and knit detailing, each cozy outfit is made for both staying comfortable during your journey and heading out on the town as soon as you arrive at your destination. 

Project Cloud Fashion Flat Sandals

With memory foam insoles, leather straps, and nonslip cork soles, the Project Cloud Fashion Flat Sandals are a great accessory for comfortable walking in warmer climates. They are also ideal for when you want to stay fashionable on a long flight. A modest heel height makes it easy to navigate the terminal before you board, and they’re light enough to pack in your carry-on.

Bucky Blanket Scarf

Nothing beats a dual-purpose item when you’re running out of space in your carry-on. Wear the Bucky Blanket Scarf onboard to stay cozy (and fashionable) and use it later as a blanket when it’s time to rest. The super-soft, machine-washable scarf can be used as a blanket or shawl for extra warmth, and it comes with a convenient lightweight foldable pouch for easy carrying. 

Clever Travel Companion Tank Top

This versatile tank top comes in a variety of colors and features anti-pickpocket compartments to store items safely. Soft to the touch, the Clever Travel Companion Tank Top is made of cotton-blend fabric and makes layering onboard easy. 

Drowsy Sleep Mask

With bright cabin lights and entertainment screens, packing a sleep mask is a must if you plan to get some shuteye midflight. The Silk Sleep Mask by Drowsy Sleep Co. is made of mulberry silk and comes in 16 colors, with triple-layered padding for maximum breathability. The mask is adjustable to fit all head sizes and blocks light so you can get better rest onboard.

These days, flying in first class gets you much (much) more than a free in-flight meal and a plush seat at the front of the plane. As more travelers choose to upgrade from ever-shrinking economy class seats, airlines are investing millions of dollars in new premium cabins with cutting-edge technology that are more spacious than ever before. From private onboard apartments to suites that feature a reclining seat and a separate bed, these are five of the coolest first-class seats you can book for an unforgettable vacation.

Emirates First Class

Dubai-based Emirates changed the game when it comes to in-flight luxury. It purchases more Champagne than any other airline in the world, including rare vintages that retail for up to $500 a bottle. And in 2008, Emirates was the first airline to introduce onboard shower suites on its fleet of double-decker Airbus A380 aircraft. But for now, the carrier’s latest-generation First Class product can be found on only a handful of its Boeing 777-300ERs — and you’ll definitely want to go out of your way to book one of them.

These fully enclosed suites offer up to 40 square feet of personal space, including floor-to-ceiling sliding doors and personal lighting and temperature controls that truly make it feel like your own private cabin. The technology is also remarkable: You’ll not only have a high-definition entertainment screen with thousands of movies and TV shows to choose from, but if you happen to be sitting in the center of the aircraft, your suite will also have virtual windows that project the real-time view from outside the aircraft.

Air France La Première

You’ll have more than enough room to make yourself comfortable in Air France’s exclusive La Première cabin, which features a single row of just four seats and is available on select Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. Each suite contains a 35-inch-wide seat that can be converted into a fully flat, 6.5-foot-long bed with a memory foam mattress, along with elegant cabin finishes and thoughtful features like a floor-to-ceiling curtain to maximize privacy. 

The seat lacks some of the bells and whistles you’ll find on newer products — the carrier plans to introduce even larger seats in late 2024 — but Air France truly shines when it comes to service. La Première passengers can relax in exclusive lounges with gourmet dining and free spa services before being whisked away by a private chauffeur to board the aircraft. Once onboard, you can expect more over-the-top amenities, including a multicourse dining experience from Michelin three-starred chef Glenn Viel.

Singapore Airlines A380 First Class Suites

In 2023, Singapore Airlines was named the world’s best airline in the World Airline Awards, an honor it has held five times. The airline brings its top-notch service to its latest onboard premium product, found on the upper deck of its Airbus A380 jumbo-jet fleet. These First Class suites boast a plush leather swiveling recliner chair alongside a separate bed, so you don’t worry about having to convert your seat into a bed. The airline even offers double suites that feature extra-large beds for those traveling with a friend or loved one. 

And when flying Singapore Airlines, you can forget about the standard “beef, chicken, or fish” menu choices. The carrier’s “Book the Cook” amenity allows passengers to choose from dozens of fine-dining options up to 24 hours before departure, including dishes such as lobster thermidor, Singaporean laksa, and wagyu beef tenderloin. 

Japan Airlines First Class

In early 2024, Japan Airlines debuted its latest First Class product on its new flagship aircraft, the Airbus A350-1000, which you can find on routes such as Tokyo to New York. The spacious new suites feature sliding privacy doors and a sofa-like seat that’s wide enough for two people to sit comfortably and can be converted into a fully flat double bed. 

But before you start snoozing, you’ll want to take advantage of the oversized 43-inch high-definition entertainment screen and the suite’s impressive tech — including built-in headrest speakers, a digital monitor that allows you to communicate directly with flight attendants, and a tail-mounted camera that shows a bird’s-eye view of your flight. As on the other airlines on this list, the service in Japan Airlines First Class is top-notch. Expect exquisitely presented meals with both Japanese and Western menu choices, along with an extensive wine list. 

Etihad Airways First Class Apartments

When you’ve booked a ticket for an “apartment” — on an airplane, no less — you know you’re in for something special. Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways has outfitted the upper deck of its fleet of 10 Airbus A380s with First Class Apartments, each with sliding doors and a plush leather recliner facing a separate couch that can be converted into a 6-foot-10-inch-long bed. Onboard, you can expect Giorgio Armani amenity kits, free-flowing caviar, the airline’s signature cognac service, a customizable dine-on-demand menu, and turndown service. There’s even an onboard shower you can reserve to freshen up before you arrive. 

Though you probably won’t find much to complain about if you’re flying in one of the “Apartments,” Etihad Airways offers an even more luxurious option called “The Residence,” and there’s truly nothing quite like it in the skies. Accommodating up to two people, the 125-square-foot Residence consists of three rooms, including a bedroom with a double bed, a separate living area, and a private shower. It’s about as close as you can get to flying a private jet on a commercial airplane.

Some items in a hotel room — say, a tiny bottle of shampoo or a few individual coffee pods — are considered complimentary and are baked into the cost of the room stay. But there are other products you should never take home with you. If one of these ends up in your suitcase, you may be on the hook for an extra credit card charge to cover the cost of a replacement — or there may be other, more serious repercussions. Here are five things that you should never take from your hotel room.

How Hotels Know if You Take Something

Once you check out of a hotel room, the housekeeping team will assess whether any major items are missing as part of their duties. Hotels typically keep an inventory of items in each room, so it’s easy to tell if something has been misplaced. While hotels will do their best to locate the missing item, if they can’t find it, they may have no choice but to conclude that you took the item with you. If this is true, then you can expect an extra charge on your bill to cover the cost of a replacement. Additional consequences may include being blacklisted by that hotel or any associated properties. In rare cases, hotel thefts result in criminal prosecution if the cost of items is substantially high.

The Bathrobe

There are perhaps few things more tempting to take from your hotel than a bathrobe, especially at a nice resort where it’s made of high-quality material. But don’t let those impulses get the better of you — depending on the hotel and the quality of the robe, you can expect to be charged anywhere from $20 to $150 if you fail to leave the robe where you found it. Unfortunately, robe thefts are a far-too-common occurrence, so some hotels are particularly diligent about tracking down their lost robes and holding guests accountable.

The good news is that, depending on where you’re staying, the hotel may actually be able to sell you a brand-new robe that you can take home. In particular, many luxury resorts keep additional robes on hand to sell if any guests are interested, so check with the front desk before you leave. (In some cases, you can even buy them online.) It’s far better to pay $100 for a new hotel robe (guilt-free) than it is to steal a used one and end up paying the same price anyway once the hotel realizes it’s missing.

Linens and Bedding

When staying at a hotel, a general rule of thumb is to avoid taking anything that can be washed and reused for future guests. That includes bedding, towels, pillows, duvets, blankets, and other similar items. According to the Washington Post, some hotels have even started embedding tiny tracking devices inside certain fabrics in order to keep tabs on items that are frequently stolen. These small security tags are easy to miss if you don’t know they’re there.

Electronics

Don’t be tempted to pack the remote control, alarm clock, hair dryer, or any other electronic devices in your suitcase. Not only would you be stealing, but you’re also inconveniencing the next guest. Believe it or not, some hotel guests have even been accused of taking lamps and other room fixtures home with them. Needless to say, this is a terrible idea, and you may end up with more than just an extra credit card charge for taking expensive electronics such as those.

Kitchenware

As a courtesy, some high-end hotels stock rooms with actual glassware instead of disposable cups. But don’t confuse those glasses as gifts to take home. The same goes for any plates, utensils, or other kitchenware that you may find at extended-stay hotels. If it can be washed and reused, leave all kitchenware behind. You may think that you can pocket a single fork and get away with it, but err on the side of caution to avoid the potential embarrassment of being caught stealing cutlery.

Clothes Hangers

Snatching a few wooden hangers out of the closet is also a no-no. If you find any plastic or wire hangers in your room, check with the front desk and ask if you can take those with you, rather than assume it’s OK to do so.

Items You Can Take

If you really want to bring home a souvenir from your hotel stay, stick to taking complimentary toiletries such as small bottles of shampoo and soap. (The full-size bottles that are bolted in some hotel showers should stay where they are.) It’s also generally permitted to take slippers home with you if they’re offered by the hotel, though it’s still best to ask a hotel employee just to be safe. Always contact the front desk with any questions you may have to avoid the risk of fines, bans, or even prosecution.