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Outdoor apparel brands frequently emerge and fade away, whereas some are able to endure for years due to their reliability and a loyal base of satisfied consumers. A brand that seems to be widely admired by those who love the outdoors is Kuhl clothing (formally written as KÜHL).

I didn’t encounter Kuhl frequently until I began venturing onto the ski slopes of the Rockies more regularly, after which I started spotting their gear everywhere. Whether it’s apres-ski in the winter, trekking through the mountains, or enjoying some craft beers at a pub, in the Rockies, you’re almost guaranteed to find at least one individual sporting one or two of their items. If you inquire about their thoughts on it, they’ll likely share how well that piece has lasted or mention that they own those pants in another shade.

I wanted to determine if the buzz surrounding the brand was justified, so I packed five Kuhl clothing pieces into my suitcase for a two-month European adventure in the fall. I arrived in Amsterdam on October 24 and returned from Madrid on December 24, wearing something from this brand almost daily throughout the nine countries we traveled through.

Kuhl Pants: Ideal for Travel and Built to Endure

This brand started with robust shorts designed for rock climbers, and they have maintained a reputation as the go-to for shorts or pants that you can rely on for ten years or more.

Kuhl’s acclaim for long-lasting clothing is attributed to their meticulous craftsmanship, premium materials, and rigorous testing before launching products. In their bottoms, they typically use reinforced stitching methods and strategically positioned fabrics to increase durability in high-pressure areas. It will take a considerable effort to wear these pants down, based on my experience with the two recent pairs I tried out.

I took along the Resistor Chino and the Free Radikl pants for my European journey. The only occasions I wore something different were when dining at a nice restaurant (where I donned my Western Rise pants) or when I was particularly concerned about theft on the streets (in which case I wore my Pickpocket Proof Pants).

Most of the time, I had one of these pairs on, and as noted in the video later in this article, the Resistor Chino pants feature a zippered pocket at the back, so I felt reasonably secure with my wallet stored there. They also come with an extra-long pocket on the side that was perfect for the reading glasses I require for small print in dim areas, such as menus.

The Resistor Chino material mimics cotton, but it includes a bit of stretch due to the addition of nylon and spandex. They are also treated to repel water, which I appreciated when my water bottle leaked on my leg one day and the liquid just beaded up. Additionally, a few drops of red wine spilled on them, which would typically be a permanent stain, but not in this case.

The Free Radikl pants are styled more like rugged hiking gear; they are lightweight yet tough and dry relatively quickly after washing. They are available in regular or tapered fits and feature articulation and breathable stretch panels, reinforced stitching that won’t easily come apart.

With six pockets, including an extra long pocket on each side, they can also accommodate a multi-tool, pocket knife, or a cell phone, provided it’s not too wide.

I’m reluctant to link to specific product pages as styles and URLs frequently change, so visit their pants page for further details. Indeed, they offer numerous options for women as well.

Kuhl Tops and Jackets

During the 2010s, I owned a Kuhl sweater that I appreciated greatly, but amidst various relocations to warm climates, it was misplaced. However, on this two-month journey through Europe, I wore three new items from them that I truly enjoyed.

The piece I wore the most throughout the cool months of November and December was the Team Merino Quarter Zip sweatshirt. It has a soft and cozy feel, offers substantial warmth, and can be worn extensively between washes due to the beneficial properties of merino wool. This is

**City Attraction Passes: Are They Worth It?**

City attraction passes, commonly found in leading tourist locations, provide a combined offer for entry to numerous museums and attractions, sometimes featuring public transport and discounts. These passes can be an excellent means to conserve funds and time, particularly if you intend to explore many sites in a brief timeframe. Nevertheless, the worth of these passes is contingent on your travel habits and schedule.

**What Do You Get?**

City passes generally provide entry to a variety of attractions for a specific duration, such as 24, 48, or 72 hours. Some come with line-skipping advantages and unlimited local transport, which can be advantageous in crowded cities. However, not all prominent attractions may be part of the deal, and the countdown begins once you activate the pass.

**Examples in Europe:**

– **Istanbul Museum Pass:** Priced at €105, it encompasses some lesser-known attractions but omits popular locations like the Basilica Cistern.
– **Prague Visitors Pass:** Delivers good value with public transportation and several attractions, including a boat tour.
– **Budapest Card:** At €63 for 72 hours, it covers some significant sites but lacks popular spots like the House of Terror Museum.
– **Lisboa Card:** At €54 for 72 hours, it provides good value with transport and free admission to numerous attractions.
– **Paris Museum Pass:** Ranging from €70 to €110, it includes 50 museums and offers line-skipping advantages.
– **Stockholm Pass:** Priced at €104 for 48 hours, it covers boat rides and public transport.

**Examples in the USA:**

– **CityPASS:** Grants access to leading attractions in cities like New York and San Antonio, often with an extended usage duration.
– **Sightseeing Pass:** Available in cities like NYC and LA, it includes transportation and various attractions.
– **Go City:** Provides passes for cities like Boston and San Diego, featuring major attractions and activities.

**Considerations:**

– **Travel Style:** If you favor a more relaxed sightseeing experience, a pass may not be worthwhile. However, if you aim to visit numerous attractions quickly, it can lead to savings in both time and money.
– **Attraction Preferences:** Confirm that the pass covers attractions you’re interested in visiting. If more than two are of little interest, it may not justify the expense.
– **Transportation Needs:** Assess if the pass incorporates transport and if that aligns with your itinerary.
– **Intangible Benefits:** Line-skipping and convenience may enhance value, even if the savings are minor.

In the end, whether a city pass represents a good bargain hinges on your travel objectives and preferences. Investigate the inclusions and weigh costs against individual tickets to decide if it suits you.

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Travel can be quite costly, but with a touch of flexibility and ingenuity, you can greatly reduce expenses. One of the most efficient methods is to explore different routes and airports when booking flights. This tactic not only helps you save money but also provides opportunities for distinctive travel adventures.

Many travelers instinctively look for flights to the most straightforward airport close to their destination. However, by investigating flights to surrounding airports, you may frequently discover more affordable options. This strategy is particularly beneficial in areas with several airports situated nearby. For example, in the United States, cities such as New York, Chicago, and Washington D.C. have an array of airports to select from. Likewise, in Europe, arriving at a prominent hub like Amsterdam or Madrid and then taking a train or low-cost flight to your final destination can be more budget-friendly.

Take, for instance, a trip to Europe. Rather than flying straight to Berlin, you might uncover a more economical flight to Amsterdam and then take a train to your endpoint. This not only conserves funds but also gives you the chance to explore an additional city. In a similar fashion, when returning from a journey, departing from a different city than your last stop can lead to substantial savings.

This strategy is not confined to Europe. In Asia, South America, and even across the United States, alternative airports can provide better rates. For instance, arriving at Fort Lauderdale instead of Miami or utilizing the smaller airports around Tampa can result in more affordable flights. In instances where train connections aren’t available, renting a car could be an economical alternative.

Investigating Overland Options

After landing at an alternative airport, overland travel options such as trains, buses, or rental cars can assist you in reaching your final destination. Platforms and applications like Rome2Rio and 12Go offer extensive information on these possibilities, making your journey planning much easier. These tools streamline the process, transforming what may appear to be a formidable task into an uncomplicated adventure.

For those traveling in Europe, low-cost airlines provide exceptionally low fares between cities. A brief search on Google Flights or Skyscanner can uncover one-way tickets from London to various European spots for as little as $20. Although these flights might carry additional charges for luggage, the overall savings can make a spontaneous trip worthwhile.

Enhancing Travel Flexibility

Flexibility is essential when hunting for affordable flights. Rather than concentrating solely on your final destination, consider the broader region. For instance, if you’re aiming to visit Lisbon, look for flights to nearby locations such as Porto or the Algarve, which may yield better deals. This way, you can travel through the country at your leisure.

Occasionally, you might stumble upon an inexpensive flight to a city that wasn’t originally on your radar. Seize this chance to discover new destinations. A flight to Athens, for instance, can become a doorway to the Greek islands, while a flight to Bogota could be the beginning of a Colombian exploration.

Ultimately, the objective is to secure the best value for your travel funds. While the least expensive option isn’t always the most convenient, the savings can frequently surpass the extra time and effort involved. By remaining open to alternative routes and airports, you can relish a more budget-friendly and enriching travel experience.

# The Reality of International Real Estate: Beyond the Illusions of Television Shows

If you’re thinking about investing in a property or condo in a different country, it’s important to understand that the depiction of international real estate on television is frequently dramatized for entertainment. Programs like *House Hunters International* might spark aspirations of buying overseas, but they fail to accurately depict the challenges and truths of searching for property abroad.

## The Truth Behind *House Hunters International*

In 2007, I examined *House Hunters International* for its deceptive format, even while valuing its influence in making the idea of buying homes overseas popular. The show provides insight into global real estate prices, highlighting the expensive properties in countries such as France alongside the more budget-friendly alternatives in Eastern Europe. Nevertheless, the enduring success of the show is founded on a largely contrived narrative.

Participants frequently have already secured their homes, and the “real estate agents” are often merely acquaintances. The show emphasizes completed transactions to ensure finality, implying that the discussions shown are scripted. In various instances, participants have inhabited their selected homes for months prior to shooting. The show might also orchestrate dramatic “before and after” showcases by temporarily modifying properties.

An HGTV representative acknowledged that creative liberties are taken for the sake of production, affirming that participants are commonly well into the buying journey. This suggests that the dialogue is frequently scripted, with participants instructed to heighten the drama.

## How to Navigate International Property Hunting

While *House Hunters International* may provide entertainment, it’s vital to approach real estate investment overseas with a more savvy plan. Here are several essential actions:

### 1) Lease Before You Purchase

Get acquainted with the surroundings by renting initially. Residing in the area for a year or more allows you to grasp the neighborhoods, market values, and local services. This insight is crucial in making a well-informed purchase.

### 2) Talk to Locals

Your view of value might be distorted by the market of your home country. Connect with locals to learn about fair rates. Real estate agents might inflate prices for outsiders, so direct conversations with property owners can help avoid overspending.

### 3) Perform Detailed Market Research

Investigate the local real estate landscape thoroughly. Unlike in numerous Western nations, detailed online listings may be lacking. Visit several properties and consult well-informed locals to assess market tendencies and pricing.

### 4) Get Ready for a Cash Transaction

In many developing nations, real estate sales necessitate full payment upfront. If available, mortgages often come with steep interest rates and brief terms. Consider utilizing savings, proceeds from a home sale, or a home equity loan to fund your acquisition.

## Conclusion

Investing in international real estate demands careful strategy and research. Contrary to the swift decisions shown on television, effective international property hunting requires understanding the local market, engaging with locals, and being financially equipped. By following these steps, you can make a wise investment that supports your long-term objectives.

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**Discovering Mexico’s Ascendable Pyramids: An Adventurer’s Guide**

Mexico is famous for its historic pyramids, featuring an abundance of these edifices, outnumbering the empty bottles of Victoria found in a cantina. However, the arrival of tens of millions of tourists annually has resulted in limitations on climbing some of the most well-known pyramids. While celebrated places like Teotihuacan and Chichen Itza have become prohibited for climbers, there are still lesser-known pyramids where the excitement of scaling these ancient wonders can be experienced. Here’s a guide to some pyramids in Mexico that you can still ascend.

**Ek Balam – Yucatan State**

Situated roughly an hour from Chichen Itza, Ek Balam provides a more tranquil experience with significantly fewer visitors. You can ascend to the peak of its largest pyramid for a sweeping view of the ancient city. Nevertheless, be ready for a hefty entrance fee of 584 pesos, about $32, which aligns with the larger site of Uxmal.

**Kinich Kakmo – Yucatan State**

Nestled in the town of Izamal, Kinich Kakmo is a pyramid that grants a distinct perspective of the surrounding region. Although the modern city encroaches upon the site, the ascent is free, making it an appealing choice for travelers on a budget.

**Edzna – Campeche State**

Accessible via the new Maya Train or by road from Campeche, Edzna invites visitors to climb its primary pyramid. The location is less populated, offering a serene exploration of this ancient settlement.

**Calakmul – Campeche State**

Located deep within the jungle, Calakmul is one of the most ancient Maya sites on the Yucatan Peninsula. In spite of its distant setting, it remains reachable by road and features a climbable pyramid with breathtaking views. Few adventurers undertake the trip, ensuring a peaceful experience.

**Cañada de la Virgen – Guanajuato State**

Close to San Miguel de Allende, this pyramid was constructed by indigenous groups such as the Otomi. Access is regulated, and visitors are required to participate in a guided tour to explore the site. The climb to the summit rewards with a stunning view, although the trek demands some physical exertion.

**Maybe: Mayapan – Yucatan State**

Presently closed due to a conflict with local indigenous factions, Mayapan was formerly a destination where visitors could scale its pyramid. The situation remains unresolved, but it’s advisable to monitor for future updates.

**Maybe: Uxmal – Yucatan State**

Uxmal is well-loved among Maya sites for its distinctive structures and reasonable crowds. While climbing the Pyramid of the Magician is not permitted, the Great Pyramid was once climbable. However, recent reports indicate climbing may now be limited, so verify the latest information before your visit.

**Conclusion**

Although several of Mexico’s most renowned pyramids are no longer open for climbing, there are still chances for adventurous travelers to scale these ancient edifices. Whether you’re looking for a calm exploration or an exhilarating climb, these lesser-known sites offer a peek into Mexico’s extensive history and culture. Always verify current access rules before your visit, as regulations may shift.

Since I frequently write about my experiences living overseas, embracing a digital nomad lifestyle, and exploring different parts of the globe, I receive numerous inquiries regarding access to travel money. “Do you set up a local bank account?” “Where should I store my money back home for easy access?” “Is it advisable to exchange currency before arriving?”

However, the crucial query to address is how to steer clear of travel fees when obtaining or converting money, alongside evading charges while utilizing a credit card.

The options for accessing your travel funds have reduced to a handful of straightforward alternatives. In most locations, it’s advisable to carry some cash and access the remainder via your ATM card, employing a debit or credit card when feasible. Additionally, you’ll want to use a credit card for significant expenses (such as local flights, train fares, car rentals, or hotel stays) and for scenarios where you require protection in case something goes awry (like booking local tours).

The challenge is that banks relish fees almost as much as airlines do, regardless of whether the transaction necessitates any effort from their side. If you’re not cautious, the fees can accumulate to the cost of a night’s accommodation every few weeks, impacting your financial plan.

I will elaborate on the impactful strategies in detail, but here are the methods to circumvent beginner travel errors that can deplete your funds–money that could be spent on enjoyable experiences instead.

1) Ensure to only use credit cards with no foreign transaction fees.

2) Utilize ATMs for withdrawing foreign cash, instead of currency exchange counters, while minimizing local fees.

3) If possible, acquire a debit card that refunds local fees or at least doesn’t impose them on their side as well.

4) Always refuse the bank’s deceptive “currency conversion” offer and always conduct transactions in the local currency.

5) Steer clear of dubious ATMs and have contingency plans in case your card is retained, lost, or stolen.

6) Aim to use credit cards that offer some type of travel rewards. This way, your vacation isn’t an infrequent event.

Let’s delve into these in detail, so you can gain the knowledge to be a savvy traveler in the future and retain more of your funds while traveling in foreign nations.

Avoid Credit Card Travel Fees

When I initially began obtaining branded travel credit cards, at least half of them charged some form of foreign transaction fee every time they were used, which is a blatant rip-off that offers nothing in return. Fortunately, most cards have eliminated foreign transaction fees, as it caused them to lose numerous customers.

It seems peculiar that a card intended for travelers would penalize you for traveling, but this remains true for some. The most prominent example is the Southwest card from Chase. It’s still worth applying for due to the sign-up bonus and the benefit of checking a bag for free on this airline, albeit one in decline, but you should stow it away whenever you’re not in the U.S.

Otherwise, scrutinize the fine print if it’s a basic card with no annual fee. These are the cards most likely to charge you an additional 2.5% to 3% if you mistakenly use them abroad. This includes some (but not necessarily all) cards associated with JetBlue, Alaska Airlines, and Marriott Bonvoy (“Bold” version).

Some cash-back rebate cards do this as well, nullifying any cash rewards you earned. Certain debit cards may penalize you twice. Most notably, the one from Paypal that offers an inferior exchange rate compared to banks and then adds a foreign fee on top. They even imposed a “foreign transaction fee” on me when I used their card in Panama, even though Panama uses the US dollar!

Obtain Your Cash from ATMs

I am often taken aback by how frequently I see articles and tour companies advising people to withdraw foreign currency from their bank prior to their journey. This is a quick way to ensure you start out at a disadvantage before you even arrive!

In 99.5% of cases, you will secure a superior exchange rate from an ATM at your destination compared to what you’d obtain in your home country. You will also receive a better rate from that machine than from any local currency exchange service, regardless of their commission claims. (They capitalize on the spread for each transaction, so they have no incentive to provide you the actual bank rate.)

The only time to utilize an exchange service is when you need to convert currency back because of your departure. If you incur a minor loss to obtain cash you can utilize elsewhere, it’s justified. You wouldn’t want to carry around Albanian lek or Vietnamese dong.

Remember to consolidate your withdrawals to minimize fees and avoid taking out an excessive amount of cash for a brief trip, especially if you plan to be in

Who produces the most durable travel apparel today? In my view, during the mid-2020s, the answer would be Craghoppers, a brand known throughout the UK that had disappeared from the USA market temporarily. Some have referred to them as “the European ExOfficio,” a nod to the high performance and durability of their clothing. With ExOfficio having shifted to focusing solely on underwear now, I am excited that Craghoppers USA is thriving. I’ve been singing their praises for over fifteen years and am grateful to continue doing so.

Many travel gear brands I’ve featured here on the Cheapest Destinations Blog offer products that have proven resilient through challenging adventures and frequent trips, yet some emphasize style over sustainability or longevity. Craghoppers tells a different tale—it’s the kind of adventure travel clothing true explorers wear, engineered to withstand the rigors of weeks spent in jungles or mountains.

When I initially began reviewing their apparel at Practical Travel Gear, before selling that site, the variety in color and style was quite limited. However, I didn’t mind since their Nosilife Adventure shirt was the most robust piece in my wardrobe, paired with a couple of matching pants. To illustrate their uniqueness, many of their buttons are attached with fabric strips rather than thread, ensuring they won’t break, fray, or come undone.

Over time, they became a bit trendier and embraced the “trail to pub” aesthetic more. Currently, they seem to have returned to their roots, focusing on being a go-to for serious adventurers instead of aiming to please everyone. They have committed to travel clothing that withstands whatever challenges you present, rather than striving to match the fashion-forwardness of brands like prAna, Anatomie, or Lulu Lemon.

If you’d like to explore their entire collection, follow this link to their official USA website and browse for a while. That link should provide you with a 15% discount as a thank you for your visit.

I’m going to share a few recent and older photos of both me and my wife, Donna, sporting Craghoppers attire, capturing moments in the warm California climate recently and cooler locations from a decade ago. I also wore several of their products during a week of hiking in Kyrgyzstan. With various brand styles evolving over time, and considering it’s June while I write this, I want to highlight another significant advantage they offer: Insect Shield clothing.

Insect Shield Clothing From Craghoppers to Keep Those Bugs Away

It seems so ironic to me that the areas that endure long, harsh winters also suffer from the highest mosquito populations once warm weather returns. From Maine to Michigan, Minnesota to Alaska, the joys of summer quickly turn into the annoyances of itchy bug bites. Then, we must contend with ticks and Lyme Disease across North America, along with Dengue Fever, Zika, and Malaria if you venture into tropical regions.

If you want to return from vacation with only souvenirs instead of pesky bug bites, you need to take protective measures. Apply DEET, use mosquito coils, take heavy-duty medications, or simply dress more robustly. The last option offers the fewest side effects, so covering your ankles and arms at dusk—preferably in treated clothing—can effectively keep bugs at bay.

Permethrin is a chemical used in the treatment of some clothing. It’s odorless and can endure up to 70 washes, far exceeding what most individuals would put a shirt or pair of pants through. The decline of ExOfficio’s travel clothing reduced the availability of Insect Shield items, but thankfully, Craghoppers still provides plenty of treated options.

Whenever I wear socks, long pants, and a shirt containing Insect Shield, I feel a surge of confidence—almost superhero-like. While I don’t leave the bug spray behind on camping trips when I’m equipped with these items, they do add a significant layer of protection.

On my latest trips, I’ve sported an Insect Shield Nosilife Adventure II short-sleeve shirt, a treated Outback Hat, Adventure Life III pants, and Insect Shield socks, resulting in much less itchiness in the USA and Canada. As I prepare for a long journey to Southeast Asia next year, I’ll have even more reasons to pack these items due to increased threats that go beyond mere irritating itches.

Additionally, I’m bringing along the long-sleeve Adventure II shirt that’s also treated.