Traveling by yourself has its challenges. Seriously, how do you know where to get the best 3-Way Chili in Cincinnati (Yes, this is a real menu item; and No, the 12-year-old version of Bob never gets tired of ordering a 3-way) or find the best flight to Ft. Wayne? Well, you could look all over the internet for Apps to make your life easier, or why not use these sweet travel Apps that I've already found for you. Enjoy!
1. CheapOair
CheapOair is a great App that'll help you find the best flight and hotel deals. Yeah, I know there are a lot of great flight/hotel Apps out there (Kayak is a fave) but there's one thing that sets CheapOair apart from the rest: a new 24/7 Live Chat option. Even when traveling alone, a helping hand is available to sort out any flight delays or lost hotel reservations.
Where to get it: Apple's App Store
What's it cost: FREE
2. LocalEats
When you're in an unfamiliar city and not sure of what type of food to eat, you could just drive around until you see a bunch of 18-wheelers parked in front of a restaurant...
OR you could use the LocalEats App.
It allows you to search through recommended restaurants that have been reviewed by local food critics and helps you find the perfect bowl of 3-Way Chili.
Where to get it: Apple's App Store
What's it cost: 99 cents
3. XE CurrencyApp
Charlotte and I just returned from Italy where the Euro exchange rate gives the US Dollar a beat down. Math has never been my strong suit, so instead of taking off my shoes and counting I used the XE Currency App to figure out the cost in USD. It's easy to use and more convenient than counting your toes.
Where to get it: Apple's App Store
What's it cost: FREE
4. Google Translate
When we were in Italy, I used my Lonely Planet Phrase Book to help me figure out the language. Most of the time, I got by with handy phrases like "pizza", "gelato" and "Aperol spritz". There ARE times when you have a hard time translating (you should've seen Gene Tyler and me buying snacks in a butcher shop in Montepulciano). THAT'S when Google Translate is my go-to App for getting my point across. It's easy to use - just plug in a question or comment and select the language you want to translate to, and within seconds the App interprets it for you.
Where to get it: Apple's App Store
What's it cost: FREE
5. TaxiMagic
Now that our son Cole has moved to the Big Apple, Charlotte and I are spending a lot of time in New York. Getting a taxi can be tough even in Manhattan (someday I'll tell you about a harrowing ride through the Meat Packing District at 1 a.m.). That's why I loooove the TaxiMagic App. You can book a taxi ahead of time to pick you up at an exact location and drive you wherever you need to go. Hell, it MIGHT just keep you out of the Meat Packing District at 1 a.m., which makes this FREE App even more valuable.
Where to get it: Apple's App Store
What's it cost: FREE
Like this story? Check out this column on our 5 Favorite Travel Apps for Women.
Prepare your own Mexican quick fix with this Chipotle-inspired bowl. Carbs are moderated by filling the bowl with beans, extra veggies and chicken. No need for rice, since the beans count as carbs.
Tips:
If you love tomatoes, increase the quantity to 1/2 cup, but note that the carbohydrates will also increase.
If preparing this recipe for one person, cut all of the ingredients in half. Or simply prepare the full recipe up to the end of step 2 and store leftover chicken and vegetable-bean mixture in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave on High for 1 to 2 minutes, or until heated through, and continue with step 3.
Health Bite: The iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper and zinc in black beans help to keep bones strong and healthy.
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