Resources

Research your Destination

* Clicking on the title will take you right to the resource

Lonely Planet Thorn Tree Forums
Research and discuss travel destinations, accommodation, political situations, and more.
Country Specific Info
American State Department’s general overview of every country including geography, political system, transport system, standard of medical facilites, and overall safety issues as well as visa requirement for American citizens. Also, check the Travel Alerts & Warnings.
Transitions Abroad
A portal for people who want to work, volunteer, study or simply live and travel abroad.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Discover the world’s most spectacular monuments, natural wonders, and points of cultural interest.
Craig’s List
Great resource for finding discount appartments, used cars, temp jobs, shared rides – a must for long term travelers.

Kayak.com Flight Search Engine
This is a good place to start when researching flight prices.
STA Travel
Travel agency offering discounted flights and tours for students and young travelers. Can purchase tickets online.
Seat 61
Excellent source of information on the rail systems of the world. Places an emphasis on rail trips from London, but its extensive information is quite useful to all. Can purchase tickets and railpasses online.

Agoda
This search engine is similar to Booking.com, but generally returns better hotel deals in Asia.
HotelsCombined
This site finds the best deals for you across numerous top hotel booking sites.
Airbnb
If you plan to stay for more than a few nights, we recommend booking an apartment through Airbnb. If you haven’t used Airbnb before, click on this link, and you get a credit toward your first stay.
Couch Surfing
An organization of people who offer travelers a free place to stay. Sometimes a couch, sometimes more.

CDC Traveler’s Health Information
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s country-specific index of travel-related health issues including vaccination recommendations.
WHO Epidemic and Pandemic Alerts
World Health Organization’s website listing current epidemics and pandemics.
WorldNomads.com Travel Insurance
Find affordable travel/health insurance in 140 countries. This insurance is designed for adventurous travelers with cover for overseas medical, evacuation, baggage and a wide range of sports and activities.

REI
For anything outdoorsy. Clothing and gear for camping, hiking, paddling, running, climbing – you name it.
Amazon
At Amazon, you can get pretty much everything at competitive prices.

Viator
This is a well-known booking site for tours around the world. You can find great food tours, entry tickets, walking tours, and many more.
REI Adventures
REI is not only great for travel gear, you can also book amazing adventure tours through them.

3 Sisters Adventure Trekking
Nepalese organization providing female trekking guides and porters. Great for independent female travelers.
Cheap European Accommodation
Find inexpensive accommodation in major European cities.
MakeMyTrip.com
This site is amazing. Book flights, trains, buses and more in India. You will grow to love this site as much as we do.
Templenet.com – Temples of India
The ultimate guide to the temples of India. This site is enormous!
Heritage Hotels in India
Explore accommodation in luxurious Indian palaces, havelis, and fortresses.
Trekking in China
Learn the inside secrets to China’s best hiking and trekking destinations.
Latest on Visiting Tibet
The Land of Snows has extensive, regularly updated information for those planning a trip to Tibet. Excellent resource for learning the latest about Tibet permits.
Kilimanjaro Climbing Guide
Learn everything you need to know about climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, including routes, seasons, packing lists, visa information, and tips on how to prepare for your ascent.