10 Travel Websites You Need to Bookmark

Essential Travel Websites for the Modern Explorer

Do you require a downloadable public transportation map for cities internationally, accessible on your mobile device? Perhaps you’re seeking a global ATM locator? Or even a resource to quickly find restrooms in an unfamiliar location?

Below is a collection of diverse and intriguing websites, ideal for both seasoned travelers and those simply captivated by the world of travel.

MetrO - Public Transport Guide for your mobile phone

MetrO is a complimentary, worldwide public transport guide, usable both online and on the majority of smartphones. Download data for over 250 cities globally and gain access to a convenient subway, bus, and tram station guide directly on your phone. It facilitates travel time calculations, highlights major landmarks (in key cities), determines shortest routes, and of course, provides directions between stations.

Key features include:

• Directions and details regarding major tourist attractions (in select cities).
• The ability to download maps to your phone for chosen cities.
• A straightforward public transport search function between stops.

For a printable Metro map of an upcoming destination, also explore SubwayMap as featured in MUO.

TripIt - Travel Itinerary planner

TripIt serves as a useful itinerary planner for independent travelers. Simply forward your booking confirmations and reservation emails, and TripIt will intelligently recognize these messages. It then constructs a comprehensive itinerary, consolidating all individual details, offering supplementary information like maps and weather updates, allowing for personal notes, and enabling sharing and collaboration with fellow travelers.

Further details and a review can be found in 'TripIt: Travel Itinerary Planner and Organizer'.

ATMLocator - Global ATM locator

This free service, provided by VISA, allows you to quickly locate ATM cash machines in your area. Select the country and city, optionally enter a postal code, and receive address details and a map for each ATM. Access is also available on any web-enabled mobile device, covering over 170 countries.

Yapta - Flight-ticket price tracker

Yapta is a valuable service that enables users to monitor the price of desired flight tickets, whether for future purchase or for tickets already bought. If you haven’t yet purchased a ticket, Yapta can facilitate a purchase when prices decrease. Even after buying a ticket, Yapta continues to track prices, potentially allowing you to claim refunds or vouchers if the price drops, as many airlines offer this option.

A complete features list is available at Yapta: Get Refund on Flight Tickets.

AirlineMeals - Huge tagectory of airline meals from around the world

This is a fascinating, user-driven database of airline meals, containing over 5000 images. Users submit photos, rate meals, and provide details such as airline, class of travel, and flight information. Browse meals by airline, explore crew meals, discover special meal options, view meals from past decades (1970s, 80s), and see behind-the-scenes images, including airport lounge meals.

SleepingInAirports - Guide for camping overnight or a few hours in an airport

Have you ever found yourself needing to spend the night in an airport due to financial constraints or flight connections? This website is an invaluable resource in such situations. Browse overviews of airports and read user-submitted reviews regarding safety, facilities, and available photos. It’s particularly useful for solo or female travelers who may encounter this scenario. It has been personally utilized during overnight stays at airports like Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Hamburg International.

SeatGuru - Extensive guide on airplane seating, in-flight amenities etc.

SeatGuru provides detailed information, including seat maps (identifying the best and worst seats), and details on in-flight amenities (power outlets, restrooms, televisions) for various aircraft models from over 40 major airlines. Select the airline and aircraft model to access general airline information and a seat map illustrating the plane’s seating arrangement and available amenities.

TheBathroomDiaries- "Search the globe for a clean bathroom"

Submit, rate, and search over 12000 bathrooms worldwide, and read reviews of the highest-rated facilities. Access the site directly from your mobile phone. For US-based users, consider MizPee.

Do you have any other recommendations? Share them in the comments below. Safe travels!