One of the reasons I traded in my beloved BlackBerry for an iPhone was so that I could take advantage of the latest great travel apps to help me plan and organize all of my Travel Therapy TV shoots where I’m constantly traveling around the world.
But it was mind boggling when I first started researching the top travel apps because there are literally hundreds to pick from. What I thought was going to make my life easier was already getting pretty complicated.
So following what Travel Therapy is all about, picking the trips that are best for you based on what you’re going through in life, I started writing down the top things I personally needed and wanted to know when I traveled and focused only on those apps that specifically fit my needs and then started my extensive research.
I won’t lie, it has been a process but I’m thrilled to say after some serious trial and error, I’ve now found what I believe are the best of the best when it comes to top free travel apps that can help you have a true Travel Therapy experience.
I’ve included a list of my favorite free travel apps here and I’d love to hear your feedback about any travel apps you’re using that have made your travels better!
TOP 10 FREE TRAVEL APPS FOR TRAVEL THERAPY TRIPS
GateGuru
I use this easy app every time I fly to find what gate I’m at and airport terminal information including reviews on what restaurants are nearby and at there’s also cool section tips section for where you’re at including average wait time at your security checkpoint.
SeatGura
I’m very selective about where I sit on a plane and I’ve been using SeatGura for years online to learn about the best and worst seats on a flight, where you’ll score the most legroom, electrical outlets, etc, so I was excited to see they have now have APP so when I’m on the go I can make sure to never get stuck in a dreaded seat next to a bathroom on a long flight.
TripIt
For anyone traveling a lot that wants to be uber organized having all your information about flights, hotels, rental cars, etc, all in one place this is the app for you! You just forward your email confirmations of your flights, hotels, etc, to plans@tripit.com and this cool app will create your itinerary for you or your can create your own itinerary yourself. So easy and so efficient!
Free Wi-Fi
A lifesaver, especially when you’re traveling internationally and don’t want to rack up expensive international data charges this handy apps shows you were all the free wi-fi hotspots that are near you so you can connect guilt free all around the world.
Google Maps
Let’s just say I have a “challenged” sense of direction which could be a real pain with as much as I travel but thanks to Google Maps I’m never lost for long! A huge plus, you don’t have to have an internet connection to get the maps, you can be offline, so no international data charges apply if you’re traveling out of the U.S.
Google Translate
Say what? I travel all over the world and as much as I try to learn the basics in the different languages having this easy app, where you just speak into and it translates what you say into another language has helped me communicate what I need no matter where I am.
EX Currency
A mathlete I am not so this free currency converter sure comes in handy when I’m traveling around the world and need to know quickly how much something is going to cost me in US dollars. It converts close to 2oo different currencies on the go and can even work offline using the last updated stored rates.
Chefs Feed
A huge part of Travel Therapy is enjoying authentic food from the region your in and avoiding tourist traps where you’re just dished up a lot of tasteless junk. That’s why the Chefs Feed app is one of my favorites because you have top chefs, from around the world, sharing their favorite foodie finds. Find out where Mario Batali gets his carnitas taco fix and where Wolfgang Puck and Thomas Keller go for sushi. Fair to say this is one app I’m addicted to and always craving their latest updates.
Happy Hours
Cheers to this super easy free app that lets you find all the best happy hour food and drink deals near you. I’ve tried several different happy hour themed apps but this is the one I like best right now because it is so quick and easy.
Postagram
Here’s a fun app for anyone wanting to share something awesome they’re seeing while traveling. Just snap a picture and write a quick note and for 99 cents you can send an actual customized postcard you’ve created in seconds to anyone in the U.S., via snail mail. I like sending these to my grandma who always appreciates finding a little surprise in her mailbox. You can also send your postcards internationally for $1.99.
For more tips and ideas on top places to go for your Travel Therapy you can catch my Travel Therapy TV segments on WPIX-TV, PIX11, the CW Network flagship in New York City, on the morning news and on the nationally syndicated health and wellness Dr. Steve Show.
The TV segments are also featured online on both show’s websites.
TRAVEL THERAPY on WPIX-TV PIX11 Morning News in NYC
http://pix11.com/travel-therapy/
TRAVEL THERAPY on Nationally Syndicated Dr. Steve Show
http://drsteve.pix11plus.com/category/travel-therapy/
Until next time…safe travels!
