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Welcome to abw travel agency, a.b.w. travel agency is here to take care of the where, when, and how of your next getaway. whether it’s a day trip, a business retreat, or the vacation of a lifetime a.b.w. travel agency is here to make all the arrangements. from natural landscapes to fascinating destinations, to the extraordinary and all things in between a.b.w. travel agency allows you to enjoy the experience without the stress of the planning..

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Abw be jammin land only, all inclusive package includes:, montego bay | aug 30-sep 2, 2024.

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3 Nights at Montego Bay Jamacia, All Inclusive Resort

All beige welcome reception, “turquoise” swimsuit pool party, couple’s dinner – all white, excursion/tour day, abw exclusive gifts, abw hostess on-site, airport transfer.

Discover a world of endless possibilities with ABW Travel Agency’s extensive range of thrilling and budget-friendly travel packages. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, or adrenaline-pumping activities, we have the perfect adventure waiting for you.

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*All the fares displayed are in USD and may or may not include all taxes, fees and applicable surcharges. All prices are 'from' per person, based on travel (Monday - Thursday) from the USA, and depend on the chosen class of service, departure city, airline, cruise, bus, or train and the route. ABW Travel Agency is not able to identify some travel partners or itinerary details online so as not to directly compete with regular retail sales of the travel partner. Savings indicated of the full un-restricted published airfares, cruise fares, bus fares, and/or train fares may vary based on individual fare rules. Some airlines, buses, trains, and/or cruise lines may impose additional baggage charges. The fares displayed on our site are subject to seat availability in the corresponding booking inventory. Seats are limited and may not be available on all airline flights, cruises, buses or trains and dates. In the event of trip cancellation, unless otherwise stated, clients may forfeit their travel fee or may be charged a cancellation fee. In the event of exchange, fare difference may apply. The fares and their governing rules are subject to change without prior notice. Other restrictions may apply, so please check with your travel agent.

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As your clients travel from coast to coast and North to South across America, you can be assured that they will have a quality experience with B & W Charters. Whether you are booking airport transfers, shuttles, or sightseeing tours, B & W Charters is the reliable single source for all your ground transportation needs.

56 & 47 Passenger Coaches are equipped with…

· DVD Equipped with numerous monitors · Climate Control Interiors & Restroom equipped · Public Address System, AM/FM Stereo · Wifi, CD, Some w/ #110 &/or USB charging · Reclining Seats, Armrests, and Footrests

· Overhead Baggage Compartments · Professional Uniformed Drivers · Window Shades/ Tinted Windows or both · Spacious Storage Compartments · Wide Body motorcoaches for extra room

24 passenger Trolley Coaches are equipped with…

· Fully enclosed San Francisco style Interiors · Climate Control Interior with Oak Paneling · Rear Politician Platform · Brass Rails & Beautiful Oak Benches · Wheelchair Lift

· Interior Lights · Professional Uniformed Drivers with a Cell Phone · Large Panoramic Windows · Authentic Trolley Bell & 110-Volt Outlets · BlueTooth, MP3 & USB Input

26-30 Passenger Coach Amenities                  16 Passenger Coach Amenities

· Climate Control Interiors · Reclining Seats and Armrests · Wifi, CD, DVD, BlueTooth, & USB Charging · Individual Reading Lamps · and more…

· Climate Control Interiors · Reclining Seats, Armrests, & Ind. Reading Lamps · BlueTooth, MP3 & USB Input · VCR/ DVD Equipped with a monitor · and more…

B&W Charters has grown from a single motorcoach operation to today’s sizeable fleet of new and deluxe 14 to 56 passenger motorcoaches, vans, & trolleys.

Small group transports also represent a growing area of customer demand. Today customers and trips continue to receive personalized attention and focus, consistent with company history and founding principles.

Our Preparation:

From the moment of your first contact with a B&W Charter/Tour representative until your safe return from your travel destination our goal is one of flawless execution. Our aim is to be courteous, safe, helpful, timely, and a partner in assuring and enhancing your travel experience.

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Trip planning, logistics, and dispatch are equipped with first-rate facilities and professional charter/tour tools inclusive of modern computer and technological enhancements.

Contact us at: 269-345-4222 or 800-536-7000 Office Hours 09.00-17.30 EST - M-F We are located at 1123 King Hwy. Kalamazoo, MI 49001 e-mail us at: [email protected]

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Travel Insurance 101  

Before purchasing travel insurance, it’s helpful to equip yourself with some basic knowledge about travel insurance, including what it is, the main types of coverage available, and the circumstances under which it can be critical for you and your family.

What is travel insurance?

At its essence, travel insurance provides protection against unforeseen events that can occur before or during your trip, ranging from minor mishaps to major misfortunes.

Are you a Canadian resident or a visitor to Canada?

Depending on available plans, travel insurance options are usually first divided into two categories for:

• Canadian residents planning a trip abroad (whether travelling outside their home province or internationally).

International visitors coming to Canada. 

Coverage for one trip vs. multiple trips

Travel insurance products offered to Canadian residents are typically available for two types of travellers:

Travellers who are planning on taking an upcoming trip, and are looking to be covered for that specific trip only.

Travellers who take frequent trips, and are looking to be covered for as many trips as they wish to take within a one year period. These plans for frequent travellers are often referred to as Multi-trip insurance plans.

Main categories of travel insurance benefits

Emergency Medical Benefits  – If you become unexpectedly sick or injured during your trip and require emergency medical treatment, these benefits will cover eligible medical costs for hospitalization and more, along with providing emergency assistance services.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption Benefits  – In case you need to cancel your holiday before you leave or interrupt your trip after departure due to a covered reason, Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption benefits will help you recover the cost of booking expenses such as flights and accommodations which you paid for in advance.

What does travel insurance cover?

While Emergency Medical and Trip Cancellation and Interruption are the two foundational categories of travel insurance, policies will often have additional supplementary benefits that can help further reduce financial and emotional stress when the unexpected interrupts your travel plans.

As an example, the Comprehensive Package and the Non-Medical Package offered by Allianz Global Assistance both also include benefits for Travel Delay, Baggage Loss, Baggage Delay, Travel Accident and more.

However, like any insurance product, such as auto insurance or property insurance, there are specific terms and conditions that outline when and how reimbursements are made – as well as situations that are not covered.

Additionally, the features and benefits of travel insurance can vary broadly depending on the provider offering the product, and the type of policy that’s selected. As a result, it’s important to educate yourself on the nuances of travel insurance to determine the best option for your unique needs.

Regardless of how you choose to purchase travel insurance, always be sure to review your policy in detail before travelling in order to understand what is and isn’t covered. If any aspects of your coverage are unclear, contact your travel insurance provider to have your coverage explained and your questions answered.

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The Best Hard- and Softshell Cases For Traveling With Your Bike

Whether you want a light and stealthy case to avoid fees or a tough, hard-side case to protect your ride, you'll find it here.

Whether you’re planning to travel across the country or across the globe, a sturdy bike travel case or bag is a worthy investment. Your bike will be better protected—and you’ll have more peace of mind—than it will if you stuff it into a cardboard box and hope for the best. Here’s what you need to know.

B&W International Bike Box II

Compact and tough plastic case and four smooth rolling wheels.

Orucase Airport Ninja

Requires more bike assembly, but less likely to incur a fee.

travel Bike Travel Bag Pro

Securely holds modern 29er trail bikes with minimal disassembly.

SCI-CON AeroComfort 3.0 TSA

This case lets you leave the pedals, bar, and seatpost in place.

Thule RoundTrip Transition

ABS plastic shell protects the bike inside. Comes with a repair stand.

Hardshell versus Softshell

Hardshell cases provide the highest level of protection against impacts, but they also weigh more, which can lead to even higher luggage fees. Hard cases also don’t break down, so they take up more room in a hotel room or rental car when not in use.

Softshell cases have come a long way in recent years, and some offer nearly the same level of protection as hard-shell models. Softshell cases are usually lighter than hard-shell cases, and fold or roll down for easier storage.

Hard-shell cases usually rely on a rigid, outer shell—made from a type of plastic—for their protection. Most softshell cases are constructed from durable nylon and rely on padding to protect your bike.

Some softshell cases have a rigid internal frame that provides structure and protects the bike from crushing forces. There are also hybrid cases, which have a fabric exterior lined with foam and plastic sheets.

Both types of cases often include additional padding for the frame, as well as straps to hold the frame and wheels in place.

Size and Weight

Pay attention to the size and weight of a bike case, particularly as it relates to the weight of the bike you plan to transport. Most airlines have a 50-pound weight limit before incurring an overweight fee. You need to factor in the weight of the case, the bike, and other items you’re considering throwing in there before selecting a case.

Hard-shell cases are more protective, but weigh more, leaving less for packing materials, bike, and gear. Softshell cases are lighter, which means you can pack a heavier bike without exceeding the limit but may offer less protection for your gear. The weight difference can be extreme: Thule’s Roundtrip Transition is made of ABS plastic and extremely rugged but weighs 38 pounds, while Orucase’s soft-sided Sub62 weighs just 13 pounds.

Most airlines have a dimensional limit of 62 linear inches—calculated by adding together the total length, width, and height of the bag. If an item of luggage is larger, it can incur an oversize-bag fee. Orucase’s Sub62 is smaller than 62 linear inches, so it should avoid an oversize fee, while Thule’s armored RoundTrip Transition measures over 106 linear inches and is almost certain to cost you extra.

Packing Tips and Tricks

Before choosing a case, have an idea of how much bike disassembly/assembly you’re comfortable with.

Cases like Scicon’s AeroComfort require very little wrenching to pack and unpack a bike but are larger and likely to incur a bike or oversize fee. A smaller and lighter case like Orucase’s Sub62 is much less likely to incur an oversize or overweight charge, but packing the bike into this case requires removal of both wheels, the bar and stem, rear derailleur, pedals, seatpost, and fork.

If you want to use additional padding to protect your bike during transit, consider using your cycling apparel, since it has to make the trip with you anyway. You can also use pipe insulation, which is inexpensive and can be purchased at your local home-supply store. Always be sure you also have all the tools you need to get your bike back up and running at your destination.

How We Picked

Every case on this list has been thoroughly evaluated and vetted by our team of test editors. We also consulted product managers and designers, athletes, and used our own travel experience with these cases to determine the best options. We evaluated them on performance, price, protection, weight, size, and how much bike disassembly is required to come up with a list of cases to serve the needs of anyone traveling with bikes.

Here are nine of our favorite bike travel bags and cases you can buy right now.

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Orucase airport ninja.

Looking to sneak your road bike through security and escape extra baggage fees? If so, this Orucase travel case is the ticket. The ultra-compact bike backpack fits most road frames and breakaway-style travel bikes. Though it’s soft-sided, the Orucase bag uses integrated plastic panels with energy-absorbing foam to armor it against impacts.

Least Wrenching

Scicon aerocomfort 3.0 triathlon, scicon aerocomfort 3.0 triathlon.

Scicon’s AeroComfort 3.0 TSA blends the low weight of a soft-sided bike bag with a rigid frame to protect your prized ride from surly baggage handlers. This travel bag is designed specifically for drop-bar bikes and requires minimal disassembly. The wheels stow in dedicated pockets on the sides and, best of all, there’s no need to remove the handlebar. The adjustable chassis holds your frame in place by the axles—either quick-release or 12mm thru-axles. The four-wheeled design makes it easy to maneuver through crowded airports, and the compact design keeps it within many airlines’ standard luggage dimensions, which may help you skip oversize baggage fees.

B&W BIKE BOX II

B&w bike box ii.

B&W’s International Bike Box II is a simple, effective, and affordable hard-shell case. The clamshell design is easy to use, and the interlocking halves fasten with six buckles to keep everything secure. This budget-minded case includes wheel bags and multiple layers of foam to protect the frame from the wheels. Two fixed wheels and a pair of rotating castors make the International Bike Box II as easy to maneuver as a shopping cart.

DAKINE BIKE ROLLER BAG

Dakine bike roller bag.

Dakine’s Bike Roller Bag has enough space to fit 29ers, downhill bikes, and even 29er downhill bikes. Unlike many other soft-sided bags, the Bike Roller Bag has wheel sleeves inside the main compartment, which reduces the number of external zippers that could fail. Heavy-duty internal and external padding safeguards the frame, fork, and wheels from overzealous airport workers.

Cardboard Box

Bikeflights bike box, bikeflights bike box small.

A cardboard box is a light, inexpensive, and—provided the bike is packed properly—surprisingly safe way to ship a bike. Most brand new bikes—even high-end and custom bikes—are shipped in cardboard boxes. Bike breakdown and packing difficulty is average to high. A cardboard box has no puncture or impact protection, and can fall apart if it gets too wet. The BikeFlights Bike Box comes in four sizes: small, medium, large, and extra large.

Best For Mountain Bikes

Evoc bike travel bag pro, evoc bike travel bag pro.

EVOC’s bike bags are some of the most popular soft-sided options for road and mountain bikes—it even makes versions for BMX and fat bikes. The Bike Travel Bag Pro is a premium version of the company’s Bike Travel Bag. It includes an integrated aluminum chassis to hold frames securely in place by their axles. EVOC added six centimeters to the length of the bag to keep pace with the longer, lower, slacker trend in mountain biking. Another nod to modern mountain bikes are wheel pockets that can swallow 29-inch wheels wrapped in 2.6-inch tires. When not in use, the Bike Travel Bag Pro folds down small enough to fit under a bed.

THULE ROUNDTRIP TRANSITION

Thule’s RoundTrip Transition fits most road and mountain bikes within its tough, ABS plastic shell. Nylon wheel bags prevent frame and wheel rub during transport. The two-piece, hard shell cradles the frame in a lightweight aluminum stand that doubles as a work stand, making reassembly and maintenance a breeze once you arrive at your destination.

Fits Two Wheelsets

Biknd helium v4, biknd helium v4.

The Helium V4 is a drop bar-centric bike bag with a twist. Unlike most other bike bags, it can carry two wheelsets, which makes it an excellent option for cyclists traveling with both race-day and training wheels. Both sides fold flat for unfettered access for quick packing and removal. The feature that really sets the Helium V4 apart is the inflatable panels on the sides of the bag that add protection without heft. These inflatable bladders keep the weight to just 19.8 pounds, which is half of its heavyweight competitors.

Best for Large Bikes

Pro bike travel case mega, pro bike travel case mega.

Traveling with extra-large road bikes or 29er trail bikes poses problems for some cases, but not for Pro’s Bike Travel Case Mega. As the name suggests, this soft-sided bag is designed to swallow large and long frames easily. The alloy base holds the frame by the axles, while padded wheel pockets and foam bumpers keep your bike protected. Integrated pockets allow riders to stash pedals, tools, a mini-pump, and other ride essentials.

Unique Protective Feature

Douchebags savage bike bag, douchebags savage.

Once you get over the name, there’s a lot to like about this bike bag. The Db Savage is a soft-sided travel bag with a race car-inspired roll cage. This internal framework bolsters stiffness and provides an additional level of protection against damage. The Savage works with all road and mountain frames. It features external pockets for wheels and internal organizers for pedals and tools.

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B&W Intl Bike Box II

Over the years I’ve owned and used a lot of bike cases. I own a lot of them now. It’s just a function of how long I’ve been doing this. I’ve owned a lot of soft cases but I’ve gravitated toward hard shell cases because of the protection offered and because most of the airline rules today say that a hard shell case is required to keep the airline from tagging the item as “fragile.”

According to B&W, this isn’t the case I should be showing you all. This one, the Bike Box II, is its best selling model. But it’s not what triathletes buy. Because B&W is a German company and has a close relationship with Canyon, I suspect its opinions are somewhat colored by Canyon’s exhortation against not removing the pursuit bar on its Speedmax SLX (the shipping of which is discussed in this Reader Forum thread ). But I wrote B&W back with pictures of a P-Series Cervelo I’d just built slotting pretty easily into this case. I’m going to write about the case in the context of tri bike travel. Why do I like this case? First, it costs $299 ($265 on Amazon as of today). Do I have your attention? Second, it’s rather smallish; and third, the case weighs about 23 pounds, depending on what all you count in the weight. We’ll get to why those last 2 points are important.

The Bike Box II is called a “box” instead of a “case” because, I guess, it’s less substantial than their cases. But there’s nothing insubstantial about it. It’s a rugged, hard shell case. But it is unique, I’ll say that. It’s got 2 robust wheels on the back and 2 steering wheels on castors in the front (or the other way around, the castors in the back, which is my preference). The case is made of a pair of disconnected halves. It only becomes an actual case when assembled. Of course you could say that about, say, a Tri-All-3, but that case (a fave of mine) has a separate top and bottom. This case has a left and right.

The wheels need to be assembled on the case, if you were to buy it unassembled via mail order. The whole assembly process took me about 20 or 30 minutes. Here are the parts and the tools I used, though an electric tool is unnecessary.

The case comes with a bunch of protective aids which I believe (if I recall correctly) I’ve seen on Canyon’s bikes when they arrive in boxes. These are handy foam blocks with Velcro-like closures that will protect the tubes from contact. This case also comes with a pair of wheel bags. I have a lot of wheel bags and thankfully these bags are made slightly larger than my others, so that they nicely accept a 700c wheels with inflated gravel tires! There are also 3 foam pieces, layers, like lasagna layers, and you put the “filling” in between the layers. Finally, ther’es a hard, like a Styrofoam, block inside of which sits your big chain ring. You’ll see this in the image below.

I hope you don’t mind if I share a few tips on how I pack bikes as I discuss packing this P-Series in this case. We’ve always had to use devices to keep the airlines (or Fedex or UPS) from smashing our fork ends or dropouts in compression. The P-Series is a thru axle bike, and I cut a couple of pieces to length out of a piece of 3/8” aluminum conduit, and when I take the wheels off I put the thru axles back into the frame and fork, thru the conduit. That protects the frame and it keeps my thru axles from getting lost.

I always take the RD off the bike when shipping. You can tape the RD to the frame if you want or wrap it in bubble wrap but, screw it, I’m lazy, I just leave it sitting there inside the rear triangle. I take it off because this is the most likely bad thing to happen in shipping: a bent derailleur hanger or dropout. Taking the RD off (5mm Allen Wrench in most cases) inoculates your bike against this problem. I promise you, your new disc brake bike came assembled to the dealer with a couple of shims inside the calipers. Ask your LBS to give you those, and shove them back inside the calipers when you travel. Otherwise you may find your calipers sort of closed up upon reassembly.

You may find that it’s inconvenient, when you take the stem out of the steerer, to put the top cap back on the fork and have that fork flopping all around inside the frame. I know I do. It offends some sense of appropriateness in me. So, I travel with a pair of 20mm headset spacers, and when I take the stem of the fork I put those spacers in. Stems are almost always about 40mm in height as they pass over the steerer, so any combo of 40mm of headset spacers does the trick.

Speaking of discs, you may want to remove the your rotor from the wheel. This is why Shimano’s Centerlock standard is so much better than 6-bolt. I wrote about that here , so, read there if you want a little more info on that.

There’s one layer of foam on the outside, against the shell. Then I put in a wheel and then the frame and a second layer of foam. I also put my handlebars – I didn’t need to disassemble any wires or cables when shipping this bike – on this “layer.” Then the other wheels and here’s a bag (not included) inside of which I put the seat post/saddle, and the front hydration bottle, and my pedals. Then the last layer of foam and I’m done. Ready to close it up.

Now for the genius of this case, and why it can be so strong while remaining so light. You might think that you simply place one side over the other. No. The two sides overlap several times. It’s very clear where they do overlap. There is a guide, on each shell, where it’s clear that one shell slides inside the other. That’ll get you started. From then on it’s pretty straightforward.

It took me one bike packing exercise to figure it all out. Now, when I use this case, I lay one shell flat on the ground, and it’s the shell with all the straps attached. Strap are laid out, extended out, like your snow angel arms. Once the bike is packet, the other shell goes atop, and the top shell slotting into the bottom shell’s guide. Once the top shell is on, appropriately overlapped at every interval, the straps from the bottom shell are affixed (with Velcro). Then it’s pretty much ready to roll and I place the Bike Box II upright on its wheels.

Once the top shell is on, appropriately overlapped at every interval, the straps from the bottom shell are affixed (with Velcro). Then it’s pretty much ready to roll and I place the Bike Box II upright on its wheels.

The last thing to do is close up a big strap that spans the entire case. There’s a pin, around which the clasp pivots, that you must insert into a receiver with which it mates. Then you flip the clasp over, it locks, you’re done. If you find the clasp not sufficiently tight, there’s a pin on the clasp that you can remove with a Phillips screw driver, and the placement of that pin in 1 of 4 holes makes strap yet tighter, if need be (I didn’t need to adjust it). Now, let’s talk about size and weight. My first use of this case was last month. I and the wife flew to Rome, gravel bikes inside, rolled our cases to the train station, took a couple of train rides to Florence, threw the cases into the back of a taxi, drove to the airport to pick up a rental car. Now came the moment of truth. The car was a Fiat Tipo . Go ahead, click that link, look at that car and tell me if it inspires you with confidence, if you’re traveling with a pair of bike cases.

As you see the cases slid right in (one was this Bike Box II, the other a B&W Bike Guard Curv). This case barely cracks 90” inches when you measure length + height + width, and the airlines variously require a case not to exceed either 115” or 126” or thereabouts using this measuring system. Second, this Cervelo P-Series, when loaded – and this was no small bike, it was a size L, or size 58cm – weighed 47.6lb. I had room for, and could’ve placed in there, my helmet and shoes. For this Italy trip I had all of that plus my floor pump and it came in at exactly 50lb. That’s the magic number. It isn’t that the airlines will fly your bike as checked luggage. It’s that it’ll fly as checked luggage if it doesn’t exceed 50lb . This is the tricky part. You may get an extra 20lb if you’re flying in a forward cabin. Or not. If you’re flying coach on an airline that grants you this new same-as-checked-bag benefit, 50lb is the max. This is where the weight of the case becomes paramount. The cases were extracted from the back of the Fiat Tipo in the Strada Bianche region of Chiante, and rolled over cobbles and gravel. Back into the car and to a Schwable tire launch in another part of Florence. They were packed in and out of the cases several times. Then, finally – long story of bad navigational principles – they were muscled over 4 bridges spanning Venice canals, placed on a bus, then the airlines lost both cases for 3 days before they were finally delivered home, cases intact, bikes fine. A couple of notes. First, the case B&W most sells to triathletes is the Bike Guard Curv, the other case we took to Tuscany. It sells for about $800. Great case. I’m just struggling to find the extra $500 in value over the case reviewed here. Frugal by nature, I just... can't... find a good reason to spend more than the $200-and-something this case costs. Second note: The overlapping of the shells might be a bridge too far for TSA. Mind, I didn’t even think about this on last month’s trip and the Bike Box II was disassembled, checked, and reassembled (properly) by TSA. However, you may want to ask TSA to check it in your presence at the point of departure. (I do this with every bike case, though I forgot to do this on this recent trip and all went okay anyway.) And finally, if you look at the bottom of our pages you’ll see B&W is a Slowtwitch Partner. I first saw the bike cases made by B&W at Interbike last year (which was the last year of Interbike). I admired the cases, spent a lot of time in this company’s trade show booth, but I argued against any sort of partnership with Slowtwitch because I just didn’t intend to write anything about these cases editorially. We just left it there. What changed? I sent an email back the day after I read about American Airlines’ change of posture on checked bikes . (Airlines don’t generally announce they’re making travel better, cheaper, more comfortable for us.) “Now I have a narrative,” I wrote, “and I expect to be writing a lot about travel.” They recommended I try their cases and they sent some out. I asked for the lesser expensive cases not because of the price, but because their light weight works in conjunction with these new bike rules. This is the first of a number of bike case reviews forthcoming, including the Trico Ironcase, Tri-All-3, and others. Here’s B&W International if you want to read more about the case, tho this company has a U.S. office and warehouse, so cases purchased will generally be shipped to you from the continent in which you live. Note that we have a new “superthread” on the Reader Forum, Ministry of Travel , which will be a curated thread designed to inform and answer any questions you all may have about anything related to travel (you or your bike) that relates to this sport we’re in.

Related Articles

Delta Demystified: Yes, Bikes Travel as Checked Bags

Making a Cervelo P-Series Your Own

Airline Bike Box Fees 2019

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• BUYER'S GUIDES

Nature Photography How To

Make epic b&w travel & nature photos with these 12 simple tips (video).

Landscape and travel scenes can be particularly striking when captured in black and white. Some photographers set their camera to monochrome so they can see the effect on the LCD screen, while others prefer to shoot in color and make the conversion during the editing process.

Whatever approach you take, the results you achieve will be significantly better by following the advice in the video below from adventure/travel photographer Toma Bonciu . The Romanian pro offers 12 powerful tips for capturing eye-popping b&w photos, illustrated with his dramatic imagery.

Bonciu has strong thoughts on b&w photography, insisting that, “Whenever you want to present a photo as a b&w image, the b&w version should be better than the color version.” While displaying his images and explaining his techniques, you’ll see why Bonciu says that images captured with long exposures are particularly compelling in b&w.

When shooting in monochrome Bonciu pays close attention to differences in contrast between light and dark areas of a scene (“the more contrast the better”), takes a cautious approach to different textures, and is careful to eliminate elements that may distract the viewer.

In general terms, when making b&w images, Bonciu says it’s extremely important to have a clear separation between the main subject and the secondary elements in a scene. In fact, that’s often the first thing he ponders when composing a shot.

With these basic considerations out of the way, Bonciu launches into his 12 specific tips, each of which is easy to comprehend thanks to the beautiful imagery he presents. While much of his advice is specific to landscape photography, there are a few techniques that are applicable to just about any b&w images you shoot.

After watching the video, be sure to visit Bonciu’s YouTube channel for more outdoor photography tips. And take a look at the tutorial we posted recently, in which another pro explains a common shutter speed mistake to avoid when shooting landscape photographs .

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8 Tips for Stunning Black and White Travel Photography

A Post By: Kevin Landwer-Johan

When we travel to new places, our soul is stirred. We have feelings that don’t normally arise – and black and white travel photography can be used to express these emotions.

However, creating compelling B&W travel images is about a lot more than reducing the Saturation slider. In this article, I share some tips on how to approach black and white shooting so you can make impactful photos that’ll stun your friends and family.

1. Think in black and white

Thanks to the power of digital photography, it’s easy to create a black and white image: Just open a file in your favorite post-processing program, then drop the Saturation slider to zero.

Unfortunately, while that method is simple , it’ll rarely give you great results. Instead, you must learn to imagine scenes in black and white before you ever push the shutter button; that way, when you finally take your image into post-processing software, the results look seamless and natural.

So spend time looking at scenes while ignoring the color. See the tonal values instead. The light and contrast in a scene affect how the image will render in monochrome.

Look at how light reflects off surfaces. See the contrast between two objects. Think about lines and shapes and how they fit into your compositions. 

If you can learn to think in black and white, you’ll start to notice great scenes for black and white travel photos. And as you begin to think in black and white more regularly, you’ll notice a huge improvement in your files!

2. Commit to making black and white travel photos in advance

When photographing a new destination, it’s easy to shoot constantly in color – after all, color is natural and obvious.

But if you want to become great at black and white travel images, you need to make the extra effort to work in black and white.

My recommendation? Before you take a single shot, have a plan in mind. Promise yourself that you’ll take a certain number of photos in black and white. Alternatively, aim for a certain percentage of B&W photos.

And when you take your black and white photos, don’t shoot halfheartedly. Practice thinking in black and white, and photograph people, landscapes, architecture, and anything else that lends itself to monochrome.

That way, when you return home, you’ll have at least a handful of B&W photos you’re proud of!

3. Use black and white to express yourself

Black and white is a highly emotive , expressive genre of photography.

So if you want to create stunning B&W shots, why not use your photos to express your feelings about each location?

Whenever you bring out your camera, ask yourself: How do I feel? And how can I communicate this feeling to anyone who might look at my photos? Share the emotions you experience when you are at a temple, in the airport, or see a child begging in the streets.

Pro tip: Look for people who reflect the way you feel at the time, and include them in your compositions. You might find a busker belting out a happy song and another singing the blues. Which one fits with your emotions?

4. Include people in your travel photos

In the previous tip, I mentioned how you can enhance your black and white travel shots by capturing people who mirror your mood.

But don’t stop there! Whenever you see an interesting person, photograph them .

In fact, people look different when photographed in black and white. People also make a place. Including people, even if they’re other tourists, will offer a real-life perspective on the places you visit.

You can shoot wider landscapes that include people – but sometimes a travel portrait , in which you isolate your subject, makes for a great image. I love to look for brightly lit subjects and dark backgrounds; that way, I can create a dramatic effect:

5. Photograph iconic locations with a unique perspective

We’ve all seen the cliché travel photos – the shots that everyone takes at the most famous locations. Go ahead and take a snapshot, too. Make sure you include those photos in your collection. But don’t stop there.

Start by thinking in black and white. Shooting iconic travel locations in black and white will render them differently, and by planning to take B&W images, you’ll already be ahead of the curve.

Then, before you capture any photos, take time to look at the shapes, lines, light , and contrast in a scene. Consider how you can use the light, camera angle, and composition to create something new. You’ll be surprised by how often you can take one-of-a-kind photos at the most popular travel spots!

6. Confidently adjust your camera settings

Before you press the shutter button, imagine the image you want to create. Then adjust your settings accordingly.

In some places, you’ll want to isolate a subject with a shallow depth of field , so you’ll need to dial in a wide aperture setting . In other areas, you’ll want to keep the entire scene in focus, so a narrow aperture will be key.

If you’re after long-exposure blur effects, you’ll need to mount your camera on a tripod and slow your shutter way down. And if you’re interested in capturing fast action, you’ll need to boost your shutter speed to ensure you get plenty of detail.

I’d recommend switching your camera to Manual mode . Then simply experiment with different settings. After a bit of practice, you’ll start to get the hang of manual adjustments. Pretty soon, you’ll be taking well-exposed images like a pro.

7. Have fun with long-exposure travel shots

Long exposures are beautiful in black and white. Therefore, you should always be on the lookout for situations and scenes that feature moving elements!

For instance, you might notice interesting movement at the seaside, on a riverbank, or on a busy street. You can then place your camera on a tripod or a firm surface, determine your composition, and lower your shutter speed to 1/25s or beyond.

(To prevent camera shake, you’ll need to use your camera’s self-timer or a remote release . And make sure you turn off any camera or lens image stabilization.) Experiment with a variety of shutter speeds. Sometimes you may want to use a faster shutter speed to keep the moving elements recognizable. Other times, you may want to use an extra-long exposure to completely blur your subject.

8. Shoot in RAW and do sufficient post-processing

Most cameras let you shoot in both RAW and JPEG – and if you shoot RAW files, you can apply far more powerful edits. (JPEGs contain less information and are therefore less adjustable.)

That’s why I highly recommend you photograph in RAW! Yes, it’ll take work to learn how to process your black and white shots, but at the end of the day, it’ll be worth it.

Then, when you come home after a photography adventure, make sure to spend plenty of time processing your RAW files. You’ll need to convert your shots to black and white, and you should also experiment with different exposure and color adjustments.

Over time, you’ll develop a distinctive editing style – and you’ll have plenty of fun along the way!

Black and white travel photography: final words

Now that you’ve finished this article, you’re ready to head out and capture some beautiful black and white travel photos!

So remember the tips I’ve shared. Practice thinking in black and white. And enjoy your travels!

What travel photography destination do you plan to photograph next? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Districts [ edit ]

Central Moscow districts [ edit ]

Outlying districts [ edit ], understand [ edit ].

Moscow is the financial and political centre of Russia and the countries formerly comprising the Soviet Union. It has a population of around 13 million and an area of 2,511 square kilometres (970 sq mi) after an expansion in 2012. One-tenth of all Russian citizens live in the Moscow metropolitan area. Moscow is the second most populous city in Europe, after Istanbul , and has the most populous metropolitan area in Europe, with some 21 million residents. Moscow is in the UTC+3 time zone; there is no daylight saving time.

Many years since the break up of the Soviet Union, the economy has improved, and the modern era has brought upon a wide variety of construction projects, modern architecture and newer transport systems replacing the derelict ones during Soviet times.

Geography [ edit ]

Moscow is a large metropolis on the Moskva River, which bends its way through the city. The historical center is on the northern bank of the river. The other major waterway is the Yauza River, which flows into the Moskva east of the Kremlin.

Much of Moscow's geography is defined by the 3 'Ring Roads' that circle the city at various distances from the centre, roughly following the outline of the walls that used to surround Moscow. With Red Square and the Kremlin forming the very centre, the innermost ring road is the Boulevard Ring ( Bulvarnoye Koltso ), built in the 1820s where the 16th century walls used to be. It runs from the Christ the Savior Cathedral in south-west central Moscow, to the mouth of the Yauza in south-east central Moscow.

The next ring road, the Garden Ring ( Sadovoe Koltso ), derives its name from the fact that landowners near the road in Tsarist times were obligated to maintain gardens to make the road attractive. In Soviet times, the road was widened, and there are now no gardens there.

The Third Ring Road, completed in 2004, is not much use for tourists but is a heavily used motorway which absorbs a bit of Moscow's traffic. It roughly follows the outline of Kamer-Kollezhsky val , the customs boundary of Moscow in the 18th – early 20th century. The outer edge of Moscow is largely defined by the Moscow Ring Road (widely known by its abbreviation: MKAD-Moskovskaya kolcevaya avto doroga), a motorway which is 108 km (67 mi) long and encircles the entire city (similar to London's M25 and Paris' Périphérique ).

Climate [ edit ]

The climate of Moscow features warm summers and long, cold winters.

Get in [ edit ]

See Russia#Get in for visa requirements to Russia.

By train [ edit ]

Moscow is a railway hub, with connections to all parts of Russia and far into Europe and Asia. Due to its hub status, Moscow's train stations are often crowded; trains are the usual form of intercity transport for most Russians. The stations have a reputation for being unsafe but paradoxically the threat of terrorism has improved things: security gates, policing and surveillance deter the casual thugs and villains. Guard your valuables and yourself as you would in any big city.

All long-distance trains are operated by Russian Railways and its subsidiaries, except for a few international trains with other operators. Tickets can be bought at stations or online . For domestic trains, you can show the ticket officer your online boarding pass; however, international trains require a printed ticket. There are usually ticket counters with English-speaking personnel - they may be marked as such, or the clerk may direct you to another counter if they can't cope with your English. See Russia#By train 2 for more details on travelling in Russia by train.

From Europe [ edit ]

All trains from Europe halted since 2020

Train stations in Moscow [ edit ]

Moscow has 10 train stations, 9 of which are near metro stations close to the center of Moscow. Be sure to note the station from which your train is departing, which will be indicated on the ticket, or online . Three stations ( Leningradsky , Yaroslavsky , and Kazansky ) are on one huge square, informally known as the "Three Stations' Square". A running joke among Moscow taxi drivers since the Soviet times is to be able to pick up a fare from one of them to the other, taking the unwary tourist on an elaborate ride in circles. Be prepared for enormous queues trying to enter or exit the Metro at peak times, as people are getting off or on the commuter trains.

By car [ edit ]

Many entry points to Moscow over the Ring Road and into the city feature rotating roadblocks, where teams of traffic police may stop a vehicle, especially if it is not featuring Moscow plates. You may be stopped and questioned but you'll be allowed to proceed if you have all the proper documents.

Foreign cars, especially expensive cars, might attract unwelcome attention, and there is cumbersome paperwork involved to enter Russia by car.

By boat [ edit ]

There is no scheduled passenger service to Moscow by boat; however, cruise ships do provide service to the Northern River Terminal, on the Moscow Canal near the Khimki Reservoir. The pier is not convenient to the city and it can take over 2 hours to reach the city centre by car.

A system of navigable channels and locks connects the Moskva River with the Volga River, which is further connected to the Baltic Sea , White Sea, the Azov, the Black Sea, and the Caspian Sea. In the Soviet times this allowed the official propaganda to refer to Moscow as "a port on the five seas".

By bicycle [ edit ]

Moscow is the easternmost destination of the EuroVelo cycling routes . Eurovelo Route 2 , the Capitals Route, is a 5,500 km (3,400 mi) route starting in Galway , Ireland , passing through Dublin , London , Berlin , Warsaw and Minsk before terminating in Moscow.

By metro [ edit ]

The Metro is open from 05:30-01:00. Station entrances are closed at 01:00, and at this time the last trains depart from all of the termini stations. After 01:00, many locals will enter the train station using the exits, which are still open. Service on the ring line runs until 01:30, although entrances are closed at 01:00. The down escalators are also shut off at 01:00.

There is signage in the Metro stations in English and the Latin alphabet, but these signs are not everywhere. Each train carriage has a map in Latin script and there is one near the entrance to each station. Note the direction of the train before you alight. It is worth printing a map of the metro system in both Cyrillic and Latin letters to take with you.

All trains in the system have free WiFi onboard, but you will need to have a Russian phone number to get the authorization code to access the WiFi. Some of the older train cars are not climate controlled.

2 or 3 stations may be connected as transfer points but will each have a different name. There are 2 stations called Smolenskaya and 2 stations called Arbatskaya , but the station pairs are not connected to each other despite having the same name. Some of the stations are very deep underground, and transfer times between certain metro lines can take a lot of time. In the city centre, it can save time to go directly to the above-ground entrance of the line you want to take rather than to enter at a connecting station and transfer underground. On the escalators, stand on the right and walk on the left except for peak hours, when standing on the left side is also allowed.

Some of the train stations include beautiful architecture and it is worth taking a guided tour of the metro system. The most interesting stations in terms of decor are Komsomolskaya (ring line), Novoslobodskaya (ring line), Kievskaya (ring line), Kropotkinskaya (Line #1 - red), Kievskaya (Line #3 - dark blue), Arbatskaya (Line #3 - dark blue), Ploschad' Revolyutsii (Line #3 - dark blue), Mayakovskaya (Line #2 - dark green). Also look at the architecture of the ground entrance building of Arbatskaya (Line #4 - light blue) and Krasnye Vorota (Line #1 - red). History buffs may appreciate that Metro Line #1 (red) has the oldest stations, opened in 1935.

The Vorobyovy Gory Metro Station on Line #1 (red) is unique in that it is on a bridge crossing the Moscow River. This bridge also carries auto traffic road on another level. There is a beautiful view through the transparent sides of the station. A great observing point around Moscow is located nearby on Vorobyovy hills, next to the main building of Lomonosov Moscow State University.

There are a couple of unique trains operating through the system and you will be lucky if you get to ride them. Aquarelle (Watercolor) is a train that includes an art gallery. The train operates daily on Line #3 (dark blue). The Sokolniki Retro Train is a train modeled after the original 1930s trains and it occasionally is placed into service, usually around a major anniversary of the metro system.

The metro is relatively safe, although pickpockets are a problem, as they are in any environment where a lot of people are pressed together. Opportunistic petty crime, such as snatching someone's mobile phone and jumping out just as the doors are closing, is also commonplace. Take the usual precautions at night when gangs of inebriated teenagers may look for an excuse to beat someone up. There is no train guard or conductor, so the first car near the driver may be the safest. Every car is equipped with an intercom to the driver's cabin; they are beige boxes with a grill and a black button near doors, and mostly work, unless visibly vandalized.

By tram [ edit ]

There are several tram routes, although trams are not common in the city centre.

By monorail [ edit ]

Moscow Monorail is a 4.7 km (2.9 mi) monorail line with 6 stations. It is slower, less frequent, and has shorter operating hours when compared with the metro (every 30 min, 08:00-20:00). However, the view is picturesque. It is useful to get to the Ostankino Tower, or to get to the VDNKh exhibition centre from Metro Line #9 (silver). Interchanges between Moscow Metro and Monorail is free, no additional fee will be charged.

By hop-on-hop-off bus [ edit ]

The hop-on-hop-off bus is a convenient way for tourists to see the major sights quickly and efficiently. The buses feature English-speaking guides to answer any questions. A 1 day pass costs $24 for adults and $15 for children.

See [ edit ]

Do [ edit ].

Moscow has many attractions, but many of them are not friendly to a non-Russian-speaker. English-language newspapers like The Moscow Times , Element [dead link] , Moscow News and others can help to navigate towards English-language friendly attractions and services.

Circuses [ edit ]

Theatres [ edit ].

• Bolshoi Theatre , one of the oldest and best known ballet and opera companies in the world.

Learn [ edit ]

Moscow remains the educational center of Russia and the former USSR. There are 222 institutes of higher education, including 60 state universities & 90 colleges. Some of these offer a wide-spectrum of programs, but most are centered around a specific field. This is a hold-over from the days of the USSR, when Sovietwide there were only a handful of wide-spectrum "universities" and a large number of narrow-specialization "institutes" (mostly in Moscow & St.Petersburg). Moscow offers some of the best business/management, science, & arts schools in the world. Moscow is also a popular destination for foreign students to learn Russian.

Work [ edit ]

You will need a work visa which is not an easy process. The visa needs to be arranged well in advance of traveling. It is possible to work in Moscow, you just need to find a good company to support you. The main obstacle for many foreigners will be a mandatory Russian language exam required to obtain a work permit.

Shopping malls [ edit ]

Large shopping malls are common near metro stations.

Tipping [ edit ]

For information on tipping in restaurants, see Russia#Eat .

Ethnic food [ edit ]

Authentic ethnic food from countries of the nearby Caucasus ( Azerbaijan , Georgia , Armenia ) is common in Moscow. Japanese food, including sushi, rolls, tempura, and steakhouses are very popular in Moscow. Other Asian cuisines including Vietnamese, Thai, and Chinese are becoming increasingly more common.

Budget [ edit ]

Street food [ edit ].

Free-standing kiosks serving sausages, meat pies, or kebobs are plentiful, although the origins of the meat served is questionable and the food has been known to occasionally make people sick.

Muscovites are also fond of their ice cream, consumed in any weather, even in the dead of winter, cheap and usually of superior quality; kiosks can be found all over the center and near all Metro stations.

Foodcourts 2.0 [ edit ]

This term is used in articles by local food critics: since 2016, several special food courts were opened with independent and small food chains, for those people who get bored of McDonald's-like food. They offer a wider choice of cuisines.

Clubs [ edit ]

Nightlife in Moscow is bustling, intense and exciting. It starts quite late; it's common for the headliners to start at 02:00-02:00. Most noticeable are areas near Solyanka street and Krasniy Oktyabr' place. At summer time a lot of clubs opening open-air terraces called "verandas". Most of clubs in Moscow are very picky of who they let in, so make sure you have a positive attitude and dress up if you are going to a fancy club.

Gazgolder [dead link] (not far from Kremlin) is among the best.

Cafes [ edit ]

Moscow has several café chains with great coffee including Coffeemania and Coffee Bean [dead link] . Moscow also has a good selection of tea saloons. High-quality infusion teas such as Newby, are widely available in cafes, both in packets and loose.

Asking to add boiling water to the tea you ordered earlier is a practice that some cafes don't welcome, but normally it's acceptable.

Sleep [ edit ]

Stay safe [ edit ].

Moscow enjoys a relatively low crime rate.

Drunk people are the most likely sources of problems. In the past years, lots of policemen were corrupt, and it was best to avoid them. Nowadays Moscow has a Tourist Police force, whose officers are able to speak foreign languages and help tourists. Police officers are equipped with body-cameras.

It is preferable to avoid some parts of the outer districts of Moscow, especially in the south. Some of those areas are notorious for gopniks (drunkards notorious for muggings and starting fights with strangers, and will do so seemingly unprovoked), who normally hang out in sparse residential areas and in industrial zones. The same problems can be witnessed in the surrounding regions and in other Russian cities as well.

While traveling in Moscow, as in the rest of Russia, you should always have your passport with you. If you look non-white, your papers may get checked more often than otherwise. The police may demand to see your papers to check if you have been registered within 7 business days of your arrival into Moscow. Always remember that if you stay in a hotel then you are automatically registered and will be handed a confirmation paper at a time of check-in, so don't worry in this case. The police are usually looking for migrants from Central Asia and unless you fit this profile, you are unlikely to be questioned.

Women should take caution walking alone late at night since they may receive unwanted attention from drunk men. Women should also stay clear of large companies of men in front of bars, restaurants, etc. It is best to walk with a friend if possible.

Streets can become very slippery in winter. Wear shoes or, even better, boots with decent grip to prevent twisted ankles. Ice patches can be hard to spot. A waterproof raincoat is also sensible.

Traffic is poorly handled, and vehicle accident rates are very high.

If you need help with translation, ask students or pupils: younger people are more likely to be able to help you than the older generations.

Connect [ edit ]

For information on using telephones and buying SIM cards in Russia, see Russia#Connect .

Mobile Internet is quite affordable in Russia, but you have to buy Russian SIM-card first.

Wireless Internet [ edit ]

Moscow Metro has Wi-Fi in all trains. It is ad-supported.

Mosgortrans has Wi-Fi spots on every bus, trolleybus and tram. Also sometimes you can find Wi-Fi spot on a public transport stop.

Beeline Wi-Fi [dead link] operates the largest network of both paid and free Wi-Fi access points. If there is a charge, you can pay online via credit card.

There is a large network of free Wi-Fi hotspots in the city centre; check your device in the middle of a busy area and you may find one.

Many cafes and restaurants offer Wi-Fi - ask for password. Most bookstores offer free Wi-Fi, including "Dom Knigi" on New Arbat Street or "Respublika" bookstore on Tverskaya near Mayakovskaya Metro Station.

Some establishments that offer free Wi-Fi may require you to verify an authorization code sent to a Russian phone number before gaining access, but for the most part, foreign numbers also work as of 2016.

Cope [ edit ]

Embassies [ edit ].

Moscow is one of the global diplomatic capitals, competing with Berlin , Brussels , Beijing , Paris , London , Tokyo and Washington D.C. . Most of the world's countries have their embassies in the city.

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Planning a trip to Moscow? Our travel guide contains up-to-date, personal information on everything from what to see , to when to visit , where to stay , and what to eat !

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Why visit Moscow?

Majestic churches, impressive historic fortresses, and palatial buildings: Moscow is a fascinating city whose emblematic architecture reflects the turbulent history that has defined Russia throughout the centuries.

The traces of the USSR can be found around every corner of the city , side by side with the iconic relics of Imperial Russia , like the mythical Red Square , the imposing Kremlin , and the beautiful  St Basil's Cathedral . 

Discover a fascinating world of Cold War bunkers, golden-domed basilicas, world-class art museums, and the legendary "palace of the people,"  as the Moscow Metro has been nicknamed. Whether you fancy watching a classical Russian ballet at the Bolshoi Theatre , perusing the fine arts at the Pushkin Museum , or marveling at the sheer size of the monuments to the Soviet state's achievements at the  All-Russia Exhibition Centre , this travel guide will help you on your way!

Where to start?

If you're going to travel to Moscow and you don't know much about the city yet, the first thing to do is to dive into its legendary history - understanding the past will help you understand the present. Next, check out our practical hints and tips on traveling to the city before discovering which of its most important museums , monuments , and attractions pique your interest.

Looking for a place to stay?

Booking your accommodation in advance is the best way to get great discounts. Our detailed guide on where to stay in Moscow  will help you decide which neighborhood you'd like to look for hotels or apartments in, and our hotel search engine will find you the best deals!

Why is our Moscow travel guide the best?

Introducing Moscow is a  city guide written by travelers for travelers  and contains personalized advice to help you make the most of your trip to the city.

All the information in this guide is valid as of December 2022. If you find any errors or have any comments, please feel free to contact us .

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At BW Travel, we strive to make your journey both professional and enjoyable. Where possible we want you, your family and friends to experience the next level in transportation. Whether your group are using our services for simple airport transfers, stag/hen parties or a morning school runs; we will guarantee we have every base covered from our end to suit your requirements.

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Testimonials

We hired the 16 seater minibus for our holiday to Blackpool in August 2017! Minibus was amazing, spotlessly clean, well maintained, great feature with the dvd screens on the ceiling and the tables at the back which were great for the children in our group e.g. used for colouring, puzzles and ipads! Great boot space at the back which stored our large amount of luggage easily! Driver was great, friendly and accommodating and pick up and dropped off on time! Will definitely use BW travel again! Fantastic service! Highly recommended! Thank you!

Amy Louise Lewis

Bw was fab when the Bellevue hotel customers and staff had a day out to the opening of Hereford races 2 busses arranged the drivers were very competent as I am a really bad back seat driver not at all nervous the drivers were amenable and didn't whinge when we were late back from the pub which was our second stop the price of the busses were really good and were very clean and comfy A big Thanks to the drivers will definatly use your company again

Heather Wynne

We used bw travel for a family of 14 holiday to blackpool recently and the service was brilliant from start to finish. Highly recommended

Andrew Lewis

Excellent service had this minibus to and from airport, excellent.

Claire Jeffries

B&W foldon.case

sturdy folding bike case in the perfect size for convenience

Product Number: 96006/N

• suitable for many bikes
• easy handling

foldon case - the sturdy folding bike case in the perfect size for convenience

• Perfect size for Brompton bikes

Folding bikes with the size and shape of an original Brompton bike are perfectly and securely stored in the foldon case

Aluminum rim with reinforced corners

Rigid, rugged shell for use in harsher environments

TSA-approved lock

For uncomplicated, trouble-free travel to the United States with a folding bike

The B&W foldon case: secure, sturdy, strong

With the B&W foldon case, folding bikes stay in place during transport, safe and shakeproof—even or especially during less-than-delicate luggage handling. The rugged ABS plastic shell is impact-resistant and scratchproof, and the aluminum rim offers reinforced corners. A case strap routed inside the shell provides optimal support for the fail-safe closing mechanism of the locking latches so the contents remain protected against any external influences at all times. Its ideal size makes our B&W foldon case the perfect compact companion for secure transport of valuable contents, from Brompton bikes to a complete travel setup.

All features at a glance

• Extremely sturdy: shell made of ASB plastic
• Versions with TSA-approved lock also available
• Impact-resistant
• Scratchproof
• Aluminum rim
• Reinforced corners
• Smooth, extendable telescoping handle 
• High-quality inline casters
• Internal locking latches 
• internal dimensions: 610 x 625 x 240 mm | 24.2 x 24.2 x 9.4 inch
• External dimensions: 640 x 700 x 330 mm | 25.0 x 26.7 x 12.7 inch
• Weight: 15.9 Ib
• Color: black
• Inner protective lining: egg crate foam

Brompton bike format? Our foldon case is practically made for it.

When traveling, you do not stow a high-quality folding bike just anywhere. It should always be fully protected against rough handling, inattentive storing, and unwanted external influences. Our B&W foldon case offers extreme stability and the perfect inner size for all foldable bikes with the dimensions of a Brompton bike. The sturdy ABS plastic shell with egg crate foam interior exerts just the right amount of pressure on the contents to keep it in place and secure during transport. With the foldon case, high-quality folding bikes are not only protected, they are also supported.

B&W bike.case with TSA-approved lock

To avoid any unnecessary delays with luggage handling when traveling to the United States, a B&W foldon case for folding bikes can also be equipped with two TSA-approved locks. The TSA, or Transport Security Administration, is always glad for travelers with luggage that does not need to be unnecessarily broken open in order to inspect its contents. And our secure and user-friendly bike.case by B&W and its contents will be glad that the case can be opened properly without damage.

The pictured bike is not included in the delivery.

A (A1): 25.2 inch / 640mm

B: 27.56 inch / 700mm

C: 12.99 inch / 330mm

A (A1) inside: 24.02 inch / 610mm

B inside: 24.61 inch / 625mm

C inside: 9.45 inch / 240mm

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+ further variants

2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

In Transit: Notes from the Underground

Jun 06 2018.

Spend some time in one of Moscow’s finest museums.

Subterranean commuting might not be anyone’s idea of a good time, but even in a city packing the war-games treasures and priceless bejeweled eggs of the Kremlin Armoury and the colossal Soviet pavilions of the VDNKh , the Metro holds up as one of Moscow’s finest museums. Just avoid rush hour.

The Metro is stunning and provides an unrivaled insight into the city’s psyche, past and present, but it also happens to be the best way to get around. Moscow has Uber, and the Russian version called Yandex Taxi , but also some nasty traffic. Metro trains come around every 90 seconds or so, at a more than 99 percent on-time rate. It’s also reasonably priced, with a single ride at 55 cents (and cheaper in bulk). From history to tickets to rules — official and not — here’s what you need to know to get started.

A Brief Introduction Buying Tickets Know Before You Go (Down) Rules An Easy Tour

A Brief Introduction

Moscow’s Metro was a long time coming. Plans for rapid transit to relieve the city’s beleaguered tram system date back to the Imperial era, but a couple of wars and a revolution held up its development. Stalin revived it as part of his grand plan to modernize the Soviet Union in the 1920s and 30s. The first lines and tunnels were constructed with help from engineers from the London Underground, although Stalin’s secret police decided that they had learned too much about Moscow’s layout and had them arrested on espionage charges and deported.

The beauty of its stations (if not its trains) is well-documented, and certainly no accident. In its illustrious first phases and particularly after the Second World War, the greatest architects of Soviet era were recruited to create gleaming temples celebrating the Revolution, the USSR, and the war triumph. No two stations are exactly alike, and each of the classic showpieces has a theme. There are world-famous shrines to Futurist architecture, a celebration of electricity, tributes to individuals and regions of the former Soviet Union. Each marble slab, mosaic tile, or light fixture was placed with intent, all in service to a station’s aesthetic; each element, f rom the smallest brass ear of corn to a large blood-spattered sword on a World War II mural, is an essential part of the whole.

The Metro is a monument to the Soviet propaganda project it was intended to be when it opened in 1935 with the slogan “Building a Palace for the People”. It brought the grand interiors of Imperial Russia to ordinary Muscovites, celebrated the Soviet Union’s past achievements while promising its citizens a bright Soviet future, and of course, it was a show-piece for the world to witness the might and sophistication of life in the Soviet Union.

It may be a museum, but it’s no relic. U p to nine million people use it daily, more than the London Underground and New York Subway combined. (Along with, at one time, about 20 stray dogs that learned to commute on the Metro.)

In its 80+ year history, the Metro has expanded in phases and fits and starts, in step with the fortunes of Moscow and Russia. Now, partly in preparation for the World Cup 2018, it’s also modernizing. New trains allow passengers to walk the entire length of the train without having to change carriages. The system is becoming more visitor-friendly. (There are helpful stickers on the floor marking out the best selfie spots .) But there’s a price to modernity: it’s phasing out one of its beloved institutions, the escalator attendants. Often they are middle-aged or elderly women—“ escalator grandmas ” in news accounts—who have held the post for decades, sitting in their tiny kiosks, scolding commuters for bad escalator etiquette or even bad posture, or telling jokes . They are slated to be replaced, when at all, by members of the escalator maintenance staff.

For all its achievements, the Metro lags behind Moscow’s above-ground growth, as Russia’s capital sprawls ever outwards, generating some of the world’s worst traffic jams . But since 2011, the Metro has been in the middle of an ambitious and long-overdue enlargement; 60 new stations are opening by 2020. If all goes to plan, the 2011-2020 period will have brought 125 miles of new tracks and over 100 new stations — a 40 percent increase — the fastest and largest expansion phase in any period in the Metro’s history.

Facts: 14 lines Opening hours: 5 a.m-1 a.m. Rush hour(s): 8-10 a.m, 4-8 p.m. Single ride: 55₽ (about 85 cents) Wi-Fi network-wide

Buying Tickets

• Ticket machines have a button to switch to English.
• You can buy specific numbers of rides: 1, 2, 5, 11, 20, or 60. Hold up fingers to show how many rides you want to buy.
• There is also a 90-minute ticket , which gets you 1 trip on the metro plus an unlimited number of transfers on other transport (bus, tram, etc) within 90 minutes.
• Or, you can buy day tickets with unlimited rides: one day (218₽/ US$4), three days (415₽/US$7) or seven days (830₽/US$15). Check the rates here to stay up-to-date.
• If you’re going to be using the Metro regularly over a few days, it’s worth getting a Troika card , a contactless, refillable card you can use on all public transport. Using the Metro is cheaper with one of these: a single ride is 36₽, not 55₽. Buy them and refill them in the Metro stations, and they’re valid for 5 years, so you can keep it for next time. Or, if you have a lot of cash left on it when you leave, you can get it refunded at the Metro Service Centers at Ulitsa 1905 Goda, 25 or at Staraya Basmannaya 20, Building 1.
• You can also buy silicone bracelets and keychains with built-in transport chips that you can use as a Troika card. (A Moscow Metro Fitbit!) So far, you can only get these at the Pushkinskaya metro station Live Helpdesk and souvenir shops in the Mayakovskaya and Trubnaya metro stations. The fare is the same as for the Troika card.
• You can also use Apple Pay and Samsung Pay.

Rules, spoken and unspoken

No smoking, no drinking, no filming, no littering. Photography is allowed, although it used to be banned.

Stand to the right on the escalator. Break this rule and you risk the wrath of the legendary escalator attendants. (No shenanigans on the escalators in general.)

Get out of the way. Find an empty corner to hide in when you get off a train and need to stare at your phone. Watch out getting out of the train in general; when your train doors open, people tend to appear from nowhere or from behind ornate marble columns, walking full-speed.

Always offer your seat to elderly ladies (what are you, a monster?).

An Easy Tour

This is no Metro Marathon ( 199 stations in 20 hours ). It’s an easy tour, taking in most—though not all—of the notable stations, the bulk of it going clockwise along the Circle line, with a couple of short detours. These stations are within minutes of one another, and the whole tour should take about 1-2 hours.

Start at Mayakovskaya Metro station , at the corner of Tverskaya and Garden Ring,  Triumfalnaya Square, Moskva, Russia, 125047.

1. Mayakovskaya.  Named for Russian Futurist Movement poet Vladimir Mayakovsky and an attempt to bring to life the future he imagined in his poems. (The Futurist Movement, natch, was all about a rejecting the past and celebrating all things speed, industry, modern machines, youth, modernity.) The result: an Art Deco masterpiece that won the National Grand Prix for architecture at the New York World’s Fair in 1939. It’s all smooth, rounded shine and light, and gentle arches supported by columns of dark pink marble and stainless aircraft steel. Each of its 34 ceiling niches has a mosaic. During World War II, the station was used as an air-raid shelter and, at one point, a bunker for Stalin. He gave a subdued but rousing speech here in Nov. 6, 1941 as the Nazis bombed the city above.

Take the 3/Green line one station to:

2. Belorusskaya. Opened in 1952, named after the connected Belarussky Rail Terminal, which runs trains between Moscow and Belarus. This is a light marble affair with a white, cake-like ceiling, lined with Belorussian patterns and 12 Florentine ceiling mosaics depicting life in Belarussia when it was built.

Transfer onto the 1/Brown line. Then, one stop (clockwise) t o:

3. Novoslobodskaya.  This station was designed around the stained-glass panels, which were made in Latvia, because Alexey Dushkin, the Soviet starchitect who dreamed it up (and also designed Mayakovskaya station) couldn’t find the glass and craft locally. The stained glass is the same used for Riga’s Cathedral, and the panels feature plants, flowers, members of the Soviet intelligentsia (musician, artist, architect) and geometric shapes.

Go two stops east on the 1/Circle line to:

4. Komsomolskaya. Named after the Komsomol, or the Young Communist League, this might just be peak Stalin Metro style. Underneath the hub for three regional railways, it was intended to be a grand gateway to Moscow and is today its busiest station. It has chandeliers; a yellow ceiling with Baroque embellishments; and in the main hall, a colossal red star overlaid on golden, shimmering tiles. Designer Alexey Shchusev designed it as an homage to the speech Stalin gave at Red Square on Nov. 7, 1941, in which he invoked Russia’s illustrious military leaders as a pep talk to Soviet soldiers through the first catastrophic year of the war.   The station’s eight large mosaics are of the leaders referenced in the speech, such as Alexander Nevsky, a 13th-century prince and military commander who bested German and Swedish invading armies.

One more stop clockwise to Kurskaya station,  and change onto the 3/Blue  line, and go one stop to:

5. Baumanskaya.   Opened in 1944. Named for the Bolshevik Revolutionary Nikolai Bauman , whose monument and namesake district are aboveground here. Though he seemed like a nasty piece of work (he apparently once publicly mocked a woman he had impregnated, who later hung herself), he became a Revolutionary martyr when he was killed in 1905 in a skirmish with a monarchist, who hit him on the head with part of a steel pipe. The station is in Art Deco style with atmospherically dim lighting, and a series of bronze sculptures of soldiers and homefront heroes during the War. At one end, there is a large mosaic portrait of Lenin.

Stay on that train direction one more east to:

6. Elektrozavodskaya. As you may have guessed from the name, this station is the Metro’s tribute to all thing electrical, built in 1944 and named after a nearby lightbulb factory. It has marble bas-relief sculptures of important figures in electrical engineering, and others illustrating the Soviet Union’s war-time struggles at home. The ceiling’s recurring rows of circular lamps give the station’s main tunnel a comforting glow, and a pleasing visual effect.

Double back two stops to Kurskaya station , and change back to the 1/Circle line. Sit tight for six stations to:

7. Kiyevskaya. This was the last station on the Circle line to be built, in 1954, completed under Nikita Khrushchev’ s guidance, as a tribute to his homeland, Ukraine. Its three large station halls feature images celebrating Ukraine’s contributions to the Soviet Union and Russo-Ukrainian unity, depicting musicians, textile-working, soldiers, farmers. (One hall has frescoes, one mosaics, and the third murals.) Shortly after it was completed, Khrushchev condemned the architectural excesses and unnecessary luxury of the Stalin era, which ushered in an epoch of more austere Metro stations. According to the legend at least, he timed the policy in part to ensure no Metro station built after could outshine Kiyevskaya.

Change to the 3/Blue line and go one stop west.

8. Park Pobedy. This is the deepest station on the Metro, with one of the world’s longest escalators, at 413 feet. If you stand still, the escalator ride to the surface takes about three minutes .) Opened in 2003 at Victory Park, the station celebrates two of Russia’s great military victories. Each end has a mural by Georgian artist Zurab Tsereteli, who also designed the “ Good Defeats Evil ” statue at the UN headquarters in New York. One mural depicts the Russian generals’ victory over the French in 1812 and the other, the German surrender of 1945. The latter is particularly striking; equal parts dramatic, triumphant, and gruesome. To the side, Red Army soldiers trample Nazi flags, and if you look closely there’s some blood spatter among the detail. Still, the biggest impressions here are the marble shine of the chessboard floor pattern and the pleasingly geometric effect if you view from one end to the other.

Keep going one more stop west to:

9. Slavyansky Bulvar.  One of the Metro’s youngest stations, it opened in 2008. With far higher ceilings than many other stations—which tend to have covered central tunnels on the platforms—it has an “open-air” feel (or as close to it as you can get, one hundred feet under). It’s an homage to French architect Hector Guimard, he of the Art Nouveau entrances for the Paris M é tro, and that’s precisely what this looks like: A Moscow homage to the Paris M é tro, with an additional forest theme. A Cyrillic twist on Guimard’s Metro-style lettering over the benches, furnished with t rees and branch motifs, including creeping vines as towering lamp-posts.

Stay on the 3/Blue line and double back four stations to:

10. Arbatskaya. Its first iteration, Arbatskaya-Smolenskaya station, was damaged by German bombs in 1941. It was rebuilt in 1953, and designed to double as a bomb shelter in the event of nuclear war, although unusually for stations built in the post-war phase, this one doesn’t have a war theme. It may also be one of the system’s most elegant: Baroque, but toned down a little, with red marble floors and white ceilings with gilded bronze c handeliers.

Jump back on the 3/Blue line  in the same direction and take it one more stop:

11. Ploshchad Revolyutsii (Revolution Square). Opened in 1938, and serving Red Square and the Kremlin . Its renowned central hall has marble columns flanked by 76 bronze statues of Soviet heroes: soldiers, students, farmers, athletes, writers, parents. Some of these statues’ appendages have a yellow sheen from decades of Moscow’s commuters rubbing them for good luck. Among the most popular for a superstitious walk-by rub: the snout of a frontier guard’s dog, a soldier’s gun (where the touch of millions of human hands have tapered the gun barrel into a fine, pointy blade), a baby’s foot, and a woman’s knee. (A brass rooster also sports the telltale gold sheen, though I am told that rubbing the rooster is thought to bring bad luck. )

Now take the escalator up, and get some fresh air.

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Japan Travel Guide 2024-2025: Discover the Rich Culture, History, and Adventure Wonders of the Land of the Rising Sun. Kindle Edition

Embark on a journey through time and tradition as you explore the country's rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, each page is filled with invaluable insights, practical tips, and must-see destinations.

Featuring vivid descriptions and captivating imagery, this guidebook offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of Japan. Immerse yourself in the art of the traditional tea ceremony, witness the power and grace of sumo wrestling, and savor the exquisite flavors of Japanese cuisine. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there's something for everyone within these pages.

Enhanced with beautiful photographs, this book is your passport to an unforgettable adventure in Japan. Plan your itinerary, uncover hidden gems, and create memories that will last a lifetime. With our expert recommendations and insider advice, you'll experience the best that Japan has to offer, one captivating page at a time.

• Print length 97 pages
• Language English
• Sticky notes On Kindle Scribe
• Publication date April 11, 2024
• File size 3937 KB
• Page Flip Enabled
• Word Wise Enabled
• Enhanced typesetting Enabled
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Product details

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0D1KWWTZP
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ April 11, 2024
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• File size ‏ : ‎ 3937 KB
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• Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
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• Sticky notes ‏ : ‎ On Kindle Scribe
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 97 pages

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William d. turner.

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Best outdoor bar carts to keep the drinks flowing

I f you're planning outdoor gatherings this spring and summer, you'll want to have a sturdy, stylish bar cart on hand. The best outdoor bar carts are made of weather-resistant materials, are easy to transport and offer enough space to store and serve drinks. 

To save you time from having to search for the perfect outdoor bar cart for your home , we've rounded up our favorites from various retailers, including Wayfair and Amazon, that'll suit different tastes and budgets. Check out the best outdoor bar carts below.

Best outdoor bar carts in 2024

We found top-rated bar carts that fit just about every budget. Here are our top picks.

• Best outdoor bar cart overall: Best Choice rolling wicker bar cart
• Best small outdoor bar cart: Beachcrest Home Anjenette solid wood bar cart
• Most stylish outdoor bar cart: Business & Pleasure Co. The Al Fresco Bar Cart
• Best outdoor bar cart splurge: Frontgate teak bar cart with beverage tub
• Best outdoor bar cart on a budget: Homall bar cart

If you're on the hunt for  more outdoor furniture , see our recommendations for  the best places to buy patio furniture . 

Best bar cart overall : Best Choice Products outdoor rolling wicker bar cart

This bar cart has everything you need to make transporting and storing drinks super easy. The Best Choice Products bar cart has two dedicated compartments for wine and spirits, with one storage compartment conveniently outfitted with dividers so the bottles don't clang together while the cart moves. 

There's also a rack that can hold your wine glasses and a built-in ice bucket for chilled beverages. What's more, it's made of an all-weather wicker, ensuring longevity while stored outside.

The Best Choice Products outdoor rolling wicker bar cart has a 4.6-star rating on Amazon. One reviewer called it "elegant and functional," adding: "Easy to wheel from the grill to the eating area and has a huge bucket for champagne, beer and wine. Love the wine glass holders." 

For a limited time, you can score this bar cart for $160 (36% off) at Amazon.

Best small bar cart : Beachcrest Home Anjenette solid wood bar cart

For such a small piece of furniture , we're impressed with how tricked out the Anjenette bar cart is. It comes with three storage shelves, including an adjustable middle shelf, which will be convenient for storing tall bottles and stemware. 

The bar cart is versatile, offering enough prep space and extra features to make snacks thanks to its flat countertop, towel rack, shelf for spices and oils (or small bottles of mixers and liquor) and paper towel rack. It also has four wheels for the easiest transport, and thanks to the acacia wood and teak finish, and is quite pretty to look at.

The Beachcrest Home Anjenette solid wood bar cart has a 4.5-star rating on Wayfair. One reviewer wrote , "Beautiful bar! Perfect size on my pool deck for our summer drinks!" 

Get this bar cart at Wayfair for $300, reduced from $444.

Most stylish bar cart : Business & Pleasure Co. The Al Fresco Bar Cart

If you prefer fashion over function, get this incredibly chic outdoor bar cart from Anthropologie. This Business & Pleasure Co. bar cart comes in two colors, black and white, and features beautiful ironwork, including patterned shelving. 

The two patterned shelves come with holes for an umbrella, which can provide you and your guests with some much-needed shade during the summer months while you all wait for your drinks to get made. The shelves offer ample space for drinks and glasses.

Keep in mind that this bar cart is only available to ship via Anthropologie's White Glove Delivery service, with rates starting at $149. 

Best outdoor bar cart splurge : Frontgate teak bar cart with beverage tub

One of the reasons this stunning outdoor bar cart comes at such a high premium is its material: teak. Teak wood is the best wood you can use for outdoor furniture . Teak won't get damaged by the sun (other than reveal a patina over time), can repel water and is pest-resistant, among other perks. 

In addition to the stunning teak, this Frontgate bar cart comes with two beverage tubs, allowing for lots of space to chill drinks for your guests. These beverage tubs can be exposed or covered with the included sliding serving surfaces. Use the bottom shelf to house glasses, liquid and mixers. 

If you're willing to pay extra for a long-lasting outdoor bar cart, this one won't disappoint. Frontgate is currently running a limited-time offer of $675 off the bar cart, so take advantage of the deal while it's still here. 

Best outdoor bar cart on a budget : Homall bar cart

This bar cart from Walmart is a great value, as it comes with features seen in bar carts three times its price. The Homall bar cart has a stemware rack that can fit six glasses and a wine rack that can hold six bottles. 

These convenient storage solutions free up space in the bottom shelf, allowing you to store more bottles, an ice bucket and even small plates for snacks. It's made of metal and MDF, a real wood alternative, and comes in three colors, including black, white and gold. Prices vary by color. 

The Homall bar cart has a 4.7-star rating on Walmart. One reviewer wrote , "Love this bar cart! Was easy to put together and the quality is so good for the price. Definitely recommend!"