How to Dress like a Local in Top US Cities

Do you often strive to "look like a local" when you are traveling? Maybe you don't want to be targeted by pickpockets who prey on tourists. Maybe you just. cant. stand. to be seen as one of "those people." Whatever your reason for wanting to dress like a local, our friends from the Orbitz Travel Blog have created this hilarious little graphic: [Do you think the photo is true about Florida locals?]

That was funny, wasn't it? Before you pack your suitcase for your adventure as a "not tourist," remember to make your Tampa International Airport Parking reservation with A1 Express!

Five "Must See" Destinations for 2015

We are halfway through the first month of 2015, and if you haven't started planning your vacations for this year, you should probably start! Flight options from Tampa International Airport are continually increasing, and choosing a destination can be quite time consuming! To start your 2015 off right, we have a list of the top five "must see" travel destinations for 2015:

Milan, Italy

Milan, Italy certainly isn't a new, or even an up-and-coming destination, so why does it make our top five for places to travel from Tampa in 2015? This year, Milan is hosting a 2015 expo on "the future of food" that will draw over 20 million visitors! This expo brings along with it tons of new architecture unique to Milan and hundreds of cuisines from across the world. 

Singapore

As if you needed a reason to visit Singapore in the first place, this year, the country will celebrate its 50th year of independence with parades and merry making all year. The country is extremely safe and the urban areas are shockingly clean. Tourists can enjoy wide expanses of green spaces, cultural heritage, a national art museum, and world-class hotels and dining.

Oman

Most people have never even heard of this Middle Eastern country, located right next to the United Arab Emirates. Have you always wanted to travel to the Middle East and experience the culture and cuisine of this mysterious world? Oman is the safest Middle Eastern country in 2015 and is a highly anticipated destination to visit this year. 

Durham, North Carolina

8 hour flights and international border crossings not your idea of fun? Durham, N.C. is a lot closer to home and just as interesting as overseas destinations! Durham is boasting all the latest cuisine innovations, from fair-trade coffee shops and micro-breweries, to the best local diners you can find. This year, Durham is debuting a "tree house" hotel, where guests will stay some 20 feet above the ground.

Dominican Republic

If you are okay with a shorter flight [under 4 hours from most USA cities], but still want to visit an exotic destination, the Dominican Republic may be just right for you! Instead of visiting the "usual" high-tourist areas of the Dominican Republic, consider visiting the country's pristine northern shore. The north shore will have much less traffic and the beaches and hotels are a far cry away from "ordinary."

Before embarking on your 2015 trip of the year, don't forget to make your online parking reservation with A1 Express. We want to ensure that your Tampa International Airport flight experience is a smooth as possible by ensuring we get you to your gate on time so you don't have to worry about airport parking! 

Where to eat near Tampa International Airport

Chances are that you will want to grab a quick bite to eat before dropping your car off with A1 Express on your way to Tampa International Airport. Why starve yourself and wait until you get to your terminal to grab some food when there so many restaurants to choose from outside of TPA? Check out some of our favorites:

The Cheesecake Factory Tampa ($$)

Located less than five minutes away from Tampa International Airport, and across from A1 Express Airport Parking, Tampa’ International Mall shopping and dining center has plenty of delicious restaurants for every budget. If you are really looking to fill up before your flight, Cheesecake Factory offers a large menu with many hearty options. If you have a late flight, try a large pasta dish and a salad. If you fly out early, Cheesecake Factory also offers breakfast and brunch options. No matter what time your TPA flight leaves, don’t forget to grab a piece of cheesecake!

 

Earl of Sandwich ($)

Also located in International Plaza’s “restaurant row,” Earl of Sandwich offers a lighter lunch fare. Choose form homemade sandwiches and delicious soups. They also offer smoothies as a healthy snack option. The atmosphere is very relaxed and the food is affordable. 

P.F. Changs ($)

Less than a two minute drive from A1Express, you will come across this delicious chain restaurant at Tampa’s Westshore Mall. After all, sometimes an affordable Asian inspired meal just hits the spot! 

Chipotle ($)

Located across the street form Westshore Mall, Chipotle offers a healthy grab n’ go option. Order a burrito or burrito bowl to go and eat it while you are waiting for your flight out of Tampa International Airport. The company prides itself by using all non-GMO ingredients and locally sourcing some fresh items.

 No matter what time you decide to grab food, make sure that you arrive at A1 Express at least two hours before your flight out of TPA. Make your complementary online reservation with us today and save!