How to find time to travel this year

Travel is a popular pastime that many people plan to embrace upon retiring. However, adults need not wait for their golden years to arrive to take to the friendly skies or answer the call of the nearest highway.

Would-be travelers who feel that traveling is a luxury they can’t afford may be surprised to learn just how many people travel each year. According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization, there were 1.4 billion international tourist arrivals across the globe in 2018.

Many of those 1.4 billion people no doubt had professional and personal obligations that could have prevented them from traveling, but they still found a way to head off for parts unknown.

A lack of time to travel is something people often cite when lamenting their inability to get out and see the world. In many instances, that perceived lack of time can be overcome, paving the way for potentially life-changing trips. Use your vacation days to go on vacation A recent report from researchers with the U.S. Travel Association, Oxford Economics and Ipsos found that Americans failed to use 768 million vacation days in 2018. And that’s just American workers.

A recent study from the travel site Expedia.ca found that Canadians allow tens of millions of vacation days to go unused each year.

Studies have shown that using vacation time can make employees feel better about their jobs and even contribute positively to their productivity. Unused vacation days are days that could be spent traveling, and all professionals have to do is take the days off, which many professionals have in abundance.

In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that the average American worker with five years of experience at a company was given 15 days of paid vacation per year, while those with 20 years of experience were given 20 paid vacation days. In Canada, the Expedia.ca study found that the average Canadian receives roughly 17 days off per year. Make better use of weekends

Professionals who work traditional Monday through Friday schedules have nearly one-third of the year off already. Weekends add up to 104 days per year, and that’s 104 days people could be traveling.

Even if you’re limited to local traveling on weekends, those 104 built-in off days provide substantial time to get out and see some sights. Turn traditional weekends into three-day weekends

Speaking of weekends, professionals who feel they have more vacation and personal time than they could possibly use, should consider turning more traditional weekends into three-day weekends. You likely won’t fall far behind at work by taking a few random Mondays off per year, but that extra day can provide ample time to travel.

In addition, Monday flights tend to be less expensive than Sunday flights, making travel more affordable. Work remotely, even if it’s just for one or two weeks per year

Technology has made it easier than ever to work outside of a traditional office setting. Professionals who want to travel more should inquire about working remotely for one or two weeks per year. Doing so can afford more time to travel as professionals can simply take their work with them on the road.

However, do your homework before making such arrangements for overseas travel, as some countries may forbid foreign workers from working within their borders without first obtaining work visas, which can be difficult if not impossible to get.

Traveling takes time, but many professionals have more time on their hands than they might think. (MC) \ How to find time to travel this year Tips for senior travelers F ew demographics have the free time and the financial capacity to travel as much as retirees. Now that children have flown the coop and retirement papers have been filed, the world is many seniors’ oyster.

According to a 2017 survey from AARP, travel is a top goal for more than 80% of baby boomers. These tips can make travel easier for any senior ready to see the world.

Seek the most direct route. Traveling may be a bit easier to endure when the route is as short and direct as possible. It may cost a little more to book nonstop flights or travel during peak hours, but that investment may be worth it. Choose senior-friendly travel services. Working with a trusted travel advisor is often easier than booking your travel yourself. Travel agents often have inside information and may be privy to perks and discounts. Plus they can streamline the process, ensuring all you need to do is go along for the fun. Inquire about accessibility. If mobility is an issue or if there are any disabilities, contact your carrier and hotel or tour company and be sure that there will be accessibility arrangements, such as wheelchair access or ground-level accommodations.

Pack light. Don’t get bogged down by excess luggage. Pack only what you need, including medications, in a carry-on bag.

Consider a cruise. Cruises combine food, entertainment and comfortable rooms in one convenient package.

Manage medications. If prescription medications are needed, be sure to consult with the doctor and pharmacy about getting a supply that will last the course of the trip.

Bring along a companion. You may feel more comfortable bringing along one of your children, another young relative or a close friend, especially if you are traveling internationally. This extra person can help navigate and ensure all your needs are met. Seniors have the opportunity to travel more and can make such travel easier in many ways. (MC) \

Wednesdays, 8-10 p.m. Citadel Krav Maga is helping women in the Santa Clarita Valley empower and protect themselves by offering a evening course called “Women’s Wednesday.” “Women’s Wednesday” is a drop-ins service offered to all women, and does not require a monthly membership to the school to attend. $10. 17749 Sierra Hwy, Canyon Country. Info: citadelkravmaga.com Thursdays, 4-9 p.m. The Vegan Exchange SCV at Wolf Creek Brewery is a 100% vegan market featuring local food, beverage, apparel, cosmetics and lifestyle vendors. Pocock Brewing Company, 24907 Ave. Tibbitts, Suite B, Santa Clarita. Info: veganexchangeevents.com/vxscv Thursdays, 5:54-7 p.m. Join Runners Lane Santa Clarita for a free 5K fun run/ walk. You can go the entire distance or if you’re just starting out you can go by time. Our goal is to get the community out and moving whether your fast or slow or just in the middle. We encourage all levels to join us. Walkers too! 22959 Soledad Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita. Info: facebook.com/ events/956668621334188/?event_time_ id=956673478000369 First Thursday of the Month, 7-9 p.m. 10 by 10 is a variety night giving 10 selected entertainers the chance to take the stage for a 10-minute performance of their choosing. Audience members will enjoy storytelling, magic, comedy, improv, music and other forms of entertainment at this ever changing event. Admission is free. The MAIN, 24266 Main Street, Santa Clarita. Info: thursdaysatnewhall.com/10by10 ONGOING

Saturdays, 10:30-11:45 a.m. Come and enjoy group drumming with your family at our Kids Rhythm Club. Our 45-minute drumming session helps build self-confidence, self-esteem, expands the musical imagination and nurtures creative thinking. All ages and levels of ability are welcome. Drums and percussion instruments provided at no extra cost and reservations are not required. Adults $5, kids 12 and under free. Remo Music Center, 28101 Industry Drive, Valencia. Info: remo.com/ experience/post/kids-rhythm-clubremo-music-center-2

Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. California farmers and specialty food purveyors come together rain or shine, to bring you a farmers’ market with the finest in fresh and seasonal fruits and vegetables, including organic, baked goods, flowers, herbs, cheeses and prepared foods. Old Town Newhall, 24500 Main St., Newhall. Info: oldtownnewhall. com/old-town-newhall-farmers-market Sundays, 8:30 a.m. to noon The Santa Clarita Certified Farmers’ Market offers locals a breakfast prepared onsite from one of the market’s several food vendors, or you can try some of our wonderful artisan bakery products. Open yearround, rain or shine. College of the Canyons, Parking Lot 5, 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Santa Clarita. Info: vccfarmersmarkets.com/ santa-clarita Tuesdays, 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. Alchemy presents Salsa Night. Get your dance on. 24501 Town Center Drive, Suite 101, Santa Clarita. Info: facebook.com/events/572176730203799. WIN! WIN! WIN!

Mail your entry to The Signal – Contest 26330 Diamond Place | Santa Clarita, CA 91350 Or email contest@signalscv.com Identify this advertiser and the page number in this week’s issue, and you will be entered to win a $100 gift certificate for a local restaurant. One game and one winner each week. CONGRATULATIONS to TERESITA NOLASCO for correctly identifying PIEROGI SPOT on page 19

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This week’s entries are due Wed. March 4 Winner to be announced in 2 weeks. Fourth Thursday of the month, 7-9 p.m. You’re the Best is an outrageous and ridiculous evening of entertainment, fun, and mayhem. The competition is open to all levels of experience and all ages. Finding inspiration from old school television variety shows, such as “The Gong Show,” performances will include comedians, dance groups, magicians, animal acts, singers and more! Winners from each month will have the chance to win $500 in the grand finale. The MAIN, 24266 Main Street., Newhall. Info: atthemain.org/ youre-the-best/ EVENTS BY DATE Sunday, Feb. 23, 8-11 a.m. Come to the the 10th annual Mardi Gras Madness 5K/10K! This race will benefit SOAR of Santa Clarita. Mardi Gras Madness is a fun, themed USATF certified 5K / 10K walk/ run for the whole family! K-9s and strollers welcome, too! Westfield Town Center, 24201 West Valencia Blvd, Santa Clarita. Info: facebook.com/events/2385626178375322/ Friday, Feb. 28, 6:30- 8 p.m. Slime is back at As You Wish! Join us to create a silly slime jar. At this event, your kiddo will be led step-by-step through the painting process and helped all along the way! After painting, attendees will make some slime of their own! $15. 24201 Valencia Blvd #3412, Valencia, Santa Clarita. Info: asyouwishpottery.com/product/02-28-kids-special-event-silly-slimejar-slime

Saturday, Feb. 29, 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Join The Sparkle of Tinney for our first FUNdraiser and community event so we can spread the sparkle to as many kiddos/families impacted by childhood cancer (as well as other life-threatening illnesses) as possible! Enjoy cornhole tournaments, a photo booth, food trucks and more! Wolf Creek Brewery, 25108 Rye Canyon Loop, Santa Clarita. Info: facebook. com/events/601671080623692/ Friday, Feb 28. 7:30-9:30 p.m. The Master’s Chorale, conducted by Dr. Paul T. Plew, will perform their annual on-campus concert, featuring various choral works of numerous styles. Tickets available at the door. $8 general, $5 alumni, free with valid TMU student/faculty ID or for children under 12. The Master’s University, 21726 Placerita Canyon Road, Santa Clarita. Info: masters. edu/performingarts/music Saturday, Feb. 29, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The

Welsh Baker Team proudly welcomes you to come visit the largest Welsh Cake manufacturing facility in America! Only a few times each year do we open our beautiful, shiny commercial kitchen to the general public for tours and free sampling. See how we make our yummies, meet the makers, sample our goodies and take some home with you too. Free but reservation required. 27820 Fremont Court, no. 4, Valencia. Info: welshbaker.ticketleap.com/leapdayopenhouse Saturday, Feb. 29, noon to 1 a.m. Come out to Drifters Cocktails’ third art crawl! Get ready for more artists, more vendors, more musicians and more food! Three times the art crawl, three times the excitement. 18240 Soledad Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita. Info: facebook.com/ events/3173279456033671/ Saturday, Feb. 29, 5 p.m. The annual Celebrity Waiter Dinner will be held in The Grand Ballroom at Bella Vida senior center. This event is a great opportunity for you and your guests to have a night out, while supporting the important programs and services of the Santa Clarita Valley Senior Center. 27180 Golden Valley Rd, Santa Clarita. Info: myscvcoa.org/events/aknight-of-royals; (661) 259-9444 ext. 133 Saturday, Feb. 29, 5-10 p.m. The Santa Clarita Master Chorale invites you to “leap” into a delightful evening of food, wine, and song at our annual benefit event. Ticket includes appetizers, live music, and no-host bar during a silent auction, followed by a meal and dessert served to your table and cabernet. $125. Hyatt Regency Valencia, 24500 Town Center Drive, Valencia Info: facebook.com/events/885573261912640/ Saturday, Feb. 29, 7-10 p.m. Come experience “Hesu Kristo,” a Senakulo (Philippine passion play) in drama-dance. The play promotes Filipino culture and traditions. $30. Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center, 26455 Rockwell Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita. Info: facebook.com/ events/1527381127430891, (707)334-4078