Erica Lamberg is a regular contributor to Fox News, Fox Business, Real Simple, Forbes Advisor, AAA and USA TODAY. She writes about business, travel, personal finance, travel insurance and work/life balance. She is based in suburban Philadelphia. When she’s not sharing her wisdom about money strategies, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two children at the Jersey Shore.

Erica Lamberg

Erica Lamberg

Articles (3)

Time Out’s favorite airport lounges in the U.S.

Time Out’s favorite airport lounges in the U.S.

At Time Out, we’re all about helping you see the world on the cheap and leading you to the best travel deals whenever possible. But sometimes, even the thrifty seek a bit of luxury on vacation, a place to comfortably kick their feet up before it’s time to squeeze into that basic economy seat. I mean, who can turn down a $99 flight to Europe? Not us! For that, we love an airport lounge. These once exclusive domains for the most privileged passengers have dramatically changed since American Airlines opened the first in NY’s LaGuardia Airport in 1939. What started as an invitation-only club for folks to enjoy a pre-board cocktail has evolved into a massive network of areas for travelers to rest, work, refuel and idle before a flight. Today, there are more lounges than ever, offering all kinds of amenities (pickleball, anyone?) and greater access for all. Headed to the airport soon? We asked Time Out editors and frequent contributors to share their favorite lounges in the U.S. Whether you're lounge-curious or a pro looking for a new respite when you fly, you'll find helpful intel for your next trip below. 
The best things to do in Atlantic City

The best things to do in Atlantic City

Atlantic City is the East Coast version of Las Vegas. Like Sin City, there are stunning casino resorts, world-class restaurants, and luxurious spas but Atlantic City comes with even more bonuses: namely, the ocean, the beach and a legendary boardwalk. The 24-hour excitement of Atlantic City is there for the taking but there are also more laid-back and family-friendly activities on our list of the best things to do in Atlantic City, like enjoying salt water taffy or catching a show. Atlantic City has something for everyone. Throw in a convenient airport and we might have just pushed this New Jersey beach town to the top of your vacation list.  RECOMMENDED: The best hotels in Atlantic City     
Secret US wine regions you need to know about

Secret US wine regions you need to know about

Although your next wine-tasting experience may be a bit different than you’re used to, wineries, restaurants and wine-tasting rooms from the West Coast and the Midwest to the South and the Northeast are ready to welcome you with open palates and full bottles. Well-known wine regions like Napa, Sonoma and New Jersey are bountiful with amazing offerings, but why not consider a less-known wine destination? We’ve done the research for you and have compiled a rich and flavorful list of secret US wine regions to discover on your quest to savor and sip.

News (9)

Three simple ways to elevate a boring sea day on your next cruise

Three simple ways to elevate a boring sea day on your next cruise

When you plan a cruise vacation, consider your ship not only your transportation but also your floating hotel. Of course, most people think the ports of call are the highlight of your trip, but to maximize the value of your vacation, don’t make the mistake of overlooking all that your ship has to offer. RECOMMENDED: The four things I always pay extra for when I cruise Most cruises are a mix of port days—when your ship docks at the places you visit—and sea days, which are sailing days. On port days, most cruisers venture on land to enjoy immersive experiences, while on sea days cruisers have the opportunity to do as much or as little on your ship. Here are three ways to elevate your sea days so you can get to know your ship better and maximize you time onboard. Find new ways to get active The food is abundant and delicious on your cruise ship, and if you feel like you’re over-indulging, getting your steps in and sneaking in a workout is easy to do. Ships boast fitness centers with cardio equipment, free weights and more. You can also inquire at the gym about fitness class, yoga or other special sessions. On sea days, you can visit the fitness center and many are located with direct sea views. Another way to stay active on your ship is to walk on a track. Most cruise ships have designated tracks where guests walk, jog or run, so find out where the walking track is and breathe in the open air and walk with the wind in your hair. Your ship most likely also has sports courts and g
Four reasons why it's sometimes better to book a port-intensive cruise

Four reasons why it's sometimes better to book a port-intensive cruise

A cruise vacation not only offers profound value, but also the opportunity to visit several destinations in one trip. When you are researching your itinerary options, a port-intensive cruise can allow you the chance to see several different ports, immerse yourself in those ports, and reduce your travel time reaching different places. RECOMMENDED: These are the four things I always pay extra for on a cruise Most often, your ship will arrive in the morning and will depart in the late afternoon giving you ample time to explore your port, plan a full-day excursion and allow crossing those destinations off your bucket list. So, if you’re planning a Caribbean cruise and you’d like to experience a port-intensive sailing choose one with more days in port than at sea. If you’re sailing the Mediterranean Sea in Europe, opt for an itinerary that allows you to capture authentic experiences in European ports. Here are four reasons to consider booking a port-intensive cruise. You'll end up spending less on flights If you’re flying to South Florida or another U.S. cruise port to start your cruise, when you have a port-intensive itinerary, you visit several islands with only one flight. And, with the rising cost of flights, this point even works more in your favor. You can visit spots like St. Thomas, The Bahamas, St. Thomas Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Aruba, and Belize in a port-intensive sailing. So, think about what it’s like to pay for only one flight, unpack once and visit all these places.
Some say a cruise cabin doesn't matter, I say splurge a balcony stateroom. Here’s why.

Some say a cruise cabin doesn't matter, I say splurge a balcony stateroom. Here’s why.

If you’ve gone on a cruise then you know that it’s packed with value as your cruise fare includes your cabin, several complimentary dining options, round-the-clock activities, high-caliber shows and live musicians throughout the ship, and access to several ports of call depending on your itinerary. You literally unpack once, and your cruise ship arrives at new locations, offering you an opportunity to visit and immerse yourself in the local culture and surroundings of the ports that you visit. Understand your bargain stateroom Although you spend so much time exploring the ship and enjoying all the ship’s amenities and activities, your stateroom is the home base on the ship. Many budget cruisers tout the philosophy that you spend “no time in your cabin beyond sleeping,” so they book the cheapest cabin and spend money on onboard and on port experiences. But a cheap cabin can have some drawbacks. Inside cabins are adequate but know in advance that they offer no windows and no view of the outside. They provide a comfortable setting in most cases, and they serve the purpose of your place on board. But if your hope is to wake up to the ocean, you won’t have a view in this cabin category. Other bargains that you can snag on board include rooms that are not the best location. These could be below a deck where there are venues like the main buffet, a nightclub or other noisy happenings. You could also find yourself close to a busy elevator. Most cruise lines provide a map of where sta
These are the four things I always pay extra for on a cruise

These are the four things I always pay extra for on a cruise

I consider myself an experienced cruiser, as I take about five cruises a year. Some are short weekend cruises for a quick escape to a sunny destination, while others are seven-night cruises to several islands in the Caribbean. I also sail to non-tropical destinations. For example, this past summer I traveled to Alaska for a front-row seat to the glorious glaciers and wildlife that the bucket-list Crystal cruise line offered. I sailed on the exceptional ship Crystal Serenity. And, just last week, I stepped off the Celebrity Beyond, which exceeded my expectations. The service, food and entertainment are top-tier and I highly recommend Celebrity Cruises, especially Celebrity Beyond. As a frequent cruiser, there are specific experiences I commonly pay extra for to enhance my cruise vacation. Here’s what I feel is worth the splurge. RECOMMENDED: The ship-within-a-ship experience can actually change your mind about cruising A pre-cruise vacation stay Flying in the same day of your cruise is risky due to airline delays, weather issues, airplane maintenance reasons, and many more issues that could cause your flight to arrive late or be canceled. You may think that flying in the day of your cruise can save you money, but you’ll be out a lot more money if your flight doesn’t arrive in time to board the ship before it leaves without you. So, flying in a day (or even two days) before your cruise is a better game-plan as you can board the ship with ease and experience a taste of the city
Why the ship-within-a-ship cruising experience can change your mind about cruising

Why the ship-within-a-ship cruising experience can change your mind about cruising

According to the Cruise Lines International Association, cruise demand is soaring, particularly because of the value that this type of vacation offers travelers. Typically, your cruise fare includes your cabin, onboard entertainment, dining in specific venues, and use of the ship’s facilities, such as the pool, the gym, and more. For a more elevated cruise experience, discerning travelers may want to consider upgrading their vacation by booking a cabin or suite in a private enclave of staterooms that are separate from the rest of the ship and offers these fortunate guests a private lounge, dedicated restaurant, private pool area and sun deck, concierge services, and onboard perks like specialty dining, priority embarkation, and luxuries at every turn. All these perks and upgrades do come at a cost, which can be about double what you’d pay for a stateroom outside this private area on the ship. Is it worth spending double? The answer is a resounding ‘yes’ and here’s why. Your area is passkey-protected Splurging on a stateroom within the private enclave will be evident from the moment you arrive on board. You’re welcomed by the dedicated team and introduced to your butler, who makes every wish come true. Once you swipe your keycard or flash your cruise bracelet to the electronic panel at the entrance of the enclave, your dreamy cruise begins. The ship’s other guests can’t enter the area, and this keeps the space intimate, upscale and free from boisterous crowds, unruly children,
Three travel mistakes you're probably making and how to avoid them

Three travel mistakes you're probably making and how to avoid them

Many of us pride ourselves on being savvy travelers because we do our best to reap value from our hotels, try to snag cheap airfares and plan itineraries with thought and purpose. But even with the best intentions and research, smart travelers can also be caught off guard by travel slip-ups that can cost money and cause hassles. Here are three such travel mistakes that you should keep on your radar the next time you take a trip. Overpacking for your trip The goal of a vacation is an escape from work, family and the daily grind, so a smart game plan for your trip should start with your packing process. Overpacking can create several hassles, which range from having to schlep overweight suitcases, paying annoying baggage fees and even the dreadful possibility of having your luggage lost in transit to your destination. And, with record-high summer travel expected this season, the probability of encountering such baggage-related woes increases. To that point, a better idea is to curate a packing plan to bring only what you will actually need for your trip. Bring mix-and-match separates that can go from day to night. These versatile and classic pieces will streamline your wardrobe needs for your trip. Also, if you can, aim for carry-on bags only, which save you time, money and any travel mishaps with connecting flights and lost or delayed checked baggage. Other tips to reduce unnecessary extras: refrain from bringing extra toiletries, leave your blow-dryer at home, and skip bringi
Curious about cruising? These unexpected cruise lines should be on your radar this year.

Curious about cruising? These unexpected cruise lines should be on your radar this year.

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) recently revealed in its 2024 State of the Cruise Industry report that cruise demand is soaring. Some key findings are the number of new-to-cruise travelers has increased by 27 percent of cruisers over the past two years, as well as increase of 12 percent over the past year. If you’re looking to take a cruise, you may have heard of the popular lines, but there could be cruise lines you aren’t familiar with. Here are three cruises to consider. If you're seeking luxury: Crystal While Crystal (formerly Crystal Cruises) has always been a revered brand since its original launch in 1990, the past couple of years have been incredibly monumental for the cruise line, following the 2022 acquisition by A&K Travel Group and an extensive $150 million refurbishment of both ships, reported Jacqueline Barney, SVP, global marketing for Crystal. According to Barney, dedicated butler service is extended for every single guest and the line boasts amazing foodie experiences like Nobu’s only restaurant at sea and the much-anticipated debut of Beefbar. Additionally, both ships in the fleet -Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony have a nearly 1-1 guest-to-staff ratio, making the Crystal experience that much more intimate and personalized, said Barney. If you want more excursions and activities: Viking Ocean If you’re looking for a new line to try, and you want to sail without children, then Viking Ocean, an adult-only cruise that includes amenities that
Why I will only fly to London on a daytime flight, and you should too

Why I will only fly to London on a daytime flight, and you should too

London is one of the most searched destinations on Google Flights for summer 2024. If London is on your travel list, consider flying to London on a daytime flight before you book that overnight flight. There are ample flights from East Coast airports, including Newark, JFK, and even Chicago. You may know that the majority of U.S. to London flights depart in the evening from 6pm to 11pm and arrive at staggered times from early morning until right before noon. There’s a five-hour time difference between the East Coasts and London, so the arrival time can get a bit tricky with an early-evening flight. I was originally going to fly on an 8pm flight on United from Newark Liberty to Heathrow that would get me to the city before 9am. I thought about the prospects of getting to my hotel exhausted, hungry, jet-lagged, and irritable. Instead, since I was traveling on a Sunday, I opted to try an 8:30am flight from Newark to London. This option landed in London at 8:40 pm. Since I was traveling on a Sunday, I didn’t have to forfeit another vacation day so it was really not a hard choice to make. Yes, I did have to pay for another night in a hotel, but it’s worth that cost and here’s why. You'll arrive refreshed  First, your body can stay more on a regular schedule. Sure, it’s a long flight, but daytime flying allows you to arrive in enough time to get to the hotel by 9:30pm, check in to a room that’s sure to be ready, drop your bags, freshen up and head out to a pub for a late snack and
I tried a ship-within-a-ship cruise experience and it was worth it for the endless perks—here’s why

I tried a ship-within-a-ship cruise experience and it was worth it for the endless perks—here’s why

I heard tales of luxury from people about the ritzy MSC Yacht Club, the ship-within-a-ship concept where discerning passengers enjoy their own area of the cruise ship that includes a dedicated restaurant, private lounge, separate pool and sundeck as well as private butlers and concierges to take of any whim while cruising. The elevated Yacht Club boasts priority everything while sailing MSC. I sailed on a four-night cruise on the new MSC Seashore, a glitzy ship with Italian flair intermingled with references to New York City at every turn. Although the ship was well-appointed and had amazing dining, drinking and entertainment venues, and a bountiful Top Sail main buffet, thousands of passengers made the ship feel crowded at times, elevators were slow, and as I strolled through the general pools, they were boisterous and crowded. RECOMMENDED: 10 things about cruising on an adults-only ship that might surprise you Switch gears to MSC Seashore’s Yacht Club, passkey-protected for lucky guests, and is a 180 from the ship’s general spaces. Once you scan your handy Yacht Club wrist badge, or your room key, you’re instantly given entrance to a breathtaking retreat of 131 staterooms and suites. All this luxury does come at a price. Cruise fares will vary based on destination, time of year, and cabin category, but generally speaking you can expect to pay double for the Yacht Club. And from my experience, it’s worth it. Read more about why you should splurge. You’re fast-tracked through