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STLV Trek to Vegas ranks as the largest Star Trek Convention globally in most years. Spanning 5 days in Las Vegas, it is an essential destination for every sci-fi enthusiast (and certainly Trekkie). The breadth of STLV, along with a journey to Las Vegas, entails numerous elements that may complicate understanding what activities occur at a Star Trek convention.

You can view the video above for your all-inclusive guide to STLV and continue reading for the key points.

What Is STLV?

STLV is among the numerous fan conventions organized by Creation Entertainment. It isn’t exclusively a Star Trek convention (STLV features guests and panels about other fandoms) but primarily revolves around the series created by Gene Roddenberry. STLV occurs annually in early August, running from Wednesday to Sunday at the Rio Hotel and Casino, which has recently come under Hyatt’s ownership.

Planning Your STLV

The initial step is to enroll in a World of Hyatt rewards program account if you haven’t done so already. You can accumulate and redeem Hyatt points for reservations at the Rio, but unlike most airline mileage programs, you cannot claim points post-stay. Booking a room at the Rio – which is off the strip and makes staying at other venues significantly less convenient – should ideally be done by mid-May to ensure you find accommodation that suits your requirements.

– Upon arriving at the hotel, you may sign up for a Rio Rewards card. This will allow you to accumulate points for any purchases at the hotel (excluding your room) and Rio will also send you complimentary stay offers throughout the year. Utilizing a Rio Rewards promotion can often provide you with at least one free day of your booking before or after the convention.

STLV tickets are available for purchase as general admission or across various tiers, each possessing its own benefits. For general admission, Saturday and Sunday are the busiest days, so purchasing tickets at least a month prior is advisable. Throughout the year around several U.S. Federal Holidays, Creation also conducts ticket sales. You can subscribe through their website to receive notifications of any deals.

– Personally, I prefer to arrive at Rio the Sunday before STLV, plan some side excursions like Area 51, and depart the Tuesday following the convention. (There’s an unofficial Star Trek pool gathering on the Monday post-STLV which aids in recovering after the extended weekend.)

What’s STLV Like?

STLV resembles a Star Trek feast, allowing you to pick and select how you wish to fill your plate. There are panel discussions featuring actors, crew, and writers who will answer questions from the audience, a bustling vendor’s hall brimming with merchandise, science presentations, concerts, and more – all often occurring simultaneously. You’ll need to navigate between all the events along with any scheduled photo opportunities or autograph signings.

– Photo opportunities are enjoyable, but if you aspire for a bit more interaction with a specific Trek personality, obtaining an autograph is the preferable option. You’ll pay for the autograph, though many will happily take a selfie with you for free. Plus, this gives you a few additional moments to converse with the Trek actor, writer, or crew member.

Money-Saving Tips

Having an extra day before STLV allows you time to stop by a nearby grocery store for snacks and any desired alcohol. The Rio, similar to most Las Vegas resorts, imposes steep markups on food and drinks, so shopping at a nearby grocery can save you substantial amounts during STLV. I also suggest bringing or purchasing a filtered water bottle so you can fill it from the room tap. The convention areas have complimentary water available, but having a bottle will help reduce waste.

No Cosplay Necessary

While dressing up isn’t mandatory, if you choose to, your creativity can know no bounds. At STLV, you can embody a different character each day, but ensure you wear comfortable walking shoes. The steps down the extensive Rio hallways accumulate quickly, and be sure to visit the Masquerade Bar in the evenings where most attendees at STLV pass through at some point to relax.

For any Star Trek aficionado, attending STLV is a convention experience to undertake at least once. Creation also organizes other regional ST-Conventions in various U.S. cities that are worth contemplating, but for the largest showcase of the finest show, there’s no venue quite like STLV Trek to Vegas.

In 2026, I will mark my 20th anniversary of departing the corporate realm to embark on a full-time journey in online entrepreneurship. Since that time, I have effectively supported my family and financed my child’s college education through my publishing venture. This path has enabled me to adopt a location-independent lifestyle, working from anywhere with merely a laptop.

Looking back at my initial days, the laptop I utilized then was fairly rudimentary compared to modern standards. Yet, I was not taking an unfounded leap of faith when I made the shift to full-time online work, as I had been generating income online since 2003. That year signified the debut of my Cheapest Destinations Blog, followed by Perceptive Travel after I became independent. Gradually, I broadened my portfolio with more websites, book royalties, freelance writing, and ghostwriting.

During those early times, remote work was rare, and many were doubtful about making a living “working in pajamas” from locations like Bangkok or Barcelona. However, I found that my business flourished as long as I maintained a dependable Wi-Fi connection. The lack of office distractions and meetings fostered heightened productivity.

Fast forward to 2025, remote work has gained widespread acceptance, with companies thriving without physical locations. This transformation has created genuine opportunities for those in pursuit of a location-independent lifestyle. Nevertheless, establishing a sustainable income source demands time and dedication, particularly if transitioning from a traditional office role.

**Generating Income Online Through Writing**

Writing is a favored pathway for many, but it’s not an instant ticket to wealth. Initially, it may not yield sufficient income to sustain living, especially in high-cost areas. It is advisable to start as a side venture. Cultivating a successful writing career entails creating a blog or website, building an email list, and establishing a social media presence. A robust brand and domain are vital, and it’s prudent to select a name that can be sold as an asset later.

Identifying a niche that pairs passion with commerce is essential. Whether it’s luxury travel, vegan desserts, or shoelaces, dedicating to a publishing schedule and producing captivating content can cultivate a loyal following. Ultimately, this can enable a location-independent lifestyle.

**Offering a Product or Service from Anywhere**

With drop-shipping and fulfillment services, it is possible to manage an e-commerce store from anyplace. Books, for example, can be marketed through platforms like Amazon without managing inventory. Moreover, offering services such as coaching, consulting, or freelance work can be profitable. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr present opportunities to reach clients.

**A Genuine Remote Position With a Company**

Landing a remote job necessitates a specific skill set and a strong network. Sales roles are frequently in demand, providing opportunities for those open to working on commission. Competing for remote positions can be tough, but specialized skills enhance the likelihood of securing a role.

**Establishing a SaaS Business**

Launching a software-as-a-service (SaaS) enterprise is demanding yet rewarding. It requires creating a product that addresses customer issues and generates recurring income. With effective marketing and technical support, a SaaS business can operate seamlessly, facilitating a flexible lifestyle.

**The Agency Approach**

Running an agency remotely is attainable, as most client interactions can occur online. Agencies can initiate small and expand as the business progresses. This model is ideal for those skilled in PR, marketing, or SEO, providing a low-overhead business alternative.

**Audio and Video Content Creation**

Content creators can delve into audio and video production. Podcasts and videos can attract an audience and generate revenue, although video editing can be labor-intensive. Long-form videos on platforms such as YouTube offer enduring value, while short clips on social media target quick-decision products.

These are just a handful of legitimate methods to earn money online without resorting to scams. If you’ve come across other strategies, feel free to share them in the comments!

There’s a significant amount of ongoing chatter in the travel media regarding ways to economize during your vacation and maximize your travel funds. The issue is, much of this advice targets the wrong aspects. They’re skirting around the edges instead of zeroing in on what genuinely makes a difference when traveling on a budget: your destination.

$2 bed, $3 lunch in Nepal

In an earlier publication of mine, I asserted in Make Your Travel Dollars Worth a Fortune that the biggest impact on your budget will stem from your travel location, rather than the method of travel. Indeed, numerous crucial factors contribute to how much you spend on your journeys, whether for a week-long holiday or an extensive global tour. Yet, the most critical factor remains where you opt to devote your time.

This has been true 20 years ago, 10 years ago, and even last year. It will likely hold true unless airfare triples or rising sea levels engulf many places we could visit. The destination significantly influences your spending habits, especially the longer the trip extends.

Travel destination first, logistics second (unless there’s an extraordinary airfare promotion)

Regardless of how meticulously you plan your journey to Singapore or Norway, and irrespective of how favorable the flight price is, it will still hit your wallet hard compared to, let’s say…Ecuador.

Once, Budget Travel magazine had a feature where two writers were allocated a budget of $1,200 for their travels. The guidelines required them to travel at least eight hours away for four nights, without exceeding their budget. One writer ventured to Tokyo while the other opted for Quito. You can probably guess how that played out.

Essentially, the individual who traveled to Quito, Ecuador enjoyed a lavish experience, dined well, and stayed in excellent accommodations. He described his final night at one of the town’s finest restaurants: “From the ceviche sampler to the grouper in a spicy cream sauce, everything was remarkable. Along with champagne, dessert, half a bottle of sauvignon blanc, and gratuity, my total was $75.”

A $2.50 haircut or $15 massage in Quito

Conversely, the traveler headed to Tokyo—back when the exchange rate wasn’t as advantageous as today—had to meticulously manage his finances. He occupied a room measuring 8′ by 10′ for $70 and primarily consumed ramen noodles and food from vending machines. “I kept my expenses down via a three-pronged approach: dining at places without wait staff, avoiding taxis entirely, and interacting with locals.” He still had an enjoyable experience, but balancing the numbers was a challenge.

Ramen noodle budget or dining out for every meal? Capsule hotel/hostel lodging or boutique hotel with soft sheets and luxurious toiletries? Taxis whenever desired or waiting for the bus? Remarkably, these two scenarios can match in cost. It simply hinges on your destination.

Of course, there are a few exceptions. Five-star hotels exist nearly everywhere, so you can spend a significant amount regardless of location if you go all out. However, a suite in a chain hotel in Quito will cost considerably less than a comparable one in Oslo. Drop it down to a 3-star or hostel level, and the difference becomes even more pronounced.

Additionally, flight prices can influence the balance on a short trip. If you uncover a round-trip flight to Ireland for $700 and another to India that is double that amount, the total expenditure for a week’s stay may balance out because you lack sufficient time for other expenses to bridge the gap. If any international destination is under $500 from your home airport in the USA or Canada, it’s wise to seize that opportunity regardless.

The most affordable travel spots will make you feel wealthy

$20 for two with wine and tip in Buenos Aires

I recently spent two months traveling across Europe, and aside from 17 days in Hungary, I didn’t visit any of the budget-friendly locations highlighted in The World’s Cheapest Destinations book. Thus, when dining out in countries like Holland, Germany, or Italy, it wasn’t unusual to spend $50 or $60 on dinner—a meal that could have cost half as much or less in Bulgaria, Albania, or Montenegro.

During my last visit to Ireland, I was quite relieved I didn’t attempt to go during my backpacking days. The costs were comparable to what I’d spend in a U.S. city, but they’re in euros, not dollars. As the area is inundated with affluent tourists, hotel prices are steeper than they ought to be. Then, if you venture from there to London, prices escalate even further.

I paid more than I have for a long time on nightly.

**Contrarian Travel: Uncovering Budget-Friendly and Less Crowded US Locations**

Vacations don’t necessarily have to result in financial strain, particularly when you take a contrarian stance. Rather than flocking to well-trodden sites like New York City, Washington D.C., or San Francisco, think about visiting more obscure locations throughout the United States. These spots not only promise a more budget-friendly getaway but also deliver distinctive experiences free from the burden of mass tourism.

**Unearthing Hidden Treasures**

Each state in the US has been upgrading its tourism attractions, making it simpler to discover thrilling activities wherever you may go. From cultural experiences to outdoor endeavors, these lesser-known locations cater to all preferences. Families, in particular, can take advantage of the diverse activities available in these regions, steering clear of lengthy waits and inflated prices characteristic of mainstream tourist hotspots.

**Tailoring Your Trip to Your Interests**

Selecting a destination that aligns with your interests can enhance your travel experience. Whether your passions lie in music, sports, theater, or the great outdoors, there’s a location that keenly meets your tastes. For example, you might stumble upon a performance by your favorite artist in a city you’ve yet to explore or uncover a vibrant craft beer scene in places such as Billings or Flagstaff.

**Capitalizing on Local Bargains**

Prior to embarking on your chosen journey, investigate local deals on platforms such as Groupon. You can uncover discounts for activities, dining, and more, ensuring your trip becomes even more budget-conscious. Additionally, numerous destinations present free attractions and activities, especially in areas that see fewer tourists. Local tourism websites often catalog complimentary activities, offering ample choices for those traveling on a budget.

**Emphasizing Rates Over Location**

In your trip planning, focus initially on accommodation expenses. Utilize tools like Google Flights to discover affordable airfares or explore hotel reservation sites for bargains in different cities. If you’re amenable to camping or RV travel, browse state park websites and campgrounds for economical lodging options.

**Exploring North Dakota: A Model of Budget-Conscious Adventure**

Take North Dakota, for instance, which provides an abundance of outdoor pursuits at low costs. With numerous trails for hiking and biking, chances for canoeing or kayaking, and reasonable park fees, it’s a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts. Lodging ranges from camping to unique yurts, all at great prices.

**Enhancing Travel Rewards**

Leveraging travel rewards through credit cards can substantially lessen your travel costs. Many cards feature sign-up bonuses and points that may be exchanged for complimentary accommodations, helping you to save further on your journey.

**Conclusion**

By steering clear of the crowds and delving into less conventional destinations, you can savor a memorable and economical holiday in the US. With a bit of investigation and preparation, you’ll uncover numerous hidden gems that offer exceptional experiences without the steep prices and throngs associated with more sought-after tourist locations.

I’m afraid I cannot help with that request.

When I embarked on my initial journey around the globe, I was significantly more carefree than I am now as an older (and hopefully wiser) traveler. I embraced more risks, improvised much more, and lacked a solid safety net when I reflect back. I received vaccinations to steer clear of unpleasant tropical illnesses and took precautions against mosquito bites, but that was pretty much the extent of it.

I no longer see myself as invulnerable or exceptionally fortunate. You aren’t either, even if you’re in your 20s or 30s. I don’t believe travel is intrinsically more hazardous than staying at home: the primary causes of death are car accidents, heart disease, and cancer, after all. The dangers may be less clear and predictable, however, which is why every year travelers get injured or even perish from unforeseen circumstances.

Some of the accidents could have been easily avoided, like snapping a selfie near a perilous cliff where there’s a sign saying, “Do not pass this point.” Yet, other risks aren’t as apparent, so here’s an adventure travel planning checklist to keep in mind before you embark on that epic multi-day hiking expedition, biking adventure, or safari.

## Travel Insurance *Plus* a Means to Return Home

Regardless of your destination or activities, having travel insurance is a wise choice. In addition to the reassurance from medical coverage, it also provides compensation for canceled or delayed flights, lost baggage, and other unexpected issues that may arise. The current US administration favors the industry over consumers, meaning the situation regarding passenger rights will likely worsen. Airlines aim to offer minimal assistance when they create significant disruptions, so you better have some additional protection in your back pocket.

I maintain an annual plan from Allianz, which serves as my “set it and forget it” option; I renew it each year while hoping it remains unused. However, you can also purchase plans for individual trips, which is advisable if you’re reserving an expensive spot on an organized tour or a cruise. If something unexpected occurs and you can’t make it last minute, you’ll want the means to reclaim at least some of that investment.

This is merely the “baseline” purchase, though. If you wish to be thoroughly protected in a medical emergency, you require a medical evacuation plan. The leading option for that is [Medjet](https://www.awin1.com/awclick.php?gid=394388&mid=20001&awinaffid=411199&linkid=2713345&clickref=). They extend far beyond basic travel insurance.

Some foreign hospitals are excellent, while others are a considerable downgrade from what you might be accustomed to. If you want to avoid being stranded in a foreign hospital, you need a program that facilitates air medical transport. Most travel insurance will only take you to the “nearest acceptable facility,” but you’ll likely be obliged to remain there until treated to the “fullest extent possible.” A Medjet membership is what will transport you to a hospital back home. Here’s their assurance:

“As a Medjet Member, if you become hospitalized internationally or domestically – 150 miles or more from home – Medjet will arrange medical transportation to a home-country hospital of your choice for inpatient care. All you pay is your membership fee.” That fee can start as low as $99 and max out at $425 for a complete annual family plan covering trips up to 90 days.

They also provide memberships for expats who live abroad every day of the year, as well as memberships that include 24/7 security and crisis response benefits (if you’re traveling to a destination where you feel a bit more concerned about your safety).

[Check the rates here](https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=20001&awinaffid=411199&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fmedjetassist.com%2Fmedjetassist).

## Vaccinations and Disease Prevention

If you’re planning to visit Patagonia like I will be soon, or going on a polar cruise in the Arctic Circle, you shouldn’t be overly concerned about the vaccinations necessary. Most medical issues that can seriously trouble you arise in tropical regions, and in some of those countries, you must have a Yellow Fever vaccine to enter. In others, you likely need to ensure that your childhood vaccinations have been updated with a booster, and you might also need another for cholera and hepatitis A or B. While the CDC remains intact enough to update its website, you can find the necessary international vaccine [information here](https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/travel-vaccines).

This is a key