curious traveller

Offering an opportunity to explore business opportunities, share knowledge and find solutions, the travel fairs aggregate genuine buyers and quality exhibitors. With multiple of these taking place in India, a few among them are of international level as well. Know about them right here.

Top  4 Travel Fairs in India

Find here enlisted some of the top fairs in India:

1.    South Asia Travel and Tourism Exchange (SATTE)

SATTE is among the top travel fairs in India. Exhibiting products and solutions from diverse areas of the country, the platform is of interest to hoteliers, tourism boards, travel professionals and agents and other stakeholders. The components of the fair are networking events, exhibitor stalls, conference sessions and business opportunities.

To be held on: 19 to 21 February, 2025

Location: New Delhi, India

2.    Indian International Travel Mart (IITM)

Intriguing industry professionals, travel enthusiasts and adventurers, the fair is for the ones who wish to explore exotic destinations and gain luxury experiences. It also hosts stalls along with business deals, cultural performances and a view of Indian culture.

To be held on: 20 to 22 September, 2024

Location: New Delhi

3.    Outbound  Travel Mart (OTM)

It is the number one travel trade show in Asia. Exhibiting international diversity, the trade show witnesses the establishment of long-term business relationships. With high-quality and quantity buyers of good reputation, the OTM is a must-visit fair.

To  be held on: 30 and 31 January and 1 February, 2025

Location: Mumbai

4.    International Travel & Tourism Fair (ITB)

Another trade fair that can be witnessed this year itself is ITB. Expected to offer its visitors insight into the vibrant Indian travel market, there will be exhibits, engaging seminars and lively networking events. The participants interested in travel industries like leisure travel, adventure tourism, sustainable travel, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) are also welcome in the fair to find themselves the solution or partners. 

To be held on: 11 to 13 September, 2024 

Location: Mumbai

Conclusion

Travel fairs offer a fascinating opportunity to explore and invest. With multiple ones being hosted in India, ITB is the most recent fair to expect. Register for the fairs as soon as possible to capture the opportunity to explore the Indian travel market and its culture. Also, satisfy your adventure and travel curiosity.

Outsourcing continues to grow as a viable productivity model for small businesses. Large corporations have known the benefits of outsourcing for some time now. Outsourcing is cost-effective and when you have product development projects, the right talent is at your fingertips.

As a small or medium-sized business, there are many areas prime for outsourcing that allow you to keep valuable resources in-house. Entrepreneurs also see huge benefits when they outsource time-consuming tasks.

Are you looking to outsource roles within your company? Keep reading for five outsourcing examples you can benefit from starting today.

  1. Social Media Marketing

It’s nearly impossible to run a successful business today without a social media presence. Social media marketing connects you to potential customers.

Outsourcing to a marketing agency includes creating and running your social media, content creation, and ad campaigns.

  1. Outsourcing Examples for Information Technology

IT outsourcing is one of the more popular outsourcing examples you’ll find under lease administration services. IT can absorb a big portion of your overall operating budget because it encompasses a variety of tasks.

Your businesses may need help desk technicians, software developers, and someone to oversee data security. By outsourcing, you pay one flat fee for everything you need under the IT umbrella.

  1. Human Resources

HR outsourcing is another cost-effective measure. It includes hiring, payroll, and training. A Professional Employer Organization (PEO) will save a business owner on benefits, and insurance costs.

PEOs handle everything on their end leaving you time to build and improve your business. Imagine, never having to deal with the stress of hiring, firing, or training employees.

  1. Accounting

Accounting is crucial to your business and can have legal implications with the Internal Revenue Service if there are mistakes. Hiring accounting staff to cover both accounts payable and receivable means hiring at a minimum, two employees.

At tax time and when quarterly reporting is due, more money goes to a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

The benefits of outsourcing your accounting are having professionals with business accounting experience at your fingertips. When negotiating your contract, make sure you include safeguards in the event you’re audited by the IRS.

  1. Project Management

Project management falls under business process outsourcing. This is a field of outsourcing technology firms will want to look into. It is also great for businesses that work on development projects.

The benefits of project management outsourcing are the level of experience bring in. Companies that do not have development projects year-round do not want to employ fulltime development teams. The money you would spend on top talent, in terms of salaries and benefits, would not be justifiable.

Instead, you get top-tier talent specializing in what your projects require. Also, you only contract for the number of people you need.

It’s Time to Look Into Outsourcing

These are only a few outsourcing examples for your business. Weigh the pros and cons of each and how they will impact your bottom line.

We hope you found this article useful. Check back regularly for new business tips or subscribe to our weekly newsletter.

You are just done asking people again and again what to stream while quarantined? We all were restricted to our homes in the past few months, but the urge to connect with the world and explore the places is stronger than ever. 

Even though the lockdown has lifted still, many places are strictly following the precautionary measures. Bit by bit, travel destinations are taking the step of reopening it for travelers.

Many destinations are welcoming the small number of people with great enthusiasm to make their experiences more enjoyable. Miami doesn’t need anyone’s introduction. You all are well aware of this beautiful place in the U.S, which is famous for its glamour, beaches, and natural serenity. 

This beautiful destination will capture your attention with its incredible attraction and will charm you completely. This city is known for its beauty and natural places that will definitely steal your heart.

The present data records reveals that there had been a significant decrease in the Covid-19 cases, i.e. (from 16.6%  to 10%) in September. So, if you plan to travel and enjoy your life to the fullest, Miami is good to go.

Places You Can Visit In Miami As Soon As Covid-19 Ends

Here we are sharing with your some of the best places you can easily visit and enjoy post-pandemic by practicing safety guidelines.

 

  • Picturesque Miami Beach

 

Covid ’19 cases are still a key concern in the state of Florida. Although many things you would love to do are still on hold, you have still got the Miami beaches that will prove to be a relaxing spot for you. While Miami Beach is open for travelers like you, you still need to follow many restrictions. But you can still enjoy it while following these restrictions.

After staying indoors for so long, you can enjoy outdoor activities such as play or exercise responsibly and safely. As long as you are using your own stuff, you are free to swim in the warm water and revel in nature as you want. 

And one more thing, the hotels at Miami Beach are offering amazing deals to the travels to make their experience more memorable. 

 

  • Visit The National Parks

National parks all over the world have observed months of uncertainty due to coronavirus. The place which was once filled with people during the winters was being completely closed for visitors. After lockdown, travelers have come to enjoy the natural views by following the new normal. However, summers were not the ideal time to wear long mud boots and explore nature’s beauty.

You can still make your visit enjoyable by keeping enough bug spray and water to save yourself from scorching heat and bugs. Everglades’s national park is well known for its Flamingo and Shark valley trails that are easy to hike. Visiting Everglades national park will show the dazzling beauty of Florida State and will prove to be a live affirming and enjoyable experience. 

Even if you don’t want to go inside the park, you can simply cruise down US-41 to Loop road and hike your way through the water on the over the Gator Hook Trail that is 4.7 miles long. So buckle up your hiking shoes and take out your trekking poles and explore this less congested destination.

 

  • Fun At Bayside Marketplace

 

This place offers a wide variety of activities like food, shopping, cinema, tours, and watersports. You will have so much to do when you decide to visit the bayside market place. 

This place can host around 150 shops, restaurants, and cafes. You can easily find famous boutiques and charming stores to buy whatever you like from the outdoor style marketplace. You can even give a treat yourself and watch a strange movie.   

As the name suggests, this place in the city of Miami is located around the bay where you can come and admire the waterfront and the enthralling atmosphere. This place will not fail to entertain you with its fun and peaceful vibes.

 

  • Breathtaking Nature At Jungle Island

One of the most popular and attractive theme parks in the city of Miami is Jungle Island. This place is positioned on Watson Island and was previously known as Parrot jungle. 

It is famous for its tropical landscape and is just a few minutes away from downtown Miami and South beach. If you are an adventurous person, then this place offers its visitors a sense of discovery and adventure.

After it’s reopening in the month of June, Jungle Island is strictly following the emergency order to keep the travelers as well as the animals safe from any possible contact. You can meet and interact with some amazing animals from all over the world. 

Travelers get a chance to submerge themselves in real-life jungle encounters by relishing waterfalls underneath the covering of trees, streams, treetop adventures, and enjoying animal shows. 

 

  • The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

This place is the historical and national landmark in the city of Miami. The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is an Italian renaissance styled huge villa that has a historic interior with a notable collection of decorative arts and European furniture from the 19th century. 

 

It is a huge museum to explore where you can spend your day exploring the unique and old architecture as well as a stroll in the enormous garden full of a rare orchid, palms, and Cuban limestone. 

 

  • Amusement At Xtreme Action Park

 

Are you looking for a more adventurous experience? Head to the Xtreme Action Park, where you can cherish your childhood experiences.

This place will make you feel like a kid again as it offers you trampoline jumping, blast bazookas, go-karts, run ropes, and everything that you had once enjoyed when you were a kid. Caroline, an editor at cheap essay writing services, shares her experience saying, “It is the largest indoor entertainment place in Miami that offers fun and enjoyable experiences to everyone.”

 

  • Take A Key West Tour

Want to make out most of your Miami visit? Plan a day trip and visit Key West. You will get to see some renowned bridges that connect the keys. Wander around the place, take up a boat tour, go for parasailing as well as snorkeling cruise. You will have plenty of time to enjoy every single thing this place offers to its travelers.  

 

  • Be A Part Of Live Events

 

Miami film festival takes place annually at the Olympia Theatre, and if you are planning to visit in the month of October, then don’t forget to be a part of this relishing and enjoyable live event. 

This event will allow you to see the top filmmakers, including the popular actors and actresses. This live event gives travelers like you a chance to see in reality how their famous stars look in reality. So, if you are a fan and want to meet the famous stars, feel free to pay a visit while being in Miami.

Conclusion 

Staying indoor for months due to this pandemic might have made you exhausted. But as the situation is coming back to normal, you can begin to plan and prepare the itinerary and explore this beautiful place. We have shared with you the dope destinations you can visit and what you can do to make your visit enjoyable. 

Stay safe and make your traveling experience memorable.

curious traveller

Chicago is among the largest U.S. cities, located on Lake Michigan in Illinois. The city is famous for its bold architecture as it features marvels like John Hancock Center, 1,451-ft. Willis Tower, and the neo-Gothic Tribune Tower. Besides, the highlight of the city is its skyline, punctuated by skyscrapers.

The cultures of every country can be found in the food scenes of this city. There is a great diversity in the city’s population. Chicago is also among the country’s top tourist destinations. People from all over the world visit the city to see its international-style buildings, beautiful parks and streets, and great museums.

Population

It is the most populous city in the Midwestern United States. The estimated population is 8,865,000 (yr.2020).

Tourist Hotspot

Around 58-60 million tourists visit Chicago every year.

Weather

The city has all four seasons distinctly represented: chill winters, warm and humid summers, spring, and fall. During the winter season, the temperatures can fall to low as -18 degrees Celsius.

How to reach Chicago on a budget

Chicago features two international airports which operate thousand of daily inbound and outbound flights to more than 240 destinations.

So, no matter, you want to visit Chicago from within the U.S., or the state outside, the most convenient option is to fly down to the city. You can visit the alaska airlines official site right now and get your flight booking done to Chicago. Which serves both the airports, Chicago Midway International Airport, and Chicago O’Hare International Airports, providing great connectivity to Chicago from major cities around the world.

When to visit Chicago

Chicagoans or the tourists of the city can enjoy lying on the beach in summer and skating in the parks in winter.

However, early fall is the best time to visit the city. September-October is known as the tourist season in the city: the temperature remains warm, and a variety of festivals take place in the city.

Since it remains the high season of tourism, the accommodation places, such as hotel, remaining great-demand. This in return, increases the prices of hotels as well as the flights. There can be a solution to this problem – offered by airlinesmap. It a one-stop-shop that fulfills all your needs required for a happy journey

How to get around in Chicago

Although a large city, Chicago is still easy to navigate by walking, rented car/taxi, or public transport.

Out of these options, the best way to get around in the city is via public transportation. You can use elevated trains, operated by the Chicago Transit Authority. The trains are cost-effective and the most convenient option to travel within the city.

Must Visit Places in Chicago

  1. Millennium Park – This place is about the city’s weekend vibes. It is a famous place to host concerts and festivals, in Chicago, from time to time.
  • Riverwalk – Taking a stroll along the Riverwalk and adoring the city lights next to the Chicago River is an experience that you would not like to miss.
  • John Hancock Observatory –Known as “360 Chicago,” this place gives you a complete view of the city from 1000 ft. above.
  • Lincoln Park Zoo – If you are a nature and an animal lover, this place would not disappoint you.
  • Shedd Aquarium –This place is home to approximately 32,000 animals, like sea otters, frogs, penguins, sharks, Beluga Whales, and a multitude of different fishes and coral species.

Where to stay in Chicago

If you are on a family vacation in the city, try to find suitable accommodation in/near Downtown, including the area known as the Loop, as these places contain the city’s top historic sights.

If you are on a shopping trip, try to find a hotel somewhere near Streetervilleneighborhood which is alongside Magnificent Mile, housing hundreds of retail shops.

Lincoln Park neighborhood is also a great area with good hotels.

What to eat in Chicago

The iconic Chicago cuisines include deep-dish pizza, Chicago Barbecue, Jibarito Sandwich, and Steak.

Get Out of the City

If you want to escape the crowds of the city, you can choose to travel to Lake Geneva in Wisconsin which is at a distance of 80 miles from the city. It is among America’s best lake towns and offers activities like booze cruises, hot air balloon rides, and more.

Other getaway places include Starved Rock State Park, Galena, and Richland County.

Make the most of your vacation to Chicago with the help of this guide and feel like a regular traveler to the city!

Large sweeping avenues, the serenity of Sukhna Lake, sprawling parks, spectacular contemporary architecture, and the very famous Rock Garden, make India’s first well-planned city an urban paradise. The capital of Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh is one of the greenest cities in all of India. Envisioned and designed in the 1950s by the prominent French-Swiss architect, Le Corbusier, the major buildings of the city are marvels of modern design. 

The city is neatly divided into sectors, leaving outsiders in awe of its beauty and meticulous city planning. Merely 70 years old, Chandigarh is a young, prosperous and vibrant city. It is extremely pedestrian-friendly with thousands of tourists and locals flocking every day to Sector 17 for its shops and restaurants and Sector 22 for its hotels. But what makes Chandigarh a great travel destination is its geographical location at the foothills of the majestic Shivalik range and the Himalayas, as well as its pleasant climate.

Make the most of your weekends post lockdown by driving down to Chandigarh in Savaari’s safe, spacious 9 seater luxury tempo traveller in Delhi and explore places that are absolutely safe to travel to in a post COVID world. 

Places to visit

Naina Devi – During some of the most testing and trying times, there is no better place to find solace than the house of God. Naina Devi temple is one of the 51 shaktipeethas. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that at this very temple, the eyes of Goddess Durga fell. Hence the name, Naina Devi. Located 100 km from Chandigarh, Naina Devi temple will delight you with renewed hope and courage for the year ahead and also let you enjoy the stunning landscape from an elevation of 11,000 m in the Shivalik range. 

Sukhna Lake – One of the most beautiful man-made lakes in India, Sukhna Lake is a charming corner where locals and tourists like to come and drink in some fresh air to relax.  It lets you enjoy yachting activities. A number of artists visit the lake, so you can choose one and get your portrait made. Around the lake, you will also find a number of sketches by the architect of the city Le Corbusier that have been exhibited for the people coming in to admire. The surrounding promenade of the lake includes a jogging track. Sunsets and sunrises are immensely popular times and children can be seen feeding the ducks that live in the lake.  The lake is also a paradise for birding enthusiasts for it attracts migratory birds like the Siberian duck, storks and cranes, during the winter months. 

Pinjore Gardens – The beautiful Pinjore Gardens have been built in the Mughal style. The gardens stretch over an area of 100 acres and are known for their jade beauty, refreshing fountains and delightful water bodies. It is a fine example of terrace gardening in India. If you happen to visit Chandigarh in April, do attend the festivities of Baisakhi held here every year. The garden also hosts the annual Mango Festival sometime in June. There is a mini zoo, a Japanese garden, a nursery and various picnic spots to keep the visitors entertained. 

Morni Hills – A quaint hill town near Chandigarh, Morni Hills is a great weekend getaway option if you are looking for a place to relax while practicing social distancing. Located in the lower hills of the Shivalik range, it is a picturesque town frequented by travellers from across the world. When here, make sure that you set aside some time to explore temples around. Morni is a paradise for adventure junkies. From long nature treks, rock climbing experiences to popular camping site nearby called Tikkar Taal, you will be spoiled with choices here. The area is brought to life with many bird species as well, keeping birding enthusiasts constantly on the lookout.

Parwanoo – Only 30 km from Chandigarh, Parwanoo is another great place to escape the hubbub of cities. Not just the beautiful Himalayas, Parwanoo is also adorned by fruit orchards. So when in Parwanoo, pick up fresh fruit jams and pickles. One can enjoy cable car rides through the Shivalik range to admire the gorgeous vistas of the surrounding areas. Some of the local attractions that should not be missed include Timber Trail, Gurudwara Nada Sahib, Kali Mata Temple and Mansa Devi Temple. Take out some time to cherish the silence at  Gurudwara Nada Sahib, which is an important spot for Sikh devotees.

A road trip from Delhi to Chandigarh will be incomplete without all the good food you eat along the way. Hire a Savaari cab to take home not just the best but also a safe experience. Savaari’s Delhi to Chandigarh taxi fare is quite affordable for a comfortable road trip as well as baby steps to our old life.

curious traveller

Hospitality is the only industry which is providing the best services to their customers. You can check the international logistics company to know about the hospitality standards of a specific company. One who is planning to travel can opt for many options from the various companies. Travelling is always fun for everyone and making that fun more reliable is the agenda of every hospitality industry. Whether you are planning to have a trip in India or outside you can conserve it many hospitality services providing industry or the agents to book your services. We would suggest you do a market survey before reaching any decision.

The catamaran charter greece is a perfect destination to visit the chain of islands. Paros, Athens, Mykonos are some of the islands included in Antilles.

It would be great fun to travel but it would be awesome if you have your itinerary in your hand. Now we are going to discuss a few things which a travel agency in need.

What things a travel agency may need?

  • Weight calibration machine:

You can’t send any of your passengers to any of the trips without measuring the weight of their luggage. The weight of the luggage will decide how much luggage tax has to be paid. As a travel agency, you have to specify in advance to your customer how much luggage they can carry with themselves. Even if in any case the luggage more than the specified wait you cannot ask your customer to take out the things. It means you always have to carry a backup plan for emergencies.

So, for getting the best weighting machine you can visit for the best products.

  •  Bonds are necessary.

As a travel agency, there are too many bonds which you have to sign for running your agency. These bonds specify that you are liable and responsible for the whole journey of your client and if something happens it’s your responsibility to handle it. So, be very specific with your work and sign the required bonds whenever needed. You can get all the information from the internet that how many bonds you need to sign and with whom. Don’t start working without signing the bond as it will create that situation in future. Even it is not legal to run the agency without having a proper agreement. You can visit to know about all. Get all the bonds signed by all the authorities. Legal work is always good as to eliminate and hassle tic situation.

  • Relaxing agent.

Yes as a travel agency you need to offer some of the vouchers to your guest. These vouchers are necessary to attract the customers that you are providing add-on services to them. You can buy the coffee vouchers from the  The coffee vouchers will not cost you very much and you can even easily purchase them. Therefore going for the option which is feasible enough for both the parties is good to be chosen. You can choose the favourite flavour and beans as per your choice.

Conclusion:

Now, after getting all the necessary information you will be able to open your travel agency. The opening agency is a little tough job. But when you have passion in you nothing is impossible. You can do anything when you have will power. You can take help of many outsourcing workers to get your work done. Outsourcing helps in reducing your budget. Even with the help of outsourcing, you can easily get your work done on time. Your labour cost will reduce and profit will increase. There are many freelancing companies who invite the work and complete it on time.

Note: Be responsive to your users otherwise they will not get attracted to attain your services again. Getting repeat business is very necessary for the company. One needs to be very specific with their standards so as to show the work. You will definitely find the best way to get the customer if you work hard. Keep going through our reviews to know the best.

People travel for different reasons, and whatever may be your reasons, as long as you are travelling, you’re doing just fine. It’s because every traveller has heard the quote “collect moments, not things.” 

Travelling is essential for personal growth that extends to improve our professional growth as well. Meeting new people, understanding different cultures, eating different cuisines, learning new languages, making friends globally, connecting with yourself, discovering your passion, and much more, the reasons to travel and its benefits are endless. 

However, the experience of your travel is determined by how you plan. For example, if your choice of destination is Kerala, the experience you get by booking Kerala packages would be different from if you go chose to go on a solo trip. In both the cases though, you will certainly come back home with memories you will cherish forever. 

Let us discuss a few reasons why people love to travel –

Travel to learn

There are many things you would learn while touring that you can’t find on any textbook or Google. It applies on just about any subject, starting from culture to languages and from gastronomy to history, and more. Travelling helps you meet new people, learn about their cultures, the food they eat, the history of the place, its social dynamics, geography, and so much more. 

The local knowledge you get by interacting with people anywhere on the globe is something no internet search can offer. Moreover, travelling will help you learn a lot about yourself. It provides a deeper understanding of your limits and inspires you to push them.

Travel to switch off

A little time off the radar can be more fruitful than you can imagine. Travelling helps you enjoy freedom like no other activity. In a way, it refreshes your mind from the monotonous lifestyle you have been living and energizes your creative and logical senses. Getting away from the humdrum of life works to your advantage.

Travel to rest and relax

In our daily lives, we hardly take a day off to sit back, read a book, and relax. Most of us plan to do that on the weekend, but something or the else always comes up. Professional and personal faculties often demand a bit too much to sit and relax like we would love to. Travelling and going on vacation gives us that perfect opportunity to pause and relax. It gives us that “me” time to reflect, retrospect, and recharge. 

Explore new places

Travelling allows us to explore new places and experiences. There is just so much out there to see, experience, and enjoy. Starting from new places, new people, new cultures, unheard of food, and so much more, travelling gives us the chance to do things differently, get out of the comfort zone, and expand our physical and mental horizon. It is this playing with extremes that pushes our boundaries and develop our personality. 

Travel to eat

Don’t be on a diet when travelling, not that you would be able to maintain it while travelling. Be open to try out new flavours when travelling and you would be amazed at how much the world has to offer. Food is an essential aspect of travelling, and it gives an insight into new cultures and places. Vacation is the time you can indulge without feeling guilty. Don’t worry; you can make up for the few pounds gain when you are home.

Live out your bucket list

Everyone has their bucket list they want to fulfil during their lifetime. When it comes to travel, it might be anything from going to the Taj Mahal or a wildlife safari in the jungles of Africa or even trekking in the Himalayas. Travelling gives us a chance not only to check off your bucket list, but also to offer us a sense of fulfilment, fills us with ambition and provides us with clarity. It teaches us to let go and in a way, helps us transform into a much more mature human being. 

People love to travel because it helps them escape their daily life for a while. It is what rejuvenates our mind, body, and soul so profoundly when on vacation and why we long to go for it once it’s over. It is a sense of euphoria that travelling imparts that makes it one of the most loved activities worldwide. 

curious traveller

We all bank on our insurances when we are in trouble; be it our health insurance, house insurance or car insurance. However, what makes us think travelling is not risky enough to have an insurance for?

A travel insurance, apart from its several benefits and covers, gives you peace of mind while travelling. It is better to take preventive measures for the risks involved in travelling, rather than spend a hefty amount after it has happened.

Anything can happen while you travel as you are exposed to a number of risks, worst of all, in an unfamiliar place. If you don’t happen to be insured, there is a chance that you may have to shell out a lot of money and might be of complete inconvenience to you.

Here is a list of things that could go wrong:

  • Unexpected cancellation of trip
  • A natural disaster has hit your destination of travel
  • A terrorist attack at your destination
  • You fall sick or get injured during your travel
  • Luggage is stolen or lost while travel
  • You lose your passport on travel while travelling

These are just a few pointers that can go wrong. However, there are so many more unforeseen risks that you might face if luck isn’t on your side. Buying a travel insurance can turn out to be cheaper than you think.

Here are a few tips for buying the best overseas travel insurance for you:

  • Look up your home insurance policy – many a times, home insurances also cover for personal belongings outside of your home. Being aware of whether your home insurance is inclusive of this or not can help you save on premiums.
  • Buy them online directly – Travel insurances tend to be cheaper when buying online directly from the insurer. If having to go through a third party, you may have to pay high commissions to them.
  • Travelling in a group – there is an option where you can opt for group policy if you happen to be travelling with a group. Pitching in money from everyone can lower your premium rates.
  • Customer loyalty – look up if any of your other insurers such as car or house insurer also offer travel insurance. Buying from the same insurer is not only trust worthy, but can also help you get discounted rates. Also, don’t hesitate to ask. Bring comparisons to their competitors who are giving it at a lower price and luck might just favor you.
  • Family travel insurances – many a times, family travel insurances cover the insurance for the kids for free.
  • Add-on covers – there are several add-on covers to your travel insurance and you need to make sure you pick the right one based on the destination of your travel. For example: Credit-card insurance in case of theft or hacking of your card.
  • Destination – the best travel insurance type might not be the same for every place. For example: the travel insurance for Schegen visa might have different structure than the US visa.

These tips will help you make the best choice for your international travel insurance. At times, travelling to a new place can be quite scary, it only gets worse if you are at risk. Why take chances? Buy your travel insurance now!

Looking to travel somewhere where alcohol isn’t everywhere you go? Read on to learn about the best travel destinations for sober travelers.

Alcoholism can become a lonely, solitary experience, although it affects 15.1 million adults.

It can seem like your whole world extends only as far as your local liquor store. But the truth is that there’s a much bigger world out there, waiting for you to discover it.

Now that you’ve put down the bottle, it’s time to pick up your suitcase and treat yourself to a vacation. Here are five of the best travel destinations for sober travelers.

  1. London

London is a beautiful city with a rich, extensive history. From wandering the dock to visiting Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, sober travelers can find tons to do.

Best of all, there’s an upcoming sobriety boot camp hosted in London. To find more information on this exciting event, check out this site.

  1. The Grand Canyon

Sometimes we get so in our own heads that we lose sight of how small we are in the world, which is precisely why the Grand Canyon makes for one of the best sober vacations.

Whether you’re coming to see the canyon itself or want to explore one of the area’s many hiking trails, the Grand Canyon is a great place to get some perspective again.

  1. Goa

When it comes to relaxing sober vacations, it’s hard to beat the peace and tranquility of the beach. And few beaches compare to those found in Goa, India.

Get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and treat yourself to a beachside sunset. White sands, crashing waves, and gorgeous marine life await you.

Be sure to check out our list of the area’s most secluded beaches to learn about our personal recommendations.

  1. Provo-Orem

If you’re looking to avoid temptation, Provo-Orem, Utah may as well be paradise.

Why, you ask?

Because a reported 99.4% of its citizens reported infrequent or no use of alcohol, making it the soberest city in the entire United States.

And should the need to drink arise, you can distract yourself with one of Utah’s many natural wonders.

Take a drive through the peaceful Monument Valley or spend a day enjoying the fresh air as you hike among massive mountains at Zion National Park.

If you feel like your sobriety is in danger dont hesitate to seek help ASAP. Moving to another city might be a big help. I felt much better once I moved into a sober living facility in Colorado.

  1. New York City

We understand that New York City may not seem like the greatest destination for sober travelers. After all, alcohol is everywhere in the city.

With that said, The City That Never Sleeps is filled with fun, fantastic things to do for the newly sober.

Enjoy world-class cuisine, take in a Broadway show, or stand in the middle of Times Square for an unforgettable experience.

And if you’re recently sober or get the itch to drink, you can stop into one of the dozens of sobriety meetings hosted around the city.

These Destinations Are a Must For Sober Travelers

If you or any sober travelers you know are preparing for a vacation, check out these five destinations. With alcohol out of the spotlight, it’s time for an unforgettable vacation.

Do you have a favorite vacation spot? Be sure to let us know in the comments below. And don’t forget to sign up for our weekly newsletter where we deliver the best of Incredible Planet to your inbox.

Traveling is – and will always be – fun regardless of how many times you have done it. However, when you are to travel with kids, it can be quite daunting. You need to determine what clothes to pack and how to get to your destination, let alone ensure that the whole trip is not stressful for your children. With all these things considered, it is safe to say that such adventure is rife with potential worries. But hey, there are tips that you can keep in mind in order to save you from going insane and totally ruining the vacation. Check them out below!

Keep It Simple

It holds true that almost any stuff can be brought abroad. It might not have to be the same brand, but you will always have the ability to manage it. If you are traveling with a baby, it is given that diapers should be of concern. This is most especially if you require the likes of eco and organic brands, most of which are quite hard to find.  This is where you want to be a little bit more flexible. While you can always pack the brand your baby really needs, there is nothing wrong with exploring other ones. Or, if you want, you can research first if this type of diaper is available in the country or place you will be going to.

Travel With a Guardian

Be it a nanny or another member of your family, it is always better to have someone who can help you with the kids. This is really advantageous especially if you have a bigger family. This guardian can lend a hand in taking care of your children. For instance, you will be riding a train. The guardian can look after your daughter while you tend with your son. Just keep in mind, however, that disputes concerning guardianship can happen. For example, the nanny fails to fulfil her fiduciary duties. This can be a call for legal action. And when such thing happens, you will need a lawyer who has the expertise in contesting guardianship.

Always Create an Itinerary

Traveling with children can be a lot more fun if you try to tailor your itinerary in a way that it suits every family member (not just your kids, of course). You can start by selecting activities and/or destinations that are going to be fun for all of you. You can also let older kids give suggestions about where the family must go and what to do. By doing so, they can be more involved and excited about the upcoming trip.

Keep in mind, too, that a trip must include the planning of rest times. After all, it would be difficult to experience each activity or destination if the family does not have the energy to do so. You also have to be considerate of your kids’ disposition. Young children, in particular, need to let off a little steam. This is where you want to bring them to a park or playground. As for teens, stopping for food or arcade can be a great thing to do.

Go With a Slow Travel

When you travel with kids, you do not just the fun with you – you also bring the drama. This could from the baby’s crying to the toddler starting with his tantrums. Interestingly, there is a way for you to reduce the drama’s frequency. Go with a slow travel. It simply allows you to immerse yourself in a new culture and, at the same time, learn the language a bit. Above anything else, it gives your family the much-needed time to relax and let all the impressions sink in.

One you’ve arrived in Zurich, taken the Zurich airport taxi and found out where to get an airport transfer in Zurich, you’re left with the most pleasurable things to do: visiting the tourist attractions that make this city one of the most famous ones in the world. Because it is Switzerland’s largest city, Zurich has dozens of museums, a charming old town filled with Renaissance and medieval buildings and art everywhere you look around. If you’re only left with a couple of days and you want to visit Zurich’s top-rated tourist attractions, here’s what you should consider:

  1. Old Town

Old Town (Altstadt) is the central part of the city that encompasses the historical city that was built until 1893. These parts are a must-see if you travel to Zurich in order for you to get the full experience of the city and learn a great deal about its culture. Some main attractions of Old Town are: Shoemakers’ Guild, which is now a theatre and the Hans zum Rech, which dates back since the Middle Ages.

  1. Lake Zurich

The lake lies in the South of the city and offers tourists an amazing view. Boat trips can be arranged on the lake. During summer, when water temperatures reach over 20 degrees Celsius, swimming is possible. A flea market is held every year between May and October. Here you can find many vendors that trade everything from antiquity to modern day gadgets.

  1. Fraumunster

Fraumunster Church is a historical sight in Zurich. It was built on the remains of an abbey for aristocratic women all the way back in 853 by Louis the German for his daughter. Its architecture is in a gothic style. The remains of 9th-century crypt can be seen in the undercroft of the church. The church gets around 500.000 visitors every year and the tours are conducted by booking in advance and with accredited guides.

  1. Schweizerisches Landesmuseum

The Swiss National Museum is located in central Zurich near the Hauptbahnhof. The museum is built in 1898 by historian Gustav Gull. Tourists are offered exhibitions ranging from prehistoric relicts to arts of the middle ages.

  1. Grossmünster

The church was built between 1110 and 1220. It has a Romanesque-style. According to the legend the church was built by the Franc king Charles the Great when his horse fell on his knees. He believed that the horse kneeled over the tomb of Felix and Regula who are the saint patrons of Zurich.  

  1. Zurich Zoo

The zoo harbors more than 360 species of different animals. The zoo’s habitats are almost identical copies of the animals’ natural environments.  The zoo’s main attraction is the Asian elephant exhibit, where tourists can watch elephants play with their young cubs or swim in their multi-environmental complex. There are trams and trains that run to the zoo from the center of the city.  

With so many wonderful places to visit, Zurich will for sure remain one of the unforgettable journeys worth keeping in your mind and heart for a lifetime.

What’s better than an island hopping holiday in Greece?

An island hopping holiday in Greece with all the added luxury of a cruise, of course!

Below, we’ll explore the outstanding benefits to visit Greece’s beautiful islands and why choosing to do this on a cruise will add an extra-special touch to your holiday.

Why Greece?

We probably don’t need to tell you that Greece is renowned for its stunning landscapes, welcoming hospitality and exceptional cuisine.

However, Greece has so much more to offer you than this, particularly when you go island hopping.

Around every corner, you’ll find another added treat, often stumbling upon isolated communities that haven’t been spoilt by commercialism or tourism.

It’s also steeped in history, which just adds to the romance of this destination. Everywhere you go, you’ll find connections to Greece’s colourful past, whether you’re visiting sites that still have Ancient Greek remains or you’re exploring one of its jaw-dropping Neoclassical mansions.

You also get the beautiful weather. With over 300 days of sunshine every year, it’s one of the world’s best climates as it’s not too hot or cold, making it the perfect place for year-round visits.

Why a Cruise?

So why visit Greece on a cruise?

Firstly, you’ll get to see so much more than if you’re travelling around by plane or car. Not limiting you to the more tourist-driven places and restricting how far you can go, island hopping is best done by sea.

Not only does it mean that you’ll anchor up at some of the most exclusive places but you’ll get to see these islands in all their glory. After all, you can’t beat seeing Greece’s stunning coastal landscape from the sea because it allows you to take it all in from the best possible angle and with unprecedented 360-degree views.

What’s more, as you approach, you’ll feel like you’re taking a step back in time to when the Ancient Greeks used to return home from their travels.

Equally, when you’ve finished your day’s sightseeing on one of the islands, the fun doesn’t just stop there. With ongoing entertainment on the cruise ship, from casinos to live acts, you get the best of both worlds – and without having to drag your suitcase all over with you, either.

Plus, you can often bag some great deals at places like Bolsover Cruise Club, so you’re getting all of the luxury but without the hefty price tag.

Ultimately, when you want to explore more than one destination with ease without having to live out of a backpack, cruises are the ideal choice. Simply hop on and off at the different islands while still returning to your luxurious accommodation at night. What more could you ask for?

Most avid travelers and wanderlusts have a few specific things they won’t leave home without, especially for a long journey. In the past, these items may have included a mini translation dictionary, a physical map, or other tangible items. However, in recent years, the majority of tools travelers are using are in the form of smartphone apps. Social travel apps are helping travelers plan trips and get around much easier which is changing the way people travel the world. The following are the most noteworthy travel apps responsible for morphing the globetrotter industry.

Ride Share App – Lyft & Uber

Ride-sharing apps like Lyft and Uber have been around for a few years now, but they are revolutionizing the way people get around while traveling. More and more cities are joining the ride-share economy making it super easy for users to request a ride and get picked up by a background-checked driver in minutes. Even rides to and from the airport have become a lot easier and the best part is that once the app is set up, you never have to reach for your wallet.

Lodging App – Airbnb

Speaking of the sharing economy, Airbnb offers travelers an alternative to hotels and hostels by providing short- and long-term lodging rentals all over the world. Similar to ride-share companies like Lyft and Uber, Airbnb runs on the concept that as a society, we don’t have to create more or build more in order to boost globalization and enhance travel. Instead, we can use and share what we already have.

Places App – Foursquare

As a tool for finding great places to eat all over the world, Foursquare has gained popularity and influenced the travel industry over the past few years. The app has a bit more swag than Open Table, allowing you to follow people whose taste in food you trust and view their tips and recommendations on what to order at each restaurant. Foursquare also lets you save your favorite food spots and tailors results to your unique palate.

Communication App – Whatsapp

Spotty wireless connections and insanely high phone bills are common themes for international travel. This can really put a damper on communications with people you love back home or those you plan to meet up with on your trip. Luckily, social apps like Whatsapp solve this problem. The app lets you message people, create group threads, and send photos from anywhere in the world without paying for any SMS or mobile fees.

Travel Journal App – Driftr

For those who want to connect with other wanderlusts, plan trips, log memories, and document their journey, Driftr is the perfect all-encompassing travel journal app. The app allows you to see what other travelers are up to, create a custom itinerary, track your experiences, and upload to social media all in one place. The multimedia platform keeps travelers connected to their following and other nomadic adventurers from anywhere in the world.

Traveling in the digital age looks a lot different than it did decades ago. Smartphone apps and online tools are helping first-time and seasoned travelers alike create simplified, yet enticing trips of their dreams. The process is easier than ever.

Postcard Apps – Postagram

Sending paper postcards while traveling may be a dying practice. However, Postagram allows you to take a picture on your smartphone, turn it into a personal postcard, and mail a paper copy to anyone anywhere in the world for under $2. You don’t even need to bring a stamp!

Tired of the usual common holidays? Maybe it’s time to make a change! A road trip could be the right option for you. You would have many places to see in a single holiday and a single requirement: getting adventurous! Road trips, known in many American films, are becoming more and more appreciated. Let’s see our top 5 road trips you cannot miss to experience this innovative way to spend their holidays. Let’s do this!

Natural full immersion into the Black Forest

In Europe, one of the best road trips is definitely the one in the enchanting Black Forest. The paths that can be done are different, some completely immersed in the woods and others that, instead, prefer the passage inside the small villages of the area. Before leaving, it is, therefore, better to decide what kind of experience one wants to live so you will be ready for it. You can decide to use some nearby city as a starting point to optimize your road trip.

Exploring the gold road in Uzbekistan

This is certainly one of the most courageous and “wild” choices that will nevertheless leave indelible memories in who will take off in this adventure. It is about 700 km to be covered with an off-road, given the not perfect quality of the roads. The trip has as its destination the city of Samarkand, the fundamental point of the Silk Road that connected Europe and China and declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Australian vibes all over the Great Ocean Road

Now let’s go to the other side of the world, in Australia, on one of the most famous and appreciated road trip itineraries. They are about 400 km, departing from Melbourne. The places to visit are endless: Torquay, famous paradise for surfers, Anglesea and the black lighthouse of Otway where we will be advised to leave the car temporarily to enjoy a natural path along which to admire kangaroos and koalas.

Enjoying breathtaking views in South Island

It is the place where we can find more landscapes in one trip. In a few hours, you can go from fairytale snowy mountains to fun beaches, passing through various cities including the most important one in Christchurch. One of the favorite destinations for visitors is definitely the locality of Kaikoura, a marine paradise where, without too much difficulty, it is possible to admire whales and seals. If you’re looking for a breathtaking experience, it’s the road trip that’s right for you.

Living the American dream with Route 66

When you hear talk of a road trip, everyone’s mind cannot go to the famous Route 66, the road par excellence, seen in hundreds of films and listened to as many songs and stories. Connect Santa Monica to Chicago but, be careful, on official maps it is not reported! Before leaving, it is therefore essential to obtain a detailed itinerary of the road to follow in order not to run into unpleasant setbacks. 7000 kilometers of history that at least once in life should be traveled. In short: this is the mother of all road trips!

Find a great deal on car hire to get started!

If you think renting a car is a difficult and expensive mission maybe you haven’t found cheap car rentals yet! We travel a lot and we tried so much during these years. We always rely on HolidayAutos.com as it’s more than a car hire service is a comparative site where you can find your best ride customizing every single thing about your experience: cancellation free of charge is one of the highlights of the website as a road trip demands great flexibility! Plus, the prices offered are the best on the market.

So, if you are tired of the same old way of traveling a road trip could be the right option for you! It’s convenient, adventurous and exciting and you can easily create your own travel plan with an interesting itinerary focused on what you love the most: Art? Beach? Relaxation? Hiking? You can choose whatever you want and start exploring the world from a different unique perspective. So what are you waiting for? Your road trip is waiting for you!

Maldives is a place where nature lovers would want to spend their vacations; it is not less than a picture of paradise. The island is surrounded by crystal clear turquoise water attracting you to jump in to enjoy your summer to the fullest with the luxury resorts and bungalows extended over the sea. Unlike the common belief Maldives is not only a place to go to the  beach and get a tan while sipping cocktails, there is much more to do in that dreamy destination. Here are six dream places where you must go when in Maldives.

1.   Diving:

Due to the crystal clear water surrounding the Maldives Island it is considered as the best destination for world’s most amazing scuba diving experience. Even if you are not certified you can still go to many affordable PADI dive centers which will allow you to take a discovery dive or apply for other dive option too because scuba diving will let you explore marine life in crystal clear water which is warm and welcoming, making it quite visible to see turtles, stingrays and whale sharks swimming along with you.

2.   Snorkeling

If you are not a big fan of scuba diving than there are still many great options which will let you exploring marine life dream come true. Snorkeling in Maldives is a great option because reefs are so perfect that one doesn’t have to dive deep into the sea to see these beautiful plants and other aquatic animals and the plus point of crystal clear water is that it offers incredible visibility underwater. Snorkeling will not be less of a surprise exploring experience than scuba diving because you will get to see dozen of sea turtles and flocks of colorful fishes moving here and there. Click here to get the best equipment for this amazing activity.

3.   Dolphin Spotting:

Hop on a boat to go to Cinnamon Hakurra, which is the best place in the middle of sea to spot dolphins playing around in the sea water waking and leaping in a loop. You can spend a perfect afternoon watching these beautiful dolphins in Maldives some of them are quite active and playful. You might spot these dolphins putting on a great show by flipping and twilling in and out of the water which is wonderful experience, just make sure you stop the boat at a safe distance from them to watch dolphins’ swim instead of getting too close and scaring them away.

4.   Surfing:

If you are looking for a break from the crowd on the island you should go to Cinnamon Dhonveli which is a famous attraction for top surfer around the world to go and enjoy the world-class surfing experience ride the high tides in the sea and ruling the sea with their pro surfing skills.

5.   Stand up Paddle boarding:

Maldives is pretty famous for being the best destination to enjoy the calm stand up paddle boarding (SUP) on the crystal clear water making it more like a dream with the amazing visibility of the water beneath the board you might also see fish swimming which makes it much more interesting and fun for the riders.

6.   Balinese Massage:

sleep 835468 640

Maldives is not less than a paradise on the planet earth and when you are visiting this island to spend some quality with your loved ones, friends, family or honeymoon you must take some time to get a relaxing massage which is famous all over the world. The skilled masseurs will give you a relaxing massage which will take away the pain and aches in your body due to stressful routine life, long flight or busy day out on the island doing other activities.

Author bio:

Tom is a blogger and a nature lover. He is obsessed with traveling and adventures and that too with his family. He believes that water has a steady hold of him. He regularly writes about his experiences at http://kayakcritic.net/

Taking pets with you travelling, for either relocation or vacation purposes, can be a nightmare. It can be hard to find ways of conveniently taking your pet with you, whilst keeping them safe, healthy and comfortable. We tend to forget that our four-legged companions need a little extra to keep them safe when travelling as well, leading to unforeseen problems and injuries. Here are some safety tips on how best travel by car with your pet.

Getting in

This isn’t usually one we think of, but joints of older or frailer dogs can be damaged by them jumping into the boot or seat of your car. And while smaller dogs can simply be lifted inside, larger dogs are more difficult to carry. Doing so strains yourself and can be uncomfortable for your dog as well. This is at the top of my safety tips simply because it’s such an easy thing to overlook, but can cause some serious problems if you’re not careful. Smaller dogs can break their legs from just a few feet and can put some serious strain on all dogs.

So make sure you’re using something like a dog ramp to help your pet climb up into your car, without any risk. Decent dog ramps are non-slip and have high-grip surfaces so that they can get up easily and large rubber feet to give a stable platform and also to protect your car from any scratches or scrapes the ramp would otherwise cause.

Keeping them safe in accidents

A surprising amount of people let their pets roam free in their car whilst driving. While it’s convenient and easy to keep them unrestrained, it poses a serious risk to both them and anyone in the car. If you stop suddenly or get into an accident, your beloved pet becomes a deadly high-velocity ball of fur, risking both their life and yours. This is another important part of safety tips, as it can seriously injure passengers.

Depending on what your pet likes, they might prefer to stay in the boot of your car, providing a safe, enclosed den that they can feel comfortable in. Or perhaps on a lead clipped to a seat belt (with a body harness of course) so that they can be close to you without risking lives.

Making sure they’re comfortable

Car trips can be hours long, so it’s important to make sure they’re comfortable. Make sure they’re comfortable being in a car, especially since some animals can panic in tight enclosed spaces. I always tend to pack a travel kit for anything beyond a 30-minute trip. Try bringing toys they like, and the essentials, such as food, water, bowls, waste scoop and a few plastic bags.

To reduce stomach discomfort, make sure they only have light meals beforehand, and light meals throughout the trip if necessary. Bring lots of water, and remember to never leave your pet alone in a parked vehicle. Temperatures in a car can easily reach 70C on a hot day (158 Fahrenheit!), so it’s really not worth the risk.

I hope these few pointers can help you plan the best trip possible, and maybe inform a few people along the way. Remember to stay safe!

It is a commonly observed fact that traveling solo requires a bit of resilience and an open mind. It usually takes a significant amount of determination to step out of your comfort zone. Whether you have not met that particular person in your life or traveling solely for the business purpose, if you are traveling alone, then it is going to be entirely different. On the other side, when you are planning your first solo trip, one of the primary steps is to decide the ideal place to go. Quite interestingly, planning a trip to your dream destination is always a high motivation for your mind. For a majority of travel buffs, traveling solo can be the ultimate self-indulgence that would provide you mind with a breather. You can rest when you want and pour it as per your wish. Moreover, when you are traveling alone, the mistakes are your own, and the triumphs are enticing.

The list of tips in case you are traveling solo

Traveling always has a great list of benefits both for your soul and body. However, you still have to take into account some basic tips which would make your solo traveling experience quite pleasurable. Moreover, the below-mentioned tips would always help you to boost your confidence in a subtle manner.

Stay at a lodging facility that has good stars

It is a widely accepted fact that traveling solo can make you feel a bit vulnerable. This is the reason that your accommodation facility should always be top-notch. You can also opt for the reviews that are mentioned on the website of that particular lodging facility. These reviews would still give you a good idea of what to expect from the host.

Staying safe when you are traveling solo

One of the most concerning issues that are experienced by a solo traveler lies in the safety. On the other side, without a companion to watch for your safety, you are vulnerable to criminals. However, it is not always true as a solo traveler can blend more easily in a group. This is the reason that you should still book a hotel that comes with a 24-hour front desk. It is also important to note that you should again your identification documents with you. This would help you to take care of your safety.

Stay at a place where you can avail free Wi-Fi

Depending on what type of year you are traveling, the weather may play spoilsport. This is the reason that it may get dark quickly and you have to retire to your hotel rooms. To kill time and spend it productively, always opt for a place that comes with Wi-Fi access. On the other side, if you are a busy professional, you can use the Wi-Fi to watch movies as well upload your pictures on a particular site. Many accommodation facilities include the Wi-Fi charge on your rental bill.

Always commence your day early

If you are that kind of an individual who does not like the nightlife of a new place much, then waking up early would always provide you with rich dividends. There exists plenty of opportunities to avail beautiful sightings if you wake up early in the morning. On the other side, getting up soon would also help you to avoid crowds which in different ways are a good idea.

Opt for the right type of gear

The right kind of traveling gear always plays a pivotal role in ensuring that you are still safe. Moreover, when there is no one to watch your back, the right type of gear would even protect you from eventualities. For instance, if you are on a solo trekking trip, then always opt for the Woodland shoes. A proper gear would still go a long way in enriching your traveling experience.

Always take plenty of pictures

Making plenty of views should still be your primary motto when you are traveling solo. With the emergence of smartphones which are equipped with DSLR like cameras, taking pictures of your favorite subjects is quite easy. With the help of the smartphones, you can easily share your view on social media sites. In this manner, you would ensure that your friends and relatives are always with you on your solo trip. By sharing photos in social media instantaneously, you would ensure that you are never lonely. You can also make your peers envious in case you are visiting a new place.

Always make a list of your emergency contact information

Always ensure that a list of emergency contact numbers is still near your reach. This list can include your personal contact information including the address of your residence. You can also add a toll-free number of your credit card number in case it gets stolen. Including a list of appropriate phone numbers is a good idea to eliminate any eventualities.

Let others know about your itinerary

It is always a good idea to let your family and other close friends know about your travel itinerary. It is so because your travel itinerary would still include the name of your flight, hotel and the particular place you are visiting. This is an excellent way to make sure that you are always safe in an unknown location.

Traveling solo can be one of the fascinating experiences that is sure to add fun to your memories. You need to be positive so that you can travel solo.

The United States of America are rife with business opportunities and a booming economy. It is a country where the top business peoples roam, the biggest companies operate and of course, where the best deals are to be had. In every city there’s another deal, but some are bigger than others on both fronts!

Nevertheless, some people assume that the USA is so big that it is impossible to venture both to and through easily. However, this consensus couldn’t be further from the truth, and business travel has never been more readily accessible. So, which city do you target for a business trip? Let’s take a look.

5) San Francisco

Tourism is a booming industry, and San Francisco is up to the challenge from a business perspective. As tourism becomes more prominent in the area, the hotel business stands firm on the frontlines meet the demand. Of course, this leads to San Francisco’s hotel business sky rocketing, and keeps it as one of the strongest in the States.

There’s also a demand for seafood, and the city by the bay is more than happy to provide it. Additionally, pioneers in the tech industry like Google and Twitter have set up shop in the city. San Francisco knows it’s talents and owns them well, making it a worthy destination for a business trip.

4) Chicago

Chicago, Illinois is at the centre of a prosperous technology industry. The city flourishes under refined education and a practical business environment where new entrepreneurs can hone their skills. In the end, it doesn’t take long for humble beginnings to grow into something bigger here.

Chicago also has its share of huge company success. In a stunning feat, 31 Chicago based companies made the Fortune 500 List, boasting big names that raked in the billions such as Motorola Solutions and Baxter International. There’d be a lot to learn from a business trip here, as it’s where some of the biggest companies situate themselves.

3) Las Vegas

A resort city renown for it’s tourism, gambling and nightlife, Las Vegas, Nevada has a reputation for gamblers losing their hard-earned money. However, the city thrives off of it, and is a big earner in the US as a result.

24-hour casino’s keep the money pouring in, so businesses working in this sector would have a lot to learn from a business trip here. The biggest companies, such as Caesar’s Entertainment, Stations Casinos and Boyd Gaming rake in billions, largely thanks to the thriving entertainment scene.

2) Los Angeles

Entertainment plays a huge role in the culture of the United States. Los Angeles, California is the hub of moviemaking, and by extension, a community of thriving artists across illustration, music, writing and more. Of course, for all the celebrity star power and magnificent movies they make; it’s all bound to translate into dollar signs one day.

The film studios here make a huge amount of money, so for any creative business, a trip here could be the way in to the movie moguls and yellow brick roads. The climate also makes it a viable destination for tourism too, and to be quite honest, there’s never a quiet period in this city. This is a town of serious creative industries that has spanned generations, so the wealth and breadth of history here is unmissable.

1) New York City

The Big Apple is iconic of a booming business environment. After all, the city is a magnet for success and opportunity. It’s home to dozens of businesses that rake in endless billions, and ‘the city that never sleeps’ truly lives up to it’s motto. It’s all going on here, and it never switches off.

Most of the bigger brands have a headquarters in New York City. Apple, Google, American Express and MetLife – they’re all here. Need we mention Wall Street? Deals big and small, esteemed entrepreneurs or new and exciting start-ups – experiencing all of this first hand would be nothing short of an exciting whirlwind for any company undertaking a business travel.

What comes into your mind when you think of Rhodes island?

Probably the Aegean sea, Greek island beaches, medieval buildings and amazing Rhodes hotels. But, there’s more than that! It is a big island with endless options of places to visit during your holidays in Rhodes.

So here we are, to share with you the best things about Rhodes. Stick with us to explore this amazing island!

The Palace of Grand Masters in Rhodes

How about an impressive medieval palace? Is this a yes?

The Palace of the Grand Master, or “Kastello” was built back in the 14th century by the Knights of Saint John and originally has 158 rooms! Inside these rooms you’ll find rare antiques of 16th and 17th century, mosaics, carpets, sculptures and paintings.

No wonder why this used to be the house of the governor during Medieval Times.

The Valley of Butterflies in Rhodes

Welcome to the world of butterflies!

Yes, you read that right!

In Rhodes, there’s the famous Valley of Butterflies, which is basically a forest full of butterflies! The scenery is truly magical, as every May, large amounts of butterflies fly to this place and stay until autumn.

The bottom line?

The Valley of Butterflies is the perfect place to cool down from the Greek summer heat!

Faliraki Waterpark in Rhodes

By now, you’ll be wondering if there’s any room for fun activities during your holidays in Rhodes.

And boom! You’re there, at Faliraki Waterpark in Rhodes, the biggest waterpark in Europe!

Being just 12 km away from Rhodes town and easily reached by bus, it is the perfect choice for a family water adventure! With lots of kinds of slides and amenities such as solarium, snack bars, and showers, trust us, you’re going to spend all day there!

The Acropolis of Lindos in Rhodes

Time for some time travelling!

The ancient city of Lindos used to be one of the most important ancient cities in Ancient Greece. In fact, it used to be a very important trading center, thanks to its location. Now, at the archaeological site of Lindos you can almost feel all the glory it used to have thousands of years before!

The Acropolis of Rhodes in Rhodes

That’s right, Rhodes island used to have more than one acropolis!

The curious thing about the Acropolis of Rhodes, though, is that it wasn’t fortified as usual.

Inside the Acropolis, there are some sites worth visiting, such as the Temple of Athena Polias and Zeus Polieus, the Nymphaia, the Odeon and the Temple of Pythian Apollo.

The Aquarium of Rhodes in Rhodes

Aquariums are always a good idea! Aren’t we right?

With many kinds of sea species, such as dolphins, sharps, sea turtles, seals, mollusks, echinoderms, crabs and many more, the Aquarium of Rhodes will leave you speechless!

Inside the Aquarium, there is also a museum, where you can find lots of interesting exhibits, such as sharks, sea turtles, toothed whales and Mediterranean monk seals.

The Toy Museum in Rhodes

You don’t have to be a kid to love toys, right?

At the Toys Museum of Rhodes, you’ll find an amazing exhibition of toys made in Greece between 1930 and 1990, such as wind up toys, battery operated cars and several board games!

The best part is, there’s a Games Room with a pinball machine, a jukebox and a packman you can play with!

Seven Springs in Rhodes

Imagine for a moment a dreamy gorge with sparkling springs and rivers, in the heart of Rhodes’ nature.

Amazing, isn’t it?

At Seven Springs, or Epta Piges, you can walk under the pine trees, do a picnic in the nature, breath the fresh air and just relax and enjoy the unreal natural landscape!

To sum up, holidays in Rhodes is a unique experience and one of the many reasons of this is the endless options of things to do in Rhodes. So, don’t think too much, let your next holidays be at Rhodes island!

It’s not a secret that Corfu island is one of the most popular places to visit in Greece. But let’s be honest, if Corfu is in your bucket list, you probably don’t know where to stay and what to do. Are we right?  Well, we’ve all been there!

That’s why we’re here to help! We’re going to tell you everything about one of the most beautiful resorts of the island, Agios Stefanos, Corfu. And when it comes to accommodation, truth is, Agios Stefanos hotels are some of the best Corfu hotels!

So keep on reading to find out which are the things we love (and you will, too!) about Agios Stefanos.

Agios Stefanos is one of the most picturesque fishing villages of Corfu

Located at the north west coast of Corfu and being 35 km away from the airport and Corfu Town, Agios Stefanos Corfu has the perfect location for combining relaxation with lots of activities.

Despite the touristic development of the place, Agios Stefanos hasn’t lost its traditional character. Imagine this: Traditional Greek whitewashed houses and churches meeting modern facilities, luxurious hotels and villas. The perfect combination, isn’t it?

The natural landscape of the place is also impressive, consisting of olive trees and and golden sandy beaches.

Agios Stefanos has one of the best beaches of the island

Can this really be true?

Imagine a long beach with golden sand and crystal clear water, spacious enough for family games. This Blue Flag beach is ideal for little kids and inexperienced swimmers, as it has sheltered waters.

Agios Stefanos is the ideal place for your honeymoon

What’s better than romantic dinners under the stars, relaxing by the sea, watching beautiful sunsets together and taking long walks on the beach? Beat that!

Agios Stefanos, Corfu is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway with your significant other, as it offers a calm and relaxing environment that couples appreciate during their holidays!

Agios Stefanos is the perfect starting point for day trips to Corfu town

Needless to say, Corfu town is one of the top places to visit when in Corfu.

First of all, the Venetian architecture of Corfu town is impressive, with buildings such as palaces, fortresses, mansions and french-style squares all over the place.

Moreover, some of the best places to visit are Esplanada Square, the Ionian Academy Liston Paved Avenue and Palace of Saint Michael and Saint Georges.

Agios Stefanos has amazing traditional taverns

We think you’ll agree with us on this: Greek food is delicious! The traditional food of the Greek islands is actually something out of this world.

Delicious seafood, fresh fish, yummy vegetables and tasty meat dishes are some of the main foods of the local cuisine. In Agios Stefanos, there are many traditional taverns, where you can taste all the local dishes, while enjoying the sea view!

Agios Stefanos is close to Varkarola Festival

Think about this for a moment: a traditional island feast by the sea, full of fireworks, music and dancing!

Good news: You can join this feast at Paleokastritsa village, near Agios Stefanos!

During Varkarola Festival many local traditions revive with the participation of dancers, cheerleaders, actors and floating platforms, creating a once in a lifetime experience.

Agios Stefanos has a beautiful natural landscape

Are you a nature lover? Then you’ll fully appreciate the natural landscape of Agios Stefanos, which is covered with lush greenery and olive trees.

The bottom line is that the place is perfect for hiking and walking. In fact walking is the best way to explore the traditional Agios Stefanos village.

To sum up, Agios Stefanos, Corfu is one of the best seaside resorts of the island, offering so many options of things to do, during your holidays! What’s more, hotels in Agios Stefanos are some of the best options for accommodation in Corfu. Think we’re exaggerating? Visit Agios Stefanos to live a first hand experience.

Divorce can be an extremely upsetting experience for everyone involved, and it’s natural to find yourself experiencing a variety of conflicting, confusing feelings once your marriage has come to an end. On one hand, you are no longer married, and are without a partner for the first time in a long while. As anyone who has experienced a breakup of a long-term relationship would know, this can leave you with feelings of hurt, anger, sadness or possibly even guilt. You may feel lonely and vulnerable following your divorce, and it is perfectly normal if you do.

On the other hand, perhaps your recent divorce has left you feeling happier, stronger and ready to celebrate your newfound single status. This can be especially true if your marriage was the main source of any emotional pain or stress in your life, or if you were involved in an abusive or dysfunctional marriage.

If this is the case, finalizing your divorce may be a very uplifting and empowering event in your life. You may feel like you are ready to learn new skills, try out new hobbies, and perhaps even begin dating again. This is all normal behavior as well; just as every marriage is different, so is every divorce. Every emotion you have, both positive and negative, is absolutely valid at this time in your life.

Regardless of whether you are mourning the loss of your marriage or brimming with excitement about what lies ahead, taking a trip after finalizing your divorce can act as a means of closure for this chapter. Much like a marriage begins with a honeymoon to commemorate the beginning of a new life together, a post-divorce vacation can act as something of a “solo-moon,” as a way to reconnect with your feelings and manage the stress you have been coping with during the divorce process.

If you have been dealing with feelings of sadness, anger, anxiety or depression, a quiet, self-reflective trip may be what you need to get yourself back on track. An outdoor camping or hiking adventure, sun-filled beach vacation, or one of the more affordable yoga retreats are all good options for a peaceful post-divorce journey to reclaim your spirit. Recently-divorced people who want to clear their minds and restore their inner peace may opt to travel alone, or they may choose to go with a trusted friend or family member to provide support and motivate them to try new experiences.

Then again, maybe finalizing your divorce has left you in the mood to party, and you want to celebrate your newly-divorced status with a fun-filled Caribbean cruise, a beach vacation in Mexico, or a wild Vegas weekend. There’s certainly nothing wrong with wanting to welcome yourself back to the single scene with a bang! We all process life changes in our own ways, and if you’re in the mood to hit the road with a couple of friends, or take a solo trip to a place on your bucket list, you should take the opportunity and go where your heart leads you.

During your first post-divorce trip, you may find yourself experiencing conflicting emotions at times, and that’s a completely normal part of the healing process. For instance, someone who first felt depressed and miserable at the end of their marriage may wake up one morning to that he or she feels excitement or even joy about the day ahead. Conversely, in the midst of celebrating your divorce with a nonstop party weekend, you may suddenly feel alone in a crowd, and find yourself taking a quiet moment to process the pain, loss or sadness from your ordeal. According to Chicago divorce mediation experts SplitSimple, neither of these reactions is wrong or abnormal in any way. We are all individuals and recover from upsetting life events in different ways, at different speeds. There is no prescribed way to feel or act at any given moment- allowing yourself to feel what you need to feel, when you need to feel it, will help expedite your healing process and help you process your post-divorce emotions in a healthy way.

Choosing divorce mediation over a traditional courtroom divorce is one way to get through the divorce process simply, quickly, and relatively painlessly. With divorce mediation, you can have just as satisfactory of an outcome as you can with a traditional courtroom divorce, with a lot less stress, time, and cost. Choosing divorce mediation may be a good solution for dissolving your marriage as quickly and simply as possible, so you can get to a stage where you are ready to travel as a solo act. Whenever you are ready to take that first post-divorce trip, you will be able to begin the next leg of your journey, and hopefully find peace and happiness in your life.

Highland Park, a beautiful city of Illinois is located in in the state of Illinois, USA. This city stands out from other cities as it is a sister city to Sursee in Switzerland. City of Highland is famous for tourism point of view. Each year people from around the globe pay a visit to this beautiful city which has so many things for travelers. If you want to stay on budget while exploring this stunning city, Highland Park, better to book your ride in advance with RideCar Limousine in affordable rates.

Some of the top things to do in this city are:

Paragliding Unlimited:

An adventurous person finds nothing more attractive than paragliding. This paragliding school in highland will make you learn how to fly under supervision of instructor. Paragliding is safe and fun here.

The Lory Theatre:

This is one of the famous theatres at highland and a best place for date of two. New movies are showed here at an affordable price. Their popcorns are famous too. People can have a great time there with not being hard on pocket.

Silver Lake Park:

A place that is full of nature for visitors to enjoy. People visiting there will feel fresh. They have playgrounds, volleyballs sandpits and hiking trails too from the end of the lake into the woods.There are 3 lakes in the park and fishing can be done in one of these lakes.

Mills Apple Farm:

A beautiful orchid of apples, peaches and blackberries. You can pick your own fruits that are fresh and enjoy them. They have bakery there where heavenly pies and cookies are made. Many more activities like wire maze, animals and swings are there for visitors.

Railshake:

This is the best place in Highland Park city to explore and see, as it also offers you amazing dine-in and take away too. Not only delicious food but a great variety of beers and wines are also served here. They had a separate menu for kids that will be loved by kids. Some of their best items are: Fettuccine, Chicken Bacon Ranch Panini, Beer cheese soup.

Silent Hollow Haunted House:

If you are a fan of horror and creepy things and is difficult to get frightened then there is a must go place in Highland named as Silent hollow haunted house. This house has all scary things in it for visitor. People travelling to highlands will definitely pay a visit there.

Plaza Square:

It is a beautiful spring park where families enjoy a lot. It is best to visit here when there are events going on like Santa Clause House, Farmers Market, Jam festival etc. The place has a big fountain too that opens from the beginning of spring. Cool and calm place where people find relaxation.

Michael’s Outdoor Bar:

This is another one of the great place to dine in open atmosphere and people are fond of their food. They have a good sitting arrangement and parking as well. If you want to get the most out of your journey then you should visit this stunning place in summers.

So if you are planning to visit Highland this summer, all of the above mentioned places are must go! You will find every amenity in this city. The city has many entertainment and activity places for people of every age. Do visit all of these places in order to have an adventurous holiday in Highland, Illinois. You can get your luxury fleet to explore Highland Park with RideCar Limousine and can enjoy huge fleet of cars at cheap.

Being a College student isn’t always as easy as we hope, but it doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself. Having a real vacation time can be difficult and seems quite irrational. However, there is always a solution and this blog post will help you to save the perfect amount to spend a vacation abroad.

Research the place you want to go to

The first step to getting closer to your goal is information. Find out where you want to go, how expensive it will be and write down the things you would love to do while being there. The most important part is writing down, so you won’t forget any bigger expense during the vacation.

Furthermore, College students are quite lucky because of the timing of their semester breaks. They’re often during a calmer season which means lower prices for expenses like flights or hotels. Try to find the perfect deals at least six months before your journey. You can’t imagine how much money you can save? Flights from Berlin-Tegel to LAX can be around 1000€ – for one trip. However, if you book six months ahead and during a calmer season, you will find deals for a roundtrip around 300€.

Search engines like eDreams will help you to find the best deals. Furthermore, check out the prices for adventures you don’t want to miss out. How much is the ticket for the theme park? Is there a big event you want to miss? Do you want to go on a shopping spree at stores you don’t have in your country?

How to actually save for your trip

money 2724241 1920
money 2724241 1920

Now that you found out the amount you need to save, you need to start saving for the actual trip. Being at College means that you already have some expenses like rent, groceries and entertainment. However, there are always some tips you didn’t think of which will help your financial situation.

1. Sell things you don’t need anymore

Living in a dorm or your first apartment means normally that you don’t have a lot of space. This is also the perfect opportunity to declutter your life and to earn a little extra for your next trip. Check your room for old textbooks, clothes you don’t wear anymore and things you probably bought but didn’t use once and try to sell them on the internet.
It can be exhausting to turn your room upside down for these things, but believe me that it will be worth it when you see the amount you earned from cleaning out your dorm.

2. Do little jobs around your campus

Chances are that there are upcoming events at your College that still search for help. Check out the Black Boards for occasional job offers like working as a barkeeper or waiter or even helper for a graduator who has to move. There is always something coming up, which can provide you with at least 20€ more for your savings account.

3. Create a new flow of income

Having an occasional job can help you to save a little bit for your trip. However, if you have at least 20 hours’ free time per week, you can also find a well-paid job at the same branch which will help you to achieve your goal a lot earlier and easier. Check out the jobs at cafés, restaurants or bars and if you’re also lucky with your new team, you won’t even notice it how much time you probably put into your work.

4. Create a Budget

Last but not least, you need to start budgeting. One of the biggest problems of every broke College student is their inexperience of budgeting the money they have. First, you need to create a list of your monthly income and your bills. Furthermore, you can work on how much you really want to spend during a month without missing out. Most importantly: Put the money you saved for your trip somewhere you won’t take it away. Give it in an envelope to your parents or create a new saving account.

We really hope these tips helped you to find your saving problems so you won’t have to miss another vacation. Just try to visualize how amazing it would be to have 5€ more in Rome before buying a coffee to go! Also visit flats in mohali website for rental apartments.
Good luck and stay motivated!

 

You may think that you know Europe well, after all, some of its sights and cities are among the world’s most loved and visited tourist attractions. You’re sure to know the Eiffel Tower, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Sagrada Familia of Barcelona and Rome’s Colosseum, and may have visited many of them, but there are hidden gems of Europe that are just as easy to get to. Once seen, they’re never forgotten, and yet many tourists don’t know how close they are to such spectacular places.

Discover Ancient Italy In Comiso

Italy is famous for its ancient Roman sites of course, as well as masterpieces of the Renaissance period to be found in beautiful cities like Florence. A flight to Comiso, on the Italian island of Sicily, however allows you to experience treasures that are far, far older. In the scenic hills surrounding the town are fragments of Neolithic settlements that are believed to date from at least the seventh century BC, and which may be all that remains of the legendary city of Kasmenai. Comiso has other gems to explore, including its Roman fountain, and a Gothic castle with an octagonal tower. Sicily as a whole is a beautiful island to see and explore, and much friendlier than you may imagine from certain films.

Beautiful Bratislava

Central Europe is home to many cities of exquisite beauty, with the likes of Vienna, Budapest and Prague attracting huge numbers of visitors every year. If you want somewhere a little less crowded, but no less alluring, you should head to Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. It’s a city that is full of history, with much of its architecture unchanged by the centuries. Through its centre runs the mighty River Danube, with an imposing fairytale-like castle nearby, and the Carpathian moments stretching away beyond it. Bratislava is less than two and a half hours from Birmingham Airport, which has a host of free parking facilities including its highly convenient hotel park and fly Birmingham Airport scheme.  For more information, visit birminghamparking.com.

Invigorating Pertisau

A relaxing beach holiday is all well and good, and Europe certainly has lots of great beach destinations to choose from, but sometimes an invigorating holiday is just what you need. If you enjoy walking, outstanding scenery and clean, crisp air, then Pertisau in Austria would be an ideal choice. It’s easy to see why Pertisau is known as ‘the jewel of the Tyrol‘ for few sights across the world are more breath-taking than its mountains reflecting in Lake Achensee. This is also Europe’s biggest nature reserve, so it’s a must-see for nature lovers, but there are also plenty of activities from sailing to climbing available for more adventurous visitors.

Comiso, Bratislava and Pertisau are three very different destinations, but all of them can be the basis of a holiday you’ll never forget. There are regular flights to these destinations, and many more, from Birmingham Airport and other UK and international airports, so reaching them is easy. The only difficulty comes in tearing yourself away from these European hidden gems at the end of your vacation.

Every day we hear saddening news from all around the world regarding the progressing environmental damage. There are fewer and fewer intact, wild places on Earth where nature remained without being affected by human activities.

In this world of galloping globalisation, it is extremely difficult for most people to lead slow, balanced lives. Many of us find it hard even to follow up with our closest family, so no wonder that saving the world from global warming or preventing biodiversity losses get put aside.

At the same time, we feel more needy (and capable) of making our travelling dreams come true. Sustainable tourism is widely encouraged these days and in many places we can find and join the initiatives that support local communities or protect natural heritage. But the question of transport isn’t actually discussed – we keep driving and flying on traditional fossil fuels. And what if we care about the environment during our journeys and want to keep the planet healthy?

It is estimated that planes produce gigatonnes of CO2 along with sulphur and other greenhouse gases. But using boats, buses, or cars instead doesn’t sound neither like a practical nor a planet-saving option. Even electric cars, if we give them a closer look, don’t provide a green transporting solution.

Alternative fuels are an option worth exploring. Scientists are testing various cutting-edge technologies that can turn into fuel various ingredients including coffee or soybeans, natural oils, wood, algae, or even animal feces, waste, and food leftovers.

 

However, obtaining these kinds of biodegradable fuels isn’t an easy task. Most biofuels available nowadays are either low in efficiency or require activities often considered to be non eco-friendly or simply not worth it. Their production and processing may involve deforestation, greenhouse gases emissions, or highly energy-consuming machinery. In the long run, these might cause soil and water pollution, affect food supplies, or lead to biodegradation.

Despite the existence of all the challenges related to the alternative fuel sources, we should still know that more sustainable ways of driving and flying are possible. By being aware of the renewable alternatives, we can start the debate and that’s the first step to improvement!

Abu Dhabi is a lovely T-shaped island located on the Persian Gulf. This one-time fishing village has rapidly developed into a tourist hotspot over the recent years. Established by Sheikh Zayed, the present-day Abu Dhabi was designed by Japanese architect Dr Takahashi. Today’s Abu Dhabi is all about broad boulevards, gleaming skyscrapers, busy shopping malls and great monuments such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Qasr Al Hosn. The Heritage Village adds to Abu Dhabi’s historical charm, while Ferrari World and the Yas Marina Circuit bring in the excitement. With numerous wildlife parks and National Parks, Abu Dhabi is a real delight for visitors.

  1. The Mangrove National Park

This ecological gem is located next to the Abu Dhabi city centre. There are mudflats, mangrove forests, salt marshes, and several algal communities. The Mangrove National Park makes up about 75% of Abu Dhabi’s total mangrove forest area. You’ll be amazed at the sheer biodiversity, especially the many plant species and wildlife such as crabs, herons and flamingos that thrive amidst the mangroves.

  1. Arabian Wildlife Park

The Arabian Wildlife Park houses about 10,000 free animals. The park is located in the 1,400 hectares large Sir Bani Yas Island natural reserve. Here wildlife such as Ostriches, Giraffe and Oryx exist in their natural habitat. The park has many successful animal breeding programmes which are focussed on bringing back near extinct animals to the park. The Arabian Wildlife Park is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Abu Dhabi.

  1. Al Ain Zoo

The Al Ain Zoo is an enormous 900 hectare wildlife park which houses more than 4,000 animal species. Out of these, nearly 180 species are endangered. At the zoo, you’ll delight in seeing the almost extinct white lion, plus Oryx, eland, gazelle, lechwe, Arabian antelopes, pumas, jaguars, black, leopards, and many more animals. You can also feed giraffe and ride camels and help promote animal welfare at the park.

  1. Ferrari World

Ferrari World is the world’s only Ferrari-based amusement park, located at Yas Island. It is home to the world’s biggest and fastest roller coaster ride, the Formula Rossa. There are also a number of other exciting immersive rides such as Tire twists, GT junior for kids and Flying aces. For grownups, there are plenty of shopping outlets and multi-cuisine restaurants.

  1. Emirates Park Zoo

The fabulous Emirates Park Zoo houses a spectacular pair of while tigers, several cheetahs, zebras, lions and several other prime species of wildlife. Located in the Al Bahia region, the Emirates Park Zoo houses about 1700 animals. The zoo has a unique ‘misting’ system that keeps the animals cool in the sweltering heat. The fully air-conditioned Emirates Park Resort is right next door for visitors.

  1. Sheikh Zayed Mosque

One of the world’s largest mosques, Sheikh Zayed Mosque can seat an astonishing 40,000 worshippers. The mosque has 82 domes and more than 1,000 columns all made of marble. What’s more, there are 24 carat gold gilded chandeliers as well, with one of the world’s largest chandeliers dominating the prayer hall. The chandelier is 10 metres in diameter and is 15 metres tall, and weighs twelve tonnes. That apart, the mosque is also home to the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet. Lovely reflective pools surround the mosque, amplifying its magnificence.

  1. Abu Dhabi Desert

The mystical red sands of the desert will call out to you the moment you enter the desert. This ancient landscape extends the sort of magic that you’ll only come across in books. Enjoy a wonderful Abu Dhabi desert safari experience, including desert sports such as dune bashing, quad biking, sand boarding and camel riding. If you’re signing up for an evening safari, enjoy typical Arabian hospitality and a lovely dinner under the stars.

  1. Al Ain Oasis

The Al Ain Oasis is a blissful region in the middle of the city. It is 1,200 hectares large, and contains over 147,000 date palms comprising of more than 100 different varieties. Walk through the cool and shady walkways to get away from the heat and noise of the city. Al Ain is a tranquil haven where you can understand the oasis eco-system and the importance of oases to the growth of the Emirates. Check out the Falaj traditional irrigation system that taps into underground wells.

  1. Jebel Hafeet

Jebel Hafeet is the highest peak in the Emirates, rising to 1,240 metres. It is a craggy limestone mountain that’s stood guard over the city for millions of years. The mountain houses fossils and tombs from different eras, and has been the delight of archaeologists the world over. More than 500 ancient burial tombs from beyond 5,000 years have been discovered in the Jebel Hafeet foothills.

  1. Marina Eye

As you walk along the famous Abu Dhabi Corniche, you’ll spot the most eye-catching feature, the Marina Eye Ferris wheel, in front of the Marina Mall. Enjoy a totally different perspective of Abu Dhabi and unparalleled views of the city from one of the Marina Eye’s 42 capsules. There are several luxurious VIP capsules as well if you want to have a private dinner on the Eye or enjoy a private party.

  1. Wadi Adventure

Wadi Adventure is the very first manmade facility for surfing, white-water rafting and kayaking in the region. The Wadi Adventure Park is located in the foothills of the majestic Jebel Hafeet. The 3.3 metre man-made surf wave is considered the largest in the world, and the 1.7 kilometre kayaking channel network is considered the longest in the world. In fact, Wadi Adventure Park has been voted as one of the top 50 Favourite Surfing Sites by none other than the Surfing Magazine. The magazine also ranks the artificially created surfing pool as the 41st best surfing beach in the world.

  1. Observation Deck At 300

The Observation Deck at 300 is located on the 74th floor of Tower 2 at the Etihad Towers complex. From here you can enjoy simply scintillating views of the city’s skyline and cityscape. You can even check out the surrounding islands. At a height of 300 meters, this is the highest point in all of Abu Dhabi. At Observation Deck at 300 you can enjoy some delicious refreshments, or just some light snacks or even a High Tea while taking in the views.

Conclusion

Abu Dhabi has the sort of attractions the modern tourist likes. It’s a combination of natural attractions plus manmade spectacular glories that strikes the right chord in people. The city is bustling with activity and business these days, but that does not take anything away from the natural beauty and completeness of this beautiful emirate.

Who am I? What’s my purpose for being here?

At some point in our lives, we’ve come to question who we are. And try as we might, we do what we can to understand who we really are or discover and rediscover our purpose for being here.

So who are you really? Why are you here?

There are some of us who will spend an entire lifetime trying to figure out the answer to these commonly asked questions, while others push these questions at the back of their minds, too afraid to know perhaps and would rather prefer others tell them who they should be, living a default life set by social standards.

And there are those who make use of rich experiences, such as traveling and volunteering, to understand the most important, yet complicated, person in the world—ourselves.

What the real world can teach you

Contrary to popular belief, travel is a form of therapy. It can teach you to move beyond the four walls of your typical classroom, beyond relationships, and even beyond your current job.

People have defined the concept of “the real world” in various ways. But in this context, in a way, it means packing a bag, stepping out of your comfort zone and experiencing unknown things, from meeting new people, savoring scrumptious delicacies you can barely pronounce, seeing new places, smelling new scents and many more.

It’s safe to say traveling is immersing yourself in the real world. So if you’re longing to know who you really are or trying to get a glimpse of your life’s purpose, traveling can immensely help you.

Here are a few things the real world could actually teach you—if you know how to pay attention.

Forcing you out of your comfort zone

Wonder why people do not enjoy traveling? Well, simply because traveling uproots them from their comfort zones, be it their circle of friends, their favorite bed, their air-conditioner, their pets, etc.

The first step you need to take is getting on a plane and heading for your travel destination. You’ll feel a sense of exhilaration once you’re on your way, leaving behind familiar smells, things, and people.

This helps you expand your horizons. Then, once you actually do, you’d have a better feeling taking on unfamiliarity and making it more familiar.   

All you need is a little push. Before you know it, you’re back home sharing your experiences with others. Then next thing, you’re already booking your next trip, either on your own or with a luxury travel agent.

Forcing you to deal with uncertainty


When we can’t deal with change, with uncertainty, we tend to either fall apart or adapt. Most of us deal with the former.

One way to exercises dealing with uncertainty is by traveling. Why? Simple. Travel teaches you how to deal with sudden and abrupt changes.

Plans don’t precisely unfold on your travels. Your plan could be delayed, the bus you’re going to catch broke down, the hotel suddenly was fully booked and many more.

These difficulties provide you the necessary tools to find creative solutions for on-the-spot problems. Plus it teaches you patience. Imagine waiting for your plane that’s delayed for 3 hours!

Meeting new people and making friends out of strangers

That may sound a little terrifying—strangers—but traveling does give you tons of opportunities to meet amazing people with varying backgrounds.

When traveling, you might be seated next to someone whose career you have never heard of. You might meet someone doing work that’s completely different from what you do, but still, spark an interest in you.

Plus, meeting new people from different walks of life could increase your awareness of the world around you. The moment you step out of your little safety zone, you get the chance of seeing life from a different perspective and discover that massive gap between your world and theirs.

Self-discovery

For those are brave enough traveling solo, traveling paved the way for their self-discovery. This is a significant part of discovering what you really want in life.

You can make a journal, either written or in a video format, and then spend enough time reflecting life—your life. Solo backpacking gives you enough space and time to think about who you want to be, who you are, what you want or what you want to achieve.

Traveling alone helps you go beyond outside influences and helps you shed the act you normally put out to others. This is one of the times you can be truly yourself. It will give you a refreshing insight of who you really are.

Adding excitement

This is the fun part of traveling. Year after year, day after day, you’re most likely doing pretty much your routine—work, home, work, home. Ignite your sense of adventure by putting one foot out the door.

Traveling helps you make positive changes in your life, enabling you to become the best version of yourself. Start the momentum by booking a flight to IAB Travel or going to a luxury travel agent and inquiring the best travel destination for you!

Final Thoughts

Whether traveling solo or with a few friends, there are tons of benefits to getting out of your hamster wheel. You’ll soon discover your adventures will be life-altering to the point where you let traveling help you shape your life in more positive ways.

Family holidays are the best way to spend quality time with your family. They make a great way to find respite from the humdrum of daily life and simply make memories with your loved ones. But one challenge you may encounter while planning such a holiday is to find family-friendly resorts. It is much easier to find romantic getaways but when it comes to family resorts, things are a little different. There are several things that you have to look for to make the stay comfortable and enjoyable for the entire family. Here are some tips to help you find the best resorts for family holidays:

Choose a location that works for everyone: The choice of your location depends on the family size and demographics. Those traveling with young children need to look for kid friendly resorts. There should be plenty of fun activities and games for young children. The older ones would love to vacation in a resort with disco and poolside parties. On the other hand, if you have senior citizens on board, ensure that the property has all the right amenities for them.

Look for one that offers a wide choice in cuisine: Since your family members may have different culinary interests, it is always better to opt for a location that offers diversity. Find a resort with a multi-cuisine restaurant or one that has different restaurants offering different cuisines. This will ensure that the entire family indulges in their favorite food choices.

Be flexible: When you travel with family, being flexible is the key to having a worthwhile holiday. Each member will have different interests and tastes and you need to take care of them all. Going to an all-inclusive resort is a smart idea as you will have variant options all at one destination. Flexibility also means that you should give each member freedom to explore their interests rather than being stuck together throughout the trip.

Don’t confine yourself: The secret of having an enjoyable family holiday is to just let go and explore. Even if you have taken a posh accommodation, do not confine your family trip to your hotel room or resort property. Have your meals packed in a picnic basket and embark on local adventure every single day of the holiday. Explore local cuisine and culture, meet the locals and relish the local sightseeing. Not only will this give wings to your adventurous spirit, but also bring your family closer together. Even getting lost in a new city can be a big adventure if you are with your family.

Family holidays are a must to break the monotony of life and increase the family bonding. It is an opportunity to make up for the time that you lose because of being engrossed in everyday responsibilities. However, you must make your best efforts to ensure that the trip yields memories that you can cherish for a lifetime. Wherever you go with the family, just be together and whatever you do, just do it together.

Whether you are a university student or a business commuter, or perhaps you just like the odd weekend away every now and then, train travel can prove to be very costly. When booking your train fare online there are lots of hidden ways to save on your travels and get the best price for your journey.

Before Booking

  1. Get a Railcard

If you haven’t already, make sure to get a Railcard online and save 30% on all train tickets. Whether you travel daily, weekly or monthly it is worth the one off £30 cost to save on your journeys. There are seven types of railcard including those for young people aged 16-30, families travelling with kids (who can enjoy a 50% discount on kids fares) and people aged 60 and over.

  1. Book Early

The early bird gets the worm, and this is certainly true for saving money on your train fare. Online you can book up to 12 weeks in advance, and save up to a massive 80% on your tickets. If you have left it late to book, then booking in advance is can still give you a significant saving. Save up to 30% when you book before 6pm the night before, compared to booking on the day, so bear this in mind whilst finding the best price for your journey.

Getting your Tickets

  1. Use Voucher Codes

Many online promo code companies offer extra savings on train fares, including no booking fees. Websites such a offer discounts on singles, returns, last minute booking and much more. Get discounts at Trainline and save on fares, and you can even save money on your railcard to get a long term discount.

  1. Buy Single Tickets

For many journeys, if you buy two single tickets instead of a return ticket, your fare works out cheaper. For certain trainlines such as Virgin trains, you can get even you can save up to 50% compared to getting a return when you choose two off peak single tickets.

  1. Travel Off Peak

Whether booking in advance or on the day, off peak journeys are always cheaper than travelling on peak. If you can avoid travelling during the early morning and rush hour, then choosing their off peak and super off peak is a great, money saving option. These tickets are less flexible and require you to travel at certain times of the day, but are ideal for weekends away.

  1. Split Ticketing

This technique involves splitting your journey up and getting different tickets for each part of your journey. This doesn’t even involve changing trains in many cases, and is a good way to save if you have left your booking until the last minute. Split your journey into two or more parts, and make saving of up to £80 on your journey!

  1. Compare & Save

Booking your journey online also means that you have the advantage of being able to find the best price. With comparison websites such as MyTrainTicket offering a best fare finder tool, you can look at the price of your journey from many different providers. Choose the best price for your entire journey, and choose the right fare for you.

  1. Book Train & Tube Together

Whilst the Oyster card is great if travelling by tube or bus around central London, booking the Train and Tube together is great is travelling further afield. With Virgin Trains there are a number of inclusive ticket packages available to save you money if you are taking more than one train or mode of transport in the South East.

  1. Holiday Packages

Going on a short break or a weekend away? Booking hotel and train fare at the same time offers great savings on your entire break. Although these packages can often have an added cost due to their convenience, if you find daily deals and added discounts often available such as those discussed in the Save Money on Vacation article, you can find a great deal on your entire break.

Before Checking Out

  1. Avoid Booking Fees

When you have secured your train tickets, the booking fees are the one thing which can trip you up and have you spending more. Search for providers who don’t have booking fees such as Cross Country Trains, or check out the voucher code websites to see that they don’t have any of the regular “free booking fee” deals on offer.

Extra Money Saving Tips

– Students can also get 12% off the 16-25 Railcard when they use their NUS card

– Look out for train-lines which have group bookings as some offer a 20% discount

– Don’t forget the refunds – some providers such as crosscountrytrains.,co.uk provide cashback for customers if their train is delayed.

For frequent travellers, some of these tips will no doubt already be saving you a fortune such as a railcard and booking your tickets early. However, there are many secret savings to be had every time you book train travel, no matter what trainline you book with. From browsing voucher codes to find savings on your specific journey, to comparing deals and ensuring you get the best one, there is no need to overspend in order to get from A to B. Save time and money on your train travel by keeping these top tips under your belt!

Very few people can say they enjoy the airport experience from start to finish. It’s busy, there’s a lot of queueing and a lot of ways things could go wrong. Follow our checklist of ways to reduce your stress levels, though, and you’ll be in a much more relaxed mood to kickstart your journey.

Organise Money

Don’t be caught out leaving it to the last minute and buying your travel money at the airport. Even if you want the ease of picking up on the day, you should buy your money in advance and collect to secure a better value for money. You could be looking at a difference of up to €50+. Compare exchange rates online and find the best deals. Even if you only think about it 4 hours before pick-up, buying online offers the best rates.

money 2724241 1920

Understand & Book Airport Parking

Book in advance and use resources like Parking at Airports to find out exactly what each type of parking is available to you at which airports. From here, you can know exactly what to expect on the day. Be aware of how frequently shuttle buses run in order to avoid last minute panic if you end up cutting it fine for your Park and Ride parking. Or be prepared with the number in your phone for Meet and Greet valet services. You can call ahead when you are 20 minutes away and save the stress of trawling through emails, with no 4G, on route.

3 Things to Check for Baggage Allowance

Size: The dimensions of hand luggage suitcases and bags vary with each airline, so ensure you’ve looked up the specific requirements. You don’t want to be turned around and have to go all the way back to luggage drop and pay extortionate on-the-day costs for extra checked suitcases.

Weight: Some airlines have no weight allowance for hand luggage, whilst others offer a 5-7kg limit. Just like with size, it’s a good idea to look up your airline as they’re all different.

Number: How much hand luggage can you have? Are you limited to just one piece? In which case, make sure you have enough room in your suitcase to slip your handbag in before you reach your gate. If you have got more than one piece, look to pack more items you couldn’t squeeze into your case, into your handbag or rucksack. The same goes for hold luggage. On top of your 25kg suitcase, are you able to take any other items for free? What is the price of taking a pushchair for example? Being prepared means you avoid expense you weren’t prepared for.

Organise Your Hand Luggage

Ensure you are familiar with the items you can and cannot take on the plane. The most common thing to remember is you are allowed up to 100ml per clear plastic container and up to 10 items. These must all be carried in a clear plastic bag. When it comes to your hand luggage, you should also be conscious of how you pack items in terms of accessibility. Save time at security by having the items you need to hand right at the top. Things like your liquids and electronics will need to be taken out and placed into trays. You’ll also want travel documentation like your passport and boarding pass in a safe but easy to access place.

Prepare for Your Unique Stress Factors

If you or someone you’re travelling with is disabled, ensure you book disabled parking in a close and accessible distance to the airport entrance. It’s also a good idea to call ahead to the airport to ensure you have an easy and smooth journey through each check, especially if in a wheelchair.

In terms of travelling with children, consider the pros of booking into an airport lounge to avoid the expense of buying food at premium rates in the airport with a one-off payment for a lounge pass. Also pack items to entertain your children, including a tablet loaded with things to watch and small toys.

Leave Enough Time

It seems obvious, but it’s a good idea to always allow enough time so you do not need to rush. Leave your home and cater for any traffic you might hit. Consider the fact although shuttle buses from your offsite parking to the airport are every 15-minutes, you could be waiting for that full period. In peak times of travel, you can look to be in security queues for up to 10 minutes, so always be prepared for the worst-case scenario and ensure you’re there in plenty of time to check in and make your way through the airport process. You may just want to work out your times and add 30 minutes to reduce stress levels and prepare for the unknown.

Moral of the story? Don’t leave things to last minute. Be prepared for your flight as best you can so you don’t run into any extra expense or stressful, but ultimately avoidable, situations. From occupying your children with toys and snacks, to knowing exactly what you can and cannot pack and in what size suitcase. By following these easy tips, your airport experience might even run smoothly.

For some people, a vacation might be a weekend getaway. For others, a vacation could be a month-long trip out of the country. No matter where on this spectrum you fall, there are always steps to be done to keep your home safe, in addition to other preparations, so that everything from departure to coming home goes smoothly and without a hiccup.

Preparation is the key to so many things in our lives, it is a wonder we spend so little time preparing ourselves and our homes before taking off on a vacation. Lack of preparation before a vacation can lead to missed flights, forgotten luggage, and general stress. Understanding why you should prepare yourself and your home before vacation might seem to be easy, but you would be surprised what other people (probably including you!) forget to do.

Start with a List

Speaking of forgetfulness, the first thing you need to do to prepare for a getaway is to make a checklist. If you do not write out exactly what needs to be done before you leave, it is likely that you will forget something, or at least feel like you have forgotten something. Studies have shown that people who make checklists are significantly less likely to do something that they are supposed to have done.

Do Not Forget the Pets

Make sure that you have made arrangements for your pets, either with a sitter or with a pet-boarding company. If you are leaving your pet with a sitter, make sure that you give them plenty of pet food, some toys, and any medicines that your pet might require. If you are leaving your pet at home and having someone check in with them several times a day, do not forget to leave your house key for them, and make sure that anything valuable or dangerous that your pet might get into is put safely out of reach.

Some people may have plants instead of (or in addition to) pets. These require care too. Make sure to get a friend to water your plants as necessary, or purchase self-watering plant stakes.

Secure Your Home

If you are taking a short trip (a couple of days) leave a lamp on in a few different rooms. This will deter thieves from attempting to break into your home. If you are going on a lengthier vacation, you should purchase light timers that can turn your lights on and off at specified intervals. You should also let any alarm system companies that you might use that you are going on vacation so that they can keep a closer eye on your home.

Something that many people do not think of when it comes to securing their home before a vacation is having their mail held at the post office. If a potential burglar sees your mail piling up, they may realize that you are not home. That makes you an easy target.

Tidying Up

Nobody wants to come home from a relaxing vacation just to realize that they left their house a mess. Make sure to clean out your refrigerator before you leave, and toss any food that will expire in your absence. Take care of any laundry you have laying around before you leave, and spray insecticide in any areas of frequent bug activity.

Coming Home

Just like with the chores, there are some things you can do to make your transition back into everyday life easier. Try to purchase some non-perishable goods before you leave that you can have for your first meal back. Make sure that you do not leave any dishes in the sink, and wipe down all of the surfaces in your home. Give your bathroom and kitchen a quick clean, and sweep or vacuum all of your floors. The day of your departure, put clean sheets on your bed so that you can unwind in comfort after a long day of travelling.

Preparing for a vacation does not need to be stressful. If you start your preparations early enough, they almost seem like the chores you do on a daily basis anyway. When you leave, you will feel much more comfortable knowing that your home is in good shape, and secured against criminals.

The Masai Mara National Reserve, also popularly known as Masai Mara or simply as The Mara, is one of the biggest and best known game reserves on the entire African continent. Located in the world-famous Great Rift Valley, this vast reserve covers approximately 1510 square kilometers and is home to the Big Five, as well as a host of other wild animals that you may not find in any part of the world.

If this is the first time you are hearing about the Mara then here is an interesting fact you should know about- most of the wildlife documentaries that show the Big Five were shot somewhere within the Mara. With millions of visitors flocking in every year and literally millions of different animals to see and tons of fun things to do, the Masai Mara National Reserve is the ultimate tourist destination for anyone who wants to experience the best that nature has to offer.

Most tourists who visit the Mara usually find it helpful to plan their itinerary in advance before they arrive so that they cover all the places that they want to visit. If you plan to go this way, then you need to talk to Travel and Tours agency that is familiar with the park so that they can help you plan your itinerary properly.

Alternatively you could choose to go for one of the pre-designed tour packages offered by Kenya Tours and Safaris, which is one of the leading Travel and Tours companies in the country, and let them show you the best that this remarkable game reserve has to offer. One of the best things about this company is that they also provide custom tour packages where you, the tourist, decide exactly where you want to go and what you want to do while visiting the Mara- with their help, of course.

Whichever option you decide to go for, visiting the Mara is definitely an experience unlike any other. And to help you make the most of your time at the reserve, here is a list of 15 fun things that you can do when you visit Masai Mara this coming holiday.

  1. Take A Daytime Game Drive

Masai Mara is huge- really huge. There is no way you could ever cover even half of the reserve on foot, at least not within the time frame that you have. As such, if you want to cover as much of the Mara as you possibly can then the best way for you to do so would be by taking a daytime game drive. Most of the day game drives start early in the morning so that you can catch the animals as they wake up and go for their morning drink at their favorite watering holes. The early morning start is also a chance to take in the beautiful scenery of the Mara against a beautiful, glowing background provided by the sunrise across the savannah. Drive through the reserve and get the chance to see all the animals in their natural element- as they graze, hunt, feed and do all those little things you never thought animals could do.

  1. Take A Nighttime Game Drive

Not all the animals in the Mara operate during the day. There are many night creatures out there and you can see them all by taking a night drive through the reserve. Experienced guides will take you on these drives that begin late in the evening when some of the day operators are just starting to settle in for the night and they will take you to the best places to watch as the night gangs take over and begin their routine activities.

  1. Take A Nature Walk

A game drive might be a great way to get to see the whole reserve but there is only so much that you can really see from inside your vehicle. It is easy to miss some of the smaller animals because of their size or because the noise from your vehicle might scare them away. The best way to meet these special creatures is by taking a nature walk through the park. There are many scenic nature walks spread out all across the reserve and your guide will accompany you on your journey through them, showing you what you need to see and explaining all the fun things about the animals and the plants that you probably knew absolutely nothing about.

  1. Go Bush Camping

The best way to be truly at one with nature is to try and experience it in the same way as the animals in the wild actually do. So instead of retiring indoors you’re your lodge, why not try out bush camping. Again there are many designated bush camping sites that are spread out all across the Mara and most of them are close to where you can see and hear the animals as they go about their night time business. Of course, all the bush camping sites are safely secured so that you can get to be at one with nature and the animals without fearing any harm from them.

  1. Explore The Masai Culture

As you might have suspected, the Masai are the people who inhabit the Masai Mara. They are a unique ethnic tribe that has lived in the Mara for centuries and their way of life has remained largely unpolluted by the modern way of living. You can take the chance to get a feel of how they live and participate in their day to day lives by taking a tour of their villages. The Masai are very friendly people and will be more than happy to welcome you into their manyattas and show you how they live. If you are lucky then you might find them at one of their many cultural festivals which are conducted the same way as they have been for centuries and where you will get the chance to become part of them.

  1. Go Bird Watching

There are more than 1000 known species of birds that live in the Masai Mara, and scientists suspect that they might still be several that are yet to be discovered. If you love birds then you can take the chance while you are there to go bird watching and maybe even see if you can identify some of the unique bird species on your own.

  1. Make A Documentary

Whether you want to use it to inform people and spread the news about a particular cause, or you just want to have something to store those precious memories inside, shooting a documentary inside the Masai Mara is one of those things that you just can never forget and your tour guide will help you make all the arrangements needed to make that happen

  1. Go On Balloon Safaris

Only one thing beats exploring the Masai Mara on the ground- exploring it from the air. Going on a balloon safari gives you a unique opportunity to see how the reserve looks from the air and take in panoramic views of the savannah landscape that spreads out as far as the eye can see in all directions.

  1. Spot The Big Five

Most of the other parks and game reserves on the continent have two or three of the Big Five but the Mara is different because it has ALL of them. Of course they are not all going to be found sitting in one place but it can be a fun activity to create a checklist and try to spot all of them during your visit to the reserve.

  1. Watch The Annual Wildebeest Migration

Considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Masai Mara is where you can watch as millions of animals make their long annual trek from Kenya to neighboring Tanzania in search of substinence. Watching them as they try to cross the violent, danger-filled waters of the Mara River is an experience unlike any other on the planet.

  1. Help In Rescuing The Animals

There are several animal shelters across the Mara where animals with special needs are cared for and you can participate in the activities taking place there as you try to help the animals and get up close and personal with them. Think of how it would feel to feed a baby giraffe from a bottle- fun right?

  1. Take Part In Team Building Activities

If you are planning to tour the Mara as part of a group then you should definitely take part in one of the team building activities that are organized daily on the reserve. Plus, you can also design your own team building activities with the help of your tour guide and take part in them if you prefer not to join other groups in theirs.

  1. Stay At An Eco-Lodge

Forget about 5-star resorts and hotels- if you are in the Mara then it is time for you to get in touch with your wild side. Of course the wildest activity might be sleeping in a bush tent but if you want a similar experience but do not wish to take it that far then staying at an eco-lodge on the reserve would be perfect for you.

  1. Go On A Horseback Safari

Picture the wind blowing through your hair as you gallop across the wide savannah, with zebras, antelopes and gazelles all around you and a herd of buffalos in the distance. That is the kind of experience that you can get by taking a horseback safari through the Mara, which your tour guide can help you arrange.

  1. Enjoy A Bush Dinner

Most people believe that nothing tastes better than bush meat. Well, this is your chance to find out for yourself by taking part in a bush dinner where you will be served with an assortment of game meat which you get to enjoy under the beautiful night sky of the savannah.

With so many things to do and even more exciting things to do, it is impossible not to have fun when you visit Masai Mara. But, that said, the amount of fun you are going to have will ultimately depend on who takes you on the tour. The importance of choosing the right Travel and Tours company when visiting the Mara cannot be overemphasized. With decades of experience, skilled tour guides and a thorough understanding of the Masai Mara, Kenya Tours and Safaris is definitely the best agency to go to when planning a visit to the Mara. You can get in touch with them directly by visiting their website here and start planning your perfect holiday trip today!

Easter is just around the corner and if you have not yet made your holiday plans then you will be thankful that you found this piece today. Time is running out- the best way to make sure you have an exciting and unforgettable Easter holiday is to plan well in advance so you better start taking notes right now if you want to make some good memories.

Masai Mara is definitely one of the best places to visit over the Easter holidays, and for good reason too. It provides the perfect chance to see the Big Five in their natural element, enjoy sunrises and sunsets over the expansive savannah landscapes, settle down for a night in the heart of the wild and to take part in a host of other exciting activities. However, it is important to point out that the quality of your holiday will, to a significant extent, depend on the tour company that you choose to handle your excursion into the Masai Mara. To be more specific, how much you get to depend on the type of tour package that you choose and, therefore, this is one decision that should not be taken lightly.

Easter is considered one of the high seasons among tour companies, with thousands of visitors flocking into the country and even more locals scrambling to tour the Mara during this time. As you might expect, all the tour companies will be keen to attract these visitors to go for their services and many great tourist packages being offered during this time. So here is a simple rule of thumb that will save you a lot of heartache down the line; if the deal or package appears too good to be true, it probably is too good to be true. A little skepticism could save you a lot of money and help you avoid scams that really have nothing good to offer.

The best way to find the best Easter tour packages for Masai Mara is by comparing different packages along various pointers, each of which is important in determining the overall quality of the tour. Below are some of the things that you should take into close consideration when comparing various Masai Mara tour packages in order to find the best one.

The Costs Involved

When comparing the costs of different Mara tour packages, you might want to go beyond simply looking at the figure at the bottom of the page. In this context, the cheapest tour package is not always the best one and if you are really keen on getting the best tour package then you should be prepared to dig a little deeper into your pocket since they are definitely not going to be the cheapest. The key here is to try and attain an optimal balance between the actual amount of money that you will have to pay and the quality of service that you are going to receive in exchange.

Start by going through all the expenses that are covered under the cost of the tour package. The best packages will usually include the costs of the following;

  • Accommodation during the tour
  • Transportation- ideally, this should include pick up and drop off at designated places which you can access with ease, as well as the costs of game drives and all other transportation needs during the tour.
  • Full board- although some tour companies also offer half board, it is usually better to go with a package that includes full board if you can afford it.
  • Park fees- this includes all park entry fees as well as camping fees. Note that many tour companies usually do not include park entry fees in their packages and this could present challenges down the line so make sure that you only go for tour companies that cover the same.

It is also important to find out and compare the costs that are not included in the tour package so that you can prepare to cover the same on your own. The most commonly excluded costs include the following;

  • Drinks such as sodas, wine, beers, etc.
  • Personal expenses
  • Laundry

Accommodation

Whether you are thinking about camping out in a tent and experiencing nature in its true element, or you would much rather prefer to stay at an eco-lodge, it is important to find out and compare the types of accommodation that come with different tour packages before you make your decision. For instance, since Keekorok Lodge is one of the best lodges in the Masai Mara, you might want to restrict your choice to only tour packages that include a stay at the lodge.

It is also a good idea to find out about pre-tour and post-tour accommodation. Although this is typically not included in the actual tour package, some of the best tour  companies, such as Kenya Tours & Safaris will usually be able to help you in making private arrangements for the same and this can be quite helpful if you are coming in from outside the country and are not 100% sure about your schedule.

Services and Itinerary

Because of the sheer size of the Masai Mara, and the numerous activities that one can engage in while visiting, it is usually advisable to first do your research and pick out the places you would like to visit the most, the things you would like to see and the activities you wish to take part in and then look for a tour package that will allow you to do all of the above. For instance, if you are keen on seeing the Big Five then you might want to go for a tour package that includes more game drives. But if, on the other hand, you want to see more of the smaller animals and enjoy bird watching then you would want to go for a tour package that includes nature walks through the Mara.

It is also important for you to make sure that there will always be an experienced, professional guide by your side at every step of the tour. And this does not just mean having a driver who knows all the roads within the Mara- you need a friendly guide who is knowledgeable and who will be able to provide you with additional information about the things you see and answer all the questions that you might have.

Most of the best tour companies will usually be more than happy to provide you with additional information about their packages upon request and you should take advantage of this to find out as much as you can before you decide on which package to go for. Kenya Tours & Safaris, one of the leading tour companies in the country, offers some of the best Easter tour packages of Masai Mara and you can get in touch with them directly through their website at http://kenyatoursandsafaris.com/ to find out more and request a free quote.

New and exciting developments await you in the UAE — specifically, Dubai — so if the City of Gold is one of the places to visit on your bucket list, then this year is an ideal time to check it off. And out of the countless tourist spots to check out in Dubai that you should cover in your tour, Marsa Al Seef is an absolute must.

More popularly known as simply Al Seef these days, it is one of the highly recommended destinations for tourists. Originally Dubai’s traditional hub, this area was given a major facelift in the recent years. In 2017, the first phase of the development was completed and opened to the public. The transformation is stunning, and Al Seef now offers a perfect blend of “Old and New Dubai.”

So if you want a packed experience for your UAE trip, you shouldn’t miss Marsa Al Seef (it’s actually not difficult to do because Dubai is within close proximity to other places of interest, like Ras Al-Khaimah where you can try all kinds of tours).

Once you’ve settled into a great hotel, you can proceed to spend an entire day exploring Al Seef.

So, what is there to see and experience in the area?

1. The maritime heritage of Dubai

The development stretches 1.8km along the creek, which is among the key locations to accommodate the early fishing, pearl diving and trading industries of the city. As such, the developers of Al Seef made sure to highlight Dubai’s humble beginnings as well as the traditional local culture.

You can get a fascinating history lesson of Dubai through the open-air museum and the tours conducted here.

2. New retail stores and restaurants.

Marsa Al Seef also boasts of new and modern structures that fit the city’s current image. These structures hold retail stores and hip dining establishments that are familiar to everyone.

What’s more, popular dining chains are established here but some of been given a more traditional look, making Al Seef an even more interesting place to visit. Keep an eye out for the little Baskin Robbins store that has been given an old and authentic feel.

When you’re done exploring the outdoor market and you need to retreat from the hot Dubai weather, head to well-designed indoor restaurants within Al Seef. They have air conditioning and other modern features so you can cool down and relax.

 

3. Abra stations where you can board a dhow or private yacht.

You can explore the area more by “getting in the water.” Check out abra stations where you can easily join a tour of the creek. If you’re part of the tour, expect to get treated to even more information about the old Dubai as well as how it transformed into the “city where everything is possible” that it is now.

You can also board a floating restaurant at any of the abra stations. Enjoy a meal or a cup of coffee while being rocked gently by the soft and gentle waves of the creek.

The development of Marsa Al Seef is not yet complete. In fact, when you come to visit, you will see ongoing construction in certain sites. But the completion of the second phase of Al Seef is slated for March 2018. So schedule your trip to Dubai after the said date and you will see even more delightful attractions.

Making your Dubai trip a thoroughly fulfilling adventure will not be complete without exploring Al Seef. Coming here will allow you to experience the old and new versions of the City of Gold in the most convenient way. Al Seef is just a 45-minute ride via Metro or bus and a 17-minute ride via taxi from the Dubai International Airport.

4. Souks and floating markets for shopping.

Shop for souvenirs and other unique wares the olden way at the authentic souks and floating markets along the Dubai Creek. You can get everything here from Emirati clothing to spices, handmade goods, and all sorts of Middle Eastern wares.

And just like the practice of old, you can work out your haggling muscle to score the best deals.

 

The foray of membership-based private jet services like JetSmarter, Wheels Up, and Surf Air in Europe is redefining its aviation sector. This has been confirmed by a research done by a veteran charter jet program- PrivateFly in collaboration with a German aviation data company, WingX Advance.

These new and innovative private jet operators are introducing new aircraft programs infused with user-friendly technologies that focus on comfort and accessibility offered by jet services. However, the most important advantage of membership-based private jets is the affordability of their private services. Flying hassle-free on a charter jet now only costs a fraction of what it used to a decade ago.

Surf Air is a great case study to show how chartered jet services have become cheap. Their unlimited All-You-Can-Fly plan provides three packages that start from a meager price of $1,950. The Premium package offers six reservations on a single booking along with a monthly complimentary guest seat. The basic package has a limitation of destinations that only include San Francisco/Bay Area, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and Carlsbad.

JetSmarter is an even better example because it has four packages to choose from, along with a membership plan. These are named- Charter Broking, Shared Charter, Shared Shuttles, and Jet Deals. Two of the most used packages are Shared Charter and Charter Broking. Shared Charter allows booking of a seat on a shared flight, and Charter Broking provides you an entire flight where you’re free to sell some of the seats.

Free shared flights are available to members with the condition that only two seats may be booked in advance. Because of its app where one can book a chartered jet speedily, JetSmarter has been dubbed ‘Uber of private jets’.

Private jet operators are using innovative approaches to reduce the cost of flying through seat-sharing and utilization of under-used private jets owned by various private jet services and individuals. The statistics confirm the success of such business models which offer cheap private jet flights without owning a single jet.

WingX estimates that business jets flew over Europe for more than 450,000 hours in 2017. That’s a stark increase of 10%, compared to last year. Jets, both long-range and domestic, saw a steep incline in usage by 15% this year.

To add more weight to the numbers above, WingX Advance reports a boost in the number of departures across Europe, between June and September. Paris and Geneva were recorded to be the top destinations sought by charter customers.

Australia’s Ultimate List of Travel Experiences

Known as one of the most remote and geographically fascinating places in the world, Australia hosts a plethora of treasures waiting for travelers of all backgrounds to explore. Due to the many natural wonders dotting its landscape, unique wildlife, and bustling metropolis areas, it’s easy to see why this beautiful destination is ranked among the top 10 best countries. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, delight in being a foodie, or are just looking to relax on a scenic beach, Australia holds something for everyone. With so much to offer it can be hard to pick out the “must do” activities, so this article aims to narrow down your bucket list and provide you with the ultimate Australian travel experiences.

Snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef

Spend the day swimming alongside colorful fish, majestic sea turtles, and the occasional manta ray. Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is known as one of the best places for diving and snorkeling in the world. With over 1,000 species of fish, this amazing ecosystem is so large it can be seen from space. Snorkeling experiences in Australia are available for all ages and abilities, making this an activity that can be fun for the whole family. Additionally, equipment can easily be rented or is often included in package deals.

It is also situated right next to a few other well-known travel destinations, like The Whitsunday Islands. Almost as good as the reef, The Whitsundays is a group of 74 tropical islands that offer white sandy beaches and dense rainforests. Wings – Whitsundays sailing adventures have tours from The Whitsunday Islands to the reef and have a well-informed crew that is passionate about marine life, and ready to answer any questions participants may have. Furthermore, snorkelers may choose to join a guided tour, or opt for self-exploration. However, with record warming waters from severe weather and climate change, it has been revealed that 93% of the Great Barrier Reef has suffered from coral bleaching, a phenomena that causes much needed algae to leave the tissues of coral leaving them incredibly weak and vulnerable. So those looking to experience a truly magnificent world wonder native to Australia are best to put this experience at the top of their list.

Sydney Harbour Cruises

Imagine spending a romantic evening enjoying a luxurious meal while watching city lights sparkle off the waters of Sydney’s harbor. Or, perhaps you’re in the mood for dancing with a close group of friends in a completely unique setting. Australia’s Cruises offer a large variety of private charters as well as corporate function options for those looking for the ultimate experience on the well-known and classically iconic Sydney harbour.

With a professional staff and top notch chefs awaiting guests on board, visitors can choose from deluxe dining menus or customize their own. Cruises also offers many package deals and events that coincide with holidays and special times of the year making it a great choice if you’re looking to celebrate something or someone special.

Sunset Market

Australia is host to several native ingredients not found anywhere else in the world, and with a constantly evolving food culture there are countless places to experience unique and artfully crafted meals. Visiting foodies will find plenty to keep themselves enthralled with from roadside markets of fresh fruit, to some of the world’s most highly rated fine dining experiences. Among the foodie hot spots is the Sunset Market.

Visitors have the chance to encounter a wide demographic of foods here such as Greek, Spanish, Indian, French, Turkish, Indonesian, traditional Australian fair, and much more. Food trucks and booths serve everything from quick bites to full meals, desserts, and beverages. Due to the Sunset Market only being open from April through October, this is definitely an experience to jump on if given the chance.

Winery Experiences

With over 2,000 wineries, Australia’s wine regions grow more than 100 varieties of grapes that are crafted into wines enjoyed all around the world. For the ultimate wine experience head to D’Arenberg’s McLaren Vale; a family owned winery. Here you can participate in a 2-day experience that is perfect for those looking to enjoy a peaceful and sophisticated romantic getaway. Day one consists of a hands on wine making experience where you have the opportunity to craft, bottle, and label your own bottle of wine to take home with you. The afternoon can be spent participating in cooking classes or wondering the many vineyards. It is said that kangaroos can often be spotted as a fun surprise.

In the evening, guests are able to enjoy fine dining and retreat back to several B&B cottages that dot the McLaren Vale landscape. Day two welcomes guests to visit the town’s farmers market to meet the grape growers for an authentic “taste the region” experience. Finally, guests are encouraged to continue their South Australian experience by visiting one of the many pristine beaches or the untouched bush land for eco tours.

Bay of Fires Lodge Walk

Hosting an ethereal like landscape, Australia is one the best places to immerse yourself in a full on adventure. The dramatic coastline known as the Bay of Fire provides adventures with wondrous wildlife and ecology, and exposes them to one of the most immaculate environments Tasmania has to offer. This adventure is especially great for those who enjoy the outdoors but don’t necessarily want to rough it in the woods, as each day ends with a stay in luxury beach camp or lodge.

Hikers will be guided along soft sandy beaches that have been untouched for thousands of years, and have the opportunity to explore shell coves, climb sand dunes, snorkel in the marine nursery, or just simply enjoy the view. Finally, the 4-day hike comes to an end after hikers make their way through eucalyptus forests and coastal heathland.

There is truly an endless amount of adventure and thrill when it comes to Australia. Visitors are bound to find unique and one of a kind experiences that inspire and relax even the most avid of travelers. Regardless of whether you plan on staying for a while, or are just stopping by, this list of must-try experiences is sure to leave every traveler feeling fulfilled.